Absolutely Yorkshire May 2024

From a classic country inn and a simply astounding contemporary mill conversion to gorgeous stately homes and romantic manor houses, we have the perfect venue to make your dream wedding day come to life.

Our newest addition to the Dream Venues Collection, Wennington Hall in Lancaster, will be opening its doors in spring 2024.

WENNINGTON HALL

Launching Spring 2024

Perfectly nestled between the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Ribble Valley, Wennington Hall features stunning indoor and outdoor spaces for up to 250 guests and offers endless opportunities for wedding ceremonies and celebrations.

Visit the website to find out more or email events@wenningtonhall.co.uk to book a private showaround.

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Emily Robinson, Beth Alderson, Emilie May, Nick English, Adam Joe Roberts & Envision Images.

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Find your perfect holiday hideaway

With its beautiful countryside, pretty villages and historic market towns, Yorkshire is the perfect choice when it comes to choosing a holiday destination here in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a dog-friendly break or somewhere for that big family get-together, you are sure to nd that perfect holiday property with us.

EDITOR

MARK KEBBLE

ART DIRECTOR

PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS

MIKE ROBERTS

SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

CARMEN GRAHAM DESIGNER

MARIANA SUZUKI

PRODUCTION MANAGER

DANICA BRODIE

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

MELANIE HARDCASTLE

RACHEL STEAD

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER

ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES

JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Yorkshire Hideaways is a holiday cottage agency showcasing an ever-growing portfolio of self-catering properties throughout the county – from cosy cottages full of rural charm to luxury retreats oozing coastal chic.

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

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

SHERIF SHALTOUT Follow Us On

Featured property: Flittermouse Barn

Yorkshire YATTER

When it’s come to being inventive, Lisa Byrne says we do not have to look very far at all

How many countless lives have been saved by Yorkshire folk throughout the centuries due to our world-famous inventions? For instance, in 1934 the reflective road stud, known widely as the ‘Cat’s eye’ was created by Halifax-born Percy Shaw, while the first ever all-masonry lighthouse was built in 1759, the brainchild of engineer John Smeaton from Austhorpe, Leeds.

Now a couple from York, Will and Harriet Hogge, have developed an incredibly simple invention, which looks set to have huge positive repercussions. Understandably, children can be reticent about using and carrying around asthma inhalers, and after a friend’s daughter became seriously ill following an asthma attack, the pair came up with the genius idea of making colourful covers which fold over the mechanical-looking device, making it more attractive for children to use.

Called The Inhaler Tailor, Will is thrilled by how popular the designs have become. “Children don’t want to feel di erent, so we thought why not make this very clinical looking apparatus a lot more appealing?” At one point their friend’s child was placed into an induced coma, but has thankfully recovered. “She received our first Inhaler Tailor design and loves it,” Will adds. Also from York is Lyndsay Watterson, who set up her company Neo Walk – which creates colourful acrylic walking sticks – from her kitchen table after losing a leg when she contracted MRSA. Now Hollywood stars including Selma Blair and Christina Applegate are among her clients. “We’re all about giving people the choice to choose something fashionable, sexy, really colourful, that they’re proud to be seen with,” says Lyndsay.

Apart from making medical equipment look more attractive, us Yorkies have also been instrumental in introducing delicious food products to the world, including Jelly Tots, Wensleydale cheese and Yorkshire Pudding. On the engineering side in 1790 the world’s first steam locomotive was made by Matthew Murray in Leeds, and the earliest motion picture was filmed in the city at Oakwood Grange and Leeds Bridge in 1888 – so it’s no wonder our county is one of the biggest locations for film production outside Hollywood. But it’s not all positive. What is believed to be the world’s first ever selfie was taken in 1883 by astronomer Washington Teasdale at Kirkstall Abbey – where he is both taking and appearing in the picture. Poor Washington has a lot to answer for!

My highlights for the month of May…

Gazing in awe at Monet’s The Water-Lily Pond at York Art Gallery.

Looking like I’ve just stepped out of the salon with the incredible hair styling invention, volumewave heated brush Answr. Religiously swallowing the Purolabs genius Meno Complex supplements – a lifesaver a er coming off hormone blocker tamoxifen.

LISA BYRNE

WILL HOGGE AND HIS DAUGHTERS (AND COLOURFUL INHALERS)

CHRISTINA APPLEGATE IS A FAN OF NEO WALK

Wish LIST

PEACHY KEEN

Kayll's beautiful prints are all handdrawn by textile designer Jessica Kayll, who worked with a tailor to create a collection of fl attering robes and cover-ups inspired by the Japanese kimono. kayll.com

INDIAN VIBE

Estee Lauder's new Sabyasachi lipsticks come in gilded cases emblazoned with the Bengal tiger in celebration of India. Our current favourite? Apricot Silk, £53. esteelauder.co.uk as

ZIP IT

Take Monday's clever packing pouches are designed by an all-female team to aid an organised life. We love the handy clear liquids pouch made from robust vegan leather and biodegradable TPU, £36. takemonday.com

SOCKS UP

We are all about bright socks at the moment, especially these orange ones from Penelope Chilvers, set of three, £35. They're made of organic cotton and feel as good as they look. penelopechilvers.com

EXPRESS YOURSELF

The beautiful zesty orange-yellow tones of the citrine gemstone are incorporated into this pendant design from Berry’s Jewellers, £995. berrysjewellers.co.uk

BLOSSOM FRENZY

Orange blossom is absolutely our favourite scent, and there's no better version that Diptyque's iconic Eau des Sens, from £95. diptyqueparis.com

DIVE IN

For those in search of a legible divers watch with all the functional trimmings, this Gucci Dive Watch is the perfect companion. Gucci Dive 40mm Automatic Stainless Steel Watch, £1,640. berrysjewellers.co.uk

SWEET SYRUP

TikTok sensation Hair

Syrup's collection of oils are designed to tackle every kind of hair problem, from dryness and oiliness to slow growth and breakage. And they smell fantastic too. hairsyrup.co.uk

FEELING GOOD

Neom's new Feel

Good Vibes candle features ylang ylang for relaxation, mandarin for upli and jasmine as an all round mood booster. neomwellbeing.com

SECOND SKIN

Our favourite glasses are always aviators, and the Radical pair from Bloobloom comes in a range of beautiful colours, including this lovely Marigold. bloobloom.com

CULTURE

PAUL ZERDIN

29-30 MAY, THEATRE ROYAL YORK

Paul Zerdin is arguably the UK’s number one ventriloquist and made his TV debut in 1993 as the host of GMTV’s Rise and Shine. He then went on to win ITV’s The Big Big Talent Show, hosted by Jonathan Ross. Since then he has appeared on countless TV shows including Tonight at The London Palladium with Bruce Forsyth and Bradley Walsh, Michael McIntyre’s Big Christmas Show and three appearances at The Royal Variety Performance. paulzerdin.com

PHOTO: STEVE ULLATHORNE

The Agenda

COMEDY

Still Lives

Until January 2025

HEPWORTH WAKEFIELD

Still Lives exhibits more than 70 works by over 50 artists across two galleries, illustrating the enduring nature of the still life genre throughout di erent epochs in art history, including surrealism and contemporary art. The exhibition reflects upon the enduring inspiration artists have found in everyday objects, from an interest in colour and form, to a desire to capture their impermanence. hepworthwakefield.org

30 MAY, CRUCIBLE THEATRE

After a complete sell-out first run in 2023, Ruby Wax's rawest, darkest, funniest and most compelling stage show comes to the Crucible in 2024. “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 says. “Along the way I wanted to find meaning, peace, happiness. However, after some transcendent experiences, I ended up in a mental institution... I didn’t find what I was looking for.”

I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was she eldtheatres.co.uk

Slam Dunk

26 May

LEEDS TEMPLE NEWSAM

Slam Dunk has for a rocking 18 years been serving up a line up packed with the biggest names in pop punk, rock, alt, metal and more. This year’s line up includes You Me At Six (their final UK festival appearance), I Prevail, Waterparks, Mallory Knox, State Champs, Destroy Boys (pictured), The Wonder Years, and Funeral for a Friend amongst plenty of others. The summer festival season starts here. slamdunkfestival.com

PHOTO: CHARLIE CLIFT

THEATRE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

4 May-14 July

SEWERBY HALL & GARDENS

Experience the 59th Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition, exceptional images which capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world. The Natural History Museum’s acclaimed Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition and exhibition ignites curiosity about the natural world. sewerbyhall.co.uk

THE 39 STEPS

30 April-4 May

LYCEUM THEATRE

Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller, The 39 Steps, has been brilliantly and hilariously recreated for the stage. Follow the incredible adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay, complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders. This wonderfully inventive thriller features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

This Month’s

A Ghost Story

Must See T

he critically acclaimed, smash hit play 2:22 - A Ghost Story is coming to Bradford as part of an extensive UK-wide tour. Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer. Edge of your seat stu . bradford-theatres.co.uk

At Kiplin Hall & Gardens you will encounter 400 years’ worth of stories about international adventure and a love of the local land lived out by members of the four families who owned Kiplin over four centuries.

An oasis of calm and tranquillity in the heart of North Yorkshire, Kiplin Hall & Gardens was built in the 1620s for George Calvert, founder of Maryland, USA. Visitors can enjoy the intimately presented hall and can lose themselves in scenic walks around the lake, through woodland, parkland, and in the walled and formal gardens. The Kiplin Tea Room is open throughout the season to the public and visitors to Kiplin alike. There are also some cracking events not to miss this month. On Sunday A ernoons in May discover local musicians performing live in the grounds of Kiplin Hall. Tap your feet and hum along to a range of genres, from folk tunes to a full silver band. Long before CDs and Spotify, music could only be heard live. The families of Kiplin went to many concerts, operas, and performances, listening to all the top artists of their day. This May, Kiplin comes alive with music once again.

On 2 May, forage and feast at Kiplin. Enjoy a five-hour guided session with a foraging expert, which includes ID guidance and finding wild ingredients, followed by a wild-inspired feast at the end of the event. The focus will be on the 4 ‘F’s of foraging: Fungi, Fruit, Flowers and Foliage. Expect a walking route of around 2km predominantly on footpaths.

kiplinhall.co.uk Why a visit to Kiplin Hall & Gardens is one to remember

© RACHEL BIGSBY

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Let’s talk about

For those of you still of the age – or the energy levels – to launch into Ibiza’s summer party season, you’re sure to come across one name: Ellie Sax. She has has amazed crowds at her monthly residency at O Beach Ibiza for SIN Sundays and put on incredible performances at Nikki Beach Ibiza, as well as whipping up a storm at venues in Italy, Croatia, Spain, Ibiza, Sweden, The Maldives, Hong Kong, Barbados, Dubai, Singapore, Kenya and America. It’s a far cry from when a young Ellie Meredith first picked up a saxophone, but perhaps it was written in the stars. “I had super supportive parents who really helped me to get to a career in music,” she says of her upbringing in Lincolnshire. “I was musical from a young age. We had a piano

in the house and a piano tutor in the village where I grew up so I had lessons and loved it (although I’m a pretty terrible piano player). My parents, although they never musically trained, always had music playing in the house, from classical symphonies, opera, jazz all the way to Crowded House. So, I grew up around lots of music.” Piano may not have been for Ellie, but the saxophone certainly was. “I wanted a saxophone since I was about three-yearsold, but I wasn’t really big enough to play one,” she laughs. “So I first picked one up when I was around 10-years-old when Father Christmas brought me one and I loved it immediately. It’s hard to explain, but I just knew it was my instrument. I probably only thought of it as a serious option from around 15 when I started thinking of careers. It was either medicine or music – I’m very pleased I chose the latter!”

SAX

Whether it’s performing during the Ibizan party season or in the intimate surroundings of The Piece Hall, Ellie Meredith’s saxophone playing is in demand. Absolutely tunes into her jet setting life

Her journey into a musical career started at the Royal Northern College of Music, where she met her husband Harry, but Ellie didn’t jump straight into the world of dance music post-graduation. “My first job out of music college was on a Michael Jackson Tribute Show followed by four months on a Disney Cruise Line, which were both very di erent experiences. I didn’t know where a career in music could end up – when I graduated, all the funding had been pulled from music education and classical music so I knew I had to be inventive and create a space in the industry. I always loved dance music and always loved playing over it.”

At this time, Ellie and Harry – a DJ in his own right today – were living in Italy and involved in dance music, before heading back to the UK (to Yorkshire, no less) and soon major brands in the industry were interested in making full use of Ellie’s

“I just knew the saxophone was my instrument”

talents. “The first big brand to reach out was Hed Kandi (through Ministry of Sound) probably around seven or eight years ago,” she explains. Her saxophone playing over iconic dance tunes struck an instant cord, both with organisers and crowds. “Probably because I love the music,” Ellie says on why the combination works. “I love dance music and I try to share my love of the music with the audience. I think that probably comes across – or at least I hope it does.”

Judging by her sell out gigs around the world, you can safely say that they do. This summer will see her playing at O Beach Ibiza, Ibiza Rocks, at a number of UK festivals including Bestival and Glastonbury, then in California, Spain, Italy and, perhaps the icing on the cake (especially for Absolutely), The Piece Hall in July.

“I live close to Halifax and have lived here for over 10 years,” Ellie says on the joy of performing at home. “The Piece Hall is

“The Piece Hall is one of the best venues I have performed at”

one of the best venues I’ve ever performed at. Playing to a home crowd is really special – you get a special feeling that you don’t get anywhere else – and with The Piece Hall being a stunning location on top of that it’s definitely one of my favourite gigs.”

On planning her gigs, she says: “Harry and I spend a lot of time behind the scenes finding new tracks and creating new remixes before a show. But we also keep it pretty on the fly – we usually have three to four hours of music prepped for an hour’s show, and Harry usually throws out a few surprises for me too! I also train to keep my cardio fitness high so that I can manage a 60 or 90 minute show and keep the energy high.

“For The Piece Hall this year,” she adds, “we’ve collaborated with Ministry of Sound to create an amazing new show called Ministry of Sound presents Ibiza Anthems with Ellie Sax & Friends. We’ve got an incredible team of musicians and performers who will be

joining us on stage to create a really unique show full of energy and fun. It’s something completely new for us and something fresh for anyone coming along to the gig.”

It’s not just the big shows, either, that prove to be a buzz for Ellie. Rather apt for our special later in this issue, she performs at weddings too. “I love them,” she says on that side of her career. “It’s nice to do di erent events from festivals, big events and beach clubs when I do weddings and private parties – they’re far more intimate and it’s always fun to be a part of someone’s big day.”

Does she ever get time to enjoy what Yorkshire has to o er? “I’m pretty full on most of the year, but I definitely like to make the most of my downtime and explore when I do get it,” she smiles. “I love taking our dog Mabel out for walks in our local area, it’s absolutely beautiful. I enjoy going to The Piece Hall for some lunch and shopping, Malham Cove for a dog walk, I love going up to York for the day and I love going go karting in Leeds or Bradford for a bit of fun!” Eat your heart out, Ibiza.

Ministry of Sound ‘Ibiza Anthems with Ellie Sax and Friends’ headlines The Piece Hall, Halifax, on Saturday 27 July. For tickets visit ticketmaster.co.uk or see more at elliesax.com

PERFORMING AT THE PIECE HALL

MALHAM COVE

ELLIE IS A HIT IN IBIZA

THE PIECE HALL

luxury, bespoke interiors

From beautiful kitchens and bathrooms to stylish bedrooms and home offices, we can help you make your dream home a reality! Visit our showroom. No appointment necessary.

Why we love… Knaresborough

The North Yorkshire town that mixes local folklore with modern day dining destinations

Knaresborough, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, boasts a rich and varied history dating back over a thousand years. Its story is interwoven with legends, wars, and the rise and fall of empires, shaping its character and architecture through the ages.

The origins of Knaresborough can be traced to around 1050 AD when it was mentioned in the Domesday Book as 'Chednaresburg'. Its name is believed to derive from the Old Norse words 'knarr', meaning a type of ship, and 'burg', meaning a fortified settlement. This suggests that Knaresborough likely started as a Viking settlement along the River Nidd, strategically positioned for trade and defence.

During the medieval period, Knaresborough flourished as a market town and a centre of religious activity. The construction of Knaresborough Castle in the 12th century by the Norman baron, Serlo de Burgh, played a crucial role in the town’s development.

The castle, perched dramatically on a cli overlooking the river, served as a symbol of power and authority. Over the centuries, it witnessed numerous conflicts, including the English Civil War in the 17th century when it was besieged and partially destroyed by Parliamentary forces.

The prosperity of Knaresborough continued to grow through the centuries, fueled by industries such as textiles, agriculture, and quarrying. The town’s location along important trade routes, coupled with the fertile lands of the surrounding countryside, ensured its economic vitality.

In the 19th century, the arrival of the railway brought significant changes to Knaresborough, connecting it more closely with neighbouring towns and cities. The 20th century saw Knaresborough evolving into a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its scenic beauty and historical attractions. The town’s annual events, including the famous Knaresborough Bed Race, became fixtures in the local calendar.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

As Knaresborough looks towards the future, it remains firmly rooted in its past, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of Yorkshire and the people who have called it home throughout the ages. From its ancient castle perched high above the River Nidd to its winding cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, Knaresborough is a treasure trove of sights.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Knaresborough is undoubtedly Knaresborough Castle. Dating back to the 12th century, this imposing fortress overlooks the town from its position atop a sheer cli . Visitors can explore the castle ruins, which o er panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the meandering River Nidd below. The castle grounds also host events and festivals throughout the year, providing a glimpse into the town’s rich history and heritage.

For those intrigued by folklore and legend, a visit to Mother Shipton’s Cave is a must. This mystical site is said to have been the

home of Ursula Southeil, better known as Mother Shipton, a renowned prophetess who lived in the 16th century. The cave, nestled in the enchanting woodland of the Nidd Gorge, is surrounded by fascinating rock formations and natural beauty.

Visitors can learn about Mother Shipton’s prophecies and explore the petrifying well, where everyday objects gradually turn to stone in the mineral-rich waters.

No trip to Knaresborough would be complete without a stroll along the town’s charming streets and alleys. The Market Place, with its bustling market held every Wednesday, is a hive of activity where visitors can browse stalls selling everything from local produce to handmade crafts. Nearby, the medieval streets of Kirkgate and Castlegate beckon with their quaint shops, traditional pubs, and historic buildings, o ering a glimpse into Knaresborough’s past.

“For those intrigued by folklore, Mother Shipton's Cave is a must visit”

For a leisurely riverside walk, the Waterside area is the perfect destination. Lined with elegant Georgian houses and overlooking the tranquil waters of the River Nidd, this scenic promenade is ideal for a relaxing stroll or a riverside picnic. Visitors can also take a boat trip along the river, o ering a unique perspective of Knaresborough’s stunning landscape.

For those with a love of horticulture, the Bebra Gardens are a hidden gem. Tucked away behind the castle, these beautifully landscaped gardens o er a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town. With its colourful flower beds, manicured lawns, and scenic views, the Bebra Gardens provide the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.

For families and nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Knaresborough Forest is a must. This ancient woodland, located on the

SIX POOR FOLK

MOTHER SHIPTON CAVE

“Dating from the 12th century, the castle is an imposing fortress”

outskirts of town, o ers miles of walking trails winding through lush greenery and diverse wildlife habitats. Visitors can explore the forest on foot or by bike, discovering hidden glades, babbling brooks, and panoramic viewpoints along the way.

In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Knaresborough also boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The town is home to numerous art galleries, theatres, and music venues, hosting a variety of exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year. Whether it’s a live concert, a theatrical production, or an art exhibition, there’s always something exciting happening in Knaresborough for visitors to enjoy.

WHERE TO EAT OUT

Knaresborough o ers a delightful culinary scene that celebrates both local flavours and international cuisine. From quaint cafes to elegant restaurants, the town boasts a diverse array of dining options to suit every taste and occasion. Here are some of the best places to dine out in Knaresborough.

BLIND JACK'S

Named after the legendary John "Blind Jack" Metcalf, a local 18th-century road builder, Blind Jack’s is a popular gastropub located in the heart of Knaresborough. Combining traditional pub fare with modern twists, the menu features a range of hearty dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including

classic fish and chips, gourmet burgers, and seasonal specials. With its cosy interior, friendly atmosphere, and extensive selection of beers, wines, and spirits, Blind Jack’s is a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.

CARRIAGES BAR & RESTAURANT

For a more upscale dining experience, Carriages Bar & Restaurant o ers an elegant setting overlooking the River Nidd. Housed in a historic building dating back to the 17th century, this stylish restaurant specialises in contemporary British cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. From succulent steaks and seafood to creative vegetarian dishes, the menu caters to all tastes, complemented by an extensive wine list and expertly crafted cocktails. With its riverside terrace and sophisticated ambiance, Carriages Bar & Restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

SIX POOR FOLK

Set within a charming Grade II listed building in the heart of Knaresborough’s Market Place, Six Poor Folk is a quaint bistro serving innovative dishes inspired by European and Mediterranean cuisines. The kitchen team creates a regularly changing menu showcasing the finest local produce, including fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and seasonal vegetables. With its relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and emphasis on quality

ingredients, Six Poor Folk o ers a memorable dining experience for food enthusiasts.

THE CROSS KEYS

Situated in the historic Old Town area of Knaresborough, The Cross Keys is a traditional pub renowned for its hearty pub grub and welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s a classic Sunday roast, a comforting bowl of homemade soup, or a gourmet pie made with locally sourced ingredients, the menu at The Cross Keys o ers something for everyone. With fireside seating, extensive selection of real ales, and regular live music nights, The Cross Keys is a favourite haunt for locals and visitors looking for a relaxed dining experience.

STATUE OF BLIND JACK

Beautiful fireplaces, hand crafted in France

Naturally wood burning with models available in gas.

Bio-ethanol and electric versions for NO CHIMNEY solutions.

Design, supply and installation available nationwide.

Exclusive ‘by appointment’ showroom available in person or by video link.

Model shown is the J C Bordelet MARINA, lacquered finish, woodburning.

ON THE

Catwalk

York Fashion Week has announced the line-up of events for their May event. Absolutely takes a closer look

York Fashion Week 2024

Part One returns to the city on 2 May and will once again unite talented creatives, fashionistas, stylists and volunteers passionate about celebrating all things fashion, with a particular focus on grassroots design. Here, Absolutely has picked out the key attractions:

THURSDAY 2 MAY

The Debut - introducing Vine & Moor

No. 1 Guesthouse, 2-4pm Award-winning Yorkshire milliner, Suzanne Gill, launches her first couture fashion line. The collection features 13 luxe pieces that include tailored skirts, fitted jackets and long line coats, and each piece is crafted from wool that is made by the prestigious Hainsworth Mill – which proudly holds the Royal Warrant. The event includes a sparkling reception and cream tea.

Breast Friends Runway Show

Browns Department Store, 7-10pm

Back once again is the beautiful Breast Friends Runway Show – an exceptional showcase of fashion, modelled by real people who are moving on from a breast cancer diagnosis. This uplifting and empowering show is a chance to explore the latest collections in Browns Department Store, whilst supporting the wonderful charity, Breast Friends. The store will remain open after the show, so guests can enjoy an out of hours shopping experience with 20% o .

FRIDAY 3 MAY

Estee Lauder Afternoon Tea

Middletons Hotel

In collaboration with Browns Department Store, Estee Lauder is hosting a luxury afternoon tea and makeup masterclass with the brilliant artists at Estee Lauder. The event includes gin tasting with the team from Yorkshire Gin and guests will be treated to a gift bag.

“THERE IS A PARTICULAR FOCUS ON GRASSROOTS DESIGN”

My Generation Pink Room, The Impossible, 6pm-9pm Rachel Peru will host a runway show, celebrating the gift of ageing. A team of mature models will bring the runway to life, in fashion that doesn’t discriminate. Rachel is a silver haired curve model, body confidence activist, midlife influencer and founder of the empowering midlife women’s platform – LibertéLtd. Focusing on the theme, representation matters, this event will celebrate midlife, inspiring the audience to experiment with fashion.

PHOTO BY LYNDON SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

STUDENT GRADUATE SHOW

PHOTO BY CEDAR COTTAGE CREATIVE

SATURDAY 4 MAY

The Indie Show

York Art Gallery, 7.30–10.30pm

The stand-out runway show is back, bringing to life independent design on the exceptional stage that is York Art Gallery.

SUNDAY 5 MAY

Exploring Smartworks Leeds with Jackie Crawford

The Impossible York, 10am-12pm Smartworks Leeds is the brilliant charity that works to support women and nonbinary people back into work, which includes providing the perfect interview outfit. Well-known local stylist, Jackie Crawford, will explore Smartworks’ fashion archive with this stylish fashion showcase.

Tee Style Tribe: The Debut Collection

Clarendon Art Gallery, 2-5pm

Last season, Tendai showcased her exceptional debut collection featuring vibrant African print. And now, guests are invited to come in and get up close and personal by meeting Tendai and viewing the special collection of art that has been carefully curated for the occasion in what promises to be a stunning exhibit.

Echoes of Home: Yorkshire & African Fusion is a collection of clothes and accessories inspired by Tee’s life experiences, combining the best of both countries, and celebrating di erent cultures. Each piece tells a story of her life and the places she’s called home.

A Cosmopolitan Wedding Showcase

The Impossible York, 7.30–10pm It’s not a village. It’s not New York. It’s a vibrant and bustling city, filled with creative minds, gorgeous fashion and interesting venues. This showcase is YFW’s debut Wedding Runway, inspired by chic city living and high fashion lifestyles, featuring Master Debonair and Aberdevine Lingerie.

“THE DESIGNERS HAVE REALLY BROUGHT THEIR A GAME THIS YEAR”

MONDAY 6 MAY

Yorwaste x YFW

Mansion House, 7pm-10pm

YFW, in collaboration with local waste management and recycling company Yorwaste, staged its first ever major sustainable design competition. The initiative challenged designers to explore ways of repurposing and remodelling PPE and discarded clothing, transforming it into innovative and stylish statement pieces. Forty of the best fashion pieces by young designers across the North East and Yorkshire will be unveiled at this innovative fashion show.

Nicky Hayer, Creative Director at York Fashion Week, says: “This season we’re delighted to be back with a diverse calendar that will see us move across the city. We’re in venues like Mansion House, York Art Gallery, Clarendon Gallery, The Impossible and more.

And the designers have really brought their A game, with what they’re showing this season. I’m incredibly proud that YFW can once again be a platform for so many innovative minds.”

York Fashion Week launched in 2018, and even with a two-year break due to Covid, the event has grown year on year. It has been the first to host runway shows in iconic venues such as York Art Gallery and The Guildhall. YFW has worked with brands such as Rolls-Royce Motorcars Leeds and Gary James McQueen, and has welcomed guests from as far as China to the events. Since its growth, the event is proudly sponsored by NIMA, York Bid and MARK, with Associate Sponsors including Rae & Rae Opticians, Cresci Pizzeria, House of Dandelions and Party Octopus.

yorkfashionweek.co.uk

CONTEMPORARY FASHION

PHOTO BY CEDAR COTTAGE CREATIVE

STUDENT GRADUATE SHOW

PHOTO BY CEDAR COTTAGE CREATIVE

Director LIZI PATCH

Musical Director PETE ROSSER

Choreographer DAWN HOLGATE

Vocal

Leeds Grand Youth Theatre presents its 11th full-scale musical Thu 25 – Sun 28 July 2024

Based on the lm by Roger Corman, Screenplay by Charles Gri th. Originally produced by the WPA Theatre (Kyle Renick, Producing Director).

produced at the Orpheum Theatre, New York City by the WPA Theatre, David Ge en, Cameron Mackintosh and the Shubert Organization.

FACTORY

WORK

Previously unseen photographs of Andy Warhol are set to be revealed at a secret location...

The Warhol Kennedy Residence is home to a largely unseen archive of photographs documenting two giants of late 20th century art, Andy Warhol and Robert Indiana. Shot by the late William John Kennedy in the early 60s, these images, which were lost to the world for nearly 40 years, capture the two men in the nascent stages of careers that would come to redefine the landscape of contemporary art.

Opening in April in an as yet undisclosed location (at the time of print), The Warhol Kennedy Residence is the only place that one can experience the collection in its entirety and purchase editions of these utterly unique images. William John Kennedy’s most intriguing body of work was rediscovered in the mid noughties, when he and his wife found a set of negatives and transparencies that he had taken of artists Andy Warhol and Robert Indiana from 1963-1964, a crucial moment in their respective careers.

The collaboration began in 1963 when William John Kennedy met Indiana at a New York art opening and Kennedy shortly began taking photographs of him in his studio. They became friends, and Indiana introduced Kennedy to Warhol at the Americans exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in May 1963. Kennedy was subsequently

“WE SEE WARHOL IN A NEW WAY – YOUNG, TRIUMPHANT, ABOUT TO CONQUER THE ART WORLD”

invited to the Factory and went on to photograph Warhol and many of his circle.

Highlights from the archive include Kennedy’s portrait of Robert Indiana with his most famous creation, Love, claimed to be the world’s most reproduced artwork. The Homage To Warhol’s Marilyn, one of Kennedy’s most recognisable images, now hangs in the Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh. It was shot in early 1964 during Kennedy’s first photo session with Warhol, with a complex visual composition that sees Kennedy physically integrate Warhol with his work.

Patrick Moore, of the Andy Warhol Museum, says: “In the image, Warhol stands in The Factory, sunlight flooding through the window, illuminating him as he holds aloft the acetate of Marilyn Monroe that would later make some of his most famous paintings. Here we see Warhol in a new way – young, triumphant, about to conquer the

art world through transforming the images of movie stars that were his childhood refuge. We literally see Warhol through his art.”

There are also many stunning colour photographs of Warhol, which are intimate, unguarded, and show him at ease, smiling, relaxing. According to Eric Shiner, director of the Andy Warhol Museum, these portraits of Warhol are by far the most evocative.

“The Kennedy photos are perhaps the most intimate portraits of Andy that I have ever seen,” he says. “They capture him at the point of his arrival as a true art star and yet he remains his humble, fun-loving, playful self in each frame. They humanise him in a way that few photos do, and if anything, they add to the mythology of Warhol as the benevolent, happy person that he truly was, and yet is rarely celebrated as.”

warholkennedyresidence.com

FOOD & DRINK

GRAND

OPENING

CHARTWELL

Aldwark Manor Estate’s new fine dining restaurant, Chartwell, will open to guests on Wednesday 8 May. The £3 million addition to the luxury hotel in North Yorkshire promises to bring the timeless glamour of the 1940s to life, offering an unparalleled dining experience steeped in history and elegance. The 24-cover restaurant will showcase tasting menus highlighting locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, prepared with classical precision to ensure an unforgettable dining journey. aldwarkmanorestate.co.uk

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

By THE WINE SOCIETY

Touraine Gamay, Famille Bougrier 2022

 £9.25

This fruity and moreish Loire gamay, has a good colour and juicy, floral, red fruits on the nose and palate. It's a good match for roast chicken, and goes well with mushrooms.

Viños López El Ventilador Garnacha Blanca, Valdejalón 2022

 £11.50

This excellent Spanish white is full of personality, combining nutty flavours with fresh citrus fruit and succulent finish. This comes from an o -the-radar area near Zaragoza in the north.

G and L Rose Kintonis 2023

 £8.95

From a blend of Greek grape varieties moschofilero and roditis with an added splash of agiorgitiko for colour and redcurrant and strawberry complexity this dry rose makes the perfect accompaniment to a sunny weekend.

Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business.

The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers. Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com

TASTING

NOTES

Food news and most exciting openings across the industry

By MARK KEBBLE

Bistro dining

BAVETTE

Bavette is the brand new neighbourhood bistro in Leeds that is the first venture from ex-Culpeper Group MD and Head Chef Sandy Jarvis and his husband, Restaurant Manager and sommelier Clément Cousin, formerly of Brawn and The Buxton. Created by Sandy, the seasonally led bistro menu features classically-inspired dishes. For mains, for example, there are sharing dishes such as rib of Yorkshire beef served with dauphinoise potatoes. A must visit.

bavettebistro.com

Cream of the crop

BOOTHS

Booths pride themselves on o ering the best food and drink available, in attractive stores, sta ed with first class assistants, and dining with them is no exception. Whether it’s a relaxing weekend breakfast, a leisurely lunch or a special afternoon tea treat, there’s something for everyone in your local Booths Café. Many of the items on the menu are made using delicious ingredients that you can buy in store, some of which are native to Booths Country. booths.co.uk/dining-by-booths

Ahead of the pack

YOREBRIDGE HOUSE

Yorebridge House, in the North Yorkshire Dales, have plenty to celebrate right now. Not only did they win Hotel of the Year at the Cateys last summer, but they also retained their TripAdvisor Best of the Best award, placing them in the top 1% of hotels worldwide. They have just launched a spring tasting menu, so now is the time to get on down there to sample what a winning venue tastes like. yorebridgehouse.co.uk

SPIRIT ANIMAL

Three new tequilas...

MIJENTA BLANCO

This artisanal small batch Tequila from the highlands of Jalisco is made with 100% Agave, resulting in a complex tequila with a silky long finish. Mijenta is the world’s first B Corp tequila and is additive-free.

£63.99, selfridges.com

ENEMIGO

Distilled in the foothills of the Tequila volcano in Mexico, Enemigo is made with the finest Blue Weber agave and local water filtered through the mineral-rich volcanic soil using environmentally friendly modern techniques.

£61.25, tequilaenemigo.com

CASA RAYOS

Casa Rayos was born out of a lightning bolt moment, literally. This 100% agave blanco tequila is harvested by hand by one of Mexico’s most established distilling families and pays homage to a freak storm that sparked the discovery of the delicious spirit.

£41.99, brewdog.com

SUNDAY

FEVERSHAM ARMS

It’s time to give your traditional Sunday roast a seasonal refresh at Feversham Arms’ Weathervane restaurant. Enjoy a choice of two or three courses, featuring a selection of mouth-watering starters to whet your appetite for the mains, which include firm favourites Roast Sirloin of Beef or Roast Loin of Pork, locally sourced from reputable farmers. fevershamarmshotel.com

The View at The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa is a 1 AA Rosette restaurant which celebrates the very best of our county, from local produce to local landscapes. Surrounded by floorto-ceiling panoramic windows with stylish décor, it is a chic yet relaxed and comfortable space to enjoy a true taste of Yorkshire. Plus their new spring/summer menu has just launched. theconistonhotel.com

Blazing a TRAIL

We catch up with the man behind Where there’s Smoke in Masham, Jon Atashroo, to talk grilling, pottery and wild garlic

Q When did you first pick up a love for cooking?

A I’ve always enjoyed eating (my mum is a fantastic cook) though I guess going o to uni I needed to start cooking for myself. I spent an evening in Halls, building a proving box around my radiator whilst my friends went down the pub. Then they came back at kicking out time, we sat in the corridor and ate freshly baked bread and butter. I got a kick out of that.

Q When did being a chef become a serious career consideration for you?

A In my second year at uni, I was doing evening cooking classes. I felt I needed more. My uncle knew the chef at the Michelin starred Aubergine restaurant in Chelsea. I went in for a chat. Then I was meant to do a week’s work experience over my summer holiday. I ended up staying the whole summer.

Q What was your first role in a professional kitchen?

A At the end of my summer at Aubergine, I asked the chef what I should do next, catering college or some other courses? His exact words were, “If you’re stupid enough to want to do this for a career, come back and see me when you finish uni and I’ll give you a job”. One year later I started as a “commis” on the pastry section. It was hard, I made mistakes all the time and every day was a battle. Billy was a great teacher and incredibly patient. Every time I had something mastered, he would change the menu or move me round the kitchen – it was a steep learning curve, but there were some great people around to learn from.

Q You worked in some of London’s finest restaurants – which experience sticks out for you?

A They all do for di erent things. Aubergine

“Masham has been incredibly welcoming to the restaurant”

was a raw experience and classical cooking. Hibiscus was modern technical cooking in a large regimented brigade. La Trompette was incredibly well organised and I made some great friends. Arbutus was a masterclass in how a restaurant operates as a business. Elliots was a whole new ball game – the first place I’d been where the produce and provence was paramount. The plates were super simple so everything had to be absolutely top notch, there was no hiding.

Q How did Where there’s Smoke come about and why Masham?

A We had been looking for about five years to do something where we could control our lives a little more. Finding something we could a ord, in a nice town with good schools and the right kind of licenses, was tricky. We got beaten by a property developer in Devon, outbid in Wales and finally when we purchased the site in Masham, everything just seemed to line up. Masham has been incredibly welcoming.

RESTAURANT MANAGER JOHN GOODYEAR, LEFT, WITH JON

Q How did you want to be di erent?

A I never set out to be di erent. I don’t know if we are. I just cook food that I’d eat. That usually involves big flavours, fats and smoke. I do know that we’re not the kind of place that poaches in a vac pack bag, then kisses it on a Konro grill and calls it “grilled”.

Q How would you sum up the food you cook at Where there’s Smoke?

A We run a weekly changing set menu. The format is largely the same – seven courses (plus optional supplementary courses) with the aim that you leave nicely full, like you’ve had a meal, not 20 mouthfuls spread over 3 hours. The menu is written week to week based on the best available produce and usually includes a small soup (because I love soup), a fish course, a meat course and pudding. We try to touch some element or other from each course on the grill.

Q Why have you gone down the set menu route?

A Simply put because it’s easier for me. I am the only chef – to give every guest a choice of 4/5 starters and mains means you don’t have the time to focus on the quality of every dish. Choice also means there’s more wasted food, which puts costs up. This format means I can keep things super fresh every week and have more control.

“My food usually involves big flavours, fats and smoke”

Q What have been recent dish highlights for you?

A I love new things coming in. I get excited waiting for them – we waited an extra two weeks for dexter sirloins from my butcher’s own herd so they could be a minimum 42 day dry aged. That beef over the coals was incredible, especially with aged beef fat hash browns served alongside. Similarly, gloriously pink Yorkshire rhubarb with our baked cheesecake was dangerously addictive.

Q What are you looking forward to cooking with in spring?

A Fresh peas and broad beans, especially when wild mushrooms start and asparagus. It’s a great time of year to be a chef. Wild garlic made its way onto the menu the moment it started sprouting!

Q What will you be able to o er with the private dining room?

A It’s great to have a separate space for guests to enjoy themselves. We have been running it for about a year or so now, but I am only now in the final stages of completing the XL bespoke tables for the PDR that will match with the tables I made for the main restaurant. Hopefully the restaurant will (for me) feel complete so I can start working on the next project (see below).

Q Why do you want to add a pottery studio to the restaurant?

A I have had a love of pottery since being a youngster. My mum claims it was the first club I ever did at school. I converted our old garage into a pottery studio before we moved to Yorkshire. Knowing about the impending restaurant we were about to buy, I got to work producing. Currently about 50% of the ceramics we use are mine, but I’d like to get that to 100%.

Q How do you see your future?

A Catering is a tough game, you only have to look at the feeds to hear about another beloved local pub/restaurant/fine dining Mecca that is calling it a day. We’re a lean, small operator cooking some great food with an incredible restaurant manager in John Goodyear. We will continue to evolve week on week making small but significant improvements to every aspect of our business.

wts.restaurant

Contemporary British cooking with an international influence. Snacks and small plates.

Go for

BOLD

Photography by MARTIN POOLE

Nisha Katona’s big flavour twists

Green mango and pistachio cauliflower steaks

Serves 2–4

Amchoor is a spice not frequently used in Western cuisine – it’s probably not something everyone has on their spice rack along with the usual cumin and coriander, but do give it a go if you can find it. This recipe is all about experimenting with new flavours – the sweet-and-sour sharpness the citrussy amchoor brings to this rich starter or light lunch is delightful.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cauliflower steaks, each 2cm/ 3/4in thick

• 70g/21/2oz butter

• 1 tbsp amchoor

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 large garlic clove, crushed

• 60g/2oz shelled pistachios

• 1–2 limes, halved

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

To serve:

• 1 fresh ripe mango, peeled, stoned and sliced

• Dollops of thick plain yogurt

• A large handful of fresh coriander/cilantro sprigs

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan and line a baking sheet with foil. Lay your cauli steaks on the baking sheet.

2 Melt the butter in a small bowl in the microwave (or in a small pan on the hob/stovetop) and stir in the amchoor, coriander, garlic and a good pinch of salt. Brush this mixture over both sides of the cauliflower steaks, then bake in the oven for 15 minutes.

3 Meanwhile, make the pistachio crumb. Finely chop the pistachios, put them in a bowl and season well with salt and pepper.

4 Once the 15 minutes are up, turn the steaks over. Add the lime halves to the tray and return it to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the cauli steaks are tender and really starting to take on some colour.

5 After this time, sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the tops of the cauli steaks and return them to the oven for about 3 minutes to toast the pistachios. Keep an eye on them as they can burn easily.

6 Serve the cauli steaks with slices of fresh mango, a dollop of yogurt, fresh coriander and a squeeze of the roasted lime juice.

Thai tequila trout

Serves 4

One of my favourite supper dishes is my Gin and Tonic Salmon, which matches herbs and botanicals with the delicate flavours of the fish. It set me thinking about other herbal combinations to complement fish and in a flash of inspiration, I realised that the pungently aromatic herbs of Thailand – galangal, makrut (kaffir) lime, lemongrass – might be the perfect foil for the oily flesh of trout. My penchant for alliteration pushed me to see whether tequila, rather than gin, might be the spirit of choice in this case, and it worked beautifully. An elegant dish for a summer’s evening. A tequila soda and lime on the side is entirely optional, but advised.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 whole rainbow trout, gutted and cleaned

• 250ml/9fl oz/1 cup soda water

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the marinade:

• 4 tbsp tequila

• Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lime

• 3 garlic cloves, crushed

• A small chunk of galangal, peeled and grated

• 1 lemongrass stalk, finely shredded

• 6 makrut (ka r) lime leaves, finely shredded

• 1⁄2 red chilli, finely diced

• 1 tsp ground coriander To serve:

• A handful of fresh coriander/ cilantro flaky sea salt

• Lime wedges

• Cooked rice

METHOD

1 The night before you want to cook the dish, marinate the fish. Put all the marinade ingredients in a small bowl and season with salt and pepper. Spread a quarter of the mixture inside each trout, then put the trout in a large baking dish and pour over the soda water. Place in the refrigerator overnight.

2 The next day, remove the fish from the refrigerator and preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through.

3 If the sauce has not reduced su ciently, remove the fish to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Tip all the juices from the pan into a saucepan and place over a medium heat. Let the liquid bubble over the heat until it has reduced to a sticky sauce.

4 Serve the trout with the sauce poured over the top and a scattering of fresh coriander leaves. Sprinkle with flaky salt and provide limes on the side, as is obligatory with your tequila, and serve with rice.

Quality

Parma violet chocolate mousse

Serves 4

There is a lovely light texture to this velvety mousse. With its intensely floral hit of Parma Violets, it provides an unexpected flavour to liven up the tastebuds. Ideal to serve to dinner guests when entertaining.

INGREDIENTS

• 150g/5oz dark/bittersweet chocolate (at least 70% cocoa solids), roughly chopped

• 90ml/3fl oz/6 tbsp hot water

• 2 large eggs, separated

• 30g/1oz/2 tbsp caster/superfine sugar

• A few drops of violet extract, to taste (I use about 6–7)

• 100ml/31⁄2fl oz/scant 1⁄2 cup double/ heavy cream or whipping cream

• 1 small roll of Parma Violet sweets

METHOD

1 Put the chocolate in a heatproof bowl, pour in the hot water and set the bowl over a pan of gently simmering water, making sure the base of the bowl is not touching the water. Leave to melt for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Once smooth, remove the bowl from the pan and leave the chocolate to cool a little.

2 Meanwhile, put the egg whites in a perfectly clean bowl and whisk until soft peaks form. Start adding the sugar, a little at a time, and continue to whisk until all the sugar is incorporated and the egg whites are glossy and sti .

3 Stir the egg yolks into the chocolate mixture until well incorporated, then add the violet extract, making it as strong as you dare.

4 With a large metal spoon, beat a couple of tablespoons of the egg white into the chocolate mixture to loosen it. Then, add the remaining egg white and fold it in gently, being careful not to knock all the air out of the mousse. Divide the mousse between four ramekin dishes or glasses and leave in the refrigerator to set.

5 Before serving, whip the cream to soft peaks. Roughly crush the Parma Violets, leaving some larger pieces.

6 Serve the mousse pots with a blob of cream on top and sprinkle with the sweets to decorate.

“A velvety mousse with an intensely floral hit of Parma Violets”

Recipes taken from BOLD: Big Flavour Twists to Classic Dishes by Nisha Katona, published by Nourish Books.

Photography by Martin Poole

FASHION

NEW beginnings

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

Capturing the exuberance of spring, the beautiful and vibrant Emerald is the perfect birthstone for May. A symbol of rebirth and a life-affirming stone, the Emerald opens the heart chakra, calms the emotions and is believed to grant the wearer foresight, good fortune, and youth.

Discover the stunning range of Emerald jewellery at your nearest Berry’s boutique or at berrysjewellers.co.uk

The Shoot 52

Dress to impress

The SS24 collection from Barbour - available at their Beverley store - will really help you to embrace the joys of spring

Say “I do” at Aldwark Manor Estate…

Originally commissioned by Lord Walsingham in 1865 as a wedding present for his eldest daughter – Aldwark Manor really is the most romantic and fitting of settings for the ultimate wedding, with a beautiful church close-by.

u Whether you desire an intimate event, lavish celebration, or outdoor ceremony, we’ll ensure your day is nothing short of perfection

u Countless picture-perfect locations across the estate, from the grandeur of the historic manor house to the tranquillity of our manicured gardens

u Indulge in a culinary experience like no other, with exquisite menus tailored to your tastes and preferences

u Our dedicated team of wedding experts is committed to bringing your vision to life, ensuring every detail is meticulously planned and flawlessly executed

u We host only one wedding per day to ensure you have the undivided attention of our wedding team

u A complimentary romantic stay in Paris is included as part of our Happily Ever After wedding package

Discover the magic of love at Aldwark Manor Estate

Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF T: 01347 838 146 www.aldwarkmanorestate.co.uk

Cross OVER

KATE HALFPENNY

Kate Halfpenny’s exquisite and highly distinctive pieces transcend the world of bridal and have become coveted by the fashion elite with impeccable red carpet style. Her new Speak collection is a case in point (pictured here is the Tra Tra Dress and Kerry Lace Veil). halfpennylondon.com

Absolutely LOVE THINGS WE 10

NEILL STRAIN FLORAL COUTURE

Neill Strain loves using roses in his wedding creations. With their variety of shapes, textures, tints and tones, roses create beautiful texture and depth. Plus they're available all year round, so perfect for a wedding at any time of year. neillstrain.com

Ten of the best syulish accessories for your wedding day

Hill house HOME

Hill House Home's bridal collection includes the Jacqueline dress, which features a flattering v-neck and corset-inspired paneled bodice that falls into a full, pleated a-line skirt. hillhousehome.co.uk

collection of summer maxi frocks make lovely summer wedding guest or bridesmaid options – and the selection is vast. aspiga.com

Aspiga's gorgeous

NOBLE MACMILLAN

Personalised gifts at Noble Macmillan include this luxurious leather backgammon roll. Engraved with a couple's intitials, it'll definitely be a keeper. noblemacmillan.com

JIMMY CHOO

Jimmy Choo offers an exquisite collection of bridal heels and shoes for your wedding day, from timeless icons including the Saeda and Azia families to uniquely embellished bridal shoes from a made-to-order service. jimmychoo.com

LIHI HOD

Lihi Hod's Jackie is a stylish three-piece bridal ensemble featuring crepe trousers, a blazer, and a chic transparent corset with visible boning and intricate lace detailing. lihihod.com

Maison

Rabih Kayrouz

La Mariee is a beautiful collection of floor length gowns in French silk chiffon. The flowing gathered skirts are layered to create ethereal volume in a play on sheer. maisonrabihkayrouz.com

KRONE

This South African traditional method vintage-only sparkling wine is an excellent choice for a summer wedding and the 2022 rose cuvee brut is succulent, crisp and berry-flavoured. krone.world

PENELOPE CHILVERS

The limited-edition Gemma platform was designed by Penelope Chilvers for her daughter's wedding. It's a chunky design in light cotton with a fabulous 70s print. penelopechilvers.com

oaklandsweddings.co.uk

oaklandsweddings.co.uk

Image:TerriPashleyPhotography

Enhancing

your elegance

Berry’s Jewellers highlight the pieces of jewellery that o er the perfect finishing touch to your wedding outfit

Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments in your life, a day where every detail matters. From flowers, to catering, colour schemes and guest lists – and of course the jewellery you wear whilst walking down the aisle. Bridal jewellery not only complements your wedding dress, but it also adds a touch of personal

style and elegance to your overall look. With countless options to choose from, it’s a fine art to styling and enhancing your beauty on your special day. Your bridal jewellery should be a reflection of your personal style, so whether it be modern, vintage, classic or bohemian, make sure the pieces you choose are comfortable to wear and make you feel confident and beautiful. Here are a number of sets of jewellery that may place the finishing touches to your stunning dress:

CLASSIC

Classic pieces are usually relatively simple, but add an undeniable touch of

elegance and tradition to your bridal ensemble. Simple diamond halo stud earrings adoring your ears, a single solitaire pendant delicately accentuating your neck and a diamond line bracelet gracing your wrist will symbolise love, commitment and sophistication. These elegant pieces are timeless and can be worn with any type of outfit long after your wedding day. Every time you wear this jewellery, you will be reminded of that special day where you felt empowered, confident and loved.

MODERN

Modern bridal jewellery consists of simple, but eye-catching designs. If you want a chic but contemporary look, OPEIA earrings and pendants shine, but not just from the diamonds. The flash of colour from the aquamarine gemstones brings out your personality, whilst the soft subtle hues accompany your dress and can be your ‘Something Blue’. The circular design symbolises timelessness, unity and completeness which resonates across this collection as is commemorates marriage and the joining of two people.

BOLD AND STRIKING

Think outside the box and flaunt bold and striking jewellery to match the non-traditional wedding. At the end of the day, it is your day! This type of jewellery shows your wild and fun personality and makes a statement of your bridal look. Striking diamond earrings cascade down and create an alluring sway whilst you gracefully dance your first dance. A stunning collarette drapes down your neck with sophistication and captivates everyone’s attention with each diamond perfectly scintillating and radiating its sparkle and fire. An eye-catching matching bracelet continues the brilliance whilst you raise your champagne flute, creating an ensemble that no one will forget.

Discover the stunning range of Bridal Jewellery at your nearest Berry’s boutique or berrysjewellers.co.uk

MODERN

BOLD AND STRIKING

PLAY Word

Halfpenny London’s new collection, stocked at Ghost Orchid Bride in Hull, gives brides a chance to speak up sartorially and really show who they are

Eve Sleeve & Victoria Dress

Ada Dress, Amy Top, Amy Skirt & Amy Taffeta Sleeves

Kerry Organza Veil & Charlotte Dress

Hula Dress & Jane Lace Sleeves

Amy Skirt, Ada Dress, India Slip & Ariel Bow

become reality DREAMS

Exploring some of Yorkshire’s finest venues to tie the knot

Yorkshire, with its picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and enchanting venues, stands as a beacon for couples seeking the perfect backdrop for their wedding day. From majestic castles to rustic barns, Yorkshire o ers a diverse array of venues that cater to every couple’s dreams. In this guide, we’ll unveil some of the wedding venues in Yorkshire, each o ering a unique ambiance and unforgettable experience for those embarking on the journey of marriage.

ALLERTON CASTLE

Nestled amidst 200 acres of stunning parkland, Allerton Castle stands as a testament to grandeur and elegance. This Grade I listed Gothic revival masterpiece o ers couples the chance to exchange vows in its opulent Great Hall, adorned with intricate stained glass windows and majestic chandeliers. The expansive grounds provide numerous photo opportunities, from manicured gardens to tranquil lakes, ensuring that every moment is captured in timeless beauty.

FALCON MANOR

Tucked away in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, Falcon Manor o ers couples a blend of historic charm and contemporary style. This elegant country house hotel boasts a range of stunning spaces for both ceremonies and receptions, from the grandeur of the Ballroom to the intimacy of the Library. With its picturesque surroundings and attentive service, Falcon Manor ensures that every moment of your wedding day is truly unforgettable.

RUDDING PARK HOTEL

For couples seeking luxury and sophistication, Rudding Park Hotel presents an unrivalled venue. Set within 300 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland, this award-winning hotel o ers a choice of elegant spaces for both ceremonies and receptions. Whether exchanging vows in the charming chapel or celebrating in the stylish Garden Room, couples can expect impeccable service and attention to detail at every turn.

THE PRIORY BARN & COTTAGES

For those seeking rustic charm and character, The Priory Barn & Cottages provides the perfect setting. Dating back to the 15th century, this historic barn o ers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Set within acres of rolling countryside, The Priory Barn o ers couples the opportunity to create a personalised celebration amidst exposed beams, stone walls, and panoramic views.

SWINTON PARK

Nestled within the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, Swinton Park o ers a fairytale setting for weddings of all sizes. This luxury castle hotel boasts a range of elegant spaces, from the grandeur of the Swinton Estate to the intimacy of the Deerhouse. With its stunning surroundings and impeccable service, Swinton Park ensures that every aspect of your special day is nothing short of perfection.

ALLERTON CASTLE

FALCON MANOR

PHOTO: PHOEBE JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: BECKI DAKIN PHOTOGRAPHY

CASTLE HOWARD

Steeped in history and splendour, Castle Howard is a wedding venue like no other. This iconic stately home, renowned for its Baroque architecture and landscaped gardens, o ers couples the chance to exchange vows in one of several stunning locations, including the ornate Temple of the Four Winds or the intimate Chapel of St John. With its timeless beauty and sense of grandeur, Castle Howard promises a wedding day that is nothing short of magical.

THE NORMANS

Located just outside the historic city of York, The Normans is a hidden gem that o ers couples a truly unique wedding experience. Set within a lovingly restored 18th-century barn and surrounded by picturesque gardens, this venue combines rustic charm with contemporary style. Whether exchanging vows in the stunning ceremony barn or dancing the night away in the chic marquee, couples can expect a wedding day that is as unforgettable as it is beautiful.

RIPLEY CASTLE

With its fairytale turrets and romantic gardens, Ripley Castle is the epitome of English charm and elegance. Dating back over 700 years, this historic castle o ers couples the chance to exchange vows in the ornate Long Gallery or amidst the blooms of the Walled Garden. With its timeless beauty and idyllic setting, Ripley Castle promises a wedding day straight out of a storybook.

“Ripley Castle promises a wedding straight out of a storybook”

CASTLE HOWARD

RIPLEY CASTLE, HERE AND BELOW

PHOTO: JOHN SHAHABEDDIN

PHOTO: LISSA ALEXANDRA

With such uninterrupted views of the Dales wrapped around it, The Devonshire Fell at Burnsall is everything your heart desires for a dream wedding, special birthday celebration, christening or other celebratory gathering.

The iconic five-arched, stone bridge across the Wharfe is a mere stone’s throw away, a perfect backdrop for a romantic clinch, nestled within the wild open countryside of the Fell.

The elevated setting of this grand Edwardian country house, with private terraced gardens and grounds. The garden enjoys a sunny aspect, making it an ideal focal point for al fresco drinks and canapés.

With 16 stylish bedrooms and suites, the beauty of this property is that it can be exclusively hired for your celebration, accommodating overnight 32 guests,

Exclusivity FEELING OF

Why The Devonshire Fell is an extra special venue for your wedding

which is an ideal way of ensuring that this picturesque venue can be enjoyed entirely by you and your party.

The hotel’s beautifully appointed banqueting room, The Dalzell suite, enjoys panoramic views across the fell from a large picture window and can accommodate up to 70 guests for a wedding reception and up to 120 guests for an evening party. In addition, guests can enjoy the Conservatory restaurant and bar, which is full of natural light and enjoys the views too.

To completely immerse yourself in this

unique Dales setting, there is also the opportunity to work with one of their preferred suppliers of marquee and teepee hire, to create an all-outdoor celebration.

The icing on the cake is the warm hospitality to be enjoyed at this venue, a very personal service from your own designated event coordinator ensures that every detail is catered for. The catering itself is exquisite, and just as one would hope menus o er locally-sourced produce sourced from the region, which provides a generous bounty from farms, fields and artisan makers, creating delicious dishes to make your special occasion one to remember. Wedding packages are from £99 per person (for the year 2024/5). Room hire and accommodation is separately priced, depending on seasonality and when the event is taking place (midweek options are favourably priced).

See more at devonshirehotels.co.uk/ devonshire-fell-burnsall/weddings or contact the team on 01756 20718155

PHOTO: GEORGIE BECK

PHOTO: GEORGIE BECK

RARE BEAUTY

All of the Above Weightless Shadow Stick in Adventure, £23 rarebeauty.com

ELIZABETH ARDEN

High Drama waterproof eyeliner in espresso, £20 elizabetharden.co.uk

SCULPTED BY AIMEE Cream Luxe Blush, £17 sculptedbyaimee.co.uk

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS

Lip Velvet in Kiss, £25 sephora.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

HUDA BEAUTY

Creamy Obsessions eyeshadow palette, £29 hudabeauty.com

By CARLY GLENDINNING

EMOLYNE Nail Lacquer in Morocco, £13 emolyne.com

£22

MID-SEASON

RESET

Prepare for summer thanks to the Verbena Spa at Feversham Arms Hotel

With summer about to bloom, get ready to ramp up your beauty and wellbeing regime in readiness for more social times ahead, and the opportunity to wear lighter, more elegant clothing and summer sandals. With this in mind, Verbena Spa has a variety of invitations to prepare your beautiful body, mind and spirit for the good times ahead. Combine precious metime, with the exquisite, Mediterraneaninspired Temple Spa products, created to revitalise and o er therapeutic

properties, leaving each spa client with a results-orientated experience.

Temple Spa is mindfully chosen by the spa manager to complement their resortlike, restorative spa and pool environment at Verbena, where the emphasis is always upon holistic wellbeing as well as beauty.

Escape for a full pamper day with their ‘Rest & Reset Spa experience’, which includes use of the outdoor heated pool and other thermal facilities outdoors from 10am–2pm, a 60 minute spa or beauty treatment, as well as a light lunch and glass of sparkling, chilled fizz.

The treatment choice includes a Facial, Outer Glow Body Exfoliation, Body Detox Wrap, Luxury Manicure or Pedicure, with

the option to add in more treatments if you wish. This gorgeous spa day is priced from just £129 per person, including one-course lunch and a glass of Prosecco, along with use of facilities, one hour treatment, spa robe, towels and flip flops. This is based on a midweek spa experience (Friday–Sunday is at the higher price of £149).

Spa guests are also welcome at Verbena for individual treatments, overnight spa stays and a wide range of spa days and packages, which change seasonally so keep an eye on their social and online platforms.

Individual spa treatments are also a wonderful way to treat yourself to the crème de la crème of spa and beauty treatments on o er. In addition, spa guests can upgrade their experience with use of the heated outdoor pool and thermal spa facilities for up to two hours, a one course lunch and glass of Prosecco for £45 supplement – a perfect mini pick-me-up.

fevershamarmshotel.com/verbena-spa

INTERIORS

WARM GLOW

CALEO

Discover the luxurious EVA central fireplace by J C Bordelet. Custom-designed and handcrafted for your unique project, it offers high efficiency and clean burn wood fire technology approved for smoke control areas. It is also available to run on Gas, Bio-ethanol, and electric effect too. You can personalise your masterpiece with a wide colour selection, meaning you can define your space with the EVA central fireplace. caleo.ltd

ANIMAL

Q How did you start out as an illustrator?

A I always loved art when I was growing up, but was also quite practical, so I ended up going down the design route. I studied an MA in Textiles at the Royal College of Art, and was very focused on my drawing and how I could translate my illustrations onto di erent surfaces to be beautiful final pieces.

Q Can you describe your style?

A Fantastical, botanical and graphic.

Q You're inspired by travel – tell us about your latest trip?

A I travelled to the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica – it’s renowned as one of the most biologically intense and important places on earth, so it’s an incredible destination for wildlife. I stayed at an eco lodge called Bosque del Cabo, and every day even just on the way to breakfast I would see so many di erent species of wildlife. The lodge is situated on a large area of around 700 acres of forest, so I enjoyed hiking through the jungle and wildlife spotting every day. A puma was spotted one of the days I was there, although sadly not by me. However, I did see a huge amount of wildlife including howler monkeys, capuchin and squirrel monkeys, coatis, toucans, scarlet macaws, sloths, whales, dolphins and so much more. Certainly rich inspiration for my next design.

Q How do you spend a normal working day?

A I go into our o ce most days and work a couple of days at home usually. It really depends on what is going on in the business as to what my priorities are each day – but could include drawing a new design, working with my design team on new product developments, meetings with potential companies to collaborate with, signing o on our marketing content like emails and photography, working on business analysis and finance meetings. No days are the same!

EMMA J SHIPLEY

MAGIC

Absolutely meets designer Emma J Shipley to discuss her fantastical, botanical and colourful style

Words PENDLE HARTE

Q Your prints adorn fabrics, ceramics and lots of di erent pieces – how big is your collection?

A My own collection is getting quite large. I’ve been doing cushions for a while now so I have many di erent ones – it’s such an easy way to update a space so I like to do a bit of a seasonal switch. I also use all my own china every day and sleep in our bedding every night.

Q Your prints tell multi-layered stories – can you talk us through some of them individually?

A The Lynx design was inspired by a South African adventure. I was lucky enough to go on an inspirational trip, starting with accessing the archive of the Iziko Museum; an institution which showcases the country’s history, culture and biodiversity. I saw some incredible artefacts and ancient pieces of carved and painted rock, which had an influence on my final design. I also travelled to the Cederberg wilderness area with an archeologist guide to see cave paintings that were up to 10,000 years old. We hiked across mountainous terrain and through thick undergrowth, finally finding secret sites that aren’t marked on any map and are still pristine and protected, with caves covered in hundreds of paintings. It was incredibly moving to see artworks made by people thousands of years ago and find out about their culture, and to see how animals were so important within their lives and art. I hope I captured a little bit of that African Magic in my Lynx design.

Q What other designers do you admire?

A William Morris has always been an inspiration and I love his quote, ‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful’. As a designer I love creating pieces that are both practical and beautiful so that’s a good rule to live by.

“I love creating pieces that are both practical and beautiful”

Q And who would you like to collaborate with?

A I would love to work on some new types of product, for example it would be amazing to create jewellery or rugs. I’ve also always liked the idea of stationery, which it would be great to do with an expert brand.

Q What's next for your brand?

A We have an exciting year ahead; I’ve been busy working on my next design, inspired by Costa Rica, which will be launching later on this year. We also have new Bedding collections coming, and some brand new special additions to our Wallpaper collection, which I can’t wait to launch.

emmajshipley.com

SNOW LEOPARD PLACEMATS

LYNX BEDDING

SOFA UPHOLSTERED IN ZAMBEZI LINEN

Mallorca

By PENDLE HARTE

GISELA GRAHAM Honeycomb Paper

HOLE STORIES

How

to store your winter knits and win the battle against moths

When it comes to the wardrobe seasonal swap, and putting away knitwear, here are five tips to prevent clothing moths and extend the life of your jumpers.

1 THE BIG TURNOUT

Use the end of the season to have a cull. Go through your winter woollies, and be ruthless. Only store pieces that you love. Think about when was the last time you wore it and if it’s not seen the light of day, swap it with friends, sell on a second hand-site or give to charity.

2 CLEAN ALL YOUR KNITS

Never put away dirty knitwear or clothes. Food, sweat, hair and skin are loved by moths. So either wash or dry-clean before storing.

3 SPRING CLEAN YOUR WARDROBE

Light some candles, throw the windows open and take everything out of your wardrobe and wash, dust and vacuum. Try the gorgeous Natural Anti-Moth Linen Spray which has been specially formulated to protect your garments from moths and keep your wardrobes fresh.

which catches the boys, and the Moth Decoy which stops the mating game.

5 STORAGE

4 PROTECT FROM MOTHS

Refresh out of date anti-moth products, throw them away if they have been in the wardrobe more than a year and replace your sachets. Try the Pheromone Moth Trap,

Pack knits away in a breathable bag or box, in Acid-Free Tissue or an old pillowcase or wrapped in a sheet. Don’t leave them exposed to the air as moths will find them.

totalwardrobecare.co.uk

We are increasingly spending our private lives in our homes rediscovering how much pleasure it is to spend time with family and friends. A pool is an attractive extension of your living area the ultimate way to enjoy your free time and enhance your lifestyle and health. Choose from a wide range of designs and sizes with a comprehensive package that leaves nothing to be desired. A state-of-the-art product with a quick hassle-free installation. Your pool will not only enrich your family’s life but also increase the value of your home

A POOL FOR EVERYONE

There are so many reasons to choose Easy Pools

GREAT DESIGNS AND SPEED OF INSTALLATION

Easy Pool’s huge modular range means that there is a shape and size to suit everyone. Gone are the days when building a pool meant having builders on site for weeks on end, not to mention delays caused by rain.

Most pools in the range are completed in a week or two. Compare that to a concrete pool that can take months to complete, during which time your garden looks a mess. Pool sizes range from 4m to 12m with flat or sloped bases. There are currently short lead times as most models are in stock.

SMOOTH FINISH

Leisure Pools fibreglass swimming pools have a smooth, clean gelcoat finish that is non-abrasive.

MAINTENANCE-FREE

The gelcoat finish on a Leisure Pool not only looks great, it is also so easy to look after. The surface is smooth and non-porous so it cleans easily and is very stain resistant.

COLOUR RANGE

Leisure Pools o ers an exclusive range of seven beautiful colours, each with its own sparkle and shimmer finish, ensuring you will be able to find the ideal colour to suit your home and taste.

COMPATIBILITY

Salt chlorinators, chlorine, fresh water systems and ozone systems all work wonderfully well with Leisure Pools fiberglass pools. Whatever your choice may be, it will be compatible.

“The gelcoat finish not only looks great, it is also so easy to look after”

SAFETY FOR CHILDREN AND PETS

Automatic safety covers comply with all EU regulations. Many pool owners have children or grandchildren, or entertain friends with children. When owning a pool where kids will be playing, safety is a major concern. The side of a swimming pool can often be slick and hard to grasp for children. The safety ledge allows children to stand on the ledge and grasp the side of the pool. This can be helpful for children learning to swim, and can provide parents with added peace of mind.

WARRANTY

If you are getting quotes, ask if a lifetime warranty is being provided on the structure of the swimming pool. At best with a concrete pool you will get a seven-year warranty. Do you hope to have a pool for longer than that? The manufacturer is so certain it builds the world’s best composite pool that it o ers a Lifetime Structural Warranty and a Lifetime Structural Osmosis Warranty on all swimming pools.

TRAVEL

Domes Lake Resort is a family luxury hotel in Algarve, Portugal, nestled in a stunning landscape. With access to Praia de Falesia beach and views of Vilamoura marina, stay in palatial accommodations surrounding a private seawater lake. Read more over the page.

DOMES LAKE

FAMILY Paradise

Carly Glendinning visits Domes Lake Algarve, for a parent and kid-pleasing getaway

Before we became parents, my husband and I had been on very few resort holidays. Even our honeymoon was a pack-as-much-you-can-in USA road trip, because truth be told I’m just not that great at relaxing by the pool. Travel has (inevitably) changed a lot since we’ve had our daughter. With a toddler in tow there’s still not a lot of relaxation, but the convenience of a resort has definitely become a lot more appealing. Despite this, I think a lot of parents will be with me when I say I can’t bring myself to book a stereotypical family getaway. Becoming a parent doesn’t mean you wake up one day and no longer care about stylish hotel rooms, access to a luxury spa, or a quiet stretch of coastline.

Very much wanting the best of both worlds, we decided to book a stay at Domes Lake Algarve. Overlooking Praia de Falesia, the stylish family-focused resort is renowned for being as much geared towards parents as it is little ones.

THE ROOM

We were staying in the stylishly decorated Sapphire Retreat with views overlooking the pool and lake. But what we loved most about the room was the enormous bed. The hotel had set up a travel cot for our two-year old, but we had plenty enough space for co-sleeping. The room also had a balcony, which was great in the evenings when we wanted to have a glass of wine after putting our little one to bed. The bathroom had a separate bath and shower, and we loved the thoughtful little touches such as Le Petit Prince toiletries.

THE FOOD

Our stay included a bu et breakfast and dinner at Gustatio restaurant. Not your runof-the-mill bu et, we were really impressed with the sheer variety on o er and how good the food was. There were plenty of options for our picky toddler, and also lots of plantbased dishes for me. The hotel describes the food as ‘Portuguese comfort cuisine with a Mediterranean twist’. Breakfast was mountains of fresh fruit, porridge, and beautifully baked traditional pastries. My husband indulged in a cooked breakfast, and my daughter picked from our plates. For dinner, there was an array of salads, fresh seafood, and other dishes inspired from around the world. Having the option to eat early (the evening bu et starts at 6.30pm) and have lots of little tastes of di erent things was perfect if you have kids. We ate lunch at Makris on the Lake, which has a relaxed vibe and serves lots of crowd pleasers –including a very good burger and fries. The hotel also has two other restaurants: Topos, which serves award-winning neo-Greek seafood, and Soros, a beach-bar restaurant.

KIDS ACTIVITIES

We were really impressed with how geared towards little ones Domes Lake Algarve is. The resort not only has a big swimming pool, but also a lake with a man-made beach. This was heaven for our toddler and meant that we really didn’t need to leave the resort if we didn’t want to. The resort is right next to a beautiful stretch of coastline, so we did

“THE STYLISHLY DECORATED SAPPHIRE RETREAT HAS VIEWS OVERLOOKING THE POOL AND LAKE”

venture out one afternoon and our little one had so much fun running in and out of the waves. The hotel has beach sun loungers and you can borrow towels too. It was really quiet when we were there in September. The resort also has a brilliant adventure playground complete with lifesize wooden jeep. Kiepos, the kids club, was quite quiet at the time of year that we visited, but the sta were so sweet with my daughter and she didn’t want to leave when we came to collect her.

LOCATION

The Algarve is a great destination for families with year-round sunshine. There’s lots to do in the area for families, with Zoo de Lagos, and Zoomarine (and aqua theme park) nearby. Vilamoura o ers busting markets and a picturesque marina. The resort is 30 minutes from Ria Formosa, a natural wetland paradise, and the area’s natural wonders can be enjoyed inside the resort with beautifully landscaped gardens and lots of wildlife to observe. All in all, we couldn’t recommend Domes Lake Algarve for a family-friendly holiday more.

REACH THE BEACH

from your doorstep

It’s never been easier to fly abroad thanks to the network of flights o ered by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines from Leeds Bradford Airport and Humberside Airport

“EXPLORE THE SHORE IN FARFLUNG SUNNY DESTINATIONS”

Start your trip the convenient way this summer and enjoy the benefits of departing from your nearby airport. Say farewell to lengthy congested commutes to distant airports, and instead use the extra time to relax before your flight. Not to mention the added bonus of keeping a bit more of your dirhams, dollars, reals, or rands in your pocket thanks to the money saved from a shorter journey to your local airport, all thanks to KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. With convenient flight schedules from Leeds Bradford Airport or Humberside Airport, and both o ering connections to the world via Amsterdam, you can easily reach the beach and explore the shore in far-flung sunny destinations. Dubai anyone? The city that has it all, right in the middle of the desert, and easily reached from both Leeds Bradford and Humberside Airport. Or perhaps St Martin – for all the sailing, swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and sun you can possibly soak up in one Caribbean holiday. Did we mention Rio yet? A cheeky trip to Cape Town maybe? All destinations (and then some) waiting and wanting to be discovered.

With KLM Royal Dutch Airlines all destinations can be easily reached via a simple transfer connection at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. O ering a single airport terminal concept with a wide array of shopping options, restaurants and quirky attractions (think: a Rijksmuseum, the world’s first airport library, a kids playground to clamber on a real plane, and an airport park), keeping all ages entertained, helping towards a smooth and enjoyable transfer on the way. Via Amsterdam, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines connects to 155 worldwide destinations from the UK.

Irrespective of where you fly, you’ll always receive complimentary snacks and drinks on the way during your short connecting flights from/to the UK – while on the long-haul part of your journey in Economy Class you can also enjoy a meal, bar and snack service all included in the price of your ticket. Recharge your phone, connect to WiFi (you can purchase WiFi during check-in or once you’ve boarded your flight), or watch a movie: enjoy the flight! You can choose from a range of cabins to suit your budget, comfort level and needs: Economy Class, Premium Comfort Class, or World Business Class.

Travel in the newly introduced Premium Comfort Cabin (o ered to select long-haul destinations) and you can elevate your

comfort to enjoy more space and privacy in a separate cabin. Sit back and relax in your seat with extra legroom and recline: a wide selection of meals and drinks, together with a large inflight entertainment screen, tops o a memorable holiday nicely.

Or travel in style and take to the skies in luxurious World Business Class, with fullflat seats on intercontinental flights. You’ll enjoy extra privacy and comfort alongside meals created by top Dutch chefs prepared with the freshest ingredients. A great way to mark an extra special celebratory trip.

If you are travelling more for business purposes, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines' range of flight departures allow you to comfortably fit a business trip into a busy schedule. You can build international relationships and networks that will directly benefit trade and your company as well as helping the local economy prosper.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines make it possible to take-o closer to home, see and experience the world, and return with memories and opportunities when you fly back home.

To find out more information on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and their full range of exciting destinations, visit klm.co.uk All information correct at time of print.

BEACH HOUSES, CAPE TOWN

CARIBBEAN SEA, ST MARTIN

SHEFFIELD HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS GDST Sheffield High School for Girls GDST continues to demonstrate the enormous benefits of being an all-girls school, by design. Named the UK’s Prep School of the Year, their programme of character education focusses on developing skills for the future, and producing young leaders of tomorrow. sheffieldhighschool.org.uk

Creative COUNTING

Top

teacher and proud ‘maths geek’ Chris Smith MBE is on a one-man campaign to promote the excitement and creativity

of this universal subject

You can’t help but be carried along by Chris Smith’s passion for maths. He fizzes with ideas to inspire young and old alike. So much so that he’s garnered fans across the world, an MBE (2023), a Scottish Teacher of the Year Award (2018) and o cial ‘Brainiest Family’ (coearned with equally brainy family in 2019) on BBC Two’s The Family Brain Games. Then there are those delightfully wacky YouTube celebrations of Pi Day produced with his school, Grange Academy, Kilmarnock. From an epic whole-class reworking of “Y.M.C.A.” (PiMCA) to Pi in the Sky, filmed by drones and featuring 432 pupils and the first 314 digits of the magical number. Basically, whatever he’s up to mathematically, Grange Academy’s Mr Smith makes numbers look pretty cool.

His book That’s Mathematics, published in hardback last year and out in paperback –timed precisely for Pi Day on 14 March – is based on the song of the same name by Harvard professor, songwriter and entertainer Tom Lehrer. The idea for the book came after Chris Smith and a gang of mathematically minded buddies (including Rachel Riley, Bobby Seagull, Hannah Fry and Eddie Woo) brought the song to YouTube in May 2020 in celebration of Lehrer’s 92nd birthday. It was a lockdown smash hit – everybody loved it. That included publisher Mama Makes Books, whose MD thought a book inspired by the song would be perfect for early years readers. Using the song was easy after Tom Lehrer’s generosity in putting his entire songbook into the public domain in autumn 2020 via a website (º). Lehrer is in full retirement now, but he had watched that smash hit YouTube video and sent a brief

acknowledgment. “That made our day,” says Chris. “Tom Lehrer is happy for people to still be making the most of this lovely song.” In That’s Mathematics, Chris takes the original lyrics and weaves fun puzzles and challenges that show maths in action, all highlighted by Elina Braslina’s lovely illustrations. It is a fun way to engage children in maths’ ubiquity.

Smith is a compelling salesman for maths. Indeed, he’s a one-man advertisement for having fun with numbers – even managing to get a local billboard company to let him take over their property for Pi Day a couple of years ago. The billboard then showed all Kilmarnock the amazing qualities of Pi (adverPising, of course). Grange Academy pupils provided the creative zing, producing everything from stop-motion animation to slick presentations.

He’s more than happy to have maths writ large across the Ayrshire community – it increases student engagement – and he’s delighted that the local newspaper refers to him as ‘resident geek of the maths

department’. Grange Academy children ask him about the school’s Pi Day plans months in advance. Some want to know why they aren’t yet eligible to go on the annual maths revision camp introduced in 2015. This combines fun with “working their socks o ”. Most of all, Chris Smith is passionate about showing young people that maths is creative. “Maths is set in that sweet spot. There’s a bit of science in there, it’s got art, it’s got language,” he says. He demonstrates the language in class from time to time by pulling up a Gaelic maths paper (students here can sit exams in English or Scottish Gaelic). Children go from ‘I can’t read that’ to recognising that they can still answer the questions. “That is one of the things that we try to communicate to kids, this sense in which this is a language. You can use maths to articulate things, to explain things – it’s universal.”

There’s certainly a universal pleasure in talking maths with fellow educators and aficionados, as Chris has discovered. His free weekly maths newsletter, started in 2007 for an internal school audience of 12, has now garnered a giant subscriber base “4,900 and something” in 100 countries. It still contains the milk rota that was part of the original – to the ba ement of new subscribers. “First question is: ‘what is the milk rota?’,” he says. Some subscribers then ask to be added to the rota. This has led on to a guest slot. “We’ve had lovely people from Australia and California and all over the place send us cookies and lovely things.”

“MATHS IS SET IN THAT SWEET SPOT. THERE’S A BIT OF SCIENCE IN THERE, IT’S GOT ART, IT’S GOT LANGUAGE – IT SPANS THOSE DIFFERENT THINGS”

in the classroom. We have primary teachers who read it, university lecturers who read it – not everything is going to work for every person, but they can usually pick out wee bits here and there,” says Chris. “It’s kept me looking for ideas, trying to keep my teaching fresh, and not stagnate.” There seems little danger of that. And when he goes to pick up his MBE for ‘services to mathematics education and to the community in East Ayrshire’, the maths geek is rather hoping he can win over yet another high-profile subscriber. Numbers are there to be celebrated and Chris is showing us how. And for any parent looking to introduce their child to this universal language, counting sheep and folding sheets seems an excellent place to start.

That’s Mathematics ©

2023

Co ee and biscuit supplies aside, there’s inspiration. “There’s a puzzle, there are lesson ideas, there’s weekly trivia. Every week we try to help teachers with a whole bunch of stu

Mama Makes Books Ltd. Lyrics written by Tom Lehrer with additional text by Chris Smith. Artwork © 2023 Elīna Brasliņa. Now available in paperback, £7.99. To subscribe to Chris Smith’s weekly maths newsletter, email aap03102@gmail.com

CHRIS SMITH MBE – GRANGE ACADEMY, KILMARNOCK’S RESIDENT ‘MATHS GEEK’

WRITERS’ ROOM

Two

competitions

taking place this spring give budding young writers, poets and lyricists an opportunity to make their literary mark

Young creatives are being o ered the opportunity to have their talents celebrated in two writing competitions taking place this spring. This is a good opportunity for individuals or class groups to have some creative fun while writing to a tight brief. Both competitions are open now, with closing dates in May. Do read the competition terms and conditions carefully, especially the rules about who can submit entries.

INSPIRED BY A LINE

The Henrietta Branford Writing Competition is aimed at all young people who enjoy writing and is run in conjunction with the Branford Boase Award. Anyone under the age of 19 can enter – and this year the challenge is to write a story, poem or song lyrics.

The starting point is Christine Pillainayagam’s book, Ellie Pillai is Brown,

and this line in particular: ‘I think you have presence, something special about you. Something di erent’. Entrants are asked to write about a character who has ‘presence’ or something that makes them stand out.

The tip to entrants from this year’s Award Chair Prue Goodwin is to “remember that this writing is not a piece of schoolwork, it won’t be marked by the judges, just read to be enjoyed... Try to make the final version as original as possible”.

Six winners will receive signed copies of each of the books shortlisted for the 2023 Branford Boase Award and – best of all –winning stories, poems or song lyrics will be published on the Award website. Now in its 25th year, this competition is supported by independent children’s publisher Walker Books and delivered by the Authors’ Licensing and Collecting Society.

* The closing date is Friday 31 May. See more about the competition at branfordboaseaward.org.uk

WHODUNNIT CHALLENGE

Agatha Christie’s great-grandson James Prichard and author Kate Mosse are among the judges of a competition celebrating the 2,000th performance of Witness for the Prosecution at London County Hall. Now in its seventh year, this classic courtroom drama centres on the trial of Leonard Vole, accused of a dastardly crime for financial gain.

Budding crime writers and whodunnit lovers in Years 7-9 are being invited to write a short thriller of up to 2,000 words – a testing literary challenge requiring fastpaced plot and character development. Entries must be original work, with new characters and plot (so not based on any existing drama/novel or characters by Agatha Christie or any other author).

The winner of the prize receives tickets for their class (up to 35 people) to watch a performance of Witness for the Prosecution at County Hall to find out ‘whodunnit’ for themeselves.

* The closing date is Friday 3 May. To see full entry criteria, visit witnesscountyhall.com/ terms-and-conditions-2000th-performance

CHILDREN HAVE TWO WRITING COMPETITIONS TO INSPIRE THEM

‘WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION’ CAST PHOTO BY SAM BARKER

BRINGING HOMES TO LIFE WITH LUXURY INTERIORS

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE

Professional Interior Design Service | Technical Drawings & 3D Modelling

Fitted Cabinetry | Window Dressings| Soft Furnishings | Upholstery & Re-upholstery

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MONEY CAN BUY…

A stylish home in a wonderful location in Tadcaster

WHERE

Low Park Farm, Hazelwood, Tadcaster, LS24 9NH

WHAT

A five-bedroom detached home which forms part of a cluster of five dwellings converted from a range of farm buildings and sits within approximately five acres of land

INSIDE

This elegant home features stylish interiors and high-end finishes. The entrance hall leads to a grand reception hall with a bespoke glass staircase and dual aspect fireplace. The family lounge area o ers bi-folding doors and a central media wall. Upstairs, the master bedroom has an en-suite shower room and dressing room, alongside four double bedrooms, two en-suite bathrooms, and a luxurious house bathroom with a 'Jacuzzi' style bath and walk-in shower

OUTSIDE

Externally the property has generous parking available with a gated gravel driveway, detached double garage all being fully alarmed with the added benefit of CCTV security cameras. Low Park Farm has extensive formal gardens amounting to approximately five acres of land with far reaching countryside views and a natural wildlife swimming lake, with sloping beach, perfect for enjoying sunny days in complete privacy or outdoor entertaining. The scenic surroundings provide a tranquil backdrop, ideal for those seeking a secure and sophisticated lifestyle

PRICE

£2,595,000

SELLING AGENT

Fine & Country

01937 223016

wetherby@fineandcountry.com

Retirement living on your terms

Welcome to Otium of Stocksbridge, the brand new purpose-built community designed specifically for the independently minded* who choose to live their lives to the full without being bound by any of the complexities of everyday home ownership.

There are 56 one and two bedroom luxuriously appointed suites in 15 different configurations, with a variety of features and views, each tastefully finished to the very highest standard.

With a host of additional benefits and recreational spaces available Otium of Stocksbridge provides everything you need to live your retirement how you want it, in a relaxed and friendly environment.

• All utility bills covered in service charge

• 56 luxuriously appointed 1 and 2 bedroom suites • Guest suite available

• 10 year ICW warranty guarantee • Fully integrated security system

• Residents facilities including lounge, IT suite, library and activity studios

• Secure on-site parking, garaging & storage to rent

• Well behaved pets welcome**

*From the age of 55+ **Conditions apply - see website for details

why everyone is talking about…

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

The landmark venue unveils a new family friendly outdoor play space, combining sustainable natural materials and sculpture

An exciting new place to play, discover and imagine, Little Wild Wood at Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) has opened, building on the charity’s reputation as one of Yorkshire’s premier family visitor attractions.

The family-friendly Little Wild Wood has nature and creativity at its heart and sits within two of YSP’s 500 acres of beautiful landscape. It has been created predominantly using sustainable natural materials that have been foraged or repurposed from other areas of the Park. YSP’s talented Technical Team has utilised windfall trees, stumps, willow and refurbished picnic benches to create the brand-new space for younger visitors to enjoy.

Located next to the main Visitor Centre, Little Wild Wood welcomes you in with tunnels made from natural willow, leading to a vibrant willow dome. It then opens up into a magical woodland to reveal teepees where families can build dens together, and tree stump stepping stones and raised wooden platforms to adventure across. There is even a wooden house which encourages imaginative play, where children can get creative with found natural materials and invent their own games and stories.

Celebrated local sculptor Brian Fell, whose studio is based at YSP, has also generously donated three giant sculptures to Little Wild Wood – a two-metre-high desert rat, a towering pineapple and a 360-degree onion seat – specially for children to discover and explore.

Director of YSP, Clare Lilley, says: “We’re really excited by Little Wild Wood and know it’s something our new and regular visitors will love. Creative play is central to YSP’s cause – play at all ages improves our physical, social, cognitive and emotional well-being and is an essential element of children’s learning and development.”

With a degree of freedom that is not available in the classroom or even many homes, children can visit Little Wild Wood to make and build, lift and carry, get muddy, create their own games and natural sculptures, think through challenges, bond with others and be inspired, but most of all, have fun.

ysp.org.uk