Absolutely Yorkshire September 2024

EXPERTS IN THE NATURAL LOOK

Doctor Nyla is a skin specialist, trusted by TV personalities, well-known celebrity figures and some of Britain’s most familiar faces in the media industry. Founder and Medical Director of Doctor Nyla Medispa Cheshire is a highly respected and much sought after cosmetic Dermatology GP and is considered one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country. Having practised medicine for over 20 years and having personally delivered over 200,000 treatments with truly exceptional results, she has gained the admiration of the industry.

TRANSFORMATION FACELIFT TM

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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.

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

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a dog-friendly break or somewhere for that large 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

SHERIF SHALTOUT

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

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

Website absolutelymagazines.com

Poverty Hill Barn, Skipton

Yorkshire YATTER

To open our education special, Lisa Byrne reflects back on some of the best days of her life

Despite leaving full time education for what feels like centuries ago, I still get that ‘back to school’ feeling once September comes around. Having attended school in the 1970s and 80s, I used to relish covering coursebooks with magazine posters of my favourite bands and fashion images once the autumn term came around. And making sure my pencil case was filled to the brim with the latest scented rubbers (anyone remember fruit salad?) and vintage troll pens.

The Sunday night before the first day of term was spent taping the top 40 from BBC Radio One, because there was no way I could not know who was Number One! I went to a very traditional convent school –one of the oldest in the country – and I have to admit, I absolutely adored it. The banter

and gossip with friends were priceless, but I also loved learning about the treacherous Tudors and brilliant Brontës, although dreaded maths and physics lessons.

I cannot imagine how di erent it must be going to school nowadays, with mobile phones and laptops being huge distractions. I know myself how much modern technology has made me more impatient for things to happen with immediacy, so no wonder many young people would rather become insta ‘influencers’ and tik tok ‘stars’ rather than put in the hard work in academia. However, standing out and being di erent and unique seems so much more aspirational than transforming yourself into the next Kardashian.

To be honest, I haven’t a clue how teachers deal with policing phones. Earlier this year, the Netherlands became the latest country to ban digital devices in classrooms, with pesky phones already outlawed in classes in France and Italy. And Greystones, a small town in Ireland, made worldwide headlines for inviting parents to sign up to a voluntary code, pledging not to buy phones for children until they reached secondary school. It’s no surprise to learn that the mental wellbeing of these children hugely increased once they learned to play with friends and in the outdoors. One thing I know for sure is that education is power. Being inquisitive and wanting to increase your knowledge is the secret to paving the way for a successful future. As the incredible Mahatma Gandhi once said, ‘Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.’

My highlights for September…

Heading

Sipping

Staying zen using magnesium spray from Harrogate Organics. Indulging in lashings of yummy food and drink at

LISA BYRNE

to stunning Saltaire for the annual music and art festival.

relaxing Dimple Amani Miracle Tea before bed.

York Food Festival.

LEARN JUST AS MAHATMA GANDHI STATED

Wish LIST

ALL MADE UP

Chanel's limited edition makeup takeaways come in two summer palettes. The Nature Getaway is a cute pink pouch containing fi ve products in pinks and oranges, available exclusively at Selfridges. chanel.com

HISTORY CLASS

Temperley's Alessandro dress designs are inspired by Elizabethan portraiture: the crepe strewn with hand-painted trompe l’oeil jewellery motifs, featuring brooches and pendants, reminiscent of jewels sewn into clothing during the era. temperleylondon.com

For the best selection of colourful swimwear that actually fits well, visit Amelies Follies and enjoy a personalised service and a wide range. ameliesfollies.co.uk

STACK UP

This Longines Mini DolceVita Orange Multi Strap ladies watch has a silver dial with a sub-seconds counter at the 6 o'clock position. berrysjewellers.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK SUITS YOU

HANDLE IT

This collaboration celebrates Lisa Corti's ready-to-wear pieces with Rebecca de Ravenel's stylistic eye for accessories design. This basket is hand-woven and fi nished with a Corti scarf. lisacorti.com

CUT ABOVE

This ring celebrates the pinkto-red tones of the striking cushion cut pink tourmaline gemstone and has been cra ed from 18ct yellow gold. berrysjewellers.co.uk

SUMMER BRIGHTS

Aspiga's collection of summer dresses spans colourful prints, simple fl owing ka ans, eveningwear and beach staples. A full summer wardrobe, in fact – and there are sandals, separates and accessories too. aspiga.com

SUPER SIZE

Summer birthday approaching? Try the Hummingbird Bakery's Giant Vanilla Pinata cupcake, created in celebration of the bakery's own 20th birthday. hummingbirdbakery.com

CHILLI SAUCE

Alice Pons' signature Rococò Corset is given the playful Koibird treatment. The Italian made, baroque-inspired corset has been spiced up with a limited-edition chilli pepper motif. Lace up and style with the matching mini skirt for a head-turning moment. koibird.com

SMALL SCENTS

Bastille's gorgeous and sustainable fragrances now come in dinky 15ml travel-sized sprays that won't overload your liquids allowance. Our favourite is Plein Lune. bastilleparfums.com

CULTURE

10 SEPTEMBER, CITY VARIETIES, LEEDS Raunchy and dangerously fragile with an exceptional voice, Camille O’Sullivan is a courageous and singular performer, one of the most gifted interpreters of narrative songs about loss, love, joy, light and darkness. Known as the "Queen of the Edinburgh Festival" (BBC) and the original star of Olivier Award-winning LaClique, Camille enjoys a formidable reputation for her intensely dramatic interpretations of the songs of Brel, Cave, Waits, Bowie, Edith Piaf and more. camilleosullivan.com

PHOTO: BARRY MCCALL

The Agenda

SEPTEMBER'S HOTTEST HAPPENINGS

Katherine Ryan

27 SEPTEMBER, ST GEORGE'S HALL

She’s a comedian, presenter, writer, actor and singer. Now Katherine Ryan has another string to her bow – Battleaxe. That’s the name and theme of the Canadian entertainer’s brand new hilarious tour. The show comes at a particular time in Katherine’s life. She’s recently entered her 40s and is marking the ‘Battleaxe era’ with a feisty new outlook. Or as the dictionary defines it: by becoming ‘a frightening and unpleasant older woman with strong opinions’. You have been warned...

bradford-theatres.co.uk/st-georges-hall

EVENT

Women's Writing

20-22 September

BRONTË PARSONAGE

The Brontë Festival of Women’s Writing is celebrating the themes, threads, and webs of childhood literature. We’ll hear from established and new writers, including best-selling and much-loved children’s author, Jacqueline Wilson. Throughout the weekend, there’ll be talks and workshops for writers and readers of all ages, exploring fiction, poetry, and memoir. bronte.org.uk/whats-on

EVENT

Auto Italia Day

8 September

CARLTON TOWERS

Prepare for a feast of Ferrari red, when a host of all eras Italian cars line-up in the beautiful surroundings of the Carlton Towers Estate for Auto Italia Day. This is a great experience for fans of sleek performance cars or just a fun family day out. While you are there you can also take advantage of a 30-minute mini guided tour of the house. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the lawn, pre-booking an Afternoon Tea Box. carltontowers.co.uk

COMEDY

EVENT

The Northern Antiques Fair

26-29 September

THE GARDEN ROOMS AT TENNANTS

With an inspiring line-up of specialist antiques dealers, The Northern Antiques Fair returns for the fourth time. Particular highlights include drawings by Harold Riley (19342023) of L S Lowry, a friend since his student days, a hugely decorative Windsor chair, a Parkinson & Frodsham carriage clock, an incredibly rare map of the United Kingdom by Dutch cartographer Johannes Blaeu from 1659, and much more. northernfair.com

Art-adorned skateboards to feature in National Park’s Birds on the Edge exhibition

LARRY DEAN

26 September CITY VARIETIES MUSIC HALL, LEEDS

Three-time Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, Larry Dean, is set to embark on a national tour this autumn with his brand-new stand up show Dodger. Dodger sees Larry contemplate his heroes and his identity. His hero was Elvis, but this year his thoughts have been all shook up. Stemming from his granny’s dementia diagnosis, a few things have been put into perspective regarding the people who deserve our respect and why. leedsheritagetheatres.com

AThe LaFontaines

This Month’s Must See T

he LaFontaines never went away, they’ve just had a short time out…

Fifteen years since their inception in Motherwell Scotland, Kerr Okan (vocals), Jamie Keenan (drums, vocals) and Darren McCaughey (guitars, production) have long held a unique space within the UK music scene. Their live shows are their superpower – a guaranteed good time which sees the band connect with their audience on a level that most live acts never achieve. thewardrobe.co.uk

novel form of art will feature in this exhibition in the North York Moors National Park’s gallery when skateboards adorned with creative designs go on display. The one-off skateboard designs have been created by students from the Scarborough Pupil Referral Service who have used art to explore parallels between their own lives and those of endangered birds that exist on the edge of habitats. The skateboards, along with work from a talented line-up of other artists, will be on display during the Birds on the Edge exhibition which runs until 8 September at the Inspired by… gallery in Danby as part of the North York Moors Trust’s National Lottery Heritagefunded Birds on the Edge project. For the exhibition, self-confessed ‘bird nerd’ Holly Magdalene Scott and local printmaker Lyn Bailey will honour the significance and enchantment of birds through their lino cut prints; while Whitby ceramicist Jean Cunion will take inspiration from the wildlife she sees on the local moorland and coast to produce stylised geometric shaped ceramics. She will be joined by other ceramicists – Jacqui Atkin, Kate Timson and Jean White – together with Huddersfield mixed media artist Jo Blaker who will explore the Birds on the Edge theme through a series of sketchbook watercolours and drawings.

Acclaimed local artist Peter Reynolds will depict the fragility of birds’ lives through his paintings and textile artist Bridget Bailey will use the concept of nests to show the sustainable ingenuity of birds.

northyorkmoors.org.uk/ Birds-on-the-Edge

PHOTO: RORY BARNES

TRANSFORMING THE

Landscape

Yorkshire Sculpture Park presents a major solo exhibition of work by Bharti Kher, in her most extensive UK museum presentation to date

Bharti Kher with Djinn, 2024. Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin

Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

One of the world’s leading contemporary artists, Bharti Kher, who was born in the UK and now lives and works between London and India, is exhibiting a stunning sold exhibition at Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP). In both the Underground Gallery and adjacent landscape, Bharti Kher: Alchemies headlines YSP’s 2024 artistic programme, which focuses on and celebrates themes of diversity, discovery and personal identity, and o ers an exploration of the past, present and future of sculpture.

Bharti Kher centres the female body and experience through sculpture. Addressing timely political issues around identity and gender, she reframes the perspective and position of women from her own experiences.

The powerful group of works presented in the exhibition spans 2000-24, including

four significant outdoor bronze sculptures. Curated across the light-filled spaces of YSP’s largest gallery and surrounding garden, the exhibition celebrates Bharti’s extraordinary sculptures, representing di erent approaches and periods of her career.

The exhibition foregrounds central ideas of Bharti’s process. “When I make the work in the studio, so many forces are at play: the material and its narrative and needs, my hands and their energies, the space and its dynamic as a holder of potential,” she explains. “The bodies and remnants of voices that leave their traces and essence in the body casts. Positives and negatives fly around me. All of it helps me see better, to sense the temperature, to hear what is physical, but to make the work sing I have let go of all of it. And that’s how the alchemies of the studio come into being.”

The exhibition begins with a room of abstract works, reflecting Bharti’s engagement with the pure geometry of sculptural language as well as her use of found objects to suggest the body, even in its absence. The deaf room (2001-12) is a dominating chamber of glass bricks created by melting 10 tonnes of glass bangles; the solemn work and its core alchemical process (transforming delicate circular bracelets into strong cuboid blocks) specifically draws on Bharti’s response to the 2002 Gujarat riots, in which an estimated 1,000 people died over three days of the worst intercommunal riots since Independence in 1947.

The hot winds that blow from the West (2011) is also a monolithic cube, created from old radiators that Bharti shipped from the USA to India. Bharti has rid them of their

original function as mechanical domestic objects and re-formed them as an impressive artwork. Stacked vertically and horizontally, the defunct tools evoke decaying animal carcasses with ribs exposed. A foil to The deaf room, both works utilise the readymade to create powerful geometric statements that also think about the emotional weight of material and the manifestations of heat to viscerally challenge our sensory or cognitive response to the memorial.

Many of her found objects are sourced and collected over many years and then cast or transformed. The central gallery space brings together a room of sculpture on one large, central platform. Many of her women sculptures replicate the energy and dynamism of temple sculpture, which is for Bharti a point of departure and inspiration. One pivotal series shown here is the Sari Women. Closely bound with the histories and bodies of South Asian women, saris also relate to female lineage and traditions; as Bharti says: “Saris hold the stories of our lives; the single piece of fabric that you wear through life, finally becomes your shroud.”

Encased in resin and frozen in time, the abundantly draped saris enshrine, hold and obscure the body beneath, suggesting a regenerative, enigmatic and magical space. There also exist clear allusions to the use of drapery across the history of figurative sculpture.

Other works consider the power and potential of the hybrid form and introduce the visceral impulse in Bharti’s practice. Strange Attractor (2021) is part-ape-part-woman,

Bharti Kher, The Intermediary Family, 2018 (detail). Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Bharti Kher, Virus XV, 2024. Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Bharti Kher, Animus Mundi, 2018 (detail). Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

harnessing primal, shamanistic energy. And all the while the benevolent slept (2008) portrays the goddess Kali as The Great Cosmic Wisdom Chinnamasta who embodies all life forces as a destroyer and a giver of life.

The Hybrid Series (2004) comprises digitally collaged photographs of women whose bodies have morphed to be part human part animal, juxtaposed with symbols of domestic work: feather dusters, hoovers, tea sets, and include her two children. Bharti suggests that “parts of us are essentially savage, animalistic and primal”. Whilst addressing the notion of the self as other and certainly absurd in its selfhood, she positions her hybrids in domestic acts that appear resistant and domineering.

The final room o ers a reverent atmosphere, examining the simultaneous vulnerability and strength of the female form. Six Women (2012–14) comprises plaster casts of sex workers from Kolkata: intimate portraits that consider the purpose of transaction, exchange and consumerism. All six sit in the same position with their hands resting on their knees and eyes closed, the women are self-contained and introspective. Theirs are real bodies, not idealised, sexualised or transformed. Sharing this space is a work from Bharti’s iconic and deeply personal Virus series that began in 2010 and will conclude in 2039. A vast wall-based spiral of bindis accompanied by a prophetic text. Virus, the artist says “is a vortex. It’s a peephole. It’s an entrance. It’s an exit. It’s a womb. It’s the abyss”. Metaphorically wrapping and breathing the fabric of the gallery is Bloodline (2000), which extends along the concourse just above head height for over 50 metres. A continuous line of red and black glass bangles lit from within and glowing like an artery, alive and running through the body of the building.

In the gardens surrounding the gallery are three large-scale bronze works from Bharti’s Intermediaries series that take South Indian golu dolls as their starting point. These small, colourful clay figurines that are displayed in homes as part of the Navaratri festival depict gods and goddesses, animals and people. Following her process of rupture and reassembly, the artist describes how “by repairing and opening these figures and then fusing them together in new configurations, I was creating new avatars and possibilities of the self”. Bharti has now scaled some of these hybrids to huge proportions and in doing so celebrates the complexity of identity, shapeshifting new beings across space and through culture. Ancestor (2022), a mother figure with the heads of 23 children emerging out of her body, is described by Bharti as “a mythical and powerful female force that pays homage to the generations before and after her’’. At the top of the garden, the new fivemetre-high work Sun God (2024) represents a new development in the Intermediaries series.

Clare Lilley, YSP Director, says: “This ambitious exhibition brings an important artist to new UK audiences and we look forward to seeing visitors enjoy and experience such exceptional work. In YSP’s unique setting we are able to show both the intimate in the galleries and the monumental in the open air.”

ysp.org.uk

Bharti Kher, Djinn, 2024. Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Bharti Kher, Ancestor, 2022 (detail). Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Bharti Kher, Alchemies, installation view at Yorkshire Sculpture Park, 2024. Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Bharti Kher, Cloud Walker, 2013 (detail). Courtesy the artist, Hauser & Wirth, Nature Morte and Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Why

we love

Pickering

The North Yorkshire market town features beauty, history and wonderful independent outlets

Pickering boasts a rich history that spans from prehistoric times to the modern era. Situated on the edge of the North York Moors, it is an area characterised by its picturesque landscapes and historical significance. The history of Pickering can be traced back to the Mesolithic era, with archaeological evidence suggesting human activity in the region as far back as 7,000 BC. Flint tools and other artefacts from this period have been discovered, indicating that early inhabitants were hunters and gatherers.

During the Roman occupation of Britain, Pickering’s strategic location made it an important settlement. The Romans established a fort in the nearby village of Cawthorne, which served to protect their interests in the area. The Roman road

network also passed through this region, facilitating trade and military movements.

The town’s name, Pickering, is derived from the Old English “Piceringas”, which means “the people of Picer”. This name first appears in historical records during the Anglo-Saxon period. By the 7th century, Pickering was an established settlement within the Kingdom of Northumbria.

Following the Norman Conquest in 1066, Pickering gained further prominence. The Domesday Book of 1086 records Pickering as a significant settlement with a population of around 30 households. The Normans built Pickering Castle, a motteand-bailey structure that served as a royal hunting lodge and a stronghold to control the surrounding area. Over the centuries, the castle was expanded and fortified.

The medieval period saw Pickering flourish as a market town. The granting of a market charter in 1267 by Henry III allowed the town

to hold regular markets, which became central to its economy. The parish church of St Peter and St Paul, with its origins in the 12th century, became a focal point of community life.

Pickering also experienced the turbulence of the English Civil War in the 17th century. The castle, held by Royalists, was besieged by Parliamentarian forces, leading to significant damage.

The arrival of the railway in 1836 connected the town to larger cities, fostering economic growth and facilitating the transport of goods and people. This period also saw the development of local industries, including agriculture, milling, and manufacturing.

In the 20th century, Pickering continued to grow, with an emphasis on preserving its historical heritage. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway was launched in the 1970s, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts. The town also became a centre for exploring the natural beauty of the North York Moors National Park.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

One of the most significant historical landmarks, as outlined left, is Pickering Castle. This medieval fortress o ers a fascinating glimpse into England’s feudal past. Visitors can explore the well-preserved remains, including the keep, the curtain walls, and the chapel. The castle’s elevated position provides stunning views over the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect spot for photography and picnicking.

Another notable attraction is the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul. This ancient church, with parts dating back to the 12th century, is renowned for its medieval wall paintings. These vibrant frescoes, which were uncovered in the 19th century, depict scenes from the Bible and o er a unique insight into medieval religious art. The church’s tranquil setting and historical significance make it a must-visit for those interested in ecclesiastical history and architecture.

THERE ARE PLENTY OF PICTURESQUE STREETS

DALBY FOREST

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY

ELIZABETH BOTHAM’S TEAROOM

For those who enjoy scenic journeys, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) is an exceptional experience. This heritage steam railway runs from Pickering to the coastal town of Whitby, passing through the stunning landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. The journey o ers passengers a nostalgic trip back in time, with beautifully restored carriages and locomotives. The NYMR also hosts special events throughout the year, making it a delightful attraction for families and train enthusiasts.

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in and around Pickering. The town serves as a gateway to the North York Moors National Park, a vast expanse of heathercovered moorland, forests, and valleys. The park o ers numerous walking and cycling trails, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking. One popular trail is the Levisham Moor and Hole of Horcum walk, which takes hikers through dramatic landscapes and o ers breathtaking views over a natural amphitheatrelike depression in the moorland. For a more structured nature experience, the Beck Isle Museum in Pickering showcases rural life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Housed in a Georgian building, the museum features exhibits on agriculture, domestic life, and local industries. Visitors can explore a recreated Victorian street, complete with shops and period furnishings, providing an immersive educational experience.

Lastly, the Dalby Forest, located just a few miles from Pickering, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest features extensive trails for walking, cycling, and horse riding, as well as areas designated for wildlife watching. Dalby Forest is also home to the popular Go Ape adventure park, where visitors can tackle treetop rope courses and zip lines.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

Willowgate Bistro

Located in the heart of Pickering, Willowgate Bistro is known for its intimate atmosphere and high-quality food. The bistro o ers a seasonal menu that emphasises locally sourced ingredients. Dishes often include British classics with a modern twist, such as pan-seared scallops, lamb shank, and a variety of fresh seafood options.

Feast Deli & Cafe

Feast is a delightful spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The menu features a range of freshly prepared dishes, from hearty breakfasts to gourmet sandwiches and salads. The deli also o ers a selection of local cheeses, meats, and artisanal products that visitors can purchase to take away.

Spice 4U

For those craving Indian cuisine, Spice 4U is a popular choice. This family-run restaurant is renowned for its flavourful dishes and friendly service. The menu includes a wide

variety of traditional Indian dishes, such as chicken tikka masala, lamb bhuna, and vegetarian options like paneer tikka.

Figaro’s

Figaro’s brings a taste of Italy to Pickering with its authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant o ers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu that includes classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and decadent desserts like tiramisu. Figaro’s is perfect for a casual yet refined dining experience.

Elizabeth Botham’s Tea Rooms

For a traditional English tea experience, Elizabeth Botham’s Tea Rooms o ers a selection of fine teas, freshly baked scones, and an array of cakes and pastries. The tearoom’s charming ambiance and attentive service make it a lovely place to relax and enjoy afternoon tea.

The Black Swan

A quintessential English pub, The Black Swan o ers a warm and inviting atmosphere with its traditional decor and open fireplaces. The pub serves a variety of local ales and hearty pub food, including fish and chips, pies, and Sunday roasts. It’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors to unwind.

PICKERING CASTLE

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS

WILLOWGATE BISTRO

For Curious MINDS

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is a new destination that will enrapture all the family

Families across the North East can now enjoy a new visitor destination at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens.

The development known as ‘The Rising’ has been the largest restoration project in decades with an extensive renovation of existing historic buildings and the sympathetic addition of two impressive new buildings, all thoughtfully tied together with newly landscaped and meandering walkways. Visitors can now enjoy The Vinery Café Restaurant, High Vinery landscaping, The Coach House shop and exhibition, remodelled walled gardens and magnificent historic event spaces.

There is so much for families to explore and things are about to get ‘curiouser and curiouser’ at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens with a series of new fantasy themed trails. Raby Castle’s woodland adventure playground,

The Plotters’ Forest, is o ering a new Alice in Wonderland trail that’s woven amongst the trees in the Christmas tree plantation. Little explorers will need to find all the items misplaced by The Mad Hatter throughout the The Plotters’ Forest ground-level forest trails, high walkways and towers and treetop tunnels. The magical wonderland trail is included in the admission price and complimentary trail sheets can be picked up upon arrival. Tickets also include access to the Deer Park and the recently remodelled Walled Gardens between 10am and 4pm, where a magical maze awaits to be discovered.

Magic and mystery continue over at High Force Waterfall, which is part of the Raby Estate, with a folk and fairytale trail in the beautiful setting. In a land not so far away, fairytale creatures have come out to play and are waiting for families to spot them on an enchanting walk this summer.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estates, says: “Following the opening of our new lifestyle destination and embracing our ‘eat, see and shop’ ethos, we are now able to provide families and visitors with so much more to see and do. In addition to our new trails, we have lots of extra o erings including our popular harvest seasonal market, which will be held in the newly renovated Dutch Barn, as well as a painting workshop, open air theatre and a wood craft workshop.”

Later this month, look out for Bark in The Park, which returns on Sunday 29 September. Join them for a paw-some time at this fabulous dog event in the picturesque Deer Park at Raby Castle. Expect tail-wagging fun, dog competitions and local market traders.

Tickets to The Plotters’ Forest, Park and Gardens cost £13 for adults and £10 for

children (aged 4-15 years). A family ticket (two adults and three children) can also be purchased for £45 and children under four go free. Additional ticket options include access to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens (an adult ticket is £18, a child ticket is £10 and a family ticket is £55) or access to just the Park and Gardens (an adult ticket is £12, a child ticket is £7.50 and a family ticket is £38).

High Force Hotel, located amidst the stunning natural beauty of the County Durham countryside, also has two special summer o ers on bed and breakfast or dinner, bed and breakfast stays. Using the code SE24 when booking a bed and breakfast stay before 30 September, guests will receive a 15% discount on their stay.

Alternatively, a three for the price of two o er includes three nights of luxurious accommodation while only paying for two, as well as a Teesdale breakfast each day and complimentary tickets to both Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and High Force Waterfall. If choosing the dinner, bed and breakfast option, guests can also enjoy a three-course meal each evening in the cosy hotel restaurant.

More information can be found at raby.co.uk/whats-on

THE BEAUTIFUL RABY CASTLE

BARK IN THE PARK

LIGHT SPEED

The lightest and most powerful series-production McLaren, the new V8-engined, rear-wheel drive 750S, is unashamedly a supercar for the purist, as James Fuschillo discovers

We all need a hero in our lives right now, and the super variety needs the right vehicle to go about their work –and the McLaren 750S would be that car. Laying eyes on it for the first time, the sleek and aerodynamic look really does scream Batmobile, especially if it came in all black, matte. And considering McLaren will customise the colour to whatever your heart desires, consider that a given.

Designed and engineered following meticulous analysis of the renowned McLaren 720S, the new 750S combines advances in weight-saving, powertrain performance, aerodynamics and dynamic excellence to elevate a benchmark driving experience to new heights. Around 30 per cent of 750S

components are either new or changed in order to deliver these improvements, and they are noticeable, from the way the car drives, to dealing with problems that suburban life may throw at you.

Settling into the 750S, it’s probably the closest thing you can get on the ground that resembles being a fighter jet pilot. These cars are built for speed, but for me the level of comfort and security blew me away.

Speed, however, is not forgotten. The engineering developments advance the renowned daily usability of the 720S, and yet the power and performance of the 750S is more full-blooded and undiminished than ever. Outright acceleration is phenomenal, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in 2.8 seconds.

The interior is very minimalistic, but at the same time high tech. The 750S fuses innovative technology with exquisite materials, but most importantly is even

more driver-focused in design. At the heart of the driver experience are new displays, both for information and instruments, with the instrument display fitted to – and moving with – the steering column. This driver-centric display is mounted in a binnacle that has the controls to select Powertrain and Handling modes located on either side, meaning the driver can move e ortlessly between Comfort, Sport and Track Active Dynamic settings while keeping their hands on the wheel and a complete focus on the road ahead.

This also is a supercar for the petrolheads out there. The engine is located to the rear, but thanks to a fancy design feature, you can see inside the car into the engine bay. Come the night and the engine bay is illuminated red, which really does give the car the x factor. This is a car where you can not only admire its design, but also the mechanics that go into making it such a joy to drive.

The exhaust system is another change from the 720S. That had two circular exhausts at the back next to each tail light, whereas in the 750S it has been replaced by a much bigger, central exhaust with a completely di erent design, including a really sexy touch that assists with braking. Driver Downforce (active wing partially deployed, dependent on speed) is engaged when the Aero button is pushed in the cabin, increasing downforce levels during high-speed cornering. The design and positioning of the single, central exhaust pipe meant that the new active rear wing is positioned 60mm higher, its revised static position bringing additional powertrain cooling by drawing hot air out of the engine bay. It was a joy to take the 750S onto motorways and clear A roads, but I was also keen to put it through its paces through a suburban set up. A really good function on the car is McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control linked-hydraulic suspension, a real game changer in a suburban area, enabling you to lift the car’s nose in four seconds at the touch of a button. The new-generation system delivers even higher levels of suspension performance and is integral to the outstanding dynamic abilities of the 750S. Comfort in design, but also in practice. The suspension springs are softer at the front and

SPECS AT A GLANCE

ENGINE CONFIGURATION

M840T engine, 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, 3,994cc

POWER

PS (bhp/kW) @ rpm 750 (740/552) @ 7,500rpm

TORQUE

Nm (lb ) @ rpm 800 (590) @ 5,500rpm

TRANSMISSION

7 Speed SSG. Comfort, Sport and Track modes

sti er at the rear than in the 720S, which together with reconfiguration of both the passive and active elements of the bespoke valve stack and a new approach to tuning the suspension – adjusting the accumulators in the struts, which is used for the first time in 750S – benefits ride comfort, roll control, steering feedback and cornering balance.

The way the 750S handles is a dream, and also the acceleration o the mark. You can feel the raw power, it’s so responsive. When you are going up in speed so quickly you also need to have handling matching that and I thought it was a really well balanced car. The extraordinary levels of exhilaration, precision, agility, feel and feedback that the 750S delivers are immediately apparent to the driver, even at lower speeds – and its low weight is a key factor in its dynamic performance. At just 1,389kg (DIN), it weighs 30kg less than a 720S – a clear example of McLaren’s dedication to lightweight engineering.

VERDICT

With the new 750S, McLaren defines a new benchmark for supercar performance and driver exhilaration.

STEERING

Electro-hydraulic; power-assisted

CHASSIS

Carbon fibre Monocage II monocoque with aluminium front and rear crash structures

SUSPENSION

Independent adaptive dampers, dual aluminium wishbones, hydraulically linked PCC III system. Comfort, Sport and Track modes

BRAKES

Carbon Ceramic Discs (390mm front; 380mm rear); Aluminium Calipers (6-piston front; 4-piston rear)

(180)

(105)

FUEL TANK CAPACITY litres (UK/USA gallons) 72 (15.8/19) LUGGAGE

THE MCLAREN 750S IS A JOY TO DRIVE

MCLAREN 750S COUPE & MCLAREN 750S SPIDER

ABSOLUTELY ATTENDS

THE GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOW

It was a fabulous four days at this year’s Great Yorkshire Show, which saw a fond farewell on the final day. Show Director Charles Mills passed on the baton after nine years, as the 165th Great Yorkshire Show came to a close. Action continued throughout the final day in the show rings, while a marriage proposal took centre stage at the finals of the pole climbing competitions. The day rounded o with Charles handing over to new Show Director Rachel Coates, before YAS President Martin Cockerill handed over to Geo Brown MBE. Charles said: “This has been a wonderful nine years, it has been a pleasure to be the Show Director of the Great Yorkshire Show and my highlight has to be the people. I have so enjoyed working with the team and meeting so many amazing people during my time here. I feel very grateful and very proud and I wish Rachel every success with the role.”

The first day may have been a soggy a air, but bees, fashion, gardens and a triumphant return for the popular People’s Choice classes were among the highlights when the sell-out Great Yorkshire Show opened. The first competitive trophy of the Show, the Doncaster Cup for the best exhibit in the Garden Show, went to Terry Marran of Primrose Bank, Kexby, York.

High profile visitors and a host of awards marking excellence shaped the second day of a packed schedule at the Great Yorkshire Show. The Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell and Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire Jo Ropner toured the Show, in what was the Archbishop’s first ever visit. New Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural A airs, Steve Reed OBE MP, and Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner made their first visit as part of the new Government.

Adam Henson took to the cattle rings before heading for the chat show on the Vertu Motors GYS Stage and seeing the sheepdog trials, while Kelvin Fletcher and wife Liz also made an appearance. The School Veg Box competition, which annually challenges primary schools across Yorkshire to grow British produce from scratch, was won by White Laith Primary School of Whinmoor, Leeds, with its bright colourful designs and rain harvesting systems for this year’s Bee theme. Supreme Champions and the hugely popular Ripon Select Foods Cock O’ the North showjumping took centre stage at the Great Yorkshire Show day three, as the very best animals were awarded. There were visits from The Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, and Robbie Moore MP for Keighley and Ilkley

FOOD & DRINK

LOCAL DELICACY

BAVETTE

The Good Food Guide has announced its annual 100 Best Local Restaurants list, and Bavette, in Horsforth, Leeds, has been crowned Britain’s Best Local Restaurant. Bavette’s customers and the anonymous inspectors from The Good Food Guide were impressed with the warmth of hospitality at the lively French bistro. This was backed up by the menu of authentic, beautifully executed French classics.

WHAT TO DRINK GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

By JOSE PIZARRO

José Pizarro Cava Brut

Nature ‘Gran Reserva’

 £27.50

This delicious, balanced, yellow-gold Cava o ers an impressive release of fine celebratory bubbles. The exotic scent of peaches, pineapple and dried wildflowers reflect the structured tropical fruit flavours – pineapple, citrus peel, and sun-soaked citrus fruits. In the mouth it has an old wine luxury and fullness reminiscent of a vintage Gran Reserva – it is bready and elaborated.

Pizarro Rosé, Forcallat

 £24.50

Pale in colour and boasting a fresh, floral nose with hints of red fruit, the palate is light, fresh and balanced. Made using 100% Forcallat grape variety, the grapes are harvested by hand without crushing, and naturally cold-soaked for 24 hours. The vines are grown in 35 year-old goblet-trained vines at an altitude of 600 metres above sea level, and sandy loam soil with limestone. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, seafood, and salads, this elegant bottle is the perfect addition to any summer spread.

José Pizarro, Rare Solera PAP, Osborne

 £170.00

The Osborne family takes great pride in the wines of this Rare Collection, not only because they have passionately cared for them for decades, but also because every drop embodies their heritage and tradition. Not long ago, they decided to share these wines, releasing a selection in very limited quantities.

Grape: 92% Palomino Fino, 8% PX

Pairing: Ideally, experience this sherry moderately chilled at 1113°C as an accompanying wine to peach-passion fruit dessert, banana trifle in a glass or arugula penne. josepizarro.com

TASTING

NOTES

Food news and the most exciting openings across Yorkshire

By MARK KEBBLE

Iconic institution

Leeds, like many cities, sees restaurants and bars come and go, but only a few leave a lasting legacy across generations. Bibis Italianissimo, a family-owned independent restaurant, is one such iconic venue. Business partners, Oliver Teodorani and Dino Aristotelous, opened the restaurant back 1974 bringing something new to the northern food scene, with Bibis going on to become a genuine Yorkshire institution. To mark a triumphant 50 years, Bibis recently held their unforgettable icons party. bibisrestaurant.com

BIBIS

Yorkshire's finest

THE PLOUGH

The Plough is situated in the pretty village of Scalby. Their talented team of chefs create modern British dishes with new and exciting flavours. Diners can choose from traditional dishes like homemade pie or Sunday roasts, using the finest prime topside of Yorkshire beef. Their new menu features dishes such as Braised BBQ Beef Shortrib Korean style, with grilled spring onions, kimchi, k-fries, spiced mayo & gochujang ketchup, while their specials board showcases seasonal ingredients with fresh local seafood. theploughscalby.co.uk

Taste of quality

MIDDLETHORPE HALL

An oasis of calm, overlooking the magnificent gardens, Middlethorpe Hall is the perfect place for a memorable dinner experience. You can indulge in fine dining at its most creative with their delicious 'six-course Tasting Menu' designed and created by Head Chef, Ashley Binder, for £105 per person, and to which wines have been carefully paired at £45 per person. This gourmet experience requires all the table guests to partake. middlethorpe.com

TAKE THREE

Essential kitchen kit

ADDISON ROSS

Addison Ross's stylish bobbin salt and pepper grinders come in a huge range of bright shiny shades. Mix and match your pair, or pick two of the same. The grind is good too. addison-ross.com

MICROPLANE

You might not have known that you need this, but once you try it there's no going back. The avocado tool is a knife, a scoop and a pit remover in one, for maximum efficiency in skin removal and neat slicing. microplane.com

COOKUT

The Morty mortar and pestle can be held in your hand, which enables the easy crushing of ingredients with the bambou pestle. The built-in spout allows you to pour the crushed ingredients without any mess. It's a ni y bit of kit. hypedesignlondon.co.uk

To celebrate the launch of its brand-new brew, Yorkshire Tea opened the House of Caramelised Biscuit, an immersive experience in central London in July. Visitors were able to explore a world of biscuity wonders and get their hands - and taste buds - on the new Caramelised Biscuit Brew, to help stir up their tea break. yorkshiretea.co.uk

STARRY STAY

MÝSE

From 1 September, Michelinstarred restaurant Mýse from Joshua and Victoria Overington will welcome more guests to stay overnight at Mýse Cottage just across the village green of Hovingham, which will house three new bedrooms. This is in addition to the three spacious rooms above the restaurant, which opened last summer. restaurantmyse.co.uk

Life in the FAST lane

Tommy Banks is synonymous with great Yorkshire cooking thanks to The Black Swan and Roots, but his expertise is spreading into the world of entertainment

“My cooking technique is quite unique to me”

Tommy Banks is a multi-awardwinning chef, and one of the UK’s most exciting and innovative restaurateurs, growing his menu in North Yorkshire where he owns two Michelin-starred restaurants, a pub, a premium food box business and canned wine brand. Born and raised in the small village of Oldstead, Tommy comes from a farming background, and has watched his family farm the land in around Oldstead since he was a child. In 2006, the family took the plunge and purchased the run-down village pub in Oldstead, adding a food menu, to revive

the historic public house. Six years later, in 2012, the restaurant earned its first Michelin-star, and in 2013, when Tommy took over as Head Chef and retained the star, he became the youngest-ever chef to win the accolade. Tommy now holds two Michelin stars, one each for his two restaurants The Black Swan at Oldstead and Roots in York, as well as a Michelin green star for e orts with sustainable gastronomy.

But Tommy’s talents have stretched beyond the kitchen. He is a veteran judge on BBC’s The Great British Menu, having won the competition in 2016, 2017 and 2020. O -screen Tommy’s biggest passion is cricket and is proud to hold a chef residency at Lord’s Cricket Ground at their latest restaurant The Edrich.

Then there was his recent involvement at British Grand Prix at Silverstone in early July, where Absolutely caught up with him to find out more about this side to his career and what the future holds in store.

Q You were a part of the British Grand Prix with MATCH Hospitality, what were you up to at Octane Terrace at Silverstone this year?

A We had a stunning food truck that was there for the whole weekend serving up some great food. The Octane Terrace o ers incredible hospitality alongside some really cool DJs, so there’s always an amazing vibe. Last year was fantastic, and a brilliant day, so I was really looking forward to this year, too.

Q What excited you the most about the Octane Terrace, Silverstone?

A From my perspective, it doesn’t really feel like work. It’s got the F1, great food, the DJs and the fun, festival atmosphere. I really look forward to getting to meet everyone because they’re all just having a great time, and that’s why it’s so much fun.

Q What initially inspired you to become a chef?

A I never really wanted to be a chef growing up, I was a really fussy eater, so it was never on my radar. I actually wanted to be a professional cricketer. But then I started watching cookery programmes on the TV, when they really started to be a big thing with the likes of Gordon Ramsay. It just really sparked my interest.

Q Can you share a memorable culinary experience that influenced your cooking style?

A It’s a strange one, because my cooking style is in fact quite unique to me, as I didn’t work in restaurants or get training. It all came from living on my family farm and working in our local village pub that we owned. I just learnt on the job and got inspired by the food we grew. However, one big memory is of my grandmother cooking potatoes with lots of fresh mint and just that amazing smell. I do try to use fresh mint in a lot of my cooking today.

Q Are there any specific ingredients or techniques that you enjoy working with?

A It’s like asking who’s your favourite child! There are so many, but for me cooking with amazing quality meat and fish is my

TOMMY BANKS

HALIBUT BRASSICA OSCIETRA AT THE BLACK SWAN

favourite. There are so many variables, and it feels most natural. Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy making desserts, but to me that is more alchemy. Cooking meat and fish, especially over an open fire, feels more natural and you can put a lot more fun into it.

Q Can you tell us about your favourite dish on the menu and what makes it special?

A My favourite dish at The Black Swan at Oldstead is one of the main courses featuring Saddleback pig. The reason I like it is that it comes in several parts, we’re trying to use as much of the animal as possible, in di erent ways. Sometimes I think tasting menus can be a bit boring and people get a little jaded by all the food that comes out. So this dish comprises of five little plates, where we use the whole pig, and it makes things so interesting.

Q Are there any food trends or culinary movements that you find particularly interesting?

A Food trends come and go, but the best bits of them I believe stay. As a chef it’s easy to get caught up in trends and sometimes create some weird things and look back on them years later and wonder, what was that?

In the time that I’ve been cooking, there have been some interesting trends. Fermentation has stuck around, and it is

“We brought all the flavours of our farm down to Silverstone”

something we do a lot – it’s a preserving technique, but more than that it’s a way of getting serious flavour. If you’re making your own soy sauces or miso, it’s a way of creating unique foods with flavour you can’t get anywhere else.

Q What did you o er at Octane Terrace brought by MATCH Hospitality at Silverstone?

A We really upped our game in terms of our produce on the menu and we brought all the flavours of our farm down to Silverstone. We had sausages made from our pigs reared here on my farm, and we had some beautiful Dexter beef pies. We also had some amazing croquettes to serve. It was really special.

Q Are there any exciting projects or collaborations that you’re working on?

A This summer, and heading into the autumn months, is set to be a busy one for me and the team. Cooking at Silverstone was a big highlight. At the moment, I am also working as a chef consultant on a really cool restaurant that is set to open in London this year. I can’t talk much about it yet, but it’s something I’m super excited about – busy times ahead!

Q Any restaurant you wish you’d dined at?

A I am sorry that I never got to eat Le Gavroche – it was the original fine-dining restaurant in the UK.

Q Who did you support on track at the British Grand Prix? Do you have a favourite driver or team?

A I am thrilled that I got to see the racing too. I loved seeing Sir Lewis Hamilton win, but I am also a big fan of Lando Norris.

Q Do you see any synergies between Formula 1 and being a Michelin star chef?

A Definitely, it’s all about that confidence to go push yourself that little bit extra, and to trust your instincts. You’ve got to push yourself to get the result.

Find out about all of Tommy’s restaurants at tommybanks.co.uk

ROOTS PETIT FOURS

INSIDE ROOTS

WOODRUFF MUSHROOM

is coming

The next COURSE

JÖRO is one of She eld’s finest dining institutions, so much so the

time has come to move to a larger site. Absolutely finds out more

By MARK KEBBLE

One of the great pleasures in the early days of my career was working alongside Tom Parker Bowles on the food content we produced across a London lifestyle magazine I edited. I always found him rather quirky, very down to earth, and incredibly knowledgeable about his food – so it’s no surprise really that he helped kick-start the cult of JÖRO.

Today, JÖRO is the nationally acclaimed restaurant, renowned for its innovative and Nordic/Japanese-inspiredcuisine, rustled up in She eld. Launched by married duo, Luke French and Stacey Sherwood-French, it truly was something fresh on the culinary scene in Yorkshire – but did a need a little helping hand in the early stages. “It took a little while in the beginning, because it was so di erent,” Stacey says on the initial response. “We lost

track of the amount of times someone said it’s not going to work. But we stood by it and around four months after opening Tom Parker Bowles came in for lunch and wrote our very first review. He loved it and after this we were busy, people knew what they were coming for and they loved it too. It was a huge relief!” It was at the tail end of 2016 that Luke and Stacey decided the time was right to launch a new venture together. “The restaurant is and always has been an expression of us both,” Stacey says on the Nordic/Japanese inspired cuisine. “The food and experience that we o er is based on our own experiences of travelling. Over the years we developed an obsession with both the food we ate in Asia along with Nordic dishes and ingredients. We like certain flavours, ingredients and cooking techniques that we witnessed particularly in Japan, Copenhagen and you can often see flavours from Thailand, Indonesia and India too.

“She eld was where we both met and having both grown up in the countryside, a city with the Peak District on its doorstep really is the best of both worlds for us,” Stacey says on their first location. “She eld and the people we have

STACEY AND LUKE

met here quickly became home and when the opportunity for Krynkl arose we snapped it up. Despite it being a shipping container development, we wanted to do something new in hospitality for the city and a new style of building we thought would suit that perfectly. We like to do new and exciting things, we have never been the couple to follow the trend, but rather have a go at something di erent.”

It’s fair to say the risk paid o and, this month, the two are relocating JÖRO to a new site within the iconic Oughtibridge Paper Mill development on the edge of the Peak District. The new location will enable Luke and Stacey to o er two bars, an all-day dining terrace, outdoor kitchen, bedrooms and a deli shop on site. “One of the main reasons for moving is to enhance our service,” Stacey explains. “We ran out of space quickly at

“We like to do new and exciting things, and have a go at something di erent”

Krynkl for JÖRO, back of house and also front of house for guest areas. We can’t wait to have a bar area and lounge for guests, as well as an open restaurant so all guests can see the kitchen and therefore receive the same experience. We have our own car park and bedrooms on site so overall the experience will be more cohesive from start to finish.”

The relocated restaurant will remain true to JÖRO’s identity, also drawing inspiration from local suppliers, classic training, and ancient cooking principles from Japan to Norway. JÖRO’s signature tasting menus apply innovation to the finest native ingredients, such as Barnsley Lamb, to bring some of the best modern cooking the city has ever seen.

The new terrace menu will be prepared using revolutionary live-fire techniques, with meat and fish cooked over birch wood and charcoal, allowing diners to relish the smoky, robust flavours. The global grill menu will be in partnership with Big Green Egg and includes highlights such as Grilled Scottish Scallop, Salt aged Yorkshire beef rump cap and Whole teriyaki quail, served alongside snacks, salads and bread. To finish, desserts include Basque blueberry cheesecake, Yuzu meringue pie and a menu of soft serve ice creams, such as Pistachio, Caviar and Salted butter rum caramel.

The site will o er five studio rooms and two, one-bedroom apartments, giving guests the chance to stay for a foodie night or weekend stay. Designed by Luke and Stacey, the rooms are Scandi-inspired, o ering a calming atmosphere with views of the Peak District

border. The site will also be home to Shop by JÖRO, a deli shop within the mill, selling a range of everyday ingredients including teas, co ees, JÖRO’s own wine and gin, and cured meats. Additionally, the shop will sell quality produce used in the kitchens at JÖRO, such as barrel-aged soy sauce, allowing guests to take a piece of the JÖRO experience home. Konjö, JÖRO’s street food concept, will not be forgotten. “Konjö has gained a big following for our eastern Asian inspired dishes, having the same ethos as JÖRO and the access to the same suppliers and produce is what keeps it unique and the quality so good,” Stacey says. “With its move to Krynkl, the food will take a step up with a bigger kitchen, cool restaurant space and a top drinks menu with the very best service.”

There’s no doubt the critics will be lining up round the block to sample the new look JÖRO. For Luke and Stacey, this is the culmination of 13 years of working together, but with all this, do they switch o ? “Well the honest answer is no,” Stacey laughs. “But you learn to manage your time so that work can be separated from home life. It’s really down to how much you want to separate and when. Any business owner works around the clock and to be honest it actually makes it easier when you have someone to share the workload and stress with. We both know how busy the other is and the times when this is increased, so we are able to support and help where needed too.” A dream team, indeed.

jororestaurant.co.uk

Harrogate Arms Café

VISIT TODAY

Now serving a delicious menu made with fresh ingredients from our Kitchen Garden, only a few metres away, with stunning views across these beautifully curated gardens. rhs.org.uk/harlowcarr

FASHION

Gem of the earth

BERRY’S JEWELLERS

Ancient Persians believed the earth rested on a giant sapphire that made the sky blue, thus it became known as the ‘the gem of autumn’, representing the blue of the autumn sky and the birthstone of September. Symbolising truth and sincerity, the sapphire is said to release tension. The new sapphire pieces from the Berry’s VERVE collection make the perfect gift for a September birthday. Discover the collection at your nearest Berry’s showroom or berrysjewellers.co.uk

BAGS OF STYLE

Tissa Fontaneda's new readyto-wear collection – available at Julie Fitzmaurice and Snooty Fox in Harrogate – looks the part on supermodel Anna Cleveland

Indian opulence

Regal pieces inspired by the designers' rich Indian heritage

By CARLY GLENDINNING

HARAKH

18K yellow gold and brilliant cut diamond Sunlight Necklace, £4,200 harakh.com

MODERN MOGHUL

Rhodium plated sterling silver Rucya Bracelet with gold vermeil, sapphires, and diamonds, £6,311 modernmoghul.com

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

Berry's 18ct yellow gold serpente diamond spiral earrings, £6,795 berrysjewellers.co.uk

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

Berry's Nouveau Collection 18ct yellow gold diamond drop earrings, £8,295 berrysjewellers.co.uk

ANANYA

18K white gold, diamond, tsavorite, peridot, and crystal quartz, Scatter Ombré Emerald Necklace, £29,600 ananya.com

SETHI COUTURE

18K rose gold, diamond, and sapphire Rainbow No. 8 Chloe ring stack, £10,340 sethicouture.com

AMRAPALI LONDON

18K yellow gold and black rhodium Mini Rajasthan bracelet with multi sapphires, £3,800 amrapalilondon.com

LISTER HORSFALL

Mikimoto Akoya pearl and diamond earrings set in white gold, £2,800 listerhorsfall.co.uk

PRAKSHI

18K yellow gold and diamond Rewind Ear Cu , £7,888 (each) prakshi.com

WEDDINGS

NEW LOOKS

AW24 WEDDINGS

It's that time of the year when thoughts turn to autumnal wedding trends, and there's plenty catching the eye with the bride's dresses. Expect timeless silhouettes such as A-line and ball gowns, dramatic sleeves are making a big impact, and colour infusions are in demand, where traditional is just as popular as soft pastels. Read about this and more on wedding trends over the page.

Autumnal

feeling

As we head into a new season, there’s plenty that’s hot right now in weddings, from winter wonderlands to jewel tones

As we move into the autumn and winter of 2024, the wedding industry is abuzz with new trends that promise to make each ceremony unique and memorable. From breathtaking venues to fashion-forward dresses, the season is set to deliver a blend of tradition and innovation. Here’s an in-depth look at what’s trending for weddings in the colder months of 2024.

VENUES

Rustic Elegance

The charm of rustic elegance continues to captivate couples. Barns and farm venues o er a cosy, intimate setting that complements the autumnal aesthetic perfectly. Decor often includes elements like fairy lights, wooden accents, and seasonal foliage, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

SEASONAL FOLIAGE WILL BRIGHTEN TABLES

Winter Wonderland Castles

For those who dream of a fairytale wedding, castles and historic estates provide a majestic backdrop. These venues o er grand ballrooms and enchanting gardens that can be transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, ice sculptures, and luxurious fabrics.

DECOR

Jewel Tones and Metallics

Deep jewel tones such as emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red are paired with metallic accents in gold, copper, and bronze. These colours add richness and depth to the decor, perfect for the colder months.

Seasonal Blooms and Foliage

Florals for autumn and winter weddings focus on seasonal blooms such as dahlias, chrysanthemums, and roses, combined with rich greenery like eucalyptus and pine. Adding elements like berries, pinecones and branches enhances the seasonal theme.

Candlelit Ambiance

Candlelight is being used extensively to create a romantic and intimate ambiance. From candelabras on dining tables to lanterns lining walkways, the soft glow of candles adds warmth to any venue.

FASHION

Bridal Gowns

Classic elegance: timeless silhouettes such as A-line and ball gowns remain popular, but with modern twists like o -the-shoulder necklines, illusion sleeves, and intricate lace detailing. Statement sleeves: dramatic sleeves are making a big impact, ranging from billowing bishop sleeves to structured pu sleeves. These add a touch of romance and grandeur to bridal attire. Colour infusions: while white and ivory are traditional, subtle infusions of colour are trending. Blush, champagne, and even soft pastels are making appearances in bridal collections, o ering a unique twist on the classic wedding dress.

Bridesmaid Dresses

Mix-and-match: bridesmaids are embracing individuality with mixand-match dresses in complementary colours and styles. This trend allows each bridesmaid to choose a dress that suits her body type and personal taste. Velvet and sequins: rich fabrics like velvet and sequined dresses are popular choices for autumn and winter weddings. These materials not only add a festive touch, but also provide warmth.

Groom and Groomsmen Attire Classic tuxedos with a twist: while classic black tuxedos remain a staple, grooms are adding personal touches with coloured velvet jackets, patterned bow ties, and unique cu inks. Layered looks: layering is key for winter weddings, with groomsmen sporting vests and overcoats in rich fabrics like wool and tweed, adding both style and practicality.

“Buying vintage dresses is becoming more popular”

FOOD & DRINK

Farm-to-Table Menus

Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients are at the forefront of wedding menus. Couples are opting for farm-to-table catering that emphasises fresh, sustainable, and delicious dishes.

Comfort Foods

As the temperature drops, comfort foods become a popular choice. Think gourmet mac and cheese, hearty stews, and roasted vegetables. These dishes not only satisfy, but also evoke a sense of warmth and homeliness.

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainable Decor

Reusable decor elements, such as renting instead of buying, using biodegradable confetti, and incorporating potted plants instead of cut flowers, are ways couples are reducing waste.

Ethical Attire

Choosing wedding attire made from sustainable fabrics or buying vintage and second-hand dresses is becoming more popular. Some brides are even opting for dresses they can dye and wear again.

MONSOON'S ROSE ORGANZA BRIDAL DRESS IVORY

LIGHTING AS ALWAYS REMAINS KEY

BORN AND BRED IN LEEDS

NEW STORE OPENING AT THE WHITE ROSE CENTRE IN SEPTEMBER

LDressing YORKSHIRE

Absolutely celebrates Skopes’ homecoming in White Rose

“LEEDS ISN'T JUST WHERE SKOPES WAS FOUNDED, IT'S IN OUR BLOOD”

eeds, a city renowned for its industrial heritage, also played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of British menswear. From the textile mills that dominated the region, the city has woven a rich tapestry of sartorial excellence. At the heart of this legacy stands Skopes, a family-owned business that has been dressing the men of Yorkshire and beyond for over seven decades. In a true homecoming, Skopes is set to open the doors to a flagship store in the White Rose Centre this September, bringing its legacy of style and quality back to the heart of Leeds.

Founded in 1948, a time when the city’s mills were humming with activity, Skopes began by sourcing fabrics from these mills to create bespoke trousers for customers. The brand’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and timeless design quickly earned it a loyal following, and today, Skopes is synonymous with accessible and stylish menswear.

Simon Cope, the third-generation owner and CEO of Skopes, has taken over the legacy of his grandfather Sydney Cope. Reflecting on the brand’s Leeds connections, he says: “Leeds isn’t just where Skopes was founded; it’s in our blood. The city’s heritage in textiles and its appreciation for quality and style have shaped us from day one. Opening our 20th store in Leeds feels like a celebration.”

As the textile industry in Leeds evolved, so did Skopes, adapting to the changing needs of its customers, with a range of sizes not typically found on the high street. “Our DNA is evolution,” says Simon. “We have to keep evolving to stay relevant in the consumers’ minds and to meet changing wants, needs and desires.”

This philosophy is evident in Skopes’ 20 bricks-and-mortar stores across the

country as well as its online shop and the brand’s commitment to innovation extends into the very fabric of o ering. Skopes’ sta provide unrivalled service, assisting anyone who visits a store to discover their style. Whether you’re dressing for a wedding or selecting your first suit for prom, Skopes is there to ensure you look and feel your best.

Amidst changes, one thing remains constant: Skopes’ commitment to quality and craftsmanship. To see the full range at Skopes, visit the team in store, or head over to the website. Skopes will open in the White Rose Centre on Saturday 28 September at 9.30 am with in-store styling services, catering and special celebrity guests.

skopes.co.uk

Nestled amidst the serene countryside of North Yorkshire, Aldwark Manor Estate o ers an enchanting setting for weddings. This historic estate, with its stunning Victorian architecture and 200 acres of picturesque parkland, is the epitome of elegance and romance.

Aldwark Manor Estate seamlessly blends historical charm with modern luxury. The manor house was originally built in 1865 by Lord Walsingham as a wedding gift to his daughter, so it is fitting that over 150 years later it is available as an outstanding wedding venue.

The hotel exudes a sense of grandeur with its classic features, including elegant staircases, opulent chandeliers, and richly decorated rooms. These period details, seamlessly blended with contemporary décor, create an ambiance of sophistication, perfect for a fairytale wedding.

Perfect

MATCH

Weddings at Aldwark Manor Estate:

a

dreamy blend of elegance and romance

The hotel is fully licensed for civil ceremonies with a variety of beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces. The enchanting red-brick manor house is also the perfect setting following a church wedding. With venue options including the Walsingam Suite, Barnes Wallis and the Derwent Suite, all overlook the estate’s lush gardens, providing a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows. For those who prefer an outdoor ceremony, the Walsingham Garden o ers a romantic setting, surrounded by manicured lawns and vibrant flowerbeds. The estate is equally impressive when it comes to hosting wedding receptions, accommodating up to 240 guests for a grand reception. Neutral colour palettes allow couples to personalise the space to match their wedding theme, whether it’s a classic, rustic, or contemporary style. When it comes to dining options, the chefs at Aldwark Manor Estate pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, bespoke menus tailored to each couple’s preferences.

Aldwark Manor Estate also provides luxurious accommodation for the wedding party and guests. The manor’s 60 elegantly appointed rooms o er a perfect blend of comfort and style, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the celebrations without the need to travel. For the newlyweds, the Wensleydale Suite is the ultimate romantic retreat, complete with stunning views of the estate, two beautifullyappointed floors and a private hot tub.

What sets Aldwark Manor Estate apart is its commitment to providing a personalised wedding experience. The dedicated wedding team works closely with couples to ensure every detail of their special day is perfect, from the floral arrangements to the entertainment.

Aldwark Manor Estate o ers a truly magical setting for weddings. With its breathtaking surroundings, exceptional service, and attention to detail, it’s no wonder that this is a sought-after wedding venue.

aldwarkmanorestate.co.uk

DAY Dream

Eloise and Daniel Sims tied the knot at Oaklands on 29 June. The latter tells Absolutely about their story

Q First things first, the engagement. Who proposed? How, when, where?

A September 2021, we were in Nice, South of France, a place where Eloise spent a lot of her summers with her family, they call it their second home. It was also the place we first holidayed together. We love to watch sunsets on our travels so took a steep walk up to ‘castle hill’. This is a viewing point over the beautiful city seeing the blue sea and terracotta roofs. As we watched the sun set with a glass of wine in hand, I got down on one knee. Truly dreamy and Eloise was totally shocked.

Q What attracted you to Oaklands for your wedding day?

A We ALWAYS had our eyes on Oaklands, from the moment we started looking at what was available around us. As soon as you see the venue and grounds, it is breathtaking. Its tranquil grounds are stunning and the

scandi-inspired luxury venue is so unique. A huge selling point was the beautiful outdoor ceremony with the pavilion on the lake. As we walked around the venue, as we would on the day, it flowed so well and as we approached the grand lodge we were sold already. The décor is stunning, and the open plan nature is perfect for weddings. As we walked away, we knew it would be the one as it ticked every box.

Q How did the venue suit the style of your wedding, did it live up to your expectations?

A We had our wedding booked for nearly three years and there have been so many styles we have seen on their social media from boho to minimalist. We decided to mix both modern and classic designs into the venue, considering our personal preferences. Our florals were a super modern design, but we picked some more classic wedding colours: pinks with some burnt orange, nude and whites, alongside draping on chairs and candles throughout. The groomsmen all had classic tuxedos and we believe this will be timeless. Seeing the styling, florals and venue all come together exceeded our expectations. The venue’s design just enhanced our details.

Q Did you feel well supported by the team at Oaklands on the build up to your wedding?

A Vicky was so supportive from day one, she initially showed us around the venue. Even one day the owners showed us around when

there was sickness. The team are on hand to answer any questions at any point, and made sure everything was in order for the day. They made sure we had finer details personalised to us, such as our favourite Hugo spritz for the drinks reception. The room was perfect thanks to the organisation from Vicky alongside our stylists. She was even on hand when Dan accidentally spilt a Pornstar Martini down Eloise’s dress, trying to get the drink out of her dress! Every contact with di erent members of the team were so helpful, including Ian the entertainment manager. We are so grateful.

Q Let’s look at memorable moments. What parts stood out for you the most?

A The ceremony on the pavilion with the beautiful surroundings – personalised vows and a special reading written by the sister of the bride. First dance in the woods, it is a little surprise for guests and with the lighting on the evening, was truly magical. Then the party begins, with everyone joining in!

Q Did you use a number of local suppliers?

A Yes, all our suppliers were local, incredible and we couldn’t recommend them enough. We are so grateful for each and every one of them. They made our day so special. What a dream team.

Supplier List: Photographer: @photosarahbeth Dressing: @bellebijoux_ events Florist: @vickijohnstonflowers MUA: @rachelhelen1991 and @sam_pagemakeupartist Hair: @es.stylist_ Dress: Enzoani at @goldiesbridal Caterers: @annikasapron Videographer: @ksmithfilms Entertainment: @simonwalkermusic @mikecunninghamo cial @valentinaphotobooth

Q What are your top tips when wedding planning and on the day itself?

A For planning, make sure you make it all about the both of you, everyone is there to celebrate YOU. Also write out a run through from the night before to the night after with every fine detail and make a to do list so you have everything sorted. Delegate if you can! On the day, just take it all in. The day goes in a flash so make sure you spend the majority of it with each other.

oaklandsweddings.co.uk

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In order to do that, our advice is to follow these steps:

1. Ensure you both want the agreement and there is no suggestion of pressure/duress;

2. Ensure transparency in the process;

3. Ensure you both have the benefit of separate and independent legal advice; 4. Ensure the agreement is entered into in a timely manner (not a last-minute rush);

BE PREPARED

What is a Pre-Nuptial Agreement? Greg Cross of Crombie Wilkinson Solicitors explain all

When you meet that special person, get engaged and start to daydream of your married life ahead, the last thing on your mind is the practical financial arrangements in the event of separation. It might be that you are set to inherit the family business, and Mum and Dad have suggested you need something in place to protect it. It might be that you have saved your whole life and have a large deposit to place into a house purchase with your spouse to be and want to protect it. It might be that you have assets that have accrued prior to your relationship with your spouse to be and want to protect them. There are a whole host of reasons why you might consider a pre-nuptial agreement. It is of course a di cult issue to raise and can often cause friction or anxiety. It can however be very useful, avoiding future heartache, stress and sometimes significant legal costs down the line by providing clarity.

Nuptial agreements are not legally binding in the courts in the UK, but if entered into correctly, meeting a certain criterion, are extremely persuasive. The key is to ensure the agreement is fair, and needs are met. Needs means essentially housing and income. It’s no good having a “I get everything, and you get nothing” arrangement, as unless your spouse already has pre-marital assets that will meet needs, or you have joint assets that will meet needs once divided, a court is unlikely to deem that agreement fair. Proper advice and a carefully constructed nuptial agreement that meets needs can provide you with transparency and allow you to put that issue to one side and concentrate on your marriage. If you have assets you want to protect or have an agreement in place, you should consider a nuptial agreement, and this can take the form of a pre-nuptial agreement (entered in advance of your marriage) or a post-nuptial agreement (after the wedding). The key is following the process to ensure as far as possible the agreement carries weight and is persuasive.

5. Ensure the agreement is fair – your spouse must be provided for, and any agreement should contemplate children and the needs of the children (if relevant) met.

CROMBIE WILKINSON SOLICITORS

If you would like to discuss nuptial agreements and how one might benefit your circumstances, contact Greg Cross, Director in the Family Law team at Crombie Wilkinson Solicitors, on 01653 600070 or visit crombiewilkinson.co.uk

GREG CROSS

& BEAUTY

HEAD START

Neck pain is a common 21st century ailment, but expert spine consultant Dan Fagan says help is at hand

Apain in the neck is no joke. A damaged disc resulting in inflammation around the nerve can lead to further complications, such as tingling, numbness, and even weakness in the arm or hand. And if physiotherapy or chiropractic therapy hasn’t helped you, there’s a very good chance that a simple injection or surgery will.

Expert spine consultant Dan Fagan is one of very few spinal surgeons in Yorkshire and the North East who has a wealth of experience in this type of neck surgery. “I’ve seen many patients with this condition, and surgical outcomes, where physiotherapy hasn’t fixed the problem, are very good,” he says. “Neck pain can a ect your ability to work, to enjoy sports, and just live your daily life. Many patients are choosing to self-pay and be treated privately for things like slipped discs because it’s much quicker, procedures are less invasive, and recovery is much faster.”

Physiotherapy is often the first course of action when someone is experiencing neck pain – most often due to a trapped nerve caused by a slipped disc. When this fails to relieve the problem, the next step might be injections around the root nerve to ascertain what is causing the pain. In 70 per cent of instances, this settles down the inflammation. However, where the pain continues and is having an impact on health and quality of life, an operation may bring the relief needed to get back to a full life without pain.

Dan explains that it is usually the C5 and C6 vertebrae that are a ected, and he specialises in two distinct procedures – disc replacement, and fusion of the vertebrae –which are fully discussed with each patient to find the best course of action for them.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the traditional procedure where the damaged disc is removed and replaced with a lozenge-shaped cage shaped like the disc, along with some artificial bone graft that, over time, fuses the two vertebrae together.

As technology has moved on, Dan also o ers Total Disc Replacement. In this procedure, rather than doing a fusion of the vertebrae, the disc itself is replaced with an artificial one that mimics the natural disc and helps to protect the rest of the neck from further wear and tear.

In most instances, the procedure takes between one and two hours, with the patient remaining in hospital overnight for observation. After that, they can resume normal life within a couple of weeks, although Dan warns against rushing back to work too quickly.

“Generally, following the operation, people feel so well that they don’t rest long enough,” he says. “But the worst position, post-surgery, is a forward-leaning position. Many of my patients are busy people who want to keep themselves occupied, so I might encourage them to try something new, like learning another language during their recovery period!”

Dan has his own private practice –SpineArt, based in Yarm – and also works from Woodlands Hospital, Darlington, Nu eld Tees Hospital, Stockton, and runs a clinic in Harrogate, seeing patients from across the North East and Yorkshire.

“Although I do get referrals, many of my patients have either been told that they need a disc replacement, or have researched it themselves, but are struggling to get anything done. I can o er a further opinion, and can arrange the surgery for them, if that is what is going to help them,” he explains.

If you would like to arrange a consultation, please contact Dan Fagan’s secretary, Beverley Johnston, on 07539 330360 or email secretary@spineart.org. Read more at www.spineart.org

DAN FAGAN

Exciting changes to Rivermead Care Home

That’s

ON THE MOVE

How Andrew Port is leading the way when it comes to alleviating issues with hips and knees

For the past 25 years, Consultant Andrew Port has specialised in hip and knee replacements, utilising his skills to restore mobility and alleviate pain. Andrew became a consultant orthopaedic surgeon in 1999, and has been with Woodlands Hospital since it opened in 2002. He studied medicine at Manchester University, and passed his surgical exams with exceptional results, before embarking on the orthopaedic training scheme. Over the years, Andrew has witnessed significant advancements in surgical techniques. Since working with the Mako robot at Woodlands Hospital, he has achieved remarkable results in hip and knee replacements. The robot’s precise 3D imaging and planning

capabilities have significantly improved surgical accuracy and reproducibility, enhancing patient satisfaction.

“Using this new technology vastly increases the accuracy of surgery for hip and knee replacements, resulting in potentially more rapid, easier recovery, and greater satisfaction rates,” he says. “The technology combines 3D planning with accurate intra-operative reconstruction of the hip or knee replacement, and patients report less pain, quicker recovery, and improvement of function.”

While the British Orthopaedic Association, along with the Department of Health directive, ‘Getting It Right First Time’ (GIRFT), advocate that surgeons should be performing at least 15 revision joints and partial knees surgeries per year, Andrew performs more than 50 revisions and 40 partial knee replacements every year.

Woodlands is one of only a few hospitals in the region that o ers access to augmented surgical assistance with the Stryker Mako Robotics system, with which Andrew has carried out hundreds of robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement procedures and is one of the biggest users in the region.

He is a regional specialist in complex primary and revision surgery, and set up the region-wide standardisation of care in revision joint replacement. Knowing what can go wrong in joint replacement surgery has allowed him to develop his own surgical technique to minimise such errors.

With thousands of successful surgeries under his belt, Andrew has transformed the lives of countless individuals, enabling them to regain their mobility and enjoy a better quality of life. His ambition is to ensure equality of access to orthopaedic surgery for everyone in Teesside, North Yorkshire and across the North East, with outstanding outcomes.

circlehealthgroup.co.uk/ consultants/andrew-port

ANDREW PORT

ANDREW PORT USES THE LATEST IN TECHNOLOGY

The spa is a highlight, providing a serene environment for relaxation

TESCAPE the ordinary

The Marian Resort and Spa o ers a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure

he Marian Resort and Spa in North Wales is a unique and captivating retreat known for its stunning surroundings, upscale amenities, and comprehensive wellness o erings, providing an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort boasts a variety of accommodation options, from stunning lodges, luxury hot tub lodges, and lavish hotel rooms.

Indulge in culinary bliss at the vibrant VIEW restaurant, where every dish is a celebration of flavour, and enjoy panoramic views across to the North Wales Coast, eat and drink from exquisite appetisers to mouthwatering mains and decadent desserts, after dinner cocktails, a speciality wine list and delicious Welsh drinks menu, promising an unforgettable dining experience.

Relax in the comfortable and sophisticated Lounge Bar, a light, modern setting overlooking the pool that enjoys glorious views. At The Sports Bar and Grill, enjoy a winning line-up of mouthwatering dishes that’ll keep you fuelled up for every game, from classic pub to savoury appetisers, and a selection of small plates. Pair your meal with a refreshing cold beverage and get ready to enjoy the ultimate sports viewing experience in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the Cocktail Live Bar and embark on a journey of taste and sophistication, where expert mixologists craft liquid masterpieces, and the electric atmosphere of live entertainment brings the venue alive.

The resort’s spa is a highlight, providing a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. Nestled in the picturesque setting, surrounded by lush greenery and views out to the North Wales coast, Serenity Spa o ers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

There’s a range of treatments, spa days and packages, designed to pamper your body, soothe your mind, and nourish your soul, meticulously crafted to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. From soothing massages to revitalising facials, each treatment is designed to promote holistic wellness and inner balance.

Each of the spa days and packages include full use of the leisure facilities, whether you prefer to unwind with a leisurely soak in the pool, detoxify in the sauna, or get your heart pumping with a workout, the leisure facilities o er something for everyone to enjoy.

With its beautiful location, excellent amenities, and focus on wellness, The Marian Resort and Spa provides a tranquil escape for those looking to unwind and recharge in the heart of North Wales.

marianresortandspa.com

INTERIORS

Clare Bolger's bold but relaxed schemes create unique spaces by using clever colour palettes, a mix of styles, and finishing touches inspired by your story. She loves to combine contemporary design with vintage pieces, mixing old with new to add character and warmth to a room. Absolutely finds out about her story on page 86. nospacelikehome.uk

NOTES INTERIORS

Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

LINEN LOVE

CARAVANE

Named after the Indian festival of colour, Caravane's Holi armchair comes in an enormous variety of colours, from deep inky shades to light pastels. The washed linen cover refreshes you in summer and envelops you in winter. The chairs have super neat finishes, up to the stitching of the cushions that highlights their silhouette with a delicate flounce.

caravane.co.uk

COUTURE HOME

JEAN-PAUL

GAULTIER

Jean-Paul Gaultier's second home collection for Lelivre includes this 100% cotton print in an outdoor fabric, featuring the multicoloured butterflies that are a recurring theme in his Haute Couture collections. lelievreparis.com/en

FROM THE BLOCK

MOLLY MAHON

Molly Mahon's stylish block-printed textiles are a perfect combination of pretty and contemporary. This sumptuous large linen tablecloth marries Molly's delightful Dianthus and bold Wide Stripe, £150. mollymahon.com

TAKE FIVE

Scented candles

GIMME SHELTER

HK LIVING

HK Living's beautiful garden brolly sports a combination of 70s colours that are brought bang up to date with the addition of fringing, which adds a so and tactile appeal to this garden essential, £369. rockettstgeorge.co.uk

DIPTYQUE

Citronnelle candle, £56 diptyqueparis.com

TRUDON De Oro candle, £98 selfridges.com

EARL OF EAST Cafe candle, £40 earlofeast.com

PRINT RUN

ANTHROPOLOGIE

Ellen Merchant is a decorative artist, designer, and printmaker inspired by a love of antique textiles and botanical forms. Her collection for Anthropologie pays homage to the British Arts & Cra s with hand-drawn prints and colourfully vibrant designs. anthropologie.co.uk

SWAINE

English Garden candle, £150 swaine.london

CARRIÈRE FRÈRES Tomato scented candle, £54 carrierefreres.co.uk

HOME sweet HOME

Halifax-based Clare Bolger’s talent was first recognised by Period Living magazine and now she wants to help you achieve your own dream design

No Space Like Home is an interior design studio and interiors blog run by Clare Bolger, helping you create inspiring, a ordable rooms full of personality. Absolutely headed to Halifax to uncover the origins of the business, award recognition and how she can bring your interior design to life.

Q Were you a creative child?

A I grew up near the North Wales coast and I was always reading and writing stories. My mum used to be an art teacher, so she was the artist of the family – she encouraged us to draw and paint.

Q You graduated with an English degree, so was following a career in interior design not on the horizon then?

A It wasn’t until I bought my first home that I fell in love with interior design. After graduating with a degree in English with Spanish Studies, I worked in project management in banking for over ten years where I learned lots of skills that have been invaluable since I started my business.

Q While working in project management, what kind of properties were you renovating with your husband?

A We bought our first house aged 21 – it was a £65k two bedroom terrace in Halifax. From there, we moved to a two bedroom apartment in a Grade II listed converted Victorian mansion. We renovated it throughout and we loved living there, but when our first child Jack came along in 2008, it became a bit too small for us. We moved into rented accommodation for a few months while we waited for the right property to come along and we eventually bought a three bedroom 1970s dormer chalet style house. Although it wasn’t the prettiest of houses from the outside, we saw the potential

Clare Bolger’s own home has provided plenty of inspiration, as you can see from this shot of the landing, featuring stunning lighting ideas

for turning it into a spacious family home, putting our stamp on it and adding to its value. We renovated it throughout, removing and erecting internal walls to make the space work for our family and converting the garage into a spare bedroom, utility room and shower room.

Q When did you find your dream home and was that in Halifax?

A Yes, it’s in the Skircoat Green area of Halifax. We’d actually walked past the house and admired it a few times while it was for sale (it ended up being on the market for two years), but it was initially out of our price range. It was 2014 and we weren’t looking to move (our youngest of three boys was only two months old so it was already quite a stressful time!) but when the house was reduced, we had ours on the market within three days! We’d always wanted to move to this area, so it was such a good opportunity that we couldn’t a ord to miss. It was a stressful time because our initial sale fell through, but we eventually moved in five months later. The previous owner had lived here for over 50 years and was really keen for it to go to a family.

Q How did you transform it?

“All of the hard work and sleepless nights were worth it”

A We couldn’t a ord to pay someone to carry out all of the work so my husband Oliver learned plumbing, joinery and electrics by reading textbooks and watching YouTube. I completed a Diploma in Professional Interior Design through the National Design Academy. We then embarked upon a threeyear renovation programme. During the very messy parts, like the kitchen-diner renovation, we moved in with my parents who also live in Halifax. Oliver would get back from his IT job in Leeds, have a quick tea,

and then head over to our house and work until midnight – it was a very busy time!

The three major projects we undertook were creating an open plan kitchendiner with a separate utility space, creating a new en-suite bathroom and converting one of the basement rooms. We also installed original fireplaces and cast iron radiators, restored original floorboards in most rooms, had the internal doors stripped and waxed, and replaced the boiler and pipework. We also rewired, plastered and decorated throughout.

Last year we started on phase two of the renovation, converting another basement room into a home gym and Oliver is currently creating another bedroom in the loft. I think we’ll need a rest when that’s finished (hopefully in October)!

Q How did it feel to win Period Living magazine’s Best Interior Style award?

A It felt like the perfect ending to the main phase of our house renovation – all of the hard work and sleepless nights were worth it.

Q Did that give you the confidence to launch No Space Like Home?

A Yes definitely. Although I’d already worked on design projects for family and friends with a view to starting my own business, winning the award definitely gave me the confidence I needed.

Q How do you like to work with clients?

A I o er on-site design services throughout West Yorkshire. My services are client led so I tailor them depending on what the individual client needs help with. All projects start with an initial consultation where I visit the client

This project in Boston Spa, right, saw Clare completely revamp the kitchen/diner to create a more functional space

THE OFFICE IN THE BOSTON SPA PROJECT

BATHROOMS | TILES | STONE

Our showrooms across Yorkshire keep a wide variety of stock ready for you to take away today. We o er a range of in-store displays to inspire, and our friendly and professional teams o er a free design service to help you create the best bathroom for you.

“It is so important that a home tells a story”

at their home and we talk through their brief in detail. Although my most popular package is the full room design, some clients just need initial ideas to kickstart their project or finishing touches to bring their room to life. I recently launched my new online design packages that are perfect for clients who live further afield, but would love a No Space Like Home design.

Q Do you think there is a Clare Bolger style?

A Although I tailor my designs to each client and style of property, they are always down to earth with a relaxed, lived in feel. I love to add personality with colour and I mix old with new to add character and soul to a space. I also like to make a home feel unique to the client – when I walk into a room, I like to be able to tell something about the people who live there, whether it’s special places, favourite books or hobbies. It’s so important that a home tells a story. I definitely don’t do the show home look!

Q Can you pick out 3 Yorkshire projects that really show what you are all about?

A Halifax family basement space: I had already designed two children’s rooms for these clients in an Edwardian house in Halifax.

Last year, they asked me to look at their partially converted basement room that they were using as a dumping ground. With clever space planning, we managed to create a family entertainment zone, a kitchen/bar area leading out on to the garden, a separate lobby and a downstairs toilet. As well as doing the designs, I coordinated the project through to completion, which included creating a schedule of work, briefing the tradespeople and carrying out regular site visits. The family spend so much time in there now. Georgian house in Boston Spa: this house has beautiful bones. I initially designed the clients’ bedroom and home o ce and they invited me back last year to work on their open plan kitchen-diner-playroom space. The previous kitchen layout was really awkward, with two openings leading to the same area, but now it’s really functional. Houses like this already have so much character so it’s all about making sure that the beautiful original features stand out. Halifax new build open plan living space: this family of four had an open plan space that they were really struggling to make work for their family. As well as the existing kitchen, it needed to include a dining table, a sofa area, a desk, storage and a piano – and all with quite a

tight budget! I separated the room into distinct zones and I brought the room to life with colour. It’s so much more organised now and it’s really transformed how the family spend their time.

Q How does the business work around your family?

A As with most families with two working parents, it’s a bit of a juggle, but it’s become easier now that my boys are older (16, 13 and 9) and more independent. My eldest boy, Jack, has started helping out with some admin jobs, which saves me a lot of time!

Q What do you love about Yorkshire?

A The friendliness of the people. Great cities like Leeds and York within easy reach of stunning countryside. The transformation of Halifax has been so lovely to see since I moved here 20 years ago, especially the regeneration of the beautiful Piece Hall. We’re so lucky to have it on our doorstep. I’ve recently started a series of travel blog posts with a design focus and one of the most recent is about Hebden Bridge – definitely worth a visit if you haven’t already been!

nospacelikehome.uk

The Halifax basement project, above and below, which has been turned into a stunning family entertainment zone

THE HALLWAY IN CLARE’S HOME

Opulence

MADE FOR YOU

Richard Grafton Interiors can transform the hub of the home, and more, all from their Yorkshire artisan furniture workshop

Transform your kitchen into a personalised haven with bespoke elements designed to elevate both aesthetics and functionality. At Richard Grafton Interiors, they love creating custom pantries and larders, like the one pictured right with stone shelving and crittal style doors that add sophistication to your space. Their beautifully crafted cabinetry exudes timeless elegance, while stone shelving introduces a durable, natural element that enhances the kitchen’s overall look and feel. Inside these bespoke pieces lies the true magic, tailored to suit your specific needs. Whether you’re a co ee aficionado dreaming of a dedicated co ee corner, a passionate baker needing a well-organized baking

station, or a host who loves to entertain with a chic bar cabinet, Richard Grafton Interiors brings your vision to life.

Their cleverly designed spaces are more than just storage solutions; they are the heart of a home, thoughtfully arranged to maximize space and enhance daily routines. Their bespoke crittal style doors add an industrial touch and are available in an array of colours. These doors, combined with their tailored storage solutions, create a kitchen that is both practical and visually stunning. Established in 2012, Richard Grafton Interiors’ team are able to o er everything from planning the space in one room to a whole-house redesign. They are experienced at making handmade kitchens, bathrooms and cabinetry together with bespoke interiors, which enables them to bring your vision to life.

Their Yorkshire based artisan furniture workshop also allows customers to access everything they need for their interiors project, under one roof. The in-house team of master craftspeople use both traditional woodworking and innovative new techniques creating truly individual pieces that they deliver across Yorkshire, the UK and internationally.

Trust Richard Grafton Interiors to design your dream kitchen: pop into one of their three Yorkshire showrooms to begin your journey.

RICHARD GRAFTON INTERIORS

The Ginnel, Montpellier Quarter, Harrogate, HG1 2RB, 01423 817117 Crescent Court, Ilkley, LS29 8DE, 01943 601139 22 High Street, Wetherby, LS22 6LT, 01937 538488 richardgra oninteriors.com

NICHOLAS ENGERT INTERIORS Cage Cordless Floor Light Blue, £566 nicholasengert.co.uk MOLLY MAHON Teaspoons in navy, £45 mollymahon.com CONSIDERED

By PENDLE HARTE

STYLISH ESSENTIALS

HOT SHOT

SMEG

Smeg has been inspired by its home nation’s love of coffee and has added the Mini Pro Espresso Coffee Machine to its portfolio. Professional level performance and design excellence combine into a compact professional espresso machine. smeguk.com 1 3 4 5 2 3 2 4

5 1

TAP INTO COA LIVING

Amara Runswick Kitchen Tap in Brushed Brass, £35,95 inc vat, is cra ed from 304 grade stainless steel. This is sure to make a great centrepiece to any modern kitchen. coaliving.co.uk

WASTE NOT

JOSEPH JOSEPH

This ni y stainless steel food waste bin looks appealing on a counter and features an odour-cancelling insert as well as a snug caddy-liner holder. josephjoseph.com

LET OFF STEAM AARKE

This could be the ultimate kettle. Not only does it look sleek and shiny, but it features a removeable limescale feature and lots of temperature options – plus it's the quietest one we've ever heard. aarke.com

IN THE MIX ZWILLING

Zwilling's Power Blender comes in a sleek silver fi nish and features a specially developed stainless steel winglet blade with piranha teeth for effortless blending and longevity. Six automatic programmes make light work of pulsing, smoothie making, cocktails, ice-cream, ice crushing and even cleaning. zwilling.com

WARM WELCOME

Ryedale Garage Doors are the local specialists in luxury garage doors and entrance doors. Here's how they can improve your home

At Ryedale Garage Doors, they know your garage and entrance doors are more than just essential features of your home. As your local experts in high-quality entrance doors and garage doors, they are dedicated to helping you improve the appearance and security of your home with tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Whether you live in a traditional, contemporary or modern home, they have the perfect door to complement your property.

EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY FROM LEADING MANUFACTURERS

They take pride in partnering with some of the industry’s most long-standing and reputable manufacturers, including Hörmann, Ryterna, and Garador. These partnerships allow them to o er a diverse range of premium doors that meet the highest standards of quality, durability, and design. Their range includes everything from doors that o er exceptional energy e ciency, helping to reduce your energy bills, to doors designed with cutting-edge security features that ensure the safety and peace of mind of your family. Whether you are looking for modern or classic designs, their extensive range provides a solution that meets your needs and enhances the overall appeal of your home. Each door they supply is not only built to withstand the elements, but also engineered with the latest technology, ensuring smooth operation and ease of use for years to come.

FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH

With the trend of matching garage and entrance doors gaining popularity, finding the perfect match for your home has never been easier. Whether your style leans toward traditional or contemporary, they o er a wide range of luxury doors that can be perfectly matched in style, colour, and design to create a cohesive exterior for your home.

A PERSONALISED SERVICE AND EXPERT CONSULTATION

At Ryedale Garage Doors, they’re more than just a garage door company. They pride themselves on o ering a personal touch. Their approachable and experienced team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect garage or entrance door for your home. They know selecting the right door is an

“Ryedale Garage Doors has built a reputation for excellence and reliability”

important decision, and they’re committed to making the process easy and stressfree. From your initial enquiry to the final installation, they’re by your side, providing tailored, independent advice to suit your specific needs. Their commitment extends to providing a comprehensive warranty and reliable after-sales support, o ering you peace of mind and confidence in your investment.

IMPROVING THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Ryedale Garage Doors are taking customer experience to the next level by opening their brand-new showroom at Unit 5, Kirkbymoorside Business Centre, West End, Kirkbymoorside, York, YO62 6AD, this September. Here, you’ll be able to see and experience their wide range of doors firsthand. Whether you’re drawn to the modern design of a sectional garage door or the traditional appeal of an up-and-over door, their showroom will allow you to explore di erent styles, materials, and finishes up close. You can test the smooth operation of their doors and feel the superior quality that sets their

products apart. Their knowledgeable team will be on hand to guide you through each option, ensuring you find the perfect door to suit your home. Contact their friendly team today to find out more about our opening date.

A LOCAL BUSINESS YOU CAN TRUST

As a family-run business with over 20 years of experience, Ryedale Garage Doors has built a reputation for excellence and reliability. They are proud to serve North and East Yorkshire, o ering high-quality products that meet customers’ diverse needs. When you choose Ryedale Garage Doors, you’re choosing quality, reliability, and local expertise. They are on hand to help you choose the ideal garage door or entrance door for your home. Whether you’re considering upgrading your manual garage door to a modern automated system with better security with their Secured By Design range or looking for a stylish option, they’ve got you covered.

01653 498009 / 07710083890

enquiries@ryedalegaragedoors.co.uk

REACH THE HEIGHTS

WAKEFIELD GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOUNDATION

Elevate your child's education with The Wakefield Grammar School Foundation. Early years classes provide a loving space where your child will develop a foundation for lifelong learning. The Wakefield community fuels academic excellence, and diverse extra-curricular clubs offer endless opportunities for exploration and leadership. Register at wgsf.org.uk to join the Open Morning on Saturday 12 October

VISION

Malvern St James Girls’ School is a special place, as highlighted by two di erent perspectives about the benefits of all-girls’ education

DOUBLE

DR GARETH LLOYD

Head of Malvern St James Girls' School

Q How long have you been Head of Malvern St James?

A I started as Head on 1 January 2024, and have absolutely loved every minute of it. Allgirls’ schools are such fantastic communities, and Malvern is one of the most beautiful places in the world to live, so how could I NOT be attracted to working at MSJ?!

Q What immediately struck you the first time you visited the school?

A The warmth of welcome from everyone – sta and pupils alike – was immediately apparent. There is a tremendous sense of kindness that permeates the whole school.

Q Have you had much experience of working in all-girls’ schools?

A My ten happiest years were as Director of Music and Housemaster at an all-girls’ school, but I am predicting that my time at MSJ will become my new happiest years! I have worked as both teacher and Head at

single boys’, single girls’ and co-educational schools, and by far my most rewarding experience has been in all-girls’ settings.

Q At Malvern St James, what opportunities do your girls have that they may not get in a mixed school?

A Malvern St James strives to allow each and every girl to thrive, to discover talents and skills and, most importantly, to be herself in a safe and happy environment. So many of our pupils opt for STEM A-levels and, thereafter, degrees – statistically, far more than in co-educational settings. I rejoice to see so many of our girls really commit themselves to the wide range of sports we o er, not at all self-conscious as I have observed as both a Head and inspector in coeducational schools. Opportunities to assume leadership roles commence from Year 5, and are carefully developed throughout the senior school, to help our girls grow into highly confident and competent young women, prepared for life after school.

Q Is there more peer support in a single sex school?

A Good peer support at any good school should be the norm. Clearly, there are di erences between co-educational and all-girls’ schools. At the latter, there is never any awkwardness, embarrassment or selfconsciousness in the conversations that our girls may wish to have with each other. As we have a strict policy of no mobile phones in school, it is wonderfully liberating not to be distracted by the all-too frequent unkindness that social media platforms can bring about. Through the peer support system in place via our Form structure, the girls experience empathy and encouragement that build confidence on so many levels.

RUQAYYA

Head Girl at Malvern St James Girls' School

Q Are you aware of the di erences of being at an all-girls’ school?

A Having experienced both environments, I would say yes. Being at an all-girls’ school, we are more confident, largely because we are more comfortable. This makes learning a lot easier and a lot more fun for the students and sta alike, as there is equal engagement from everyone. Here, my gender does not limit what subjects I should be good at or what sports I should enjoy.

Q What opportunities have you had that you may not have had elsewhere?

A The opportunity to meet people from all over the world. From connecting with current students, to past ones through the Old Girls’ Association, I’ve started building my global network from such a young age. It’s very exciting and also comforting to think that no matter where life takes me there will almost always be an MSJ girl who can guide me.

Q As a Head Girl, do you take pride in helping the younger girls at the school blossom?

A Definitely. Even before becoming Head Girl I always enjoyed interacting with the younger girls and helping them in any way possible, so I highly appreciate the fact that it’s now part of my role. I was once that younger girl, so I know how impactful it can be to have someone slightly older who has been through similar experiences that is always there to help.

Q How would you sum up the environment at Malvern St James?

A Malvern St James is a community before it is anything else. Boarding or day, local or international, student or sta ; we are all connected and working together to make the MSJ experience the best possible for everyone.

malvernstjames.co.uk

DR GARETH LLOYD

HEAD GIRL RUQAYYA

THE WAY AHEAD

Absolutely looks at the three schools inspiring pupils to go on and leave their mark

We believe that empowering pupils to do outstanding things here in school enables them to do outstanding things in the world,” agree the Heads at the family of three schools in The Wakefield Grammar School Foundation – the Wakefield Grammar Pre-Preparatory School, Wakefield Girls’ High School (WGHS) and Queen Elizabeth Grammar School (QEGS), which both rank amongst the North’s top 10 independent schools, as named by The Sunday Times.

Located in the historic part of Wakefield city centre, a five minute walk from the train station, the schools are well known for academic excellence and plenty of opportunities in music, drama, sport, enterprise, STEM and intellectual clubs that develop academically successful, well rounded and emotionally intelligent young people.

BIG FUTURES START EARLY

“We know that the early years are a magical time when children learn at the most significant rate,” says Head of Wakefield Grammar Pre-Preparatory School, Emma Gill. “Remarkable beginnings can make a world of di erence for curious little people. Our girls and boys have one opportunity for an excellent education. We aim for this to be the best possible education.

“We enhance our curriculum with languages, music, arts, drama, sports, philosophy and enrich that with a wide range of extra-curricular activities and leadership opportunities. The children in our care develop a strong sense of self and independence and cultivate skills of collaboration and problem solving while establishing friendships. We are committed to ensuring that our children learn to be kind, respectful and resilient. These values are crucial to their relationships and learning and they can move seamlessly (and non examined) to Wakefield Girls’ and QEGS.”

A COMPLETE EDUCATION –PREPARED FOR LIFE

The highly skilled and committed sta at both schools, Wakefield Girls’ and QEGS, are experts at helping every child to reach their potential. A generous pupil:teacher ratio and small, personal classes mean every pupil receives individual and personal attention which develops their confidence and enables them to excel. This is enhanced by signature school programmes that develop skills, experiences, capabilities and friendships as well as helping pupils to discover and pursue their passions and interests. Included is a huge extracurricular programme with over 100 di erent activities to choose from and an abundance of personal development opportunities to help all pupils become intellectually and socially confident, work-place and life-ready.

“We prepare pupils ready to forge a bright future,” says Head Dr Brookes. Pupils are personally supported to identify the right options for their next steps and to maximise their chances of success.

For more details, a personal tour or to join The Wakefield Grammar School Foundation Open Morning on Sat 12 October visit wgsf.org.uk

Yorkshire independent school Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) are celebrating after receiving a prestigious award from Artsmark, who are accredited by Arts Council England. Artsmark o er the only creative quality standard for schools and, to achieve the award, QE had to develop their arts and cultural provision to embed a broad and ambitious curriculum.

On receiving the award, Helen Stephenson, Head of Creative Arts at Queen Ethelburga’s said: “We’re extremely proud of achieving our Gold Artsmark Award. We are committed to delivering a high-quality arts and cultural education and are looking forward to growing our provision alongside Artsmark.”

The school o ers an ambitious provision of over 30 courses across art and design, music, drama and dance with numerous opportunities throughout the year to perform and compete in individual and team

CELEBRATING

the Arts

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate receives the prestigious Gold Artsmark Award

disciplines. With an impressive 39% of their students choosing to pursue Creative Arts subjects for GCSE, BTEC, or A-level in 202324, it is perhaps no surprise that QE regularly achieves recognition in national competitions. In 2023 alone, students achieved a win, runner up, and a highly commended in the ISA Arts Young Musician Competition, two finalist positions in the ISA Musical Theatre Competition, a win in the ISA Shakespeare Monologue Competition, two finalists in the ISA Musical Theatre Competition, and a win in the ISA Band Competition.

QE’s creative arts provision starts in prep school with a variety of art, craft and design lessons and opportunities to compete nationally. Students can choose a range of KS4 and KS5 options including 3D Design, Creative Digital Media Production, Fashion & Textiles, Art & Design Practice, and Photography. There are weekly extra-curricular activities including the Arts Award, Junior Art Club, Sketchbook Skills, Drawing Skills, and QE’s

Queen’s Academy for Creative Arts. QE students enjoy success in competitions, with recent wins in the ISA National Art competition for KS5 3d Design (2023), KS4 Sketchbook (2023), and KS5 Photography (2022 and 2023). QE pupils also achieved regional success in 2023 with ISA Northern Arts wins for KS5 2D Art, KS4 3D Design, KS4 Photography, and KS5 Textiles.

QE’s Student Art Council grew to 35 ambassadors in 2023-24 aged 11-18 years, who lead creative arts events. Examples of their cross-curricular events include a ‘Day of the Dead’ mask making and a ‘Lunar New Year’ competition with Modern Foreign Languages. Throughout the school, students are encouraged to use creative practices in all subjects; for example, Year 9 business students used Adobe Creative Suite software to create and market their own brand.

To find out more about QE’s art provision, visit qe.org, email admissions@qe.org,

Belief SYSTEM

How Huddersfield

Grammar School

develops pupils who believe in themselves

At Huddersfield Grammar School, the cultivation of self-belief among pupils is an integral part of their educational philosophy. The curriculum is designed to provide a holistic education that goes beyond traditional academic learning. It incorporates a wide range of co-curricular activities, including debating, STEM, art, and gardening. By encouraging students to explore and excel in various fields, HGS helps children discover their unique talents and passions. This broad exposure not only develops diverse skills, but also fosters a sense of achievement and self-worth in pupils. One of the key strategies HGS employs is personalised learning. Teachers work in dedicated small class sizes to identify students’ strengths and areas for improvement. Through personalised, individualised attention and tailored learning

plans, pupils can progress at their own pace and achieve their personal best. HGS recognises mentorship plays a significant role in nurturing self-belief. The school pairs students with form tutors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Additionally, the school collaborates with alumni in their online series ‘Beyond HGS’, to share their experiences and success stories, serving as role models. Positive reinforcement is embedded in the school’s culture. Teachers and sta consistently acknowledge and celebrate students’ e orts and achievements, no matter how small. Regular praise and constructive feedback help students recognise their progress and build confidence. This is fortified through holding award ceremonies and showcasing students’ work in exhibitions, giving them public recognition and a sense of accomplishment.

Huddersfield Grammar School also provides numerous opportunities for students to take

“The cultivation of self-belief is an integral part of their educational philosophy”

on leadership roles, such as being class representatives, House Captains, or members of student councils. The roles empower pupils to take initiative, make decisions, and contribute to the school community, helping enhance students’ self-belief.

Finally, the school fosters an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated, and every student feels accepted and valued. By promoting a culture of respect and understanding, the school ensures all pupils feel safe and supported, thus empowering students to believe in themselves.

To see Huddersfield Grammar School’s commitment to its children, experience their upcoming Open Day on 5 October. You will witness dynamic classrooms, engaging teachers, and beautiful Grade II listed buildings set in stunning woodland.

For more email admissions@huddersfieldgrammar.co.uk, call 01484 424549 or visit huddersfield-grammar.co.uk

Journey of DISCOVERY

Justin Stanley, Headmaster at Hymers College, on the many di erent facets of life at Hymers College and being an all-through institution

Q Can you give us a potted history of Hymers College?

A Hymers College was founded in 1893 by the Reverend John Hymers, who left money in his will for a school to be built “for the training of intelligence… amongst the vast and varied population of the town and port of Hull”. Over the last 130 years, the school has developed significantly, but this mission is still at the school’s heart, and we support our community through bursaries and volunteer work as much as possible. Having started as an all-boys school, this month we celebrate 35 years of co-education. We have also expanded the year groups we can cater for, with the addition of our Junior School and more recently a primary school setting – Hymers Hessle Mount. We now o er all-through education for pupils aged 3 to 18 across two sites – Hymers Hessle Mount in Hessle, for Pre-School to Year 2, and Hymers College in Hull, for Year 3 to Year 13.

Q How would you describe the school’s settings?

A Both Hymers Hessle Mount and Hymers College have been built around stunning, historical buildings, with spectacular learning facilities and outdoor spaces. Our settings o er a whole world to explore outside the classroom, including forest schools, a swimming pool, spectacular Music Centre, theatre, sports fields, recently refurbished laboratories and more. First time

visitors are usually amazed by what they find when they visit our campuses. As we have so much privacy, you only really appreciate the scope of what’s on o er when you visit us.

Q What do you o er at Hymers Hessle Mount?

A Hymers Hessle Mount is home to our Pre-School and primary classes from Reception to Year 2. It is the perfect platform for our youngest pupils to embark on their educational journey, with learning spaces designed to spark their imaginations. Our engaging teaching team o ers a rich and varied curriculum, giving children the opportunity to develop interests at an early age. This includes regular swimming lessons for Year 1 and 2 pupils, music lessons and outside learning environments such as our on-site woodland and games field.

Q Do you have many pupils who progress to the Junior School through to Sixth Form?

A The vast majority of our pupils stay with us throughout the duration of their education, through GCSE exams and all the way to A-levels. And, of course, all of our students remain a member of the Old Hymerian community for the rest of their lives.

Q What would we find if we wandered into a typical class?

A Our classes are varied to ensure that our pupils are engaged and set up for success.

A strong and visible presence from the teacher is a feature of all Hymers classes. Our teachers utilise a variety of teaching methods, including traditional classroom discipline and plenty of practical work. For instance, what better way to understand chemical reactions than to see them for yourself? We are focused on preparing our students for life, so we also ensure to weave in trips, visits and work experience so that our pupils can see their subjects in action in the real world.

Q What do you look for in a teacher?

A When choosing teachers, we look for people who are engaging, supportive, and passionate about their subject. Whether that’s early years education, music, science or mathematics. Our teachers also have the opportunity to

THE GLORIOUS SETTING

share their other interests and hobbies through our extensive co-curricular programme.

Q What opportunities do you o er outside of the classroom?

A As a school, we are often known for our sport and music o ering, but we o er over 100 clubs and activities, each designed to inspire our pupils and enrich their time with us. These range from water polo to Warhammer Club.

Q Why is the co-curricular key in developing your pupils?

A The interests and skills that our pupils develop through co-curricular activities are often key to their future. Co-curricular activities help young people develop confidence and self-esteem, giving them opportunities to try new things, develop networking and teamwork skills and even knowledge about particular career pathways. For instance, we have student-led societies for careers such as Medicine, Law and Engineering. These are supported by our network of 9,000 alumni across the globe, who o er their expertise and guidance to support the success of the next generation. Of course, our pupils love our cocurricular programme because of how much fun they have taking part!

Q How do you aim to look after your pupils’ welfare too?

A We aim to create a community of active thinkers who are happy and engaged with all aspects of school life. Every step of a child’s journey with us has been carefully considered, from our house system to which members of sta run our co-curricular activities. Our support team includes registered paediatric and mental health nurses, counsellors and a learning support team. We also provide our older pupils with training to act as prefects, buddies and academic mentors. We believe it’s vital that children build strong relationships with our sta and pupils both in their form and across the school. Our leadership team don’t spend their days in o ces under a mountain of paperwork, they are working teachers who engage with our pupils every day. This enables them to understand our pupils’ behaviour and the personal pressures that they may be facing. We strongly believe the balance is best achieved in partnership with pupils, parents and guardians. With a whole host of events and parents’ evenings, there are plenty of opportunities for families to interact with us and to get involved with school life.

Q Once pupils leave you, what are they prepared for?

A Over the last 130 years, we have established a track record for student success. We consider each pupil as an individual, providing them with tailored careers guidance and academic support to reach their goals.

We have paved the way for our alumni to study at top Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, and to pursue fantastic opportunities beyond the traditional university route, including highly sought-after apprenticeships. Our alumni have established careers in a wide range of industries, from politics to engineering, media to medicine.

Book a place at one of the upcoming Open Events at Hymers College: hymerscollege.co.uk

HEAD HEELS OVER

The Gymnastics Academy has opened its fourth site in Yorkshire, inspiring future Olympic champions

Anew gymnasium has o cially opened its doors at Xscape Yorkshire, o ering local children the chance to start their gymnastics journey. The Gymnastics Academy is expanding to open its fourth club following success at its other locations in Leeds, Batley and Huddersfield.

The new facility at Xscape Yorkshire will o er gymnastics lessons for children aged 4 months to 16-years-old, led by fully qualified, DBS-checked instructors. Young people can take part in award-winning programmes in gymnastics, tumbling, trampolining, bar and beam. The venue will cater for all abilities, with beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes available as well as weekend, evening and one-to-one classes. Additional o erings include birthday parties and breakfast clubs.

During the opening weekend in July, aspiring gymnasts were able to meet trampoline gymnast Eitan Aibi, a senior member of Team GB, who made a special appearance to celebrate the launch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The gymnasium will also be o ering a £15 discount for its popular OFSTED registered holiday camp to celebrate the launch, providing the perfect balance of fun and fitness for children aged 3+, from 8am to 5pm every day. The discounted price is £19.99 per child for a full day of gymnastics, compared to the usual price of £34.99 per day.

The new state-of-the-art facility at Xscape Yorkshire is dedicated to nurturing young talent and promoting physical fitness in a safe and professional environment. Their team of experienced coaches is committed to providing fun and challenging classes for young gymnasts, with sessions to suit all abilities, whether they are looking for a new hobby or are developing athletes, in celebrating the sport of gymnastics.

The opening of The Gymnastics Academy completes Xscape Yorkshire’s array of leisure activities, dining options, and retail brands. Now fully let, Xscape Yorkshire o ers a fantastic destination for a great day out.

Jason Warren, Centre Director at Xscape Yorkshire, says: “We’re excited to welcome The Gymnastics Academy into our roster of exciting brands and activities at Xscape Yorkshire. Our goal has always been to create a dynamic and welcoming environment where families can come together to enjoy a variety of activities – and with this new addition, we’re confident we can continue to be a fun day out for all.”

For more information, visit thegymnasticsacademy.co.uk or xscapeyorkshire.co.uk

“The venue will cater for all abilities from beginner to advanced”

BIG adventures

A trusted provider of school trips, PGL also o ers brilliant Kids’ Adventure Camps – fun, memory making and new skills for them, plus time o for you

PGL is the go-to name for school-organised activity trips, trusted for over 65 years and working with many top schools. But it also o ers Kids’ Adventure Camps for children aged 8-16 in half-terms and holidays. During the summer break, these camps took place in 12 idyllic locations, and with a great range of activities to choose from. Children learn cool new skills and make memories, while parents get a break and the opportunity to cover o some holiday childcare. The camps are all inclusive – so that’s accommodation and food, activities (with

expert tuition) plus 24/7 care and pastoral support. There are generous discounts if you book more than one child or holiday (from 15% for two to a mighty 35% for five), which is a great incentive for families or friends to get together and multibuy – and many do. Discover! camps (day to three night) are great for children with less time or those who want a taster of independent travel. Then there are Explore! camps (four to seven night), with 40+ outdoor activities. Specialist Trailblaze! camps are for pursuing a passion or adding something really useful to their skillset. From baking and bushcraft to pony trekking and surfing, there are 13 amazing options to choose from, each mixed in with traditional PGL outdoor fun. You’ll

even find specialist learner driver courses for 13+ camp goers, and an ‘Adrenaline Quest’ for the 11+ cohort – the former gives a head start in a really useful life skill, while the latter combines white-knuckle rides at top theme parks with adventure at PGL sites.

PGL’s own research points to the fact that children don’t crave rest over the holidays, but a change of scene and the opportunity to spread their wings. The way camps are organised by age makes it easy for children to turn up and make friends. Lots of children travel with a sibling or friend, and PGL even has bookings from cousins at di erent ends of the country who meet in the middle for an action-packed reunion. It’s popular, too, with international families. Often, the overseas cohort will combine a Trailblaze! specialist camp with another week of Explore! activities. PGL started out with canoeing adventures in the 1950s, organised by one Peter Gordon Lawrence (children still love to think the acronym stands for ‘Parents Get Lost’). Often parents who book have fond memories of their own PGL trips and want their children to experience this same safe outdoor fun. It has a whole host of accreditations, including Ofsted and BAPA, and it’s also registered with ABTA. The locations are glorious – from Su olk, Dorset and Shropshire to Perthshire and rural Wales. There’s even the option of PGL-escorted travel for the journey there and/or back, with convenient pick-up points.

“You’ll even find specialist learner driver courses for 13+ camp goers, and an ‘Adrenaline Quest’ for the 11+ cohort”

Every centre is unique, and you’ll find a mix of modern and historic properties with lovely grounds. Accommodation is simple but comfortable and tailored to children and groups – the holiday luxury here is having so many activities on tap, led by expert guides.

Kids’ Adventure Camps are popular with independent-school parents, not just for the adventures, but also the opportunities to mix with young people from di erent backgrounds and localities. The fact that it’s an all-inclusive set-up (all children need is a bit of pocket money) is a great leveller. Each camp has Group Leaders who manage pastoral care – helping children settle and socialise and checking in regularly. They are used to relating to young people and can work wonders with the reluctant vegetable eater or the child who is hesitant in new situations.

PGL works to be as inclusive as possible and is proud that last year 10% of children attending Adventure Camp independently had a disclosed SEND. PGL advisors work closely with families to ensure individual needs can be met. If children aren’t ready to go it alone (or alone just yet), they may recommend bringing a sibling or buddy or starting out with parents on a PGL Family Adventure.

For parents, Kids’ Adventure Camps o er the peace of mind of knowing children are busy, making friends and being active. Children, meanwhile, get a change of scene and routine. Oh, and don’t forget their bragging rights back at school. Finally, they get to answer that ‘what did you do over the holidays?’ question with their own long list of epic adventures – all of them achieved without Mum or Dad in tow.

CHILDREN LEARN NEW SKILLS WITH EXPERT TUITION

REAL DRAMA

Approaching its 25th anniversary, Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation o ers inspiring drama opportunities to open eyes and minds

"IT IS OPEN TO ALL BACKGROUNDS AND SETTINGS: JUNIOR, SENIOR, INDEPENDENT, AND SEND SCHOOLS"

Back in 2000, eight schools in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, took to the stage of the Torch Theatre for two nights to perform abridged plays by Shakespeare to a full house. It had all started with Shakespeare: The Animated Tales, a series conceived by then head of animation at S4C Chris Grace. The series was hugely popular and lives on today in schools. A festival seemed a next logical step. It let young people do what Shakespeare intended and turn stories on the page into their own unique productions.

Fast forward to 2024 and Shakespeare Schools Festival, now Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation (SSF), delivers the largest youth drama festival in the world. An estimated 300,000 plus young people have taken part over the years. It is open to all backgrounds and settings – junior, senior, independent, SEND schools and pupil referral units. The success of the venture has been driven from the start by young

people’s vitality – and the inspiring teachers (some 11,000 to date) who join the journey with them and become teacher-directors.

Shakespeare may not have seemed the most obvious choice for such a diverse age group, but children rise to the challenge with verve and extraordinary originality. Recently, a Portsmouth school delivered a Romeo & Juliet based around the deep rivalry between Portsmouth and Southampton football clubs – even wearing kits given by the teams. At a school in Birmingham, pupils chose to stage Othello highlighting the gang violence and gun and knife crime the children had experienced first-hand in their neighbourhood. In describing why they chose this take, a participant said: “It shows the world what is happening to us.”

Once registered for the festival, schools get access to a wealth of resources and teachers get CPD training to help them facilitate the drama and bring it to life on the stage. It’s a four-to-six-month journey, culminating in the performances. Typically, there will be three or four schools taking

to the stage together in a professional theatre local to them to a full audience.

The mix of schools brings very di erent interpretations, but the spirit of camaraderie between the children adds to the magic. It can be particularly moving to watch pupils from special educational needs schools participate alongside peers from primaries and secondaries. There have been dramas incorporating BSL or interpreted via light, sound or movement. At a recent staging at the Rose Theatre in Kingston, each SEND student on the stage had an adult supervisor with them and it became a mesmeric ensemble retelling of The Tempest. Last year, SSF interviewed a teacher from a SEND school whose students had performed. She said simply: “It gives voice to the voiceless.”

The impact of the festival is monitored closely by SSF, and it works hard to widen access in other ways. There’s an active Youth Board to keep young people front and centre of its work, and standalone workshops are o ered to schools – including 'Play in a Day'. The Shakespeare Schools

International Film Festival was introduced during Covid and has gone from strength to strength in the UK and internationally. Here, children bring plays to life via short films, and learn acting, directing and storyboarding skills along the way. There’s also access to a higher education project in collaboration with Magdalen College Oxford. This year, 15 Year 10 students from Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire enjoyed a three-day residential there. They attended Shakespeare lectures and explored the library where a rare Fourth Folio is housed, finishing their stay by staging their Shakespeare plays at the college’s auditorium.

Coram knows Shakespeare is a great vehicle for growing young people’s talents. Demystifying the Bard and delivering your own drama interpretation to an audience becomes a very big deal. It builds a great set of skills – it’s such a powerful thing to tell a story your way. Last year, over a fifth of participants spoke English as an additional language, so overcoming that additional hurdle is a confidence builder with a profound impact. Then, too, there are the parents who go to a professional theatre to watch their child, and then keep going back to the same theatre because they had a great time. The team at SSF are mindful of the value of this – both in supporting the many local theatres around the UK and in widening access to theatre itself, an art form that still struggles to shake o its elitist label.

Above all, Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation aims to open young people’s eyes and minds to possibilities – perhaps even to future careers in the creative sector. It has anecdotes about how performing in the festival has made a di erence to individual lives and careers but, for its 25th anniversary year, there will be a callout to the 300,000+ Festival alumni to ask what Shakespeare did for them. Getting those stories back will be a reminder that (with apologies to Hamlet purists) for some young people the play’s the thing that changes everything.

shakespeareschools.org

Arrange a personal tour by calling 01283 559200 or email admissions@repton.org.uk A perfectly balanced education in the heart of England

repton.org.uk

EDUCATION NEWS

The latest from schools across the county

Results speak volumes

Scarborough College is celebrating record-breaking results in the 2024 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). This year, the school achieved an impressive average score of 33 points, nearly three points above the global average. Notably, nearly a quarter of the students scored 40 points or higher, equivalent to three A* grades at A-Level. Top scoring students include Ingrid, who earned 44 points and will attend UCL, and Harry, who scored 43 points and is headed to Cambridge.

Headmaster Guy Emmett expressed pride in the students, noting that nearly all secured their first-choice universities, including prestigious institutions like Oxbridge and other Russell Group members, as well as Ivy league places. IB Coordinator Katie Cooke praised the students’ dedication, highlighting the school’s value-added score of 2.15 points, reflecting significant student progress. The results mark one of the most successful outcomes in the College’s history since becoming an IB School in 2006. scarboroughcollege.co.uk

Dinner time

School dinners have taken on a whole new meaning with the arrival of School Kitchen at Carr Junior School in York. The school, part of the South Bank Multi Academy Trust, is lending the startup its catering facilities on weekday evenings and at weekends to cook up takeaways. The idea is to turn an under-utilised asset into a revenue earner with a conscience – the school gets revenue and other perks in return. So far, School Kitchen is offering dineat-home customers an evening menu featuring Sri Lankan, Mexican, Thai and Spanish tapas. Customers are able to mix and match their order, just as they do with the well-known delivery services, but there’s a big difference here. Billed as ‘the takeaway that gives back’, School Kitchen is set to run cooking demos for pupils as well as providing apprenticeships for local school leavers and jobs for local chefs. It pledges to pay all staff at least the current living wage. schoolkitchen.com

Year to remember

There is an exciting year ahead at Queen Mary’s School as this leading day and boarding school, just minutes from the A1(M) between Ripon and Thirsk, celebrates its Centenary. Going into this special Centenary year, the school is thriving having been named in the top six independent schools with no sixth form in the UK – The Sunday Times 2024 Parent Power Schools Guide. This success can be attributed to academic excellence, the extensive co-curricular programme, musical and equestrian achievements, the home-from-home flexible boarding environment, onsite adventure opportunities from canoeing to climbing, and investment in the school and its facilities. As part of

Queen Mary’s Centenary celebrations, an events programme will include a Party in the Park, Centenary Service at Ripon Cathedral, Centenary Ball, Equestrian Mini Major and many more events for the whole school community and the alumnae.

Open Day: Saturday 5 October

Discover Queen Mary’s: Friday 8 November Register for an event or personal visits are available. Call 01845 575000 admissions@queenmarys.org

enwood Estates presents Knights Gate, a development of 33 exclusive homes in Sutton-cum-Lound, Retford, Nottinghamshire, 90 minutes from London by train. Plot 28 showcases the ‘closed plan’ layout of their Pastures house type. Only 12 homes remain, with bespoke choices of kitchens, tiles, and carpets, and exemplary design throughout.

Retirement living on your terms

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A contemporary luxury home in Thorner

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Located in a serene estate in the charming location of Adel, LS15 4NH

WHAT

This magnificent, detached property, constructed in 2019, boasts modern luxury and elegance. Spread across three expansive floors, it o ers a perfect blend of contemporary amenities and thoughtful design, making it an ideal home for a discerning family.

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The spacious hallway leads to a cosy lounge with a log burner, a light-filled dining room, and a utility room. The heart of the home is the generous open-plan kitchen and living area, flowing to the garden through bifolding doors. The first floor features four well-appointed bedrooms, including a main suite with an en-suite and dressing area. The second floor has two additional spacious bedrooms and a modern bathroom.

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why everyone is talking about…

North York MOORS

There are plenty of new ways to unwind in nature during September’s Mindful Month

Anew arts-inspired wellbeing festival, organised bike rides, goat yoga sessions and forest bathing feature in the North York Moors Mindful Month programme this September, which is designed to help people unwind.

This year, the ability of art to absorb and relax people’s minds plays centre stage during the first Mindful on the Moor Festival on 7 September at Danby Lodge National Park Centre. People can try their hand at making pottery, weaving a willow fish or flower, painting a moorland scene or using the landscape as inspiration to create a piece of embroidery, all under the guidance of talented local artists and craftspeople.

On 29 September the focus will be on the ‘feel good’ endorphins that come with venturing outdoors on two wheels with the new Minds & Miles cycling day organised in association with Struggle Events.

The beautiful surroundings of Rosedale will be enhanced by the therapeutic presence of goats during calming yoga sessions, or people can lose themselves in the art of cheese-making, both held at Abbey Farm Cottage.

Yoga at Guisborough Priory and on a beach will form part of a three-night Pretty Gritty retreat from 10-13 September, which will also include dips in the sea at Saltburn and guided hikes further inland.

Otherwise there’s an evening outdoor yoga session coinciding with the Harvest Moon on the 17 September, which will be held in the charming, rewilded scenery of Coast and Camplight near Whitby.

Other ways to switch o include a wild foraging foray in the company of local forager and fire cook Katy Doman;

a soothing guided big tree walk through Raincli e Woods; and a mood-boosting dark skies evening with Adventures for the Soul at Sutton Bank where people will be guided on a safari with a di erence, listening to the birds’ evening chorus before the bats and stars emerge.

Phoebe Smith, of the North York Moors National Park, comments: “This year’s programme really accentuates the multitude of ways and places that people can seek out within the North York Moors to help switch o from everyday life. We’ve aimed to create a nurturing, unpressurised environment where people can try out an activity for the first time, follow quiet signed routes for some relaxing cycling, or find relaxation in beautiful surroundings.”

northyorkmoors.org.uk/mindfulmonth

Our all-encompassing spa break, here to relax and rejuvenate.

Includes;

Use of the outdoor pool and spa facilities from check in at 3pm until check out at 11am

A 60 minute ‘Temple Spa’ treatment per person (choose from body exfoliation, facial, manicure, pedicure or foot & leg energiser)

A £60 per person dinner allocation towards our à la carte menu

A full Yorkshire breakfast each the following morning