Rutland Living October 2025

RUTLAND LIVING

Belvoir Castle: Behind the Scenes on a Film Lover’s Tour Little Living: Halloween Pumpkin Picking, Spooky Tours & More Food & Drink: Inspiration for Joyful Festive Celebrations

HELLO OCTOBER 2025

Harvest Festival takes place this year on Sunday 5 October, when once again we will hear that lovely hymn ‘We plough the fields and scatter the good seed on the land’ echoing down the aisles, bringing back childhood memories of collecting fruit and veg for the service. This year has been a mixed bag due to the dry weather, but fruit (and especially figs!) seem to have thrived.

Living near allotments has also given us the added bounty of much excess produce being left out in boxes free for anyone to take. This we have done, enjoying apples, plums and courgettes; and, from the woods beyond, oodles of blackberries.

And we have noticed others doing the same. The other day, as we were driving to Leicester, we saw a family by the side of a busy dual carriageway vigorously shaking a tree, at which point a shower of apples came down; determined to retrieve every one, they gleefully dashed into the road risking life and limb to catch up with the rolling windfalls.

And we have a squirrel who is quite partial to a plum for its breakfast. Each morning, we see it scuttle along our neighbour’s garden wall, lean down to pluck a plum off the tree, and then consume it with great purpose and evident pleasure morsel by morsel in full sight.

We wish you a season of mellow fruitfulness.

Editors, Nicholas & Clare

Website: www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk

Monthly Newsletter: Sign up via our website

App Store: Living Mags (for Rutland Living & Stamford Living)

Instagram: @stamfordandrutlandliving

THE TEAM

This magazine has been created by the team at Local Living, PO Box 208, Stamford PE9 9FY

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Nicholas Rudd-Jones | 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk

EDITOR & EDITORIAL DESIGN

Clare Rudd-Jones

ADVERTISEMENT SALES

Rutland & Market Harborough Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 | tracy@bestlocalliving.co.uk

Stamford Claudia Bayley 07876 171063 | claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Nene Valley (Oundle & Peterborough) Nicholas Rudd-Jones Contact details as above

ADVERTISEMENT PRODUCTION

Ad Copy Manager: Rachel Beecroft

Ad Designer: Sarah Patterson

This magazine has been printed by our local printers, Warners of Bourne, on FSC® certified paper from sustainable and other controlled sources.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Annual rate £45 (UK only) for 12 issues. Please write to the Publisher at Local Living Ltd, with £45 cheque payable to Local Living or go online to buy your subscription at www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk

COVER

Stamford Living: autumn interiors scene by Alexander Johnson Interiors (see p40). Rutland Living: Sophie Allport at Halloween (see p9).

MAGICAL AT GATES

This Christmas, discover something special at Gates. Get into the festive spirit at Woodlands Hinckley or Oakham. With everything under one roof, you’ll get all your Christmas shopping done in a single day! Explore our Christmas halls, enjoy delicious food, or dine with Santa. Find stylish brands and unique gifts, alongside locally sourced produce, farm bred meats and the finest turkeys in our farm shops.

GATES OAKHAM

COLD OVERTON, OAKHAM LE15 7QB

GATES WOODLANDS HINCKLEY STAPLETON, HINCKLEY LE9 8JE

Visit our website www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk Professional Design Service

In-Store and Home Consultations available Home Design Service, by Appointment

Wide range of accessories to complete your chosen look! @sarahhardinginteriorsltd

6 MARKET PLACE UPPINGHAM RUTLAND LE15 9QH 01572 823389 info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

THIS MONTH WE LOVE…

GORGEOUS BAGS AT CAVELLS

Ramp up your style this autumn with Cavells in Oakham. This Dragon Diffusion Japan tote (£395) in leaf green leather delivers just the perfect pop of sophistication. cavells.co.uk

THE BOTHY AT RUTLAND NURSERY

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any more fabulous at Rutland Nursery, they’ve opened a gorgeous new addition, The Bothy. By day, it’s a cosy retreat for Hut customers; by night, it transforms into a stunning venue for special events and private hire. rutlandnursery.co.uk

SEASONAL FRAGRANCES AT FRECKLEFACE

Cosy season has arrived at Freckleface, with this limited-edition Smoked Pumpkin & Oakmoss collection of candles, tea lights and wax melts. With golden pumpkin, spice and oakmoss, this beautiful range (from £8.50) evokes autumn walks and home-baked comfort. frecklefacehomefragrance.com

NEW BOOK FROM ANGELA HARDING

This is the third pocketsized book (£12.99) in the seasonal quartet from Rutland printmaker and illustrator Angela Harding, reflecting her observations on nature. Buy from local bookshops or from angelaharding.co.uk

MARCIA MAY’S RETRO

TRAINERS

We’ve been eyeing up these retro trainers (£90) by Gola at Marcia May in Stamford for a while, and they’d be perfect for autumn walks by Rutland Water. They come in a rainbow of colours for men and women – our favourite is Evergreen/Terracotta/ Plum, shown here. marciamaystamford.co.uk

SOPHIE ALLPORT’S HALLOWEEN RANGE

‘I wanted to capture the playful side of Halloween with this new collection, stacked pumpkins, crunchy leaves and a few of our favourite pets in costume’ Sophie Allport

Transform your home this Halloween with Sophie Allport of Stamford. From spooky tableware and textiles to fun decorations, find everything you need for a stylishly spellbinding trick-or-treat celebration. (Adorable sausage dog not included!) sophieallport.com

WHAT’S ON | OCTOBER

A SELECTION OF EVENTS TAKING PLACE ACROSS OUR BEAUTIFUL REGION THIS MONTH

1

EXHIBITION

Welland Valley Arts Society at Stamford Arts Centre

From 30 September until 18 October, Mon–Sat 10am–5pm, free

When a group of enthusiasts gathered in Uppingham late in 1945, their discussions led to Welland Valley Art Society being born. Its ethos was to encourage an interest in fine art locally and to provide opportunities for members to showcase their work to the public.

Today the Society is still going strong, with two exhibitions a year. As always, the paintings, prints, drawings and sculptures on display at the Autumn Exhibition will encompass a broad range of subjects, artistic techniques and art materials. There will be a section for smaller original artworks, with a maximum price tag of £75, perfect as Christmas presents or the first purchase for a new collector. There will also be a selection of unframed prints, drawings and paintings to appeal to bargainhunters. wellandvalleyartsociety.co.uk

WORKSHOP

Bulb Planting Workshop at Easton Walled Gardens 10am–12pm, £65

Join Easton Walled Garden’s Senior Gardener Sharon for this hands-on workshop where you will learn how to select, prepare and plant various types of spring bulbs in your own planter to take home for your garden display. Learn which bulbs are better for different garden conditions, bloom times and aesthetic preferences.

You’ll explore techniques such as planting a bulb lasagne for continuous colour, selecting bulbs to suit different seasons and naturalising them in lawns. The session then moves on to aftercare, covering watering, feeding and how to manage common pests.

2

LITERARY EVENT

Poetry Reading at Waterstones, Market Harborough 6.30–8pm, £5 (£3 for Waterstones cardholders) Celebrate National Poetry Day by attending this special event with

four acclaimed poets with strong connections to the area: Maria Taylor, Tim Relf, Di Slaney and Jonathan Taylor. It’ll be an evening of readings and conversation, including an audience Q&A.

CINEMA

Cinema for Rutland at Rutland County Museum 7.30pm, £7.50

This month’s film from Cinema for Rutland is Bridget Jones – Mad About the Boy (15). After jumping back into the dating pool, single mother Bridget Jones (Renee Zellweger) finds herself caught between a younger man and her son’s science teacher.

2–4

LIVE MUSIC

Burghley House By Twilight 6–8pm, £30

Burghley by Twilight offers the rare opportunity for an evening visit to Burghley House. As the sun begins to set, the State Rooms take on a magical glow that only twilight and candlelight can provide.

As you explore the illuminated rooms, enjoy performances from a variety of classical musicians peppered throughout the house, culminating in the beautiful playing of harpist to the stars, Soraya Vermeulen, in the Great Hall. Prosecco will be served in the Old Kitchen and the Great Hall adding further sparkle to the night.

3

TALK

Authors in Oundle: Antony Johnston at Oundle Bowling Club 7.45–8.45pm, £9 (£8)

Join Authors in Oundle for an evening with Antony Johnston, author of Can You Solve the Murder? Unleash your inner detective in a captivating, interactive experience. Work in teams of up to six people to uncover hidden clues, interrogate suspects and piece together the puzzle to identify the culprit. Will you be the one to crack the case?

Antony Johnston is the awardwinning, New York Times bestselling author of more than 50 books, graphic novels, and comic series, including the popular Dog Sitter Detective murder mysteries. His graphic novel, The Coldest City, was made into the multi-million-dollar blockbuster movie. He is also a celebrated video games writer. authorsinoundle.co.uk

OPPOSITE: poet and writer Tim Relf, who will be at Market Harborough Waterstones on 2 October. BELOW & BOTTOM: Debbie James’ ‘The Swimming Pond’ and Sarah Jennings’ ‘Autumn Lane’, both of which will be shown as part of the Welland Valley Arts Society Autumn Exhibition.

CULTURE, EVENTS

| OCTOBER

WHAT’S ON

3

TALK

‘Furnishing the East Midlands’ at Rutland County Museum

Doors open 6.30pm for a glass of wine (included in the ticket price), with the talk at 7.30pm, tickets £25 from www.eventbrite. co.uk or from Rutland County Museum

Celebrated furniture expert, Christopher Payne, whom readers may be familiar with from the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, will talk about ‘Furnishing the East Midlands – from the Spectacular to the Vernacular’. There’ll also be the chance to browse the current exhibition at the museum.

CLASSICAL MUSIC

The Best of John Williams & Film Favourites at Peterborough Cathedral

Early: 7–8.10pm; late: 9.15–10.25pm

Tickets: from £24.50 from peterboroughsings.org.uk

Enjoy cinema’s most iconic music performed live by candlelight by 70 musicians in the breathtaking setting of Peterborough Cathedral. There will also be a spectacular light show. The programme is jam-packed with themes that you are sure to know and love, featuring the music of John Williams, Hans Zimmer and more. There’ll be music from cinema including Avatar, Dune, ET,

Gladiator, Harry Potter, Jaws, James Bond, Jurassic Park, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars and more.

4

RADIO PLAY

‘The Autumn of My Years’ at All Saints’ Church, Oakham Doors open at 2pm for a 2.30pm start, refreshments available, free Oakham School are presenting a charity fundraiser at All Saints’ Church in Oakham, featuring Uppingham actor and writer Henry Dawe’s radio play ‘The Autumn of My Years’. First broadcast on Harborough FM in 2023, the play focuses on the issue of intergenerational friendship and is part of Oakham School’s Service Weekend, fostering links between school pupils and older people.

Please register your attendance by emailing mf@oakham.rutland.sch.uk or by calling 01572 758500.

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Rutland Sinfonia at Oakham School Chapel 7.30pm, tickets £16 (£5 for students/ under 18s) from ticketsource.co.uk

The first concert in Rutland Sinfonia’s 50th anniversary concert season features musical patron Robert Markham playing Grieg’s

Piano Concerto (top 30 Classic FM Hall of Fame 2025). Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Schubert’s Overture Rosamunde complete the evening’s programme.

LIVE MUSIC

PolkaWorks at Stamford Arts Centre

7.30pm, £15 (£8 under 16s) PolkaWorks are one of England’s premier ceilidh dance bands. Wearing cocktail dresses and with shoes to die for, they bring a touch of class and elegance to the ceilidh scene. There’s nothing polite about their music, however: a powerfully rhythmic wall-of-sound designed to send dancers into a whirling, stomping, galloping frenzy.

9

EXHIBITION

Samantha Greenhill at Wingates Gallery

7–9pm, free

Meet artist Samantha Greenhill and be the first to see her new collection as it launches at Wingates Gallery in Market Harborough. Not only is Samantha one of the leading wildlife artists in the UK, she understands the character and personality of each of her chosen animals and communicates that perfectly through

Rutland Sinfonia launches its 50th Anniversary Concert Season this month at Oakham School Chapel.

OCTOBER

the

WHAT’S ON

her work. Entry is free, but please book in advance by calling or emailing Andrew on 01858 465455/ andrew@wingatesgallery.co.uk.

10

EXHIBITION

Georgina Potter at Gladwell Patterson

Until 31 October, free Gladwells are delighted to present their first solo exhibition, entitled ‘Moments’, with Georgina Potter. This carefully curated collection celebrates the breadth of Georgina’s

VENUES

recent work, capturing landscapes from across Britain and Europe.

11

CLASSICAL MUSIC

‘Harriet Mackenzie & Celoniatus at Stamford Arts Centre 7.30pm, £28 (£26 conc) Harriet Mackenzie directs the Celoniatus Ensemble with a natureinspired programme including Mozart’s Divertimento in D, Vaughan Williams’ Lark Ascending and Vivaldi’s iconic Four Seasons.

• All Saints’ Church Oakham Church Street, Oakham LE15 6AA

• Belvoir Castle Belvoir, Grantham NG32 1PA, belvoircastle.com

• Le Blanc Fine Art Manor House, Saxby LE14 2RR, leblancfineart.com

• Burghley House Stamford PE9 3JY, 01780 752451, burghley.co.uk

• Easton Walled Gardens Grantham, NG33 5AP, 01476 530063, visiteaston.co.uk

15

WORKSHOP

Beginners’ Watercolour Workshop at Easton Walled Gardens 10am–12.30pm, £65 Unlock your artistic potential at Easton Walled Gardens with artist Monty Cholmeley. Whether you’re taking your first steps in art or looking to refresh your skills, this engaging workshop offers the perfect introduction to watercolour in a welcoming, supportive setting.

• Gladwell Patterson Gladwell’s Corner, 1 High Street, Stamford PE9 2AL, gladwellpatterson.com

• Goldmark Gallery 14 Orange Street, Uppingham LE15 9SQ, 01572 821424, goldmarkart.com

• Nassington Church of St Mary the Virgin & All Saints Church Street, Nassington PE8 6QG

• Oakham School Chapel Close, Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT, oakham.rutland.sch.uk

• Oundle Bowling Club Occupation Road, Oundle PE8 4RU

• Peterborough Cathedral Peterborough PE1 1XS, 01733 355315, peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

• Rutland County Museum Catmos Street, Oakham LE15 6HW, 01572 758440, rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk

• Rutland Nursery Lyndon Road, Manton, Rutland LE15 8RN, 01572 498720, rutlandnursery.co.uk

• Stamford Arts Centre 27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DL, 01780 763203, stamfordartscentre.com

• Waterstones 9 The Square, Market Harborough LE16 7PA, waterstones.com

• Wingates 44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU, wingatesgallery.co.uk

‘Where

Falcons Rest’ by Georgina Potter, whose work will be showcased at Gladwell Patterson this month.

WHAT’S ON | OCTOBER

17–19

MULTI-DAY WORKSHOP

Sculpture Workshop at Le Blanc Fine Art 10am–4pm , £450 includes materials, refreshments and lunches

A three-day workshop in the glorious setting of Le Blanc Fine Art in Saxby, learning to sculpt a clay portrait head from life under the tutelage of Andrian Melka. All abilities are welcome, making the workshop suitable for beginners and advanced sculptors. Maximum of 7 students.

25

Perfect for beginners, this workshop will help you understand the fundamentals of colour mixing – both on your palette and directly on paper. All materials are provided, so you can dive right in and explore your creative side.

16

FASHION SHOW

Charity Fashion Show at Belvoir Castle

From 11.30am, £125

The Duchess of Rutland will be welcoming just 90 guests to experience an intimate charity event in aid of Marie Curie’s end-of-life care services. There will be arrival drinks, then a two-course lunch and fashion show from 1pm and a silent auction from 2.30–3.30pm. It promises to be an unforgettable afternoon of fashion, fine dining and

philanthropy in the glorious setting of Belvoir Castle.

AUTHORS IN CONVERSATION

Sabrina Ghayour at Rutland Nursery

6.15–8.30pm. See p26.

17

LIVE MUSIC

The Best of British at Nassington Church

Doors open 7pm for a concert at 7.45pm, £10, tickets from Nassington Stores, Moulds Butchers, InStep Foot Clinic of Wansford, and online on EventBrite; tickets also via tel 01780 782200

A brass band concert in Nassington Church from Yarwell and Nassington Britannia Band, who will be performing British classics including a Last Night of the Proms finale. There’ll also be a raffle and bar.

STAMFORD YOUTH ORCHESTRA

A brand-new orchestra for young musicians! Rehearsals for ‘Music from the Movies’ are at Barn Hill Methodist Church in Stamford on Thursday 25 September and 2 and 9 October (all 6.30–7.30pm; cost £30). If you are reading this after the first rehearsal, don’t worry – simply contact Anja at stamfordyouthorchestra2@gmail.com as there may still be space to join – or you can register your interest for future concerts. for grades 3–8 • all instruments welcome

EXHIBITION

Jenny Grevatte – Beyond Brushstrokes at Goldmark Free

Launching on 25 October and running into November, Goldmark Gallery is holding an exciting new exhibition by artist Jenny Grevatte, who has been with the gallery for 13 years and now lives locally. She notes: ‘I have moved my home and studio since my last exhibition in 2023. I now live and work in the charming Rutland village of Lyddington. As everyone knows, moving house can be very disruptive, but I have been hugely stimulated by my new surroundings.’ This is Jenny’s fifth solo show at Goldmark, and it will be accompanied by her self-penned book, ‘Beyond Brushstrokes’, which is published by Goldmark just ahead of the exhibition.

Also on at Goldmark this October: exhibitions of paintings by Pat Porter (until 19 October) and the ceramics of Yoji Yamada (see p22).

28

AUTHORS IN CONVERSATION

Mark Diacono at Rutland Nursery 6.15–8.30pm. See p26.

ABOVE: artist Jenny Grevatte has a solo exhibition at Goldmark Gallery from 25 October. Jenny is also launching a new book in conjunction with Goldmark.

Orangeries, garden rooms, conservatories, windows and doors. From design through to completion.

A truly bespoke service with our in-house design team. Manufacturing custom cabinetry, crafted in our Rutland workshops.

A master of woodfired ceramics, the Japanese potter Yoji Yamada has a new show this month at Goldmark Gallery in Uppingham

GOLDMARK GALLERY is currently holding a ceramics exhibition by the renowned Shigaraki-based potter Yoji Yamada. Although born and based in Japan, Yamada was an apprentice to another Goldmark stalwart, the great potter Lisa Hammond MBE, from 2007 to 2008. He is a master of wood-fired ceramics, and his pots feature beautifully textured finishes complemented by spontaneous linework.

Yamada’s work is strongly influenced by 19thcentury English ceramics slipware, which he describes as the catalyst that started him working and which provides a reason for him to continue to do so. However, he uses pottery from medieval England, which pre-dates slipware, as a reference for the shapes of the pieces he creates, and uses the Japanese yakishime slipware technique.

Yakishime is often described as a dance of fire, earth and air that results in unique works of art (ceramicartis.com). The technique originated towards the end of the 12th century and is based on firing without glazes at temperatures above 1,200 degrees. This vitrifies the clay and makes it extremely hard; natural enamelling is created by the high temperature of the wood firing. But true artists never stand still, and Yamada has recently been making a ceramic series that is fired at low temperature and is bright and soft in appearance.

It is fascinating to see Yamada’s new creations and this Goldmark show is an ideal opportunity to see the work of an exceptional potter celebrated for his deep connection to his craft.

There is a filmed walk through of the show, hosted by Max Waterhouse, available free on demand 24/7, at goldmarkart.com

Yoji Yamada

goldmark gallery

14 orange street

uppingham le15 9sq 01572 821424 |info@goldmarkart.com

www.goldmarkart.com | goldmark.tv @goldmarkart

For decades she’d looked meticulously at the same repeated items... By the end she’d found a language to convey how wild, how unexpected even the most ordinary objects are. Olivia Laing

Authors in Conversation at Rutland Nursery

Clare Rudd-Jones caught up with the team at Rutland Nursery to find out more about their ‘Authors in Conversation’ series this autumn. These engaging evening talks are a celebration of the writer and the written word, all designed to inspire, whether to cook more, garden better or appreciate the beauty of the seasons more acutely

OVER THE PAST YEAR OR SO, Rutland Nursery has been expanding its events programme, building a reputation for inspiring evening talks showcasing talents from the gardening and food worlds. The fabulous line-up continues this autumn with a strong culinary focus, with celebrated writers, gardeners, cooks and drinks experts sharing their latest books. The season kicked off with plantsman Jamie Butterworth in mid-September, and the next author in conversation, in October, is the acclaimed chef Sabrina Ghayour. Each evening begins with drinks before the talk, which is often guided by Rutland Nursery’s ever-engaging host Chris Young, and concludes with a lively Q&A and book signing. These evenings are convivial and illuminating, and the setting – either The View or (exciting!) the new Bothy (see p6) – is exquisite. You can find full details and book on Rutland Nursery’s website.

SABRINA GHAYOUR

16 OCTOBER

6.15–8.30pm, £30

Food writer and Middle Eastern chef Sabrina Ghayour will be discussing her latest book, Persiana Easy, released in August, as the first speaker in this series from the world of food. Dubbed ‘the Golden Girl of Persian cookery’, Sabrina shot to fame with her debut cookbook Persiana, a Sunday Times bestseller. Her work is regularly featured in magazines and newspapers and she is now a familiar face on British television.

Author of a total of seven books, Sabrina will be interviewed by Chris Young about her new collection of over 100 recipes that balance the rich, vibrant flavours of the Middle East with approachable, everyday cooking. Giving you a first-hand look at her signature style, Sabrina will also demonstrate a recipe from the book.

MARK DIACONO

28 OCTOBER

6.15–8.30pm, £30

Food writer, cook, and gardener Mark Diacono is back at Rutland Nursery to talk about his new book, Abundance, a record of one man’s year living on the south-west coast of England, quietly contemplating life, nature and his next meal. With over 80 seasonal recipes, there are dishes to inspire and satisfy every week as the year unfolds.

A true foodie at heart, Mark was part of the original crew at Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage, and his culinary journey has seen him collaborate with Angela Hartnett for the Café Murano Book Club, present at RHS shows, and work closely with The Pig Hotels. He’s also the founder of Otter Farm nursery in Devon. Mark is the author and photographer of 14 award-winning books on food and kitchen gardening, created both independently and in collaboration with the River Cottage series.

Join host Chris Young for a wide-ranging conversation that spans food, writing, gardening and everything in between. Whether you’re a passionate cook, an enthusiastic grower or simply someone who appreciates a well-told story, this is an event not to be missed.

thomasina

miers

(photo: Matt Russell)

‘These evening talks are a celebration of the writer and the written word, all designed to inspire, whether to cook more, garden better or appreciate the beauty of the seasons more acutely’

THOMASINA MIERS

6 NOVEMBER

6.15–8.30pm, £35

In 2007, Thomasina Miers co-founded the acclaimed Mexican restaurant Wahaca, and in 2017 she helped to launch Chefs in Schools, where she now serves as a trustee. Awarded an OBE in 2019 for her contribution to the food industry, Tommi is also a regular Guardian Feast columnist and author of nine cookbooks.

Following a recent six-month family stay in Mexico, her new book Mexican Table celebrates 12 essential ingredients that define Mexican cooking – from fiery chillies to rich chocolate – with vibrant, vegetableforward recipes inspired by authentic flavours and local kitchens.

This promises to be an engaging conversation as Chris Young interviews Tommi about her culinary adventures, her passion for Mexican food and the stories behind her latest book.

MICHAEL PERRY

12 NOVEMBER

5.30–7.15pm, £25

Michael Perry, aka Mr Plant Geek, has been passionate about plants since the age of five. A true horticultural enthusiast, he has carved out a unique role in the gardening world as an author, presenter and global plant hunter. As part of this season of talks, he will be at Rutland Nursery to present The Weird & Wacky Plant Show.

Recognised as one of the Sunday Times’ Top 20 Most Influential People in Gardening, Michael rose to prominence during his time at Thompson & Morgan, where he was behind the introduction of innovative plants such as the Egg and Chips plant and the FuchsiaBerry.

The author of Hortus Curious, Michael shines a spotlight on some of the weirdest and most wonderful plants on the planet. But it’s not just about the rare and exotic – Michael believes even everyday plants have curious quirks and fascinating stories to tell. He brings a refreshing and fun perspective to horticulture.

JOEL HARRISON

20 NOVEMBER

7–9pm, £35

Joel Harrison is an award-winning drinks writer, presenter and consultant, dedicated to bringing whisky and fine spirits to life for new drinkers while deepening the knowledge of seasoned enthusiasts. For nearly two decades he has contributed to leading publications including The Telegraph, Whisky Magazine and Club Oenologique, alongside regular appearances on television and radio. His acclaimed books have earned international recognition: Distilled won Best Drink Book at the Fortnum & Mason Awards, followed by Straight Up and The World Atlas of Gin. His latest title, The Whisky World Tour, was published in September 2025.

rutland nursery, manton, rutland le15 8rn www.rutlandnursery.co.uk | @rutlandnursery

BOOKS

From imaginative flower combinations to global recipes, and seasonal harvests to creative planting ideas, here are six books by the authors who will be ‘in conversation’ at Rutland Nursery this autumn. These lovely books are available in the shop now.

• Persiana Easy by Sabrina Ghayour, £28. Over 100 Middle Eastern-inspired dishes made easier than ever.

• Abundance by Mark Diacono, £30. Eating and living with the seasons.

• Mexican Table by Thomasina Miers, £28. 100 recipes, 12 ingredients from the heart of Mexico.

• Hortus Curious by Michael Perry, £16.99. Discover the world’s most weird and wonderful plants and fungi.

• The Whisky World Tour by Joel Harrison, £22. A curated guide to unforgettable distilleries and their whiskies.

• What Grows Together by Jamie Butterworth, £22. Fail-safe plant combinations for every garden

Whether you want to give new life to your existing living spaces or you are about to embark on your dream property renovation project, aluhome has the finest brands of contemporary and traditional glazing systems available, creating light, space and a new way of living.

Inspired

Inspirational products that deliver the very essence of individuality for the more discerning client.

Refined

Beautifully crafted aluminium products made with precision giving your home distinction with our luxury collection.

Bespoke

From first thought, our detailed advice, guidance and expert installation, will deliver architectural glazing that’s always distinctive, elegant & bespoke assured.

Visit our new Aluminium studio in the heart of Stamford and be inspired

Gooches Court, Stamford Meadows, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2RE 01780 723864, 07831 786387, www.aluhomes.co.uk, sales@aluhomes.co.uk

The Rutland Gallery

WORDS: AMANDER MEADE

A collector of art since his teens, John Jolley harboured dreams of a home with walls spacious enough to hang a collection of the large pieces he loved. Since concluding a highly successful career running his own software company and not ready to retire, John has established The Rutland Gallery in Uppingham, a welcoming space filled with contemporary work by artists he admires

DOWNSIZING when their two daughters flew the nest, John and his wife moved from Northamptonshire to Rutland just before the pandemic. That move meant that some of his larger pieces of art would no longer fit. ‘I created an online gallery to sell my own pieces – and www.oakhamfineart.com still exists – but it was during lockdown that artists began to get in touch to ask if I would

sell their work online, which I was happy to do. Post-lockdown, customers began to request physical viewings, and the idea for the gallery took hold.’

John took a risk on transforming a very old building on Uppingham’s High Street into a bright, friendly, beautifully lit gallery that is now filled exclusively with work by his favourite artists. Three years on, it has a thriving international customer base.

OPPOSITE PAGE: ‘Clementines, Silver Bowl’ by Robbie Wraith.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: ‘One Deck Chair’ by Robert E Wells, whose paintings will be showcased in a special exhibition at the gallery this November (see box, below); ‘Garden III’ by Jane Hooper; and ‘Study for Moorlands’ by Mark Demsteader.

WHAT’S ON AT THE GALLERY

• 8–22 NOVEMBER: ‘WILLINGDON AND BEYOND’, THE PAINTINGS OF RENOWNED ROYAL SOCIETY ARTIST, ROBERT E WELLS, RBA NEAC. ROBERT TYPICALLY PAINTS FIGURATIVE AND LANDSCAPE PAINTINGS.

• FROM 23 NOVEMBER: ANNUAL AUTUMN EXHIBITION – AN ECLECTIC MIX OF CONTEMPORARY PAINTINGS AND SCULPTURE BY ESTEEMED ARTISTS.

‘The building is very old, with parts dating back to 1472, but the light and atmosphere lend themselves well to showing art. The whole premise of the business is for people to enjoy coming here to enjoy the collection and discover what we have on offer. It saddens me when people are intimidated by galleries or fearful that ominous pressure to buy will spoil their experience. That certainly won’t happen here, but we will offer you a coffee and show you around if you wish.’

Operating firmly to his original rule of only selling art he loves, John offers an eclectic mix of work by British artists including Robbie Wraith, Mark Demsteader, Jane Hooper, Robert E Wells and many more. ‘There are mostly contemporary landscapes, still lives and figurative pieces, as well as sculpture,’ he explains. ‘I aim to exhibit the best contemporary artists in the UK, and all our artists have shown in London. Work is of a high standard, which I will not compromise.’

John also aims to make collecting art a simpler process, offering a ‘try before you buy’ service as well as a 14-day ‘cooling off period’ – he will issue a full refund to any customer changing their mind about a purchase within that time. ‘I want clients to be entirely delighted with their purchase and offer careful advice, so I have not had to issue a refund so far.’ Prices in the gallery start at £300 and the gallery also offers the ‘Own Art’ scheme, a national

initiative whereby eligible customers can also purchase pieces over a 10-month period with no deposit or interest charged in that time.

Along with his daughter Harriet, who has joined him in the business, John endeavours to make contemporary art as accessible as possible whether via the gallery or online. ‘We love to meet new art enthusiasts and welcome everyone to come in and see our collection. We will talk you through any pieces of interest or leave you alone to enjoy a good browse. We look forward to greeting you and sharing our love for great British art.’

GET IN TOUCH & VISIT:

• THE RUTLAND GALLERY IS OPEN DAILY, 10.30AM–4PM.

• FOR PRIVATE VIEWING OR OUT OF HOURS VISITS, PLEASE CONTACT JOHN DIRECTLY.

• ALL ARTWORK IS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE WITH DELIVERY TO THE UK AND INTERNATIONALLY.

THE RUTLAND GALLERY, 27 HIGH ST EAST, UPPINGHAM LE15 9PY 01572 510048 | INFO@RUTLANDGALLERY.COM WWW.THERUTLANDGALLERY.COM | RUTLANDGALLERY

Belvoir Castle Film Tours

See Belvoir Castle from a different angle on this immersive Film Lover’s Tour experience

BELVOIR CASTLE has become a favourite filming location for directors, its opulent rooms and sweeping staircase making perfect stand-ins for royal settings. On the new Film Lover’s Tour, visitors can discover just how often its fabulous interiors have appeared on screen.

Most recognisable is Belvoir’s role in Netflix’s The Crown, where its State Rooms doubled for Windsor Castle. Guests will recognise the Elizabeth Saloon, the grand Ballroom and the sweeping staircase, all transformed into the backdrop for scenes of royal ceremony and intrigue. Belvoir has also starred in The Young Victoria with Emily Blunt and in Victoria & Abdul, with Dame Judi Dench as Queen Victoria.

Our own visit revealed just how engaging this tour can be. In a group of just eight, we were led for 90 minutes by Belvoir guide Sally, whose knowledge and enthusiasm struck the perfect balance between informative and entertaining. She opened doors to several rooms not normally accessible to the public, welcomed every question and encouraged lively discussion. The diversity of the group – with different ages and nationalities, including two visitors from Latvia – added to the fun. Everyone left inspired, many heading home to rewatch or seek out the films shot at the castle.

The Film Lover’s Tour is a rare opportunity to see familiar cinematic settings in their original splendour, while enjoying behind-the-scenes insights into the filming process. For anyone who has ever been swept up in the glamour of The Crown or the romance of a costume drama, it’s a truly magical experience.

Next Film Lover’s Tour dates: 2, 9, 16, 23, 29 October (all at 2pm). Price: £5pp (in addition to the normal admission charge).

BELVOIR CASTLE

GRANTHAM, LEICESTERSHIRE NG32 1PA

01476 871001 | INFO@BELVOIRCASTLE.COM

WWW.BELVOIRCASTLE.COM | @BELVOIRCASTLE

BELVOIR: A STAR IN ITS OWN RIGHT

High on a hill overlooking the Vale of Belvoir, the ancestral home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland is one of England’s finest Regency houses. Even without its screen credits, Belvoir Castle is worth a visit for its spectacular architecture and breathtaking views alone.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: Helena Bonham Carter as Princess Margaret, with Belvoir standing in for Windsor Castle (both are the work of architect James Wyatt – Windsor’s tower was remodelled; Belvoir’s was built from scratch); Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth in the State Dining Room; Matt Smith and Claire Foy shooting a scene in Belvoir’s Regent’s Gallery; Olivia Colman; the ‘family’ joking in the Elizabeth Saloon.

100s more rugs in studio & St Martins

Interiors The Cosy Edit

WORDS: ALLY JOHNSON

I’VE ALWAYS HAD a soft spot for autumn. There’s something deeply comforting about those first signs of the season – the slow shift outdoors from fresh greens to rich ochres and burnt oranges, the novelty of laying that first fire in the grate, and the quiet satisfaction of hunkering down as the evenings draw in.

After the free-range floaty feel of summer, I find myself quite happily retreating back indoors, donning a heavy knit jumper and sheepskin slippers, lighting candles, fluffing cushions, and gathering blankets like an over-eager magpie.

As always, one of the quickest, easiest ways to welcome the seasonal shift in the home is with a simple swap of soft

scent-sational styling: don’t underestimate the senses! warm lighting and a well-chosen autumnal scent can instantly lift a room from dull to deliciously comforting.

furnishings. Out go the breezy linens and summery florals; in come plush velvets, nubbly wool, and tactile bouclé, in shades that echo the muddy, mellow palette of the great outdoors. Drape chunky wool or fur throws generously, layer textures liberally, and scatter snuggle-factor through every room.

As we all start spending more time indoors, it also helps to have a bit of visual interest; something lovely to look at while you’re nursing that cuppa! In this article, I’ll share tips on curating art and accessories whilst avoiding clutter to make the most of your space, as well as dialling up the cosy factor with dark, enveloping room schemes.

BELOW LEFT: Dark Academia: this dark room scheme by Ally with walls in ‘Inchyra Blue’ by Farrow & Ball works well in this sitting room with little natural light, turning it from dull and dreary to dramatic and inviting.

BELOW RIGHT: cosy autumnal tones are set against a background of Farrow & Ball’s ‘Down Pipe’ in this sitting room by Ally.

CROSS OVER TO THE DARK SIDE

This time of year invites us to lean into comfort and embrace a more moody and intimate atmosphere, so what better topic to cover, but going dark? It might sound counterintuitive, but rooms with little natural light really suit going dark. That tiny north-facing study? The gloomy downstairs loo? Rather than reaching for bright white paint in a desperate attempt to ‘lift’ the light, consider the opposite: go all in. Embrace deep, brooding colours such

TOP TIPS FOR DARK SCHEMES

No one wants their home to feel like a dungeon, yet darker colour schemes can slip into oppressive territory without a little insider know-how. The secret is to play with contrast, reflection and light layering; tricks that turn moody spaces into warm, characterful sanctuaries. Here are some top tips for getting it right:

• Mix up paint finishes: try flat matt walls against a low-sheen eggshell on the woodwork for subtle depth and interest.

• Add warm metallic touches: brass metal accents or a gilt-framed mirror bring a glimmer of warmth.

• Reflect the light: use mirrors, glossy ceramics and glass accents to bounce brightness around the room.

• Layer your lighting: a mix of table lamps, sconces, and even fairy lights can lift a dark scheme from gloomy to inviting.

• Break it up with light accents: pops of brightness in a fabric, painting or a picture mount can add just enough contrast to stop things feeling heavy.

LEFT: Feeling bold? Try a full colour drench as in this panelled bedroom designed by Ally. Take your wall colour right up over the ceiling and across all the woodwork for the ultimate cocooning, quietly dramatic effect.

as charcoals, forest greens, inky blues, even burgundy or aubergine. Going bold and dark can transform a shadowy space into a cocoon of comfort.

Dark walls work brilliantly in rooms with little natural light because they own the mood. Instead of constantly battling dullness, you’ll create a sense of intimacy and atmosphere. Walking in is like being wrapped in a blanket: warm, enveloping and comforting.

‘Instead of constantly battling dullness, you’ll create a sense of intimacy and atmosphere’

BELOW: stacked coffee table books, candles, seasonal greenery and decorative, practical accessories are failsafe surface styling staples.

ACCESSORISE WITH INTENT

STYLED SURFACES WITHOUT THE CLUTTER

WE ALL have dumping-ground surfaces that slowly gather clutter: that sad console table piled with post, or the coffee table littered with remote controls. Autumn is the perfect time to reclaim those spots and turn them into moments of beauty.

Think of surface styling as the finishing touch, creating little vignettes that tell a story. A stack of beautiful books, a sculptural vase filled with dried grasses, a vintage trinket dish for the keys. Group items in odd numbers, play with height and scale, and don’t be afraid to include something quirky that makes you smile.

Bring the outdoors in to celebrate autumn at its best: a cluster of tiny pumpkins or gourds, rosehips in a jug, or a bowl of conkers on the hall table all add a charmingly authentic touch and make good use of those inevitable school-run treasures!

And don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity! Surfaces don’t have to be bare to look tidy; a thoughtful collection instantly conveys care and character, and gives guests a sense of welcome the moment they step inside.

TOP STYLING TIP:

If in doubt, group accessories together in threes using the ‘Magic Triangle’ rule: one tall, one medium, one small, mixing materials for balance.

INSIDER ADVICE

My Failsafe Surface Styling Staples

1. Stacked Coffee Table Books – these add colour, create height and anchor smaller accessories.

2. Candles – a must for any autumn vignette. Scented is best – my current favourite is ‘Royal Nights’ by Freckleface (shown above), one of three scents from their collaboration with the Historic Royal Palaces.

3. Attractive receptacles – trays, trinket dishes, bowls, trunks or boxes keep bits and bobs gathered neatly.

4. Greenery – a pot plant or a seasonal arrangement is always a fresh, uplifting touch. In the setting above, I arranged a wicker planter with a mixture of fresh chrysanthemums and dried stems, and some real ghost pumpkins for an impactful nod to the season (all from Wothorpe Nurseries). I also added some foliage from the garden and rosehip/hawthorn sprigs from the hedgerows around Stamford.

5. Decorative Accessories – choose fewer, more impactful pieces such as artisan ceramics, bronze sculptures, stone pinecones/fruit or even large shells. Combine the practical with the aesthetic, if you can, such as the green glass plant mister (shown above) from Rutland Nursery.

Join us at Wingates Gallery for Samantha Greenhill and her solo exhibition of wildlife in pastel

Thursday 9th October 7-9pm

As this artist’s exclusive gallery, we are delighted to be welcoming Samantha for her solo exhibition of brand new wildlife originals captured superbly in pastel.

Come and join us, meet Samantha and be the first to see her new collection. Not only is she one of the leading wildlife artists in the UK today but she understands the character and personality of each of her chosen animals and communicates that perfectly through her work.

Don’t just take our word for it, come and see for yourself.

Email: andrew@wingatesgallery.co.uk or call 01858 465455 to book your place(s) today.

We look forward to welcoming you to this amazing exhibition on 9th October.

44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU 10-6pm Tuesday to Saturday Tel: 01858 465455 www.wingatesgallery.co.uk

RELIGHT MY FIRE

FIREPLACES aren’t just for warmth – they’re where life gathers. We hang Christmas stockings, line up birthday cards, perch homemade treasures from the kids and prop up artwork that makes us smile on ours. Whether it’s a roaring open fire, a log burner or simply a decorative focal point, the fireplace sets the tone for the whole room, especially as we head into the colder months. If you’re lucky enough to have one, now is its moment to shine.

Start with the mantel. Clear it completely and rebuild it with purpose. I often begin with a large mirror or a piece of statement art to anchor the display, then layer in personality: a few oversized candlesticks, smaller framed prints, maybe a trailing plant or a dried wreath. The trick isn’t strict symmetry; it’s a happy balance that works with the rest of the room.

Try a cluster of three decorative pieces on one side, varied in height and texture, with something softer or sculptural on the other. Always leave space in the middle for those ever-changing touches – a new ceramic, a seasonal sprig, a sentimental treasure. The goal is a look that feels loved, lived-in and just a little bit magical.

And don’t forget the hearth itself. A well-chosen log basket, an antique fireguard, or even some urns or finials can bring it all together.

ABOVE: If your fireplace needs a full revamp, pop into Stamford Fireplaces – they’re brimming with inspiration and can help with everything from surrounds to full installations. Their ‘Kensington’ fireplace is shown above. Other fireplace experts in the region include Stamford Stone.

1

Tom Raffield Skipper pendant light, £295, Lumison Lighting, Oakham, lumisonlighting.com

2

100% wool Coverdale throw in ‘Smoke’, £145, Tom Lane, Stamford, tomlane.co

3

Set of 2 trays (gold trees), £90, Simply Stamford, simplystamford.co.uk

info@huntersinteriors.co.uk www.huntersinteriors.co.uk

Our Latest Development Eleven Luxury Stone-Built Homes

Riverside Close Ryhall is a development of exclusive, luxuriously appointed stone-built homes ranging from two to five bedrooms coming to the market in this charming village that ticks every box on the wish-list.

The development is without doubt in a very enviable position in the old part of Ryhall close to the river Gwash. It is a few minutes walk along the idyllic village stream to the shop, church, Post Office, village school and pubs.

As part of the First Homes Scheme there are two delightful two bedroom semi-detached homes reserved for eligible first-time buyers from Rutland or who are key workers in the surrounding area.

Simon Boon Homes is a small Cambridgeshire based building company that specialises in bespoke, high specification, homes in prime locations. The company combines the quality and style of traditional homes with the energy efficiency and high specifications of new homes.

To find out further details of this exclusive development and to discuss specific criteria for the First Homes Scheme just email sales@simonboonhomes.co.uk

words: amander meade portrait of danielle: rachael smith

Danielle Churchill Interiors

With a seamstress mother and an electrician father, it’s no surprise that Danielle Churchill was destined for a creative career with skills enhanced by a healthy dose of practical application. Having recently launched her own interior design business, Danielle explains how she uses her wealth of experience to create chic yet functional living spaces

GROWING UP with a love of fabric inherited from her mother and possessing a natural eye for stylish and practical design, Danielle was being asked to assist with the design of interiors for family friends from the age of 16. At university she acquired a degree in interior design and post-graduation worked for the subject of her dissertation – Tricia Guild, founder of international home and lifestyle brand, Designers Guild. ‘Working for Tricia was a steep learning curve but also the most incredible experience,’ says Danielle, who then spent over a decade, before and after becoming a mother, as Creative Director with Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors in Rutland, where she deepened her expertise and further explored her distinctive approach to colour, texture, and detail before establishing her own practice.

A Natural Next Step

Making the decision to establish her own design company, Danielle Churchill Interiors, seemed like a natural progression, and Danielle is already busy creating bespoke interiors for clients all over the region as well as elsewhere in the UK. With a new website and a three-tier service from which to choose, she makes it easy for customers to decide on the level of involvement they require.

‘My Essentials, Signature and Technical design packages offer services ranging from simple advice around pulling a room scheme

OPPOSITE: Danielle Churchill. RIGHT: every project is brought to life through beautiful sketches and modelling.

together to creating a full technical specification that can be used to brief architects and trades. I want to make the process for the customer as stress free and smooth as possible as well as being mindful of transparency around budgets from the start, which is always appreciated.’

Design That Works Hard

Having spent a lot of time with her electrician father, Danielle is no stranger to construction and says that spatial planning is one

ABOVE: ‘I’m a details person,’ says Danielle, who believes that every interior should reflect its owner’s personality – a philosophy beautifully expressed in the two designs shown here.

of her favourite challenges. ‘I love planning how a room will actually enhance the client’s lived experience. Interior design to me is fundamentally about how we live. Choosing paint colours and fabrics is a lovely part of the job, but all the ‘pretty things’ only work well if the room has been planned properly and functions exactly as it should.’ With many years’ experience working on major renovation projects, Danielle is as aware of the constraints of what can be achieved as the potential, which she says is an important balance to bear in mind.

Sustainability with Style

‘I pride myself on being friendly, approachable and down to earth, but I admit to being a bit of a purist when it comes to using materials in their original form wherever possible. Composite materials don’t break down after use – an important sustainable consideration for clients these days who are aiming for ethical as well as beautiful spaces. I advocate for reinventing, reusing, upcycling and refreshing existing furnishings and fixtures if possible to avoid contributing to landfill, and this is often easier on the budget. Sustainable solutions should never mean compromise on beauty or practicality.’

‘I’m a details person and feel that any space I assist with should reflect the client’s personality and never my own. I’m as happy embracing the whole spectrum of colour and pattern as I am creating quieter, more neutral schemes. Our homes are our life and should reflect that. I never want my clients’ ambitions suppressed by what someone else thinks they “should” have. Every project is treated as a collaborative journey, brought to life through hand-drawn sketches and meticulous models that allow clients to fully visualise their space before it’s realised.’

Along with the launch of her business, as a fully qualified upholsterer, Danielle is developing her own range of furnishings including footstools, lampshades, cushions and will be adding to the range in the coming months.

Danielle Churchill Interiors promises a tailored, hands-on experience produced with aesthetic integrity. This is a beautiful, bespoke design delivered with a personal touch.

‘Every project is treated as a collaborative journey, brought to life through hand-drawn sketches and meticulous models that allow clients to fully visualise their space before it’s realised’

Spaces by Design combine cutting-edge Virtual Reality technology with their expert design services to create the ultimate immersive experience. Their goal? To help you fall in love with your kitchen, bedroom or bathroom— before a single piece is built.

The Vision

Imagine walking through your brand-new kitchen, bedroom or bathroom before installation even begins. Get a feel for the space, open cupboards and drawers, test layouts or even change door or tile colours with the swipe of a finger – no tools, no materials, no guesswork.

Thanks to Virtual Reality this isn’t a dream. It’s the new benchmark in interior design. Whether you’re remodelling your current bathroom or building a kitchen from scratch, VR transforms your vision into reality in ways traditional floor plans and static 3D renders simply can’t match.

Home Design Studio Designing spaces better

Iconic Rail Journeys

Travel in Style Across Continents

Helen Dooley , partner of More Travel in Stamford, revels in the romance of train travel

THERE’S SOMETHING timelessly romantic about travelling by train. The gentle rhythm of the rails, the uninterrupted views of the world gliding past your window and the luxury of time to unwind – all combine to make rail travel one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world. As interest in train travel surges, more travellers are discovering the joy of slow, scenic exploration. From grand European capitals to the wild landscapes of the American West, we’re highlighting a few extraordinary rail journeys that you might not have realised are possible – until now. All aboard for adventure!

Route 66 by Rail: From Chicago to the California Coast

Chicago • St Louis • Santa Fe • Flagstaff • Williams • Grand Canyon • Los Angeles

Follow America’s most storied highway, not by car, but by train, on this epic 15-day transcontinental holiday. Begin in the vibrant city of Chicago, the starting point of the legendary Route 66, before riding the rails to the soulful streets of St Louis and the artistic flair of Santa Fe. From there, switch gears with a self-drive adventure through Sedona’s red rocks, the pine forests of Flagstaff and into the heart of the Grand Canyon. Conclude your journey in Los Angeles, where you can stroll Hollywood Boulevard or dip your toes into the Pacific at Venice Beach. It’s a nostalgic Americana dream – only better by train.

Grand Capitals of Europe

Berlin • Prague • Vienna • Budapest

Think of it as a land cruise – but with more charm and cultural punch. This sophisticated journey connects four of Europe’s most iconic capitals, offering the convenience of city centreto-city centre travel aboard sleek, high-speed first-class trains. In Berlin, dive into a rich

‘The gentle rhythm of the rails, the uninterrupted views of the world gliding past your window and the luxury of time to unwind – all combine to make rail travel one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world’

ABOVE: enjoy exquisite scenic views of Italy from the most iconic of all trains, the Orient Express.

tapestry of history; in Prague, lose yourself in Gothic spires and cobbled lanes. Vienna brings operatic grandeur and café culture, while in Budapest thermal baths and river views await. It’s the quintessential European rail escape: elegant, efficient and endlessly fascinating.

Christmas Magic Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express

Paris • Zurich • Munich • Vienna • Salzburg • Budapest

If Christmas markets are your love language, this is your dream itinerary. Embark on a 12-day festive journey through Central Europe, beginning with the romance of Paris and its world-famous landmarks. From there, savour Swiss charm in Zurich before boarding the luxurious Golden Eagle Danube Express in Munich. With its plush interiors, gourmet cuisine and panoramic windows, the Golden Eagle is the epitome of rail travel glamour. Glide through snow-dusted landscapes to Vienna and Salzburg, before arriving in the sparkling splendour of Budapest. This is more than a holiday – it’s a fairy tale in motion.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Rome • Venice • Portofino • Rome

For those who crave beauty, culture and impeccable service, La Dolce Vita Orient Express delivers in style. This opulent Italian rail experience begins in Rome before winding through the watery charm of Venice and the glittering coastlines of Portofino. With refined cabins, curated excursions and gourmet dining, this is slow travel at its most indulgent. Each destination offers a new layer of Italy’s storied past, from Roman ruins to Renaissance romance, while the final night back in Rome offers a chance to soak in one last dolce moment.

Alpine Elegance: Zurich to Milan

Zurich • Montreux • Zermatt • St Moritz • Grindelwald • Milan

Craving mountain majesty with a side of Swiss precision? This 12-day Alpine rail journey offers jaw-dropping views and luxury all the way. With a first-class Swiss Travel Pass in hand, traverse some of Europe’s most iconic scenic routes, including the legendary Glacier Express and the GoldenPass Line. Sip wine in the Valais region, greet St Bernard dogs and marvel at the Matterhorn and Jungfraujoch. The journey moves from pristine alpine villages to elegant lakeside towns, culminating in Milan, Italy’s fashion and cultural powerhouse. This is one for the lovers of both nature and style.

The Flåmsbana & Norwegian Fjords Adventure

Oslo • Flåm • Bergen • Balestrand • Oslo

If ever there was a journey that truly earns the word ‘epic’, this is it. Norway’s natural wonders take centre stage on this 10-day itinerary combining rail, boat and bus. Ride the iconic Flåmsbana, one of the world’s steepest and most scenic railways, and cruise through no fewer than seven breathtaking fjords. With stays in vibrant Oslo and historic Bergen, as well as the peaceful waterside villages of Flåm and Balestrand, this is a deep dive into one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Perfect for adventurers, romantics and photographers alike.

ABOVE TOP: Route 66 by rail is combined with a self-drive around the Grand Canyon – it’s the nostalgic American Dream.

ABOVE: the Alpine Elegance tour incorporates lakes, vineyards, mountains, cities and more.

BELOW LEFT: the Flåmsbana & Norwegian Fjords Adventure showcases some of Norway’s most glorious scenery.

Ready to Ride? From snow-capped peaks to sundrenched coastlines, and from Europe to America, these rail adventures offer something far beyond the destination. It’s the journey – scenic, slow and sumptuous – that makes these holidays truly iconic.

So, which track will you take?

GET IN TOUCH: more travel, 15a st mary’s street, stamford pe9 2df 01780 433333

www.more-travel.co.uk @moretravelstamford

styling: anna couture boutique

models: laurie mackman & lucy smith

photos: tim steele photography

makeup: claire @fabskinclinic

It’s Never Too Early to Start Planning for Your Prom

Pick out your perfect dress at Anna Couture Boutique of Stamford. Prom season 2026, here we go!

DOWNSTAIRS at Anna D’Amato’s beautiful Anna Couture Boutique on the corner of St Mary’s Street and Cheyne Lane in Stamford – down a sweeping spiral staircase – is the Glamour Room, home to rows of stunning evening and Prom gowns, all beautifully arranged by colour and a feast for the eyes. There’s plenty of space here to try on the gowns and to have a walk to check you feel comfortable with your special look. Whatever your dream style, there will be a design for you – whether that means clouds of chiffon, figure-hugging elegance, sequins and sparkle, beautiful back details or a swishy style with pockets! And, of course, there are options in all the most gorgeous colours of the rainbow. There are also shoes, bags, evening gloves – all the beautiful accessories to make an outfit.

Anna and her team will make you feel relaxed and can advise on the gowns available. Anna told us that it’s never too early to

start planning for Prom, and she and her team will make sure no one else at your Prom buys that same dress, so there won’t be any unexpected twinning moments! And if you purchase your dress at Anna Couture, the team will be able to make alterations to ensure it fits perfectly. (Anna’s background is in costume design and styling, so she’s a whizz at doing alterations and creating items bespoke.)

All of the beautiful gowns photographed in this feature are from Anna Couture Boutique. No appointment is needed. Just head along to the boutique from Tuesday to Saturday (closed on Monday and Sunday), 10am to 4pm, or call 01780 765174 to arrange a private after-school appointment.

See also p59 of this magazine for 10% off gowns at Anna Couture Boutique –a fabulous offer!

‘Whatever your dream style, there will be a design for you – whether that means clouds of chiffon, figure-hugging elegance, sequins and sparkle, beautiful back details or a swishy style with pockets’

LIVING THE DREAM

Anna Couture Boutique in Stamford is the go-to destination for Prom girls across the region. With rails of exquisite gowns, expert advice on hand and impeccable in-house tailoring skills that mean a perfect fit for dresses bought at the boutique, Anna and her team make the experience of choosing your dream dress truly special.

TOP TIPS FOR FINDING THE DRESS

Start early: popping in early means the widest choice and time to relax into the process.

Know your budget: with gorgeous dresses at a range of price points, Anna and her team will guide you to options to suit both style and pocket.

School rules count: some schools specify length or style, so do check before you buy.

Try different shapes: from ballgown to mermaid to floaty A-line, be open to new styles – you may be surprised what suits best.

Play with colour: from the brightest jewel tones to dreamy pastels, Anna Couture’s range allows you to find your perfect shade.

Think comfort as well as glamour: the Glamour Room downstairs at Anna Couture is wonderfully spacious, so you can practise walking around in your dress, check it’s comfy when sitting, and test going up and down the boutique’s fabulous spiral staircase! You may want to opt for a dress with pockets, combining a cool vibe with practicality.

Alterations for the perfect fit: Anna Couture’s expert fitting service ensures that a gown bought at the boutique feels as though it were made just for you.

Add the finishing touches: the team can also advise on accessories, with a beautiful range of shoes, jewellery and bags available at the boutique to complement your gown.

Be unique: Anna Couture Boutique keeps a dress register for local schools, so you won’t turn up in the same gown as someone else in your year.

Most importantly, choose the dress that makes you feel amazing.

anna couture boutique, 17 st mary’s st, stamford pe9 2dg | 01780 765174 @anna.couture.prom

Queensgate Reimagined:

Step Into a New Season of Style, Beauty & Discovery

Queensgate is transforming - not just in the brands it offers, but in the experience it provides. With premium fashion, lifestyle, and wellbeing at its heart, this is a destination worth rediscovering.

And just in time. Autumn/Winter 2025 is arriving with bold new trends, elegant layering, and luxurious textures. For those ready to elevate their wardrobe and embrace the season’s must-haves, Queensgate is leading the way.

Where New Season Style Begins

This year’s autumn/winter collections are all about quiet luxury, modern tailoring, and textural contrasts. Think oversized coats in muted camel and slate grey, buttery-soft knits, sharp silhouettes, and head-to-toe tonal dressing.

Favourite brands like H&M, New Look, River Island, and Superdry are stocking up on trend-led pieces that hit the mark on style and affordability. Look out for quilted coats, faux leather trenches, and chunky knitwear in earthy palettes - staples that take you from office to countryside with ease.

Premium Fashion Arrives

But what’s generating real excitement is the upcoming arrival of Frasers and Flannels. This duo of luxury fashion retailers is set to transform the centre’s style credentials.

Frasers will bring its expertly curated edits across designer fashion, accessories and lifestyle, while Flannels delivers contemporary style with an edge — from

cult streetwear labels to runway-ready looks. Expect brands like Off-White, Balenciaga, GANNI, and Isabel Marant. It’s a fashion-forward leap for the centre, and a game-changer for local style-seekers.

Shoppers can also anticipate personalised service, trend advice, and exclusive collaborations that cater to those who see fashion not just as a necessity, but as an expression of self.

The Finishing Touch: Beauty That Glows At Queensgate, beauty takes centre stage — with a dazzling line-up of premium names waiting to be explored.

Inside Boots, you’ll find cult brands like Fenty Beauty, Dior, NYX, and Estée Lauder, alongside iconic skincare favourites including No7 and Liz Earle. Beauty counters from Chanel, Clarins, and Lancôme offer expert advice and a trybefore-you-buy experience that mirrors high-end department stores.

And newly announced: Rituals is coming to Queensgate. Known for its soul-soothing scents, bath rituals, and serene interiors, Rituals offers more than just products — it’s a wellbeing experience. Indulge in a moment of calm this season with their bestselling foaming shower gels, calming candles and gift sets that feel like self-care, wrapped in luxury.

Design for Life: Interiors & Inspiration Autumn isn’t just a time to refresh your wardrobe — it’s also the season to cosy up at home. Queensgate’s homeware stores

provide plenty of inspiration for creating stylish, comforting interiors.

Discover Scandinavian calm at Søstrene Grene, seasonal accents at H&M Home, quirky finds at Flying Tiger, and one-off treasures at TK Maxx Home.

Accessories That Shine

Autumn also calls for refined details — and Queensgate’s jewellery and watch retailers deliver. Discover timeless elegance at Goldsmiths, TAG Heuer and Beaverbrooks, or opt for sparkle and trend-driven pieces at Pandora, Swarovski, and Lovisa, the latest addition to the centre’s line-up.

Rediscover What’s Waiting

This autumn/winter, Queensgate invites you to reimagine your seasonal rituals — from wardrobe updates and beauty resets to stylish interiors and wellbeing indulgences. Whether you’re browsing for pleasure or building your ultimate capsule wardrobe, the centre offers a beautifully curated retail experience, where every detail is considered.

This isn’t just shopping. This is Queensgate, reimagined.

Visit www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk or follow @Queensgate_PB for the latest updates. www.facebook.co.uk/queensgate www.twitter.com/Queensgate_PB www.instagram.com/queensgate_pb

BEAUTY

Beauty with Daniel Sandler

MY THREE-MONTH JOURNEY

TO SMOOTHER, FIRMER, MORE EVEN SKIN

Each month, the international makeup artist and founder of Daniel Sandler Cosmetics, who is based in our region, addresses your beauty and skincare concerns. This month, he tells us about his experience over recent months with Sciton SkinTyte and BBL treatments with Natalie Godefroy in Market Harborough

IF YOU SOMETIMES look in the mirror and wish the texture of your face and neck looked smoother and less blotchy, I’m right there with you. At 60, things seem to appear overnight – lines around my mouth look deeper, tiny red veins pop up on my cheeks and nose, and one eyelid is definitely droopier than the other. I’ve always been good with SPF and skincare, but the truth is, those things aren’t always enough. Ageing is natural, and I fully accept it – but if I can look a touch fresher, why not?

That’s why I was so pleased to try a course of treatments with Natalie Godefroy, who runs NG Skin Clinic in Market Harborough. Natalie really knows her stuff, I’ve known her for 20 years, and she has handpicked the machines for the best results. After a consultation she recommended a combination of Sciton SkinTyte and BBL Hero (Broadband Light Therapy) – done as three sessions, one a month for three months.

WHAT I HAD

Sciton SkinTyte: This uses powerful infrared light to gently heat the skin, stimulating collagen so that the skin gradually tightens and firms. It’s particularly good for the neck (which, let’s face it, creams rarely improve). No needles, no downtime, just clever tech working beneath the surface.

BBL Hero: Known as the ‘Bentley of Lasers’, this treatment tackles pigmentation, redness and sun damage. Each session took about 40 minutes. I won’t lie – it felt hot at times, but the cooling system made it bearable. Afterwards, my freckles and sun spots darkened for a few days before flaking off, leaving behind a clearer, more even skin tone. My broken veins around my nose and cheekbones pretty much vanished after the first go, which was amazing.

THE RESULTS

Some skins may not need three sessions, and this is where Natalie would advise, but, by the end of my third session, my skin really looked brighter, smoother and firmer. The changes were subtle but noticeable – like I looked more rested and refreshed, without anyone being able to put their finger on

what I’d had done. I especially noticed an improvement in the texture of my neck, which has always been a tricky area.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I loved that there was no downtime, and I could get on with my day immediately. Natalie explained everything clearly and made me feel completely at ease – she’s both professional and reassuring. Everyone’s skin is different, so results vary, but for me, this three-month course was ideal.

Natalie is offering 20% off any of her treatments to you lovely readers with code NG20 (valid for six months from publication of this issue), so if you’ve been curious about stepping up from creams to something a bit more high-tech, this could be your moment.

NG Skin Clinic, First Floor, The Settling Rooms, Market Harborough LE16 8BD 01858 288242 | hello@ngskinclinic.com NGSkinClinic.com | @ngskinclinic_mh

THE PREMIUM GROOMING OASIS... CREATED FOR MEN THE PREMIUM GROOMING OASIS... CREATED FOR MEN

OPENING SOON! OPENING SOON!

BEAUTY | WELLNESS T

Spotlight on… AUTUMN BEAUTY BUYS

This month, makeup artist Rebecca Chantrell gives tips on products she recommends for the new season

HIS MONTH I’m sharing all my favourite autumn beauty buys. I love a change in season – cosy woolly jumpers, chunky boots, autumnal colours, hot chocolates at every opportunity and switching up my makeup and skincare. I routinely do this in the same way I switch out summer clothes. I find certain products are better suited to cooler months and restore the skin after summer sun exposure.

LIPSTICK

The ‘bitten lip’ trend is still big this autumn – a touch of colour without an obvious lipstick being visible on the lips. I was bought a lip balm/stick by a friend as a gift and it is now a staple in my makeup bag. I love the matte texture, velvety feel and barely there tint. VIOLETTE_FR have a gorgeous range of colours, my favourite being Bêtise. The range is designed by a French makeup artist.

SKINCARE

Suntans start to fade after months of higher UV exposure, leaving the skin with pigmentation or an uneven skin tone. It’s time to renew and restore, I recommend looking for a range high in Vitamin C to help even the skin tone and give brightness.

Another product that always feels comforting and nourishing is a facial oil – try a layer at night to boost the skin. Neal’s Yard Remedies Rehydrating Rose Facial Oil is beautiful, smells yummy and is super hydrating. Clarins Blue Orchid Face Oil, available at Equilibrium of Oakham and Stamford, is another recommendation.

TREATMENT

A skin peel at Kaliòs (7 Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL, hello@kalios.co.uk) is the perfect way to reset the skin. The team reveals new skin by applying glycolic acid, which exfoliates and gently removes layers of skin. The results are rejuvenated, glowing skin. All treatments are designed and tailored to your skin and desired skin goals.

MASSAGE

I am a big fan of DIY facial massage. Years of working for a Japanese skincare brand have ingrained this into my routine. Now, don’t get me wrong, it will never beat a professional facial, but as a daily ritual when applying face creams, it seriously helps to boost microcirculation and muscle tone as well as helping with lymphatic drainage. A couple of minutes a day can make all the difference.

HAIRCARE

Hair masks and leave-in treatments are brilliant ways to nourish and super boost any chemically treated hair or hair that is exposed to daily heat styling. Aveda do a fantastic range called Botanical Repair that helps strengthen the hair from within. No need to use the entire range – the mask or leave-in treatment will work wonders.

NAILS

I love bright nails for the summer – yellows, lilac and a spot of nail art. Autumn sneaks in, and I get drawn to wine red or deep olive green nails. I tend to find gel nails suit my lifestyle as they last up to 2–3 weeks. If you are heavy handed and have a practical job or lifestyle and still want a polished look, gel is fab. The talented teams at The Gel Club Stamford and Ellique Beauty in Oakham not only do fabulous nails, but care for your nail health at the same time.

Rebecca Chantrell | www.makeupbybecca.co.uk @rebeccachantrellmakeup

Gift Vouchers Available

Feel good from the feet up

Chiropody/Podiatry

• Treatment for Various Skin & Nail Conditions

• Budget Toe Nail Cutting

• Free Foot Care Advice

• Hard Skin Removal

• Painful Corns

• Verruca Treatments

• Insoles (Simple & Casted)

• Diabetic Foot Care

For further information, call Sheryl on:

We run small group Reformer classes with a maximum of 8 clients, led by highly experienced instructors with 8–20 years of teaching experience, many of whom are internationally certified in the US and Australia. This means our classes offer a unique style and depth of teaching rarely found elsewhere.

If group sessions aren’t the right fit, we provide a private 1:1 and 2:1 session for a more tailored experience.

level-specific to ensure clients feel confident, comfortable, and appropriately challenged.

For those who prefer a more intimate setting, our Mat Pilates classes are capped at just 5 clients, allowing everyone to receive close attention.

Unlike many studios, we never run mixed-level Reformer classes. Instead, each class is carefully

We also offer Postnatal Pilates to help new mums recover safely and effectively. Discover Stamford’s independent Pilates Reformer studio offering Classical Pilates Reformer, Mat Pilates, and Barre in a clean, bright, welcoming, south-facing space.

Blossoms Counselling & Therapeutic Practice –Now Open in Market Harborough

Welcome to a safe space for confidential, integrative therapy with Teresa Lewis MBACP. For adults and teens facing anxiety, trauma, or feeling overwhelmed with life. Begin your journey with a free 30-minute consultation – visit us at

Website: www.blossomscounsellingco.co.uk

Email: Enquiries@blossomscounsellingco.co.uk

Phone: 07951 862205

Do you have Plantar Fasciitis (severe heel pain)?

The method of treatment I offer for this is highly successful. Using computerised Gait Analysis & Orthotic Therapy (medical insoles).

Also to alleviate Achilles, Foot, Bunion, Knee, Hip & Back discomfort and pain.

Contact Annette Robinson (Chiropodist/Podiatrist, Muscle & Joint Specialist) Tel : 01832 272200 or 07905 167944 www.injuries-clinic-oundle.co.uk

Face to face & video consultations available

Services & Consultations:

l Advanced menopause care

l Testosterone replacement for women

l Comprehensive women's health checks

l Weight management in menopause

l Women's health focus appointments

E: contact@thewomenshealthgp.co.uk

sculpt | strengthen | align

Book your FREE session on our app with code: REFORMER25

Movement designed to sculpt, strengthen, and elongate your body with control and precision.

Small-group sessions guided by expert instructors to deliver real results. This is where form meets function, and movement meets mastery.

Equilibrium, Pit Lane, Ketton | 01780 769899 www.equilibrium. t/app/member

Homefield Grange

For two decades, luxury health and wellness retreat Homefield Grange has been a sanctuary of balance and renewal in the Northamptonshire countryside. To celebrate this milestone, founder and owner Suzanne Peck is introducing an exciting new experience this autumn: One Day of Wellness Retreats. Editor Clare Rudd-Jones went to meet Suzanne to find out about the ethos behind Homefield Grange, to catch up on the anniversary news, and to learn more about both the new day retreats and Homefield’s longer residential stays

FOR TWENTY YEARS, Homefield Grange in Rushton, Northamptonshire, has quietly flourished as a luxury sanctuary for rest, balance and transformation. Founded by naturopath, nutritionist and wellness coach, Suzanne Peck, Homefield welcomed its first wellbeing guests in 2005 and has since built a reputation for its immersive holistic wellness residential programmes. Suzanne’s inspiration came from her own early retreat experiences. ‘I saw people come in struggling, completely overwhelmed with life and some in chronic pain too,’ she recalls. ‘I saw those same people leave with an entirely different mindset – ready to cope so much better with the challenges we all face day to day. It made me realise the transformative power of nourishing rest and support to restore balance in busy lives.’

That lightbulb moment has shaped Homefield’s ethos ever since. Two decades on, Suzanne and her dedicated full-time team of health professionals are celebrating the retreat’s 20th anniversary. Over the years, Homefield Grange has attracted a loyal following, with guests drawn by its personalised programmes that combine diagnostic testing, nutritional advice, mind-body coaching, food training and plenty of rest. The retreat has 17 guest rooms, and its residential guests, who can choose to stay upwards of two nights, have access to an exquisitely designed boutique spa, a gym, a range of therapeutic and wellness treatments, and beautiful surrounding countryside for activities including daily Nordic walking. Homefield Grange has long been a favourite among celebrities looking to recharge and reset, too, with famous guests including TV stars Amanda Holden and Carol Vorderman. Holden explains: ‘Homefield Grange provides the kind of detox that you dream of. By that I mean, it doesn’t feel difficult! Their delicious juices and homemade soups, along with various therapies, long walks and good conversation, make the days fly by.’

New for Autumn: One Day of Wellness Retreats

This autumn, Homefield Grange is introducing its One Day of Wellness Retreats, enabling you to experience the power of Homefield as a day guest. Taking place on selected Saturdays and Sundays in October and November 2025, these carefully designed retreats invite guests to experience the essence of Homefield in a single, restorative day. While the spa remains reserved for residential guests, this new programme is crafted to give day visitors a true flavour of the centre’s holistic ethos. From the moment you arrive, the day unfolds with gentle intention. Small-group sessions – sound bowl healing, yoga, meditation, gym access and food demonstrations – are interwoven with moments of calm and reflection, allowing you to enjoy the day at your own pace. ‘With all our team’s experience, we realised we had everything in place to create something truly special,’ Suzanne told me. ‘One of my key focuses has always been education – I want to give people simple, realistic tools they can weave into their everyday lives, so that they feel empowered to take wellness into their own hands.’

Quality over quantity is at the heart of the experience here – unhurried and nurturing in equal measure. Nutritionally balanced plant-based meals, restorative practices and an immersion in nature all leave guests feeling renewed, grounded and inspired to live more healthily. Suzanne notes: ‘This is a day of nurturing; learning how to live your life better, one mindful day at a time.’

LEFT: Guests on the new One Day of Wellness Retreats can enjoy restorative activities including yoga and Nordic walking as well as the beautiful surroundings at Homefield and nutritionally balanced plant-based food.

BELOW: Residential guests also have access to Homefield Grange’s gorgeous spa.

‘At Homefield Grange, we believe that good health is the cornerstone of feeling good about yourself and the world around you’

Founder & Owner, Suzanne Peck

HOMEFIELD GRANGE AT HOME

ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF HOMEFIELD GRANGE AT HOME, WITH THE RETREAT’S ‘AT HOME’ WELLNESS BOXES. OPTIONS INCLUDE: DETOX IN A BOX; WEIGHT LOSS IN A BOX; AND REAL FOOD DETOX

DESIGNED TO RESET, REFRESH AND REFOCUS, THESE CAREFULLY CURATED MEAL AND JUICE PLANS COME WITH SUPPORT GUIDES AND NUTRITIONAL WISDOM TO HELP YOU CONTINUE YOUR WELLNESS JOURNEY IN YOUR OWN SPACE.

FIND OUT MORE & BOOK NOW:

To explore dates, book your day of restoration, or enquire about at-home offerings, see the QR code on p69 of this issue or contact Homefield Grange directly by phone on the number below.

Homefield Grange, Manor Road, Rushton, Northants NN14 1RH 01536 712219 | enquiries@homefieldgrange.co.uk homefieldgrange.co.uk

Will your Pension Fund Pay Inheritance Tax?

Prepare For April 2027: From this date many inherited pension funds will be subject to Inheritance Tax

This is in addition to income tax

Will push many estate owners above the nil rate band limit (£325,000)

Will have 6 months to pay off the tax before significant interest is charged

There are some exemptions and ways to mitigate this impact – and we can help you with this

If these changes affect you contact us for an initial consultation at no cost or obligation

Landmark IFA Ltd is regulated and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority: Firm Reference Number 225538

Contact Info:

Email: ifa@landmarkgroup.org.uk

Phone Number: 01780 761313

Warden’s House, Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PB

www.landmarkifa.co.uk

EXPERT SUPPORT FOR BUSY PROFESSIONALS

Free up your time and focus on what matters most. Whether you need top-tier executive assistance, reliable business admin support or personal lifestyle management –I’ve got you covered.

l Flexible Service

l Fully Insured

l Tailored to You

Work Smarter, Not Harder.

Contact Caroline at caroline@orangeoutsource.co.uk or 07903 105674 (Call or WhatsApp) www.orangeoutsource.co.uk Executive Assistance, Business Admin Support Lifestyle Management.

Do you enjoy walking and want to earn some extra money?

Distributor required to deliver Rutland Living through letterboxes once a month in Empingham.

Please email: Rachel at rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk

Applicants must be 13 years old or over.

Lawn Bowls

BY LOUISE GOSS

IAM LOOKING at probably the most prestigious lawn in the village as I watch a game of lawn bowls at Greetham Bowls Club. A flat expanse of perfectly mown-and-rolled grass is the setting for a game of ‘two wood triples’, which I learn means three players on a team, each with two bowls. I am chatting with Don McGarrigle, the captain of the club, who has been playing for 40 years. He is explaining the terminology and how it is played. For what I naively assumed was a simple case of just rolling a ball to hit a jack, is a game of technique, precision, stamina and strategy.

There is reference to bowling in England as far back as the 13th century, and it is a variant of the French pétanque and Italian bocce games, although each play with different types of ball and scoring methods. Lawn bowls or flat-green bowling is played on a green with balls called woods. It can be played in or outdoors.

Locally, you will easily find a bowling club to join, as Greetham Bowling Club is part of the Stamford and District Bowling League, which currently has 27 teams across three different divisions. They play under the English Bowling Federation rules, which Don is explaining as I watch the teams play.

The Rules

Lawn bowls starts when a small ball, the jack, is rolled towards one end of the green; players each get a turn bowling their woods to get as close to the jack as possible. It is played at alternating ends of the green. In a team of three, you have a Number One, a Two and a Skip. Once the players have bowled from one end and scores have been tallied, the next end starts, with players bowling in the opposite direction. Players might look to push their team’s wood closer to the jack, knock their opponents out of the way or make a clear path to get their bowl closest to the jack.

When each player has bowled, the distances between the woods and the jack are measured, and points allocated. The highest score is awarded to the player whose bowl is closest to the jack. The team with the highest number of points wins. When two woods are very close together or a very similar distance apart, players use measuring devices to calculate who wins the points. In one game you can play 21 ends, which means each player will bowl 42 times.

Going Green

Woods have a natural bias and when you learn how to grip and curve the wood, you can then start learning how your bowls respond to the green. Different greens can influence the speed and how the bowls move and turn, all of which need to be factored into your playing tactics.

Don describes the Greetham green as heavy in comparison with others in the area. ‘You need a bit more energy to get the ball moving, no matter how short we cut the grass; no matter how much we roll it, it is still heavier than some other greens. It makes a difference when you’re playing. On lighter greens the bowls will go faster and you need to control your weight. There’s probably a bit more turn on the faster greens. This green is one of the heaviest in the Stamford area, which can be an advantage… We pride ourselves on being strong armed!’

Behind the scenes, a bowling green requires a lot of maintenance. ‘Everyone mucks in. It takes a bit of cutting,’ Don says. ‘It needs spiking, scarifying, and at the end of the season, we top dress it with new loam to revitalise it.’ There is even strategy at play in the mowing. ‘We cut it diagonally as you don’t want to give the opposition a line, a marker to bowl to. Most bowling greens will cut it at 45 degrees.’

A Social Game

While there is a perception that bowling is only played by older generations, there are younger players who enjoy the sport. In Greetham, the club has been growing in size. ‘We consistently make an effort to recruit more people,’ says Don. Many of the members have joined and been playing for at least a couple of years. There is a vibrant social scene, which is in evidence when I visit the club. There is banter about the bowling and a chance to chat and socialise while also enjoying the skill and competition involved.

‘It is a very social game. Most bowls clubs have a bar, and after we’ve had two hours of playing bowls, it’s good to join the opposition, whether we’ve won or lost, in a drink and a bit of a debrief,’ says Don.

Getting Involved

Fancy giving lawn bowls a try? The advice is: come along and give it a go. The Stamford & District Bowling League has been promoting inter-club bowling locally since 1967. There are twice weekly league matches and five annual competitions. You can find a list of all the local bowling clubs on their website with one in all parts of our area from Wittering to Market Deeping, and from Oakham to Carlby and the villages in between. Greetham’s club night is at 6pm on Wednesday. There is both indoor and outdoor lawn bowls and new members of all levels and experience are welcomed.

FIND OUT MORE: for information on bowling clubs locally, check out the Stamford & District Bowling League: stamfordbowlingleague.co.uk

‘A game of technique, precision, stamina and strategy’

Bonfire Night

Celebrate the magic of November 5th with us!

Enjoy an evening of fireworks, sparklers, and dazzling live fire performances from 8pm. From 6pm, we will be serving delicious hotdogs and burgers in the paddock, perfectly paired with warming mulled wine and cider served from our outdoor bar. Tickets just £5 — and children go free!

Contact us or come to reception to purchase a ticket.

01780 740250

The White Hart, Main St, Ufford, Stamford, PE9 3BH info@whitehartufford.co.uk

Little Living half-term adventures

As the leaves turn and the nights draw in, October half-term offers its own kind of magic – pumpkin patches, spooky trails and plenty of cosy outings to keep the family entertained. To help you plan, and to keep you busy over the one- or two-week holiday, here’s our round-up of the best effortless adventures and autumn escapades across the region

Spooky

Historic Days Out

Step into the shadows at Burghley House, where children can brave a creepy Halloween Trail in the gardens or join a ghoulish guided tour of the house. The Garden of Surprises and the ‘Hide & Secrets’ adventure playground are also still open, giving families lots of options, depending on the weather! burghley.co.uk

Over at Belvoir Castle, pumpkin trails weave through the grounds and little ones can meet costumed characters along the way. Add in the adventure playground, animal corner and Engine Yard shops and cafés, and you’ve got a fabulous full day out. belvoircastle.com

Pumpkin Patches & Outdoor Fun

October wouldn’t be complete without a pumpkinpicking trip. At Rutland Pumpkins, you can wander the fields, pick your own, and stop for a hot chocolate or snack afterwards. It’s the perfect photo opportunity – wellies recommended! rutlandpumpkins.co.uk

Rockingham Castle is rich with stories and atmosphere, and during half-term families can explore themed trails through the castle and grounds. Younger children will love the sense of discovery, while older ones can soak up the history. rockinghamcastle.com

Don’t forget Oakham Castle and Rutland County Museum, where school-holiday craft sessions, hands-on displays and history hunts bring the past to life in a fun and family-friendly way. rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk

The Pumpkin Patch at Bowthorpe Park Farm near Bourne is open from 18 to 31 October – half term, sorted! Expect pumpkin picking, carving in the barn (no mess at home!), bale maze, spooky tunnel, fairground rides, pumpkin cannon and a storyteller – all alongside the UK’s largest-girthed oak tree and farm animals. bowthorpeparkfarm.co.uk & tickets at skiddle.com

For wide open spaces, Nene Park in Peterborough always delivers. Ferry Meadows has a full programme of half-term events, from wildlife boat trips and charming worms to family gardening and holiday clubs. nenepark.org.uk

Head to Rutland Water for a day in the fresh air. At Whitwell and Sykes Lane, families can hire bikes, kick leaves on walks or, for a more leisurely adventure (weekends only, to Sun 26 Oct), take a spin on the Rutland Belle boat. rutlandwater.org.uk | rutlandwatercruises.com

Animal Encounters

Rutland Farm Park in Oakham is a family favourite, with goats, sheep, pigs and ponies ready to greet visitors. There are mini tractors and a play area too – and during half-term, look out for seasonal activities. rutlandfarmpark.co.uk

At Sacrewell, children can meet rare-breed animals, explore the indoor play barn, and enjoy the mill stream and nature trails. With autumn crafts and farmyard fun, it’s an ideal all-weather choice. sacrewell.org.uk

Big Kid Missions

Rumble Live Action Gaming – now at both Rutland Water and Grafham Water – takes the thrill of video games into the woods, with missions and medals for those aged 6+. It’s open at both venues on weekends in October, with Grafham Water also open on 30 Oct and through weekends in November/some of December. It’s a screen-free but adrenaline-packed experience. rumblelive.co.uk

All Aboard for Railway Fun

On Thursday 31 October, join Thomas the Tank Engine on the Nene Valley Railway for a special Halloween Adventure as he steams from Peterborough Nene Valley to Wansford. Expect spooky fun on board, plus an Adventure Show, Miniature Railway and playground to keep little ones busy. nvr.org.uk

Creative Explorers

Stamford Arts Centre has a packed October programme, including Hansel & Gretel the Ballet on 29 October and a spookily-themed Halloween arts and crafts workshop on 31 October. A great indoor option for chillier days. stamfordartscentre.com

Catch the award-winning RSC tour of Matilda the Musical in Leicester this October half-term (6–25 October) at Curve in Leicester. This charming, high-energy show is perfect for families with little imaginations aged 6 and up (note children under 4 are not admitted). curveonline.co.uk

WHATEVER YOUR OCTOBER HOLDS –WHETHER IT’S PUMPKIN PATCHES, CASTLE CAPERS OR CREATIVE CRAFTS – WE HOPE THIS ROUND-UP HELPS YOU FIND LITTLE ADVENTURES AND HAPPY MEMORIES THIS HALF TERM.

little explorers fieldwork

Sometimes the best half-term adventures begin right outside your doorstep. Here are some easy, nature-inspired ideas to make the most of autumn’s colours, crunch and creativity.

leaf kicking

Pull on your wellies, crunch through piles of golden leaves and see who can make the biggest swirl of autumn colour. Rutland Water is the perfect spot for this!

leaf lanterns

Gather fallen leaves in all shades and glue them around a jam jar (use PVA). Pop in a battery tea-light and watch the colours glow at dusk.

conker creatures

Collect conkers and acorns, then use cocktail sticks to join them into funny little animals, insects or even monsters. Add googly eyes for extra giggles.

pumpkin potions

Scoop out a pumpkin and use it as a cauldron for mixing (safe) ‘potions’ – water with leaves, petals, glitter and twigs makes a magical brew.

autumn crowns

Cut a strip of card to fit around your child’s head, then attach colourful leaves, seed heads and feathers for a woodland crown.

nature bingo

Draw a quick grid and add things to spot: red berries, squirrel, toadstool, spider’s web, oak leaf. Tick them off as you go.

shadow stories

As evenings draw in, shine a torch on collected leaves or sticks against a wall to create shadowy shapes – can you tell a story with them?

Enjoy!

Herdy Gurdy

The Herdwick Sheep

One woman’s fascination with a native breed led to a rescued lamb and a charmed life for Herdy Gurdy, the Herdwick sheep, writes Amander Meade

MARY HARDWICK and her husband Chris have enjoyed walking holidays in the North West of England for many years, and Mary always admired the tenacious Herdwick flocks that graze the pastures around the Cumbrian lakes. ‘I just find them incredibly charming, with their unusual markings and robust attitude to surviving difficult conditions,’ she explains. ‘Herdwicks are still commercially farmed as a part of traditional Lakeland agriculture, but are fewer in number than most commercial breeds due to their low lambing capacity and perceived poor wool quality.’

Mary, founder of the award-winning Inspire2Tri rehabilitation studio in Rutland and finalist for this year’s Institute of Directors Sustainability Award, has long collaborated with a local smallholder who sometimes grazes a small flock of Charollais sheep on some of Mary’s land. Through this friendship, Mary began to learn about sheep husbandry, so when a local farmer whose family came originally from Cumbria got in touch about a newly orphaned female Herdwick lamb, there was only one course of action in mind.

‘We jumped straight into the car and found her forlorn but well tended in a box next to the Aga. Of course we were going to take her home with us, despite being unsure if she would survive. She was very dark in colour initially but has changed colour several times since then. At birth, Herdwicks are typically black before changing to brown after a year and then to silver grey after their first shearing – a characteristic of the breed. She was immediately named Herdy Gurdy, wrapped in a towel and adopted there and then.’

Hand-rearing a lamb is not an easy process. Installed in a loose box with another solo lamb for company, Herdy took a couple of weeks to get to grips with drinking milk from a bottle. ‘Once she mastered feeding, she absolutely thrived,’ reports Mary. Gradually

growing stronger, Herdy and her ‘stablemate’, Mouse, were put out to graze together in various paddocks and orchards to get them used to the outside before joining the rest of the small flock. ‘She now lives a carefree life and has a very distinct personality –responding to her name when called and trotting down to the gate for a chat and a scratch.’

‘She was immediately named Herdy Gurdy, wrapped in a towel and adopted there and then’

Like the others, she will be sheared once a year, turning more and more silver over time and with her distinctive white head and socks, very sturdy legs and wiry wool – made to withstand blizzards. Herdwicks have been known to survive under a blanket of snow for up to three days just by eating their own wool. Luckily, Herdy Gurdy will never have to test the theory, as the flock come inside for shelter during the very worst of the winter weather. Her first fleece was donated to keeping the grass from growing around some newly installed Woodland Trust hedging plants.

Herdy is very much a pet and will remain so for the duration of her life, which could be well into her teens. ‘When we took her on, we were warned that Herdwicks are great escapologists, but Herdy has never shown any interest in escaping. She is still the very best of friends with Mouse and treated like a treasured family member, so perhaps she knows how lucky she is.’

Find out more about the fitness and rehabilitation studio in Manton at www.inspire2tri.com

BELOW (L–R): Herdy Gurdy ready for her close up; in April 2024; with Mary.

ONLINE RESCUE DOG COMMUNITY

Friday 17th October 2025

Go Forth & Conker!

The Shuckburgh Arms in Southwick is once again the delightful bucolic setting for the 58th World Conker Championships, held on Sunday 12 October 2025. Rebecca Downey meets publicans

Neil and Hilly Horton and learns more about what the event entails

SPECTATORS, participants and press descend on the Northamptonshire hamlet of Southwick for what has become a renowned international event celebrating the fruit of the horse chestnut tree and English country life. Visitors on the day can expect live music from Stamford Stompers, Morris dancing, circus skills workshops, Lord Robartes civil war re-enactment, traditional pub games, artisan trade stalls, fairground rides, gifts, clothes and textiles, plus an array of real and local ales, food stalls including Justin Capp’s Paella Nostra, Stanley Street, Riva Pizza, New Lodge Farm hog roast, and of course the quintessentially English tea and cake. Attendees are encouraged to wear fancy dress for the occasion.

In a Nutshell

The main event, however, is the Conker contest, which last year was not without controversy when ‘King Conker’, David Jakins, was discovered to have a replica steel conker in his pocket suggesting skulduggery most dastardly. Interest piqued, the story went viral and was reported all over the globe making headline news. However, as the maxim suggests: there’s no such thing as bad press, meanwhile Jakins was exonerated when footage proved his ‘demonstration conker’ was not used in the contest. Previous years have seen over 2,000 people attend and this year the organisers will be installing a ‘steel conker detector’ to eliminate cheaters!

The championships are held in The Shuckburgh Arms’ garden and the cricket ground and fields surrounding the venue. After being closed for a period of around 12 months, the Grade II-listed building, (earliest parts dating back to 1640) was in need of some attention. New pub owners Hilly and Neil Horton embarked on the renovation and re-opened the pub on Christmas Eve 2023. ‘It’s a classic village pub with some wonderful features,’ says Hilly, ‘but the bar and toilets needed a serious upgrade.’ Those aware of Hilly Horton Home in Thrapston will already know Hilly’s exceptional eye for design and interiors. Without losing any of the original character, the pub has retained its homely appeal but now has a fresh palette of Farrow & Ball’s Green Smoke, decorative cutwork metal panels by local artist Jeni Cairnes, soft furnishings made by Lyn at Strawberry Fields fabrics, embroidered prints by Ema

Corcoran and fabrics designed by Stamford-based Annie Allison. Discreet conker garlands give a nod to the heritage that comes with the space.

Building a Destination Brand

‘It’s important to us to use local suppliers, fitters and makers,’ says Hilly, ‘we want the pub to represent and support our local community.’ The Hortons have created a simple, yet delicious menu, offering breakfast, brunch and light lunches such as filled baguettes, pasties and hearty ploughman’s platters to appeal to walkers and cyclists passing through, as well as locals. ‘We also have an excellent relationship with local breweries and serve ales from Nene Valley Brewery, Saxby’s Cider, wines selected by Amps of Oundle, and Cambridgeshire’s Roundwood Gin. We even get delicious coffee beans from Market Harborough-based Carrara coffee.’

The Hortons realise it’s simply not viable or sustainable to have the pub open all hours and now operate Wednesday and Thursdays 11am-3pm and again in the evenings from 6-8pm, Friday and Saturday 11am until last orders, and Sundays: 11am-4pm. Neil’s corporate work keeps him busy three days a week and Hilly’s homewares business does not run itself, but community is still at the heart of this enterprise; the Hortons hold a pub quiz every month (with proceeds going to local groups and charities such as Scouts, Volunteer Action and Oundle First Responders) and popular themed food pop-ups such as BBQ night from Feast or Stanley Street’s Indian Tahli or Greek nights. The pub garden features a popular pétanque court and also plays host to Lizzie Ward’s six-week Hatha yoga programme during more clement months. ‘Eighty per cent of our new customer base is down to the changes we’ve made’, says Hilly, who makes the point that retail is increasingly about destination –people want to go out to something that ticks multiple boxes. This is why the couple are also in the process of converting the rooms above the pub to create an exciting retail space comprising a clothing boutique, signature homewares and some of Hilly’s vintage finds.

Divide and Conker

The couple have embraced the establishment’s links to the conker championships and have joined the 20-strong committee to create

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: King Conker David Jakins, Shuckburgh Arms publican Neil Horton and Richard Howard WCC Chief Umpire all drinking Nene Valley Brewery’s special King Conker Bitter exclusive to The Shuckburgh Arms; yoga in the garden; playing pétanque; the picturesque front of the pub.

a really memorable family day out. It’s a huge group effort and involves a lot of planning in terms of health and safety compliance, press releases, obtaining sponsorship etc as well as several days of setting up, and the number of volunteers required to run the day itself. The World Conker Championships is often featured on Blue Peter, Countryfile and Autumnwatch and gets a mention every year in The Wall Street Journal – not many local events can boast such widespread coverage. While good hand-eye coordination is a must, the prowess of the conker is really down to the luck of the draw, so what’s holding you back? You may find yourself crowned Conker King or Queen of 2025.

Let battle commence!

WORLD CONKER CHAMPIONSHIPS

Information & Rules

• Register as a solo player or a team at: www.worldconkerchampionships.com

• Adult £8, child £5, family ticket (2 adults & 3 children max) £20

• Venue opens at 9.30am. If you have registered online be sure to arrive before 10.30am to sign in. Opening ceremony 10.30am for juniors followed by the senior opening ceremony.

• Final contest approx. 3.30–4.30pm followed by the new crowning of Conker King & Queen.

• All conkers are supplied by the WCC and drawn blind from the bag. A player can reject up to 3 conkers at the outset.

• A minimum distance of 20cm of lace must be between knuckle and nut for both striking and receiving players.

• Each player takes three alternate strikes at the opponent’s conker. Attempted strikes must be aimed at the nut with reasonable force in an attempt to break their opponent’s conker. Stewards may order a shot to be retaken.

• The game will be decided once one of the conkers is smashed. If both nuts smash at the same time, then new conkers shall be drawn.

• Any nut being knocked from the lace but not smashing may be re-threaded and the game continued, or the player may choose to draw a new conker. Their opponent may also elect to draw a new nut.

• Five-minute rule: If a game lasts longer than five minutes, play continues with one strike each in turn, until one player hits and the other misses. After nine strikes, if both players are equal, the game shall be decided at the Chief Umpire’s discretion.

Minimal Effort, Maximum Enjoyment !

the rudd-jones family went to test out the new e-bikes at the olive branch in clipsham, rutland

EARLIER THIS YEAR, Discover Rutland bought a fleet of over 30 e-bikes at a good rate and then sold them on to individual hospitality spots in the county to add to their leisure offerings.

One of those outlets was The Olive Branch in Clipsham, which bought two to hire out to its guests. Co-owner and Discover Rutland committee member, Ben Jones, told us: ‘It will help visitors to explore more of the county more easily. We’re creating a network of e-bikes all across Rutland, so that visitors coming to Rutland can discover all the little parts of the county, not just Rutland Water, but all the beautiful villages and local pubs.’

Other locations already signed up include: The Falcon in Uppingham, The George Inn in Oakham, Rutland Nursery at Manton, Rutland Hall Hotel at Barnsdale, The Paddock Touring Home site at Lyndon, The White Lion in Whissendine, Greendale Farm Caravan & Camping Park in Whissendine, In the Stix in Greetham and Castle Chase Cottages in Ayston.

The e-bike scheme is supplemented by an impressive set of seven free Heritage Trail Guides that you will find available for free as pamphlets in the e-bike locations. You can also download them at discover-rutland.co.uk/listing/rutland-heritage-trails/. Each trail comprises a circular walk and a cycling route, exploring Rutland villages and fascinating local history.

The Olive Branch Experience

If you want to build up a hearty appetite and wake your senses up for the absolute pleasure of an Olive Branch meal, then why not try out this brilliant e-bike hire scheme. We did just this one

balmy evening in August to celebrate a birthday, and, much more importantly, a really solid set of GCSE results from son Frank. So, we were already in party mood.

Owner Ben showed us how the e-bikes worked, adjusted the seats (Ben is a bit of a bike fiend himself, having taken on several cycling challenges), and so we were soon on our way, whizzing through the Rutland landscape. The bikes are much sturdier than conventional bikes, with the obvious star quality that going up hills suddenly becomes – well – easy! Combined with first-rate brakes, strong lights and helmets supplied, it feels like a safe ride.

Our first stop was Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue to take photos and check that everyone was comfortable with their ride. We then chose to do a circuit – up to the Bytham crossroads, right to Holywell and then back on the delightful and quiet road to Clipsham, past the quarries and along a valley in which a tributary of the West Glen River runs.

On our return we were greeted by very friendly guests as returning warriors. We felt proud of ourselves. And, let me assure you, that first cold beer then goes down especially smoothly! For the record, it was one of our best meals ever at The Olive Branch: three glorious courses and lots of laughter and celebration.

Call The Olive Branch to book your e-bike and table – the perfect combo!

The Olive Branch, Main Street, Clipsham, Rutland LE15 7SH | 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com | @olivebranchclipsham

The Sun Inn

Great Easton

Fruit grown by the local community is turned into an array of delicious dishes at this charming pub, as the Stamford & Rutland Living team discovers

‘There’s something particularly special about cooking with ingredients that come from this lovely village’

PLUMS, apples, pears, mulberries and figs are among the homegrown bounty donated by generous residents of Great Easton and the surrounding area, who love seeing such produce put to good use by the team of creative chefs. Among them is Hazel Barby, who lives in the nearby Welland Valley village of Bringhurst. She and her daughter Liz grow a range of organic produce – everything from mulberries and tomatoes to raspberries and chillies in their beautiful garden. And it’s been a ‘bumper’ season for figs, so some have ended up on the plates of diners at The Sun Inn.

‘It’s been perfect Mediterranean-like weather this year,’ says Hazel. ‘It’s been so hot, but we also had rain at just the right time to plump out the fruit. We started picking it about six weeks earlier than usual. I hate seeing food go to waste, so I give any surplus to family and friends – and it’s great to see it used in the pub,’ she says. ‘Fresh figs have a very delicate, sweet flavour. They also freeze well, but there’s nothing like going into the garden and eating them straight from the tree.’

Hazel describes figs as a ‘shy’ fruit, saying they’re not always immediately easy to spot, so the best way to find them is to simply stand right under the tree and look up. She’s made fig jam this year (see her recipe, right) and also enjoys eating them sliced with grilled goats’ cheese, with a drizzle of olive oil and a few basil leaves on the cheese.

Hazel is also among those giving apples to The Sun Inn, with fresh top-quality ones used in the kitchen and windfalls fed to the pigs on the farm it runs with its three sister venues – The Nevill Arms at Medbourne, The Red Lion at Great Bowden and No.23 in Uppingham. Owning a farm is part of the way the venues ensure only finest-quality meat is served to guests and keep food miles low, so ensuring their strong environmental credentials.

One tasty item at The Sun Inn is the apple & black pudding rösti (see recipe, right), which is sometimes served alongside a pork fillet wrapped in pancetta, with a bacon, leek and cider sauce. Head Chef James Ray says these röstisare fantastically versatile and can be used as an alternative to roast potatoes in a pork roast or as a starter if served with pan-fried scallops with pea puree.

Other Great Easton residents who have given windfall apples to the pigs and plums to the pub kitchen for many years are Neil and Lucy McKay. ‘It’s lovely to visit and eat plum ice cream or have a plum sauce with a Korean chicken dish, knowing that the fruit came from our garden,’ says Neil. ‘It’s great to see it used. The pub is a massive asset for the village – and we’re super proud to have it here. The quality of food, the service and the lively atmosphere are wonderful.’

According to James, who works alongside chefs Cosmin Bordeianu and Kieran Smith at The Sun Inn, the generosity of locals helps ensure the menu can be constantly changed to reflect the seasons. ‘We always try to source from Leicestershire and Rutland, but there’s something particularly special about cooking with ingredients that come from this lovely village,’ he says.

ABOVE: pork fillet wrapped in pancetta with apple & black pudding rösti; Chef Cosmin Bordeianu.

OPPOSITE: The Sun Inn; Liz and Hazel Barby; and their fig jam

Seasonal Recipes

Fig Jam

Ingredients

1kg ripe figs, stemmed and diced (peel if you prefer a smoother jam)

1 cup of sugar (200–250g)

Half a cup of fresh lemon juice

One quarter cup water

Grated orange or lemon zest

Optional: fresh grated ginger

Method

1. Mix all the ingredients in a pan and bring to the boil, stirring until all the sugar is dissolved.

2. Simmer and stir occasionally until soft and jam-like.

3. Cool, then decant into jars

Apple & Black Pudding Rösti

Serves 4

Ingredients

500g potatoes

1 cooking apple, peeled and grated

2 leeks, finely sliced

250g black pudding

1 tbsp English mustard

150g butter

Salt & pepper, to season

Method

1.Peel and grate the potatoes.

2. In a clean tea towel, squeeze the liquid/starch from them, then place them in a mixing bowl.

3. Add the grated apple.

4. Sweat off the leeks in a saucepan with butter for five minutes.

5. Crumble the black pudding into the potato and apple mix.

6. Add the mustard.

7. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper.

8. Pour the leek and butter over the black pudding, potato and apple mixture, and stir to combine it all.

9. Put the mixture into a deep, lined baking tray or a greaseproof lined pan and press it flat so that it’s about 2.5cm thick.

10. Bake for 30–40 minutes at 180°C

11. Take out of oven, press with an oven tray or other suitable weight, cut into desired shapes and serve.

the sun inn, 6 cross bank, great easton, market harborough le16 8sr 01536 772182

www.thesuninnge.com @thesuninnge

Tuan, Head Chef at East Restaurant Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough

Tuan’s Recipe: Pad Ga Praw

Ingredients (serves 1–2):

Oil for frying

2–3 long red Thai (Bird’s Eye) chillies

3 garlic cloves

150g finely chopped meat (chicken, beef and pork will all work)

1.5 tbsp oyster sauce

1 tbsp fish sauce

A dash of dark soy sauce Holy (or Thai) basil

Method:

1. Heat the wok and add some oil.

2. Fry the chilli and garlic until soft and light brown in colour.

3. In a separate pan, partly cook the meat, then add it into the chilli/garlic mix.

4. Add the oyster sauce, fish sauce and dark soy sauce and combine, then finally add in the holy basil.

5. Cook for 2–3 minutes on a high heat until the meat is cooked.

6. Serve with a cucumber garnish and sliced chillies, as shown, with rice. Enjoy!

Q&A with Tuan

Background

The East kitchen is very much a team of three – Tuan, Chuchat and Lai – who have worked together here for nearly 20 years and are still full of zest and new ideas. They are helped by General Manager, Bee, who is also a foodie who likes to concoct new recipes.

How would you describe your style of cooking? I like very intense flavours and flavour combinations. Local tastes have steadily become more adventurous too, so that has worked well. In terms of techniques, I like to steam, stir fry and slow cook, depending on the recipe.

Favourite current dish on the menu

Pad Cha seafood. A combination of sea bass, king prawns, squid and mussels stir-fried with wild ginger in a spicy sauce.

A favourite ingredient?

I have a few! My basics are garlic and chillies…

A cooking ‘trick’ to share with readers Bee: ‘You don’t need any tricks, just come here and enjoy!’

Tuan: ‘If you’re stir-frying, make sure you have a very high heat. If, on the other hand, you’re making a curry, then you need a low heat and lots of time to bring out the sumptuous flavours.’

A bit about East

Originally named Leendert-R, the barge that houses East and Charters was built in 1907 and worked on the rivers and canals of Holland, Belgium and Germany, carrying cargo such as sand and grain right up to 1990. The barge is 176ft long, is made of riveted iron and had a licence to carry 616 tonnes. Owner Paul Hook sailed it across the North Sea, up the River Nene (somehow!) and then converted it into Charters Bar, opening in 1991.

East was added on the top level in 2001 and has been going strong ever since. It is designed to take your taste buds travelling to the Orient through a tantalising variety of dishes from the diverse cultures and flavours of Southeast Asia.

ABOVE LEFT: East’s talented team of chefs –from left to right: Lai, Tuan & Chuchat.

LEFT: Tuan’s Pad Ga Praw.

East, Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough PE1 1FP 01733 315702

www.east-restaurant.co.uk

Whether you’re treating yourself to a meal from our two AA Rosette A la Carte menu, relaxing by the fire with a cosy meal, or simply catching up with friends over a tipple or two! Madison Keys, Zak Perrin, and the team at The Falcon, warmly welcome you seven days a week!

Mondays-Thursdays:

Food served 12-2pm and 5-8pm, bar closes at 10pm Fridays-Saturdays:

Food served 12-8pm, bar closes at 11pm Sundays:

Food served 12-3pm, bar closes at 5pm

What's on?

Easy as Pie Mondays

Join us every Monday for our homemade pies, a selection of your favourites paired with all the trimmings for just £10!

Darts Social nights!

(Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm)

Complimentary snacks provided in the evening

Fish and Chip Fridays!

Enjoy our local real ale battered Haddock and chips, crushed minted peas and tarragon tartare sauce all for just £10 between 12-8pm on Fridays!

Return of our Ready to Roast Kits!

Ready to order through our website with an early bird offer throughout October!

Our festive menus are also available to view on our website

Quality home made food for all occasions.

Catering for parties, meetings, buffets, afternoon teas and funerals. Service can be provided.

Contact Bridget on 01733 266496 / 07745 107897 or email: bridgetsteele5@gmail.com

Indie Food & Drink Two Chimps Coffee

Do you know your cortado from your cappuccino, your Americano from your macchiato? There are two people who do, in fact, know a lot more about coffee than how to decipher the barista menu. Louise Goss interviews Laura Shead and Andy Cross, the co-founders of Two Chimps Coffee, selling speciality coffees that they roast and grind themselves at their new premises in Oakham

RENOVATING an old railway building has given Laura and Andy of Two Chimps Coffee a space for storing, roasting, grinding and packing their coffee, and a wonderful light mezzanine space where they can host their workshops and coffee tastings. They will be celebrating 10 years since launching the business next year, and it is a big departure from where they started as wedding photographers. They had been offering their wedding clients coffees and then roasting their own coffee, which became a point of difference for their business (a little like the name Two Chimps).

When they were looking to branch out into something that didn’t involve working every weekend and they could build with a team, coffee was ‘ticking all the boxes’. ‘We have always had a fascination with coffee,’ says Andy. ‘We always wanted to know more and how to take it to the next level,’ adds Laura.

‘Ultimately, as with wine or beer, with coffee, there is something for everybody’

Flavour Factors

Laura and Andy get their coffee beans from an importer who can source them from growers around the globe and ensure the quality and integrity of the beans at source. It means they get coffee from dozens of different countries, and ensures a year-round supply. The coffee belt tends to fall between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, growing in countries in Central America, Africa and Asia. Andy says you notice the difference between the regions. ‘Traditionally, coffee from central Africa such as Ethiopia, is usually quite bright, fruity and vibrant, whereas coffee from Brazil tends to be more milk chocolatey, more mellow. It does change from place to place.’

Being a speciality coffee provider, they also get very specific details about where their coffee originates, down to a What3words location of the plot. ‘For instance, in Colombia, some coffee grown on the outside of a mountain range will be different to that grown in the valley. Even if they are only a quarter of a mile away, the taste from that farm will be different to the other.’ Various factors influence the taste of the coffee from climate and altitude, to how the farm processes the coffee. ‘Some of the natural flavours that are found in the coffee can depend on how it was grown, what variety they planted, when they picked it…’ Andy explains. Coffee grows as cherries, and once picked, the pulp is removed, and the beans go through a fermentation process. This is where enzymes and micro-organisms start breaking down the sugary mucilage layer of the bean and, depending on how it is done, can change the flavour profile of the coffee. Some coffee beans are ‘washed’ to remove all the remaining pulp and residue, while some beans are left to dry naturally with the flavours of the remaining mucilage infusing the bean. Andy likens the difference to that of traditional ales and craft ales. ‘Naturally processed coffee is a bit fruitier and funkier – more like the craft ales – whereas traditional ales are more like your washed coffee.’

The Speciality Difference

The two main types of coffee that grow are Arabica and Robusta, the latter having a higher caffeine content, and generally a more bitter taste. ‘Commodity grade all starts to taste very similar, as it’s grown as a commodity,’ says Andy. This is the coffee you will likely get on the supermarket shelves as freeze-dried, instant coffee. ‘With speciality, they care more about it, and therefore what they produce is a better quality, better tasting, and worth more to the farmer.’

Q graders are the wine sommeliers of the coffee world, who detect the different flavours in the coffee and will score it according to aroma, flavour, acidity, body and balance. A score of 80 or above is required to qualify as a speciality-grade coffee.

Andy says the well-known coffee brands ‘are trying to get their coffee to taste the same each time, the same as it did 20 years ago, whereas we are trying to get ours to taste different each time because it’s better for the coffee. We are always looking to do something different and make the most of the coffee.’

Two Chimps include tasting notes on their packaging, so you know the kinds of flavours to expect. They also have plenty of fun with their names. If you fancy ‘Calmer than a Banana’, you’ll get a dark chocolatey coffee with sweet toffee notes and a hint of fruitiness. ‘My Calculator is Ringing’ gives you a creamy vanilla coffee coupled with a zesty twist of lime and green apple!

Bean to Cup

Once Two Chimps get their beans, they roast and grind them before packaging them up and shipping them out. They sell to cafés and retail outlets but manage a lot of bespoke orders through their website. During roasting they can bring out the natural flavours that are in the coffee. ‘If there is something that has a caramel sweetness, if we roast it a little longer so it becomes darker, it is a bit like making toffee at home, the sugars start to caramelise… For instance, if the coffee bean has an apple flavour, we can roast it to leave quite a bright, sharp apple flavour like a Granny Smith or we can roast it slightly darker for the sugars to caramelise so we have something more like toffee apple or apple crumble.’ After the beans are roasted, they are ground from a coarser grind to ultra fine, depending on whether it is intended for espresso, Bialetti filter coffee or cafetière. How you brew and make your coffee at home is then personal preference. Ultimately, as with wine or beer, they say with coffee, there is something for everybody.

Two Chimps offer personalised coffee subscriptions, gift sets and coffee experiences. These include Barista Basics workshops for keen home enthusiasts, and courses where you can learn how to roast and blend your own coffee.

twochimpscoffee.com | @twochimpscoffee

Get the Started!Party

Nicholas Rudd-Jones takes a look at a selection of festive venues and menus to help you get your festive season plans sorted

RUTLAND

Admiral Hornblower

64 High St, Oakham LE15 6AS, 01572 723004, www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk

You’ll be charmed by the character of The Admiral Hornblower from the moment you set foot through the door. There is a wonderfully enticing festive offering here, which includes:

• Festive Set Menu: 26 Nov–19 Dec (Mon–Fri/lunch & dinner).

Two courses £28; three courses £32.

• The Christmas Social: Thur 11 Dec, 7.30pm onwards. Enjoy a night full of great food and music from the in-house DJ. Two-course dinner and DJ: £30pp.

• Diva and Decks with Betty Bangs: Fri 12 Dec. A fun night full of great vibes and hilarity with Betty Bangs. Two-course dinner. Betty Bangs Show and DJ: £35pp.

• Christmas Singalong: Wed 17 Dec, 7.30pm onwards. Two-course dinner and DJ: £30pp.

• Christmas Day: £100pp (£55 for under 10s).

Don Paddy’s

8 Market Place, Uppingham LE15 9QH, 01572 822255, www.donpaddys.co.uk

The ever-popular Don Paddy’s offers a very good-value Christmas menu at £29.95 for two courses and £34.95 for three, available 1–28 Dec, excluding Christmas Day.

• Sun 21 Dec, starting at 7pm, there will be a Festive Open Mic Night. All performers are welcome; sign up by 6.30pm.

• New Year’s Eve – dinner will be served 5.30–9pm, with live music from CJ Hatt from 9.30–11.30pm. This is not a ticketed event.

• Private dining space is available in the light and airy Market View and Cork Room upstairs. Each space can host up to 20 guests.

The Finch’s Arms

Oakham Rd, Hambleton LE15 8TL, 01572 756575, www.finchsarms.co.uk

• The Festive Party Menu: 26 Nov–19 Dec (Mon–Fri available at lunch and dinner); pre-book and receive a festive table with crackers and Christmas novelties. Two courses £32; three courses £36.

• Festive Tasting Menu with Simpson’s Wine: Thur 4 Dec, £100pp for a 6-course dinner and wine pairing.

OPPOSITE: Gates (left) and

• Wreath-Making with Maddy: Wed 26 Nov & Wed 3 Dec. Join Maddy to create your own festive wreath. £90pp for coffee & mince pies on arrival, wreath-making class, with your wreath to take home, followed by a two-course lunch.

• Christmas Carolling Dinner: Wed 18 Dec, 7pm. Carols around the Christmas tree, followed by festive feasts. The jazz pianist will carry on the festivities while you dine. £55pp for a three-course dinner and carols.

• Christmas Day Lunch: £120pp (£60 for under 10s). Glass of Champagne on arrival and four-course lunch.

Gates Garden Centre

Somerby Road, Cold Overton LE15 7QB, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk

A visit to Gates at Christmas has become a tradition for families across the region. This year’s theme is inspired by 1948 founders, Fred and Ivy Gates. Charming displays will guide you through the spectacular Christmas Hall, where twinkling lights and festive decorations set the scene for a magical visit.

From 27 Nov, wreath-making workshops return, with traditional and luxury options led by Gates’ Head of Horticulture. Families can also enjoy the always popular Dine with Santa events, while a voucher for afternoon tea at Gates makes a thoughtful gift. And after shopping, the Garden Restaurant is the place to relax: the new carvery has become a favourite, and, with the log burners glowing, it’s the perfect way to round off your Christmas visit to Gates.

Hambleton Bakery (Retail & Exton Café)

Exton Café, 2 Cottesmore Rd, Oakham LE15 8AN, www.hambletonbakery.co.uk

A sprinkle of Christmas magic arrives towards the end of Nov with special seasonal products available in all the stores. This includes mince pies, Finnish gingerbread and traditionally tinned fruit cake, as well as the panettone-style Twelfth Night Cake, which will be tinned this year to maintain its moisture. There will also be Christmas hampers available, which will include boxed mince pies, a tinned mini Christmas cake and biscuits, and some new Florentines.

All the Christmas products will be available to eat in the Exton Café. Other festive delights here include mulled wine and mince pies with brandy cream, as well as a Christmas savoury tart, hot chilli, freshly made soup and a festive stew, all served with delicious warmed fresh bread.

Hitchen’s Barn

12 Burley Rd, Oakham LE15 6DH, 01572 722255, www.hitchensbarn.co.uk

Hitchen’s Barn has had a stellar run of awards and reviews recently, including being listed once again as one of The Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Local Restaurants of 2025. Their festive menu will run from 2 to 20 December for groups of over six diners to pre-order. Three courses are £60pp, including coffee, homemade mince pies and crackers. The normal à la carte menu will run alongside this menu throughout December.

The private dining room upstairs at Hitchen’s Barn is perfect for Christmas parties, holding up to 20 guests. The restaurant will be closed from 23 Dec to 13 Jan for their winter break.

The Lake Isle

16 High St East, Uppingham LE15 9PZ, 01572 822951, www.lakeisle.co.uk

Head Chef Stuart Mead talked us through the Festive menus, which are as follows:

• Festive Lunch, 2–24 Dec, 3 courses for £39.50 – a classic Christmas menu with modern touches. Stand-out dishes from the normal classics include ‘Very English’ crispy venison dumplings, celeriac, chestnut, spring onions, elderberry hoisin (starter); pressed feather blade of beef, winter greens, champ potato, Stilton rarebit glazed mushroom (main); ‘Tirami-choux’ – Tiramisu choux bun, coffee crémeux, mascarpone and Kahlua mousse, Espresso Martini sorbet (dessert).

• Evenings in December (Tue–Sat) – The Lake Isle will be running their standard à la carte menu with a few festive touches.

• Christmas Eve, £75pp, is a 3-course turkey-free meal: the perfect start to the festivities.

• Christmas Day is 5 courses for £165pp, with a glass of Champagne on arrival. This menu offers several stand-out dishes as

Hambleton Bakery (right). BELOW: Espresso Martini at The Admiral Hornblower. RIGHT: Christmas at Hitchen’s Barn.

well as the classics, for example duo of beef – 8-hour braised blade and fillet, Guinness and stilton rarebit glazed mushroom, beef fat fondant potato, seasonal greens, and caramelised onions (main).

• New Year’s Eve: 4 courses for £85. This is The Lake Isle’s standard ‘no singing, no dancing’ get together; just a great meal before, in true Uppingham fashion, everyone descends on the Market Square to welcome in the New Year at midnight.

The Lake Isle also has a number of intimate private dining rooms including the snug, upstairs, and these are perfect for tables of 6 to 16 people.

No.23

23 High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PY, 01572 303023, www.23uppingham.co.uk

Uppingham’s bistro-style No.23 has a fabulous buzz and is a great place for a Christmas meal, especially if you like the idea of having cocktails before or afterwards.

The three-course ‘party’ menu is available at lunch and dinner from 26 November right through December (Wed–Sun) and should be pre-booked. This is a contemporary menu with a twist on traditional Christmas fare. For a starter, for example, you might pick the smoked ham hock terrine with spiced pear chutney, pickled quail’s egg and sourdough. For the main course, how about hake with Romesco sauce, samphire, kale, gratinated potatoes and seaweed crisps? And for dessert, perhaps the spiced fig and date sponge pudding with cinnamon ice-cream? The party menu is £55pp and includes a glass of prosecco on arrival.

No.23 also has a beautifully stylish private room for hire for parties of up to 10 guests. There is an additional menu specifically for Christmas Day.

LEFT: The Olive Branch. BELOW: No.23 at Christmas.

The Olive Branch

Main St, Clipsham, Rutland LE15 7SH, 01780 410355, www.theolivebranchpub.com

The award-winning kitchen team at The Olive Branch create locally sourced, home-grown food with great flavours, offering a combination of traditional dishes and more innovative modern cooking. Owner, Ben Jones, told us: ‘We have a selection of festive menus to suit every occasion, from a formal dinner party to a merry pub knees-up hosted in The Barn with whitewashed stone walls and exposed beams, candlelit table, a beautiful modern log-burning stove, bar billiards table and music system with record player so you can bring your own vinyl and docking stations for your favourite playlist.’

The festive tasting menus are available throughout December.

A five-course lunch menu is £65pp, whilst the seven-course festive dinner menu is £85pp. These festive tasting menus get the balance exactly right, offering traditional dishes (eg turkey main, Christmas pudding) alongside less traditional ones (eg local roe deer tartare or vanilla poached pear). There is also a Barn Christmas party menu – this is for up to 20 people in the Barn, or larger parties can be hosted in the pub, with three courses for £50pp, with Christmas crackers. The ‘Party for Less’ menu is available on Wed, Thur and Fri lunch and costs from £39.50pp.

Rutland Nursery

Lyndon Rd, Manton, Rutland LE15 8RN, 01572 498720, www.rutlandnursery.co.uk

The exciting news from Rutland Nursery is that they are offering private events in The View this festive season. With its vaulted cedar-clad ceiling, striking stone fireplace, natural furnishings, and a central olive tree, the restaurant provides a unique setting for exclusive hire. Private hire at Rutland Nursery is available from 6.30pm–11pm, seven days a week, with capacity for 150 standing or 100 seated. Seasonal private dining menus have been created. There will also be a festive menu for The View for individual diners. For more information, contact: events@rutlandnursery.co.uk

Celebrate the season with

Celebrate your Christmas party in style at The Crown Hotel

Minimum of 6 guests

£20pp deposit required

Mon–Wed: 3 courses £45*

Thur–Sun: 3 courses £55* *per person

6 All Saints’ Place, Stamford PE9 2AG | 01780 763136 events@thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk

Gather your friends and colleagues at Paten & Co for a festive feast

Enjoy our festive menus: 2 courses £30 | 3 courses £35* Festive Sharing Menu £28* *per person

7 All Saints’ Place, Stamford PE9 2AG | 01780 408647 eventsatpaten@kneadpubs.co.uk

Enjoy a cosy, characterful Christmas at The Tobie Norris Festive pizza buffet £27 per person (for groups of 16+) Or enjoy our regular festive menu, packed with seasonal favourites to choose from

12 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE | 01780 753800 tobie@kneadpubs.co.uk

To book your festive party, please contact your chosen venue for more details.

STAMFORD & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

Bull & Swan

24 High Street St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LJ, 01780 766412, www. thebullandswan.co.uk

Stamford’s Bull and Swan was overall winner of the Great British Pub Awards last year, and it has pretty much everything you could wish for in a pub: tradition, good food, great beer, lots of music, conviviality and the famous Potting Shed and Ski Chalet out the back! There’s so much on this festive season. Details as follows:

• DJ Alpine Party Nights 5 & 18 Dec: £55pp. The evenings will kick off at 6.30pm with a Stein of beer or glass of Glühwein, and the Alpine feasting menu will be served from 7.30pm. You can then dance the night away to some brilliant playlists. Après-ski attire encouraged!

You could also host a private chalet party with friends, family or colleagues. It’s £45pp, for 35–40 people, including an arrival drink, the Alpine feasting menu and control of the playlist and cinema screen.

The ski chalet will be back in action on New Year’s Eve. The evening kicks off again at 8pm with a Stein of beer or glass of

SOMETHING A LITTLE BIT DIFFERENT

Event Location Date

Festive Open Mic Night Don Paddy’s Sun Dec 21

Wreath-Making Finch’s, The William Cecil Late Nov–early Dec

Christmas carols Finch’s T hur Dec 18

Dine with Santa Gates, Bull & Swan Dec

Xmas hamper Hambleton Bakery, The Pickled Shop, Dec Ne w Lodge Farm

DJ Alpine Party Nights Bull & Swan Fri Dec 5 & Thur Dec 18

Joiner Party Nights T he William Cecil Dec

‘Ready to Roast’ T he Falcon at Fotheringhay Collect Dec 23

Christmas Day Dinner

Informal group get-togethers Pizza buffets at the Tobie Norris

Glühwein, and the Alpine feasting menu will be served from 8.30pm. DJ T3LSY will be back, bringing you the best playlist.

Breakfast with Santa will be taking place on 13 and 20 December: fun for all the family. Join Santa for a fabulous Christmas breakfast, filled with festive treats and photo opportunities. It’s £25 per child, £20 per adult and includes a special festive breakfast buffet, the chance to meet Santa and a present for each child.

You can also book in for Christmas Day lunch in either the pub or cosy ski chalet. This is on at both 12pm and 3pm, at a cost of £100 per adult, £50 for children under 11.

The Crown Hotel, The Tobie Norris & Paten & Co

All part of the Knead Group

The Crown, 6 All Saints’ Place, Stamford PE9 2AG, 01780 763136

Paten & Co, 7 All Saints’ Place, Stamford PE9 2AG, 01780 408647

The Tobie Norris, 12 St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE, 01780 753800 www.kneadpubs.co.uk

From The Crown Hotel’s elegant setting to the vibrant atmosphere at Paten & Co and the historical charm of The Tobie Norris, the much-loved and respected Knead Group has a venue to suit every style and size of celebration. Explore their party menus in detail online at www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

• The Crown Hotel Christmas: a traditional Christmas turkey dinner with all the trimmings. The ambience here is great, as is the food and service. Minimum of 6 guests. Mon–Wed, 3 courses £45pp, Thur–Sun, 3 courses £55pp. Christmas Day, 3 courses £165, with a glass of Collet Champagne on arrival.

• Paten & Co Festive Party & Festive Sharing Menus: choose from a sharing menu to have with friends, family or work colleagues at £28pp, with a minimum of 6 guests; or opt for a two- or threecourse meal Paten style, with two courses at £30pp, or three at £35pp. Here’s an example to whet your appetite: BBQ braised brisket: Knead Farm beef brisket slowly braised for 12 hours in BBQ gravy with wild mushrooms, horseradish and parsley mash, seasonal greens, roasted carrot and parsnip crisps.

ABOVE (LEFT TO RIGHT): Bull & Swan; The Crown; The White Hart, Ufford; The William Cecil.

• The Tobie Norris: this wonderful pub is the perfect venue for a cosy, characterful Christmas gathering. The festive menu features lots of hearty, seasonal dishes and, of course, there are also renowned real ales. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends or colleagues, The Tobie Norris guarantees a Christmas to remember (£TBC). The pub also offers a pizza buffet for £27 a head for groups of 16 or more, including private room hire.

The Millstone at Barnack Millstone Lane, Barnack PE9 3ET, 01780 769979, www.themillstonebarnack.co.uk

This fabulous pub is always beautifully decorated with lights, wreaths, baubles and sparkly trees. The Lounge has giant baubles hanging from the ceiling, and there are inviting log fires throughout. There are also two private dining options, the panelled private dining room, which seats up to 12 on one table, or 16 guests on two tables. The Lounge can also be hired for private dinners, parties and special occasions for up to 60 people. See the website for the festive menu.

Vansa Ghar

26 Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PJ, 01780 757030, nepalesevansaghar.co.uk

The Vansa Ghar has become a much-loved restaurant in Stamford, noted for its authentic Nepalese cuisine and great hospitality. Head Chef Ananta has devised a fabulous Christmas menu, which, whilst clearly still being Nepalese, has several nods to Christmas traditions. What a refreshing change if you’ve become a bit bored with traditional Christmas fayre every year.

The Christmas menu is £34.95pp, including an arrival drink, and it comprises three delicious-sounding courses. The main course includes turkey raan platter, served with tenderstem broccoli, tandoori potatoes, ruby sauce and garlic cheese sliced bread; Chitwan lamb pakku, served with kachumber salad, tandoori potatoes, rice puff and hemp seed chutney; or Timur lasuani chicken, served with tandoori potatoes, curd rice, kachumber salad and butter paratha. A vegetarian option is also available.

The White Hart

Main St, Ufford PE9 3BH, 01780 740250, www.whitehartufford.co.uk

The White Hart is now so established as a community hub, and the bonhomie there is always top-notch. The decor, by Annie Allison, is so inviting too. The pub is a personal favourite of ours. The festive menu here is served 24 Nov–23 Dec, except for Sundays; it’s £38 for 2 courses or £49.95 for three, both including a complimentary mince pie after your meal.

The William Cecil

High Street St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LJ, 01780 750070, www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk

The William Cecil has become one of our favourite spots in Stamford. To the left as you enter is Milly’s Bistro, to the right is the elegant and relaxing lounge area, which would be a great spot to retire to after the meal, or for their legendary afternoon tea. There are several menus on offer this festive season:

• Festive Lunches and Dinners: £35pp for two courses, £40 for three. Available for up to 12 people.

• Festive Feasting Parties: parties of 12+ can enjoy Milly’s Bistro’s new festive feasting menu in the private dining room. £55pp.

• Joiner Party Nights, 5, 6, 12, 13 & 19 Dec: Specially created for groups to relax and enjoy the season, to be shared with friends, family or colleagues. With a traditional Christmas Dinner served at 7.30pm and a DJ until 11.45pm. £55 per person. Price includes arrival glass of fizz, 3-course festive party menu, and DJ until 11.45pm.

• Private Festive Parties: host a private party at the William Cecil. This is £55pp and is available for 80 to 110 people. The price includes three-course festive party menu and room hire.

• Christmas Day Lunch: arrive anytime between 12–4pm. £150 per adult, £75 for children under 8.

• Wreath Workshop with Georgia Joy, Wed 3 Dec, 6.30–9pm, Sat 6 Dec, 2–4.30pm, £70pp – includes mince pies, scones & Prosecco. Come and have fun learning how to make your very own door wreath to take home afterwards.

When it comes to the festive season, there’s nowhere quite like one of our timeless pubs.

With roaring open fires, the scent of mulled wine and an abundance of festive feasts, our inns are the perfect place to celebrate. Explore our festive menus, events and luxury stays - book your table or stay via our website.

www.finchsarms.co.uk 01572 756575 @thefinchsarms II

We pride ourselves on making the festive season the most magical of them all.

Christmas at The Hornblower means parties, socials and a whole lot of festive fun. From Betty Bangs nights to Christmas get-togethers, gather your friends and celebrate with us. Explore our festive menus & events and book your spot online.

www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk 01572 723004 @hornblowerhotel II

THE NENE VALLEY

The Chubby Castor

Chubby Castor, 34 Peterborough Rd, Castor PE5 7AX, 020 8149 3777, thechubbycastor.com

The Chubby Castor has become one of the top-rated restaurants in our region, and it has a well-earned reputation for elevated and innovative cooking. The lovely team there intend to celebrate the festive season in style this year:

• From Wed 19 Nov, from 12–3pm, there will be festive afternoon tea every day, at £28pp

• Also from Wed 19 Nov, there will be a festive menu for both lunch and dinner every day, priced at £60pp.

• Christmas Day menu: £198pp.

East Restaurant

Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough PE1 1FP 01733 315702, www.east-restaurant.co.uk

East Restaurant invites you to celebrate in style with their special Christmas Menu, available from 28 November to 24 December. Enjoy a festive culinary journey that blends authentic Oriental flavours with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Choose from a sumptuous three-course menu for £35pp or a vegetarian threecourse menu for just £28pp.

Step inside and be transported to a Riverside Winter Wonderland, where East Restaurant comes alive with sparkling Christmas decorations, twinkling lights, and a beautifully dressed tree that perfectly captures the magic of the season. Additionally, for those looking to keep the party going, head downstairs to the Charters Bar on the lower deck for more drinks and music.

The Falcon at Fotheringhay

Main St, Fotheringhay, PE8 5HZ, 01832 226254, www.thefalcon-inn.co.uk

The festive menus at The Falcon at Fotheringhay are available to view on their website. One notable thing to mention this year is their Christmas Day offering. Instead of coming out to the pub, you can bring the Christmas meal home to yours, ready prepared. The team are offering a ‘Ready to Roast’ Christmas Day Dinner, where everything

is prepared and cooked by them, for you to reheat at home, using the instructions, on Christmas Day! It involves minimal cooking time –about 20 minutes – and far less washing up than a meal fully prepared at home, meaning you can enjoy more of the festivities!

The main course is £18.95 per person (Early Bird price of £16.95, available until the end of October), and you can opt for turkey, leg of lamb or a pine nut Wellington, with all the trimmings. We love the idea of the desserts, serving 4–6 people for just £20, and options of Clementine Christmas Pudding with brandy sauce, or Bûche de Noël: chestnut, orange, Valrhona Caramelia.

All orders include a Christmas gift – a selection of vouchers to use with them in 2026. Collection from the pub on Tue 23 December.

New Lodge Farm

Laxton Road, nr Bulwick, Rockingham Forest, Corby NN17 3DU 01780 450493 www.newlodgefarm.com

From 3 November, the farm shop and café’s winter opening hours will be Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm, and weekends 8.30am–4pm. The log burners will ensure that the shop and café are cosy places to nestle, and the menu will have plenty of winter-warming options.

The farm shop is a great place to put in Christmas orders –for turkeys, geese, Christmas chickens, ribs, etc. And from 29 November, there will also be a forest of locally grown Christmas trees available to buy. Christmas Sunday lunch is available on the five Sundays leading up to Christmas: 23 and 30 Nov and 7, 14 and 21 Dec. Book online or call on the number above.

The Pickled Shop

15 Main St, Bulwick, Corby NN17 3DY, 01780 450774, www.thepickledshop.com

The picturesque, covered terrace to the rear of The Pickled Shop in Bulwick, one of the quaintest villages in the region, is a delightful option for a festive event. The hospitality here is second to none, and taste and flavour reign supreme at The Pickled Village, so you can expect carefully sourced food and some great flavours, brilliantly cooked. Hampers are also a speciality here – perfect if you need a present for a loved one. They include Christmas Cheer, Christmas Hugs, Christmas Love and Christmas Joy, full of festive goodies, not least Pickled Village award-winning chutneys, relishes and jams.

LEFT: The Chubby Castor.

Available Tuesday to Saturday lunchtimes from 2nd to 24th December

Christmas Eve Dinner

3 courses £75

Christmas Day 5 courses £165

New Year’s Eve Dinner 4 courses £85

Starters

French style salmon pate, horseradish and dill soda bread, fennel marmalade, capers and cucumber

‘Very English’ crispy venison dumplings, celeriac, chestnut, spring onions, elderberry hoisin

Savoury Camembert crème brulee, pickled wild mushrooms, walnuts, pear, rosemary wafers, black garlic ketchup

Leek and potato soup, truffled cheddar cheese scone, chive oil

Mains

Classic roast turkey, pork and festive fruits stuffing, goose fat roasties, seasonal vegetables and traditional accompaniments.

Pressed feather blade of beef, winter greens, champ potato, stilton rarebit glazed mushroom

Loin of haddock, leeks, curly kale, spiced saffron and spinach arancini, potted prawn butter

Feta, lentil and squash strudel, madeira cream, charred greens, baked onions, toasted seeds

Dessert

Traditional Christmas pudding, mulled plums, brandy sauce

Black forest arctic roll, cherry and kirsch jelly, crystallised chocolate

“Tirami-choux” – Tiramisu choux bun, mascarpone and Kahlua mousse, espresso martini sorbet

Festive orange panna cotta, chocolate sorbet, honeycomb, spiced Viennese whirls

Duo of English cheeses, apple jam, celery seed crackers, grapes

Book your table online at www.lakeisle.co.uk, to discuss any special requirements please call 01572 822951

The Sun Inn

6 Cross Bank, Great Easton LE16 8SR, 01536 772182, www.thesuninnge.com

AROUND MARKET HARBOROUGH

All three of the following pubs are part of the highly regarded Three Goats Group that offers consistently high-quality food and individual character in each of its establishments.

The Nevill Arms

12 Waterfall Way, Medbourne LE16 8EE, 01858 565288, www.nevillarms.co.uk

The wonderfully enticing bar area at The Nevill Arms is popular with locals (wellies and wet dogs are always welcome!), and the restaurant has become a destination venue drawing diners from far and wide. It has a modern, stylish and comfortable feel – a combination of cosmopolitan and country style.

There is a delicious set menu in the run-up to Christmas for parties pre-booking; this is available for just £50pp and includes such delights as beetroot and gin-cured trout; duo of venison with braised hispi cabbage and dauphinoise; and panettone bread-andbutter pudding with vanilla ice cream. There is also a private dining room that can be booked for special occasions.

The Red Lion

5 Main St, Great Bowden LE16 7HB, 01858 463571, www.redlion-greatbowden.co.uk

Set in the heart of the picturesque village of Great Bowden, this country pub has been refurbished, with the interiors and decor reflecting the surrounding countryside. It’s become a popular yearround destination, with a varied menu including a selection of pizzas (the truffle and mushroom is particularly popular) and small plates. Contact the pub for details of its festive offerings.

108 | eating out • planning for christmas

The festive set menu is perfect for group bookings or larger parties. It will run from 3 to 23 Dec for pre-bookings only. A popular main course will be the buttermilk turkey burger, with pancetta and apricot stuffing, cranberry sauce, pigs in blankets, and sage and onion fries. Or, you might prefer the Thai red monkfish and lobster curry, with a roasted cashew crumb, and basmati rice. Or perhaps the Brussels sprout, chestnut and black garlic risotto, with sage gremolata. Three courses are £50pp.

The Sun Inn caught the eye of the judges in the 2025 Great British Pub Awards, who named it one of the best six country pubs in Britain. It also has two private dining rooms. The Wine Room is an atmospheric space that can seat 12 and is decorated with antique furniture and artwork. The Garden Room can seat up to 20, is covered, and has a real fire and heaters.

CATERING

Sara McAllister Catering 07778 227734, info@saramcallister.co.uk, www.saramcallister.co.uk

With over 20 years’ experience, Sara McAllister has a wealth of experience and offers a bespoke service, adding flair and style to your special events. Styles range from classic, contemporary or grand to casual, with internationally and seasonally inspired dishes.

Sara has a range of Christmas suggestions to make your Christmas special, be it the most tender turkey with all the trimmings that you have tasted; or ringing the changes a little, say a venison casserole with sloe gin and blackberries. You can find specific Christmas menus on the website or just call or email to discuss your specific needs. Additionally, if you are looking for a venue other than your own home, Sara McAllister is on the recommended list of caterers for several impressive local venues.

ABOVE: Christmas drinks at The Nevill Arms.

ABOVE RIGHT: starter and festive lights at The Sun Inn.

AL FRESCO DINING - PRIVATE HIRE

Choose from: • Pub Classics – meat, fish, risottos, paellas, pastas, burgers.

• Global Food twists – sushi rolls, curries etc.

• Cooking on Hot Stone – cook your own steak, pork or seafood to perfection.

Huge range of beers, cocktails and drinks. Beautiful, characterful indoors; and covered, heated courtyard outside. Complimentary private hire for party hosting.

Millstone Lane, Barnack PE9 3ET I 01780 769979 I themillstonebarnack.co.uk

MILLSTONE LANE, BARNACK

P: 01780 769979

W: WWW.MILLSTONE.PUB

AA ROSETTE 2024

We believe that building relationships through honest communication and providing outstanding service is as important as the projects we construct. With over 40 years experience in the industry, our teams of professionals have been trained to give you the best service from start to finish. We can guarantee results to be proud of, whether you are in need of roof repairs or a full roof replacement. Contact us on:

Heritage and listed property contractors, keeping the beautiful past preserved for the future.

Stamford’s leading flat roof contractor for over 40 years, fitting the best products at a price that reflects the lifespan and quality of the product.

Tel/Fax: 01780 754498

Mob: 07930 529905

Email: info@stamfordroofing.co.uk

www.stamfordroofing.co.uk • Roof refurbishment, restoration and renovation • Collyweston slating contractors • Glass roofs • Blue slating • Tiling • Flat roof contractors • GRP Fibreglass • Chimney rebuilds • Upvc fascia line • Flat to pitch conversions Purchasers survey reports • Maintenance contracts

THE OCTOBER WALK

The Nene Way

Peterborough-based Bridget Steele and a friend decided to walk the Nene Way path in stages over the summer, as and when time and weather permitted

THE NENE WAY is a long-distance footpath over 114 miles, starting in the Northamptonshire village of Badby and finishing at the sea in Long Sutton, Lincolnshire. As this is a linear walk, there is the added complication of travelling, but with a little inventive planning at each stage it was easy to do.

STAGE 1: BADBY TO KISLINGBURY (11.8 MILES)

There is something very exciting about starting on a long-distance footpath, and full of anticipation today we were able to use the very efficient Northamptonshire bus service. Leaving a car at our end-of-walk point in Kislingbury, we got the D3 bus to Daventry then a further bus for an eight-minute journey to the starting village of Badby.

The first section is just under 12 miles, and the clearly marked route through Northamptonshire villages and meadows really allowed us to see the region at its best. There’s plenty of variety, pubs and cafés, and a perfectly placed ice cream stop in Weedon. The route crosses the M1 towards the end of the stage by an underpass, but it was easy to negotiate, and the route soon takes you away from the industry and noise of nearby Northampton. We would advise having an OS map too (or better still the OS app) and not relying on the fingerposts, particularly in the first stage, as the river is not always close by.

ABOVE (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): Milton Ferry Bridge; Castor backwaters; North Bank towards Whittlesey; the majestic church at Fotheringhay with narrowboats nearby.

THE OCTOBER WALK

The Nene Way

STAGE 2: KISLINGBURY TO COGENHOE (10.7 MILES)

We parked a car in each village and started the day walking from Kislingbury across meadows. In contrast to the first section, today’s walk covered more urban areas. It wasn’t long before we reached the outskirts of Northampton and found the Nene Way closed where it crosses into new housing developments; however, with maps and the long-distance footpath leaflet we managed the detour walking through a new estate and into Northampton itself via the Sixfields Stadium, through parkland and along the attractive embankment.

A lot of today’s walking was on country lanes and riverside footpaths through pretty Northamptonshire countryside. The river was alongside us the whole way during this stage, which was reassuring, and there was a pleasant little stop at a vegan café called The Ark (thearknorthampton.com) en route. When we did this walk, it was a warm day in late summer, and the delightful aroma of ripe blackberries filled the air along much of the path.

STAGE 3: COGENHOE TO IRTHLINGBOROUGH (13.7 MILES)

Once again, we parked a car in both places today – there’s plenty of roadside parking in Cogenhoe (pronounced ‘Cooknoe’), and in the little town of Irthlingborough there is free parking in the centre. Today’s walk conjured up all the best of the Nene Valley. I was surprised to see how many lakes there were in the valley (mainly due to the many gravel excavations in the area), and we walked alongside the river all day again, enjoying a quick sandwich at The Stag’s Head in Great Doddington. Our lunch was particularly welcome, as we did the first half of the walk in pouring rain before the sun finally came through. We approached the Wellingborough embankment with the A45 never far away past the industry in the area, including the huge Whitworths factory, and Irthlingborough was soon in sight. Despite the wet start, this proved to be a most enjoyable day’s walking.

STAGE 4: IRTHLINGBOROUGH TO WADENHOE (13.5 MILES)

After a few weeks without the Nene Way, we were keen to get back on track. Heading out from Irthlingborough on a sunny morning we soon reached a stretch of pleasant riverside walking with instructions to keep the river to our right into the picturesque village of Great Addington. A beautiful village green bench here turned out to be an ideal coffee stop. This section is pretty, leading past the very charming-looking Water Mill Tea Rooms (www.watermilltearooms.com), then into the heart of the larger village of Woodford by St Mary’s, where the church is nicknamed the Cathedral of the Nene, and there were more facilities. The route then took us through woodland until we were back on the river path, into Islip and across meadows into Titchmarsh through the nature reserve, winding our way into our destination of quintessential Wadenhoe.

STAGE 5: WADENHOE TO NASSINGTON (18 MILES)

Today had a very wet start with soggy fields and drizzle, but we were soon on more familiar territory – it was this bit of the Nene Way we had been looking forward to most. From Wadenhoe we walked to the little hamlet of Achurch before carefully crossing the A605 and meandering through to Barnwell, admiring its unusual 12th-century church – Barnwell was formerly two villages, All Saints and St Andrew, each having its own church. All Saints was pulled down in 1825, as the villages joined up, but the chancel still remains. This was an ideal pitstop village, with the popular Montagu Arms (www.montaguarmsbarnwell.co.uk).

Today’s route continued to delight as we walked across the Nene Valley meadows (very wet underfoot), keeping the river to our right until we reached Ashton and along country lanes to Warmington. We continued across more soggy meadows to Fotheringhay past its majestic church – an easy route to Nassington.

STAGE 6: NASSINGTON TO ORTON MERE, PETERBOROUGH (13 MILES)

Parts of today’s route were very familiar and, luckily, it was dry underfoot – a most enjoyable section to Yarwell, with a café, onto Wansford and plenty of Nene Way signs. When you arrive in Wansford, the route should be along the A47 and under the A1 to Stibbington, but the footpath was closed on the day we did it, so we had to take a diversion,

ABOVE, TOP TO BOTTOM: the Water Mill Tea Rooms; the beautiful church in the picturesque village of Woodford by St Mary’s.

walking back into Wansford and through the village, then following an alternate route that took us to a footpath alongside the A1. Whilst not pleasant, it was only for just over half a mile before we reached a bridge with a footpath that took us into the village of Stibbington, past the church and out to the Nene Valley Railway Station. From there the route was back on track and took us alongside a particularly pretty section of the Nene, keeping it to our right and all the way through Castor Meadows into the Nene Park and on to Orton Mere.

STAGE 7: ORTON MERE, PETERBOROUGH, TO EASTREA (12 MILES)

It was an easy, if unremarkable, walk today, as we left Peterborough behind, keeping the Nene to our right and heading into the Fens. The route was surprisingly well marked, although not by the wooden finger posts that had been most welcome in Northamptonshire. Walking along the north bank of the Nene from Peterborough city centre seemed a long stretch, and we were glad of hats and gloves even though we were moving at a good pace, until we reached what was the Dog and Doublet pub. From that point, we had to leave the river behind as the route followed a brief stretch along the side of the road in to Whittlesey. There was confusion over the route here, but thankfully we picked it up again through the Drybread Road estate and headed out towards Eastrea, near Whittlesey, and the Decoy Lakes.

STAGE 8: EASTREA TO WISBECH (15 MILES)

There were long, straight sections today, with the flat Fens and big skies around us. It was easy walking and surprisingly well signposted, keeping the river to our right the whole way. We were pleased to arrive in Wisbech after the long Guyhirn North Brink section, where the river was obscured because of the high bank.

STAGE 9: WISBECH TO SUTTON BRIDGE (12 MILES)

Our final section of the Nene Way was a pleasant walk, and it was interesting to see the river changing and widening as it reached The Wash. The route finished just after the small town of Sutton Bridge. We completed the Nene Walk over several months, grabbing a section at a time and as the weather permitted. As our most local long-distance walk, it was an obvious one to do and very enjoyable, with variety and interest.

ABOVE: the River Nene just north of Aldwincle.

For more information on this walking route, including updates on road closures, visit the website of the Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA): ldwa.org.uk/ldp/members/show_path. php?path_name=Nene+Way

Update and refurbish your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a

Kitchen cupboard doors removed, resprayed and refitted within one week

Choose from a range of colour options including Heritage & National Trust

Local Briefing

News from the region this month

A Roman Mystery in the Heart of England

Have you ever found something you didn’t expect to? Well, that’s exactly what happened to Jim Irvine five years ago. A family get-together in a field during Covid led to an unexpected and spectacular discovery. In the quiet countryside of Rutland, a remarkable chapter of history lay hidden beneath the soil, until Jim’s curiosity unearthed a lost treasure. Jim stumbled upon what would become one of the most significant Roman discoveries in Britain for over a century: the Rutland Trojan Mosaic. You may have heard about the discovery, but the details of the story behind it, and Jim’s experiences throughout the process amount to a thrilling tale, which Jim has recorded in his debut book.

The gripping narrative follows Jim’s journey from a family day trip to a groundbreaking archaeological revelation. As he pieces together clues from crop marks and satellite imagery, Jim’s discovery leads to a full-scale excavation, revealing a stunning mosaic depicting scenes from a gruesome Ancient Greek tale, a rare and culturally rich artefact that rewrites the story of Roman Britain.

Blending personal insight, historical intrigue, and the thrill of discovery, his book captures the moment when past and present collided in a Rutland field. It’s a testament to the power of curiosity, the importance of heritage, and the extraordinary things that can happen when you dare to look a little closer.

The book has been described as a ‘real page turner’ and ‘an excellent evening’s entertainment’, with ‘heartwarming descriptions’ and ‘some great one-liners’.

Finding Troy: A Roman Mystery in the Heart of England is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle, or you can pick a copy up in Walkers Bookshops in Stamford and Oakham.

Motor Neurone Disease Cycling Challenge

Oakham residents Paula and Martin Brunt are currently in Canada, taking on a 2,000-mile cycling challenge to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. They’re carrying all their own kit and riding non-electric touring bikes.

Their friend Roddy Grant, who Paula first met 37 years ago at Milton Keynes Mountaineering Club, was diagnosed in March with flail arm syndrome, a rare form of the disease. ‘This challenge is not just a test of endurance,’ said Paula, ‘it is a heartfelt mission to raise awareness and funds for those living with or affected by Motor Neurone Disease.’

The friends have enjoyed numerous walking, cycling and mountaineering trips together in Scotland and Wales, Mont Blanc, and the Rockies. ‘On our Tour de Mont Blanc someone added chilli to a curry – Roddy was not impressed,’ said Paula.

Less than a year ago Paula and Martin did a 50-mile off-road bike ride with Roddy, then 50 miles back the next day. He was showing symptoms but didn’t know what they were. ‘It took about a year to get a diagnosis,’ said Roddy, 62, ‘In the beginning MND can present itself in different ways, each of which needs investigation, only to find “no, it’s not that”.’

The plan now is to buy a recumbent trike to help Roddy, an archaeologist, stay as fit and independent as possible. He explained: ‘I’ve always been a cyclist but just can’t ride a two-wheel bike anymore. The trike is like sitting on a chair and I’ll be able to operate levers either side of my arms down by my hips, with my hands.’

‘You try to maintain the muscle you’ve got left,’ said his wife, Jane, ‘that’s where the cycling comes in. It’s absolutely great that Paula and Martin are doing this.’

You can support Roddy and others with MND on www.justgiving.com (search for Paula and Martin Brunt) and follow their journey on Instagram pmbrunt

BELOW: Long-time friends and cyclists, (l to r) Martin, Roddy and Paula in Gunnerside, Yorkshire Dales, on one of their many trips together.

Local Briefing

News

High Court Sitting in Oakham Castle

The concept of justice was first codified in Anglo-Saxon times and later encapsulated in Magna Carta issued by King John in 1215. This document reset our understanding of justice by limiting arbitrary power and specifically gave the Sheriff a role in medieval law enforcement. Magna Carta is often cited as a guarantee of basic human rights and liberties. It also provides the foundation of our Constitutional Monarchy.

Oakham Castle is undoubtedly one of the oldest working courts in England. There are early mentions of ‘Inquisitions’ held in the castle in 1340, and it would have been used as a Manorial Court throughout the medieval period. Thereafter, it has held Assizes, Quarter Sessions and Petty Sessions right into the modern period. Indeed, the use of Oakham Castle’s Great Hall as a court remains the principal reason it still exists today, with a Crown Court sitting every two years.

This year is one such year, and it will be a great pleasure to welcome The Honourable Mrs Justice Tipples DBE to Rutland for the biennial sitting of Oakham Crown Court on Friday 24 October. She was appointed a justice to the High Court and assigned to the King’s Bench Division in 2019 and brings with her immense knowledge and expertise. Judge Tipples visits in her role as the Presiding Judge of the Midland Circuit, and will be hosted by the current High Sheriff, Colonel (Retd) Richard Chesterfield.

As is customary, the High Sheriff will arrange a Justice Service in All Saints’ Church, Oakham at 10 o’clock. This is designed for those who administer justice and uphold the Rule of Law in the County and is open to all. It is an act of worship seeking God’s blessings for the visiting judiciary and celebrating God’s mercy which underpins our laws and their judgments. The Crown Court sitting in Oakham Castle will follow shortly thereafter.

120 | local briefing: october 2025

The Badgers Den – Just for Men

Nicholas Rudd-Jones visited an entirely new concept in men’s grooming, wellbeing and leisure

The Badgers Den opens in Market Harborough this month, offering Fresh fades, cold pints, tidy nails, great coffee… and a space built just for men. Spacious, stylish, inviting – these were my first sensations on visiting Badgers Den and meeting co-owner Kevin Steele (photo below, right). Kevin, a serial entrepreneur, first had the idea whilst he was chatting away to his barber Joe Dryland (photo below, left), pondering on why no one had ever thought of creating a space for men that combined barbering, treatments, wellbeing and hospitality.

‘Somehow treatments are still a bit of a no-go area for men, and they often feel uncomfortable in a women’s health and beauty spot, or a day spa,’ he told me.

And so was born The Badgers Den, a space created just for men, with a third devoted to barbering, a third to treatments (one room for nails, the other for facials/waxes/aesthetics) and a third to wellbeing & hospitality. The space has been beautifully appointed, preserving the old metal columns, huge beams and a solid oak floor. Out the back there is a suntrap decking area, again beautifully finished.

It launches on 7 October and then will be open Tuesday to Saturday 10am–6pm. You are invited to come in an hour before your treatment or stay for an hour after, whatever suits. Sit back and relax! There will be a team of 10 from the start, so this is a really wellresourced establishment that we believe will go great guns.

Above all, Kevin told me, ‘we want to remove the taboo from male grooming once and for all and create a community for guys.’

Book online. One-off treatments or monthly memberships both available. The Badgers Den, 58 St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU | 01858 437989, 07557 688847 www.the-badgers-den.co.uk

Local Briefing

News from the region this month

Stamford Bumps

If you’re pregnant in Stamford or the surrounding areas, then there’s a new pregnancy support group just for you. Meeting at MindSpace in Red Lion Street, in the heart of town, Stamford Bumps offers support to pregnant women who are looking for community, conversation, and reassurance.

Running every second and fourth Tuesday of the month, from 6.30 to 8pm, the meetups are hosted by Sophie Knight from Bourne Hypnobirthing, an antenatal teacher and mum of two. The groups are free of charge and include refreshments.

Sophie knows what it’s like to need a community in those early days of parenting, and how daunting it can be finding groups that offer support in your most vulnerable stage of motherhood. These informal groups allow mums to meet other parents-to-be, to chat, share your experiences, ask for advice, or simply to eat cake –whatever you need.

Other birth and parenting experts also attend, including midwives, doulas, yoga teachers, and members of the local sling library. Sophie and the other experts are on hand for any concerns you might have about pregnancy, birth, and parenting, and can help signpost you to the right help and advice.

Each month the group discusses various themes about parenting, becoming parents, how to navigate the maternity system, and information about antenatal and hypnobirthing techniques that can help you feel confident about childbirth and beyond. There are books on hand to read and discuss if you wish or simply come along to meet other expectant parents and chat about your day.

For more information about the groups, check out Bourne Hypnobirthing or MindSpace on Facebook and Instagram, visit bournehypnobirthing.co.uk or call Sophie on 07725 751775. Groups will be held on Tuesday 14 October, Tuesday 28 October, Tuesday 11 November and Tuesday 25 November.

Bluebird Care Awards 2025

Bluebird Care Peterborough & Oundle and Bluebird Care Stamford & Rutland were recognised at the recent Bluebird Care UK Awards 2025 for the Central Region, held at the Doubletrees Hilton in Nottingham. The awards showcased the incredible people that work across Bluebird Care. With finalists in multiple categories and three fantastic wins, the event was a true celebration of the passion, dedication, and excellence their care experts bring to their work every day.

Three members of Bluebird Care Peterborough & Oundle and Bluebird Care Stamford & Rutland’s teams made it through to the finals in four categories – and brought home three wins.

• Michelle Rawlings, Senior Care Expert – Winner of Care Expert of the Year. One of the toughest categories to make it through to the finals, with so many nominations submitted across the region—so for Michelle to win is an incredible achievement. Her dedication, professionalism, and natural ability to connect with customers truly make her stand out.

• Louise Giles, Live-in Care Expert – Winner of the Live-in Care Award. Louise was recognised for her outstanding work and commitment in her live-in care role, providing not just support but real companionship and comfort to those she cares for.

• Charley Collins, Deputy Care Manager – Winner of the Quality Award. Charley’s attention to detail, high standards, and dedication to ensuring excellence in every aspect of Bluebird’s care service earned her this prestigious award.

The awards ceremony and celebratory lunch were a fantastic recognition of the commitment and passion that the local Bluebird team puts into their work each and every day.

For more information, visit: www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/stamford-rutland www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/peterborough-oundle

Enjoy each day your way at Oat Hill Mews

At Care UK’s Oat Hill Mews care home in Market Harborough, you can enjoy each day your way, whilst enjoying luxurious surroundings and receiving award-winning care from our dedicated team.

We treat everyone who joins us at Oat Hill Mews as individuals, so that you can take your life with you on your journey into care. You’ll be supported to continue much-loved hobbies such as gardening, baking or boules. With the support of our expert team, you may also wish to try new things, making plenty of new friends on the way!

It’s all about lifestyle

At Oat Hill Mews our team is passionate about supporting you to enjoy a fulfilling life, full of meaningful experiences.

When you join us, we’ll work with you and your family to learn all about your needs, interests and preferences –even the way you like your tea in the morning - so we can create a care plan entirely tailored to you.

Is there a goal or wish you’d love to fulfil? We’ll do our best to make it happen. Recently, Care UK residents have enjoyed all sorts, from ballet performances, to riding ziplines and flying planes! If you prefer the quiet life, you’re welcome to enjoy a pamper in our beauty salon or take a stroll in our beautiful, landscaped gardens.

Our Lifestyle team always have a full itinerary of exciting activities to get involved in should you wish. There’s everything from cheese and wine evenings, to live entertainment and gentle exercise classes. We’re often joined by local groups, charities or schools too, so residents feel connected to local life.

Everything under one roof

Oat Hill Mews is a purpose-built care home where every luxury has been

thought of. There’s a coffee shop, hair salon, cinema, bar, and beautiful landscaped gardens. We also have our very own minibus, so you’re welcome to join us on day trips to nearby local parks.

Trust us to care

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 10,000 families across the country trust us to care for their older loved one.

To find out more about Oat Hill Mews, please call 01858 390 253.

Oat Hill Mews care home Leicester Road Market Harborough LE16 7BN careuk.com/oat-hill-mews

Spooky Tales

words: caroline aston

October – and the trees dress themselves in their autumn wardrobe of russet, brown and gold. Pumpkin prices soar and kitchen knives are sharpened in readiness to sculpt mountains of those orange globes into gap-toothed lanterns that herald the annual fright-fest that is Halloween! And alongside the cinder toffee and apple-bobbing come stories of witches and warlocks, of spooks and spectres to send shivers down spines. So here are some verbal hors d’oeuvres to whet appetites ready for ghostly goings-on as the month ends

FOR A START, why are pumpkin lamps de rigueur at this time? This seasonal tradition springs from an Irish folk legend about a trickster called ‘Stingy Jack’, who reputedly made a deal with the Devil. When Jack died, he was condemned to wander the earth as a lost soul carrying a lamp carved from a turnip to light his way and thus the ‘jack o’-lantern’ idea was born. Irish immigrants took the story to the US and quickly realised that pumpkins and squashes were much easier to carve than turnips and bigger too – we’ve been doing it ever since!

Rutland’s Restless Spirits

Rutland boasts a number of spooky sightings in the past. Visitors to the monument-packed church of St Peter and St Paul in Exton can catch a glimpse of the ruins of the original Exton Hall, burnt down twice in 1810 and 1915, through the trees behind. The Hall

is one of several sites mooted as the inspiration for the Victorian parlour ballad ‘The Mistletoe Bough’. The song tells of a game of hide and seek that went tragically wrong. A young bride celebrating her wedding day hid in an old chest which couldn’t be opened from inside. The shocked guests searched high and low, but she had vanished without trace. The chest, now sadly a coffin, could not be opened from inside and hadn’t been used for decades. The missing bride suffocated, and years later that old cobwebbed chest was opened to reveal that ‘a skeletal form lay mouldering there, in the bridal wreath of a lady so fair!’

North Luffenham Hall was originally called Digby Hall, named for the Digby family who lived there from the late 1500s. They also had holdings in Stoke Dry, near to the Eye Brook Reservoir. A family name frequently given to Digby sons was Everard: one of those Everards was to pay with his life for his part in the notorious

‘A pumpkin lives but once a year, when someone sets its soul afire!

Gunpowder Plot of 1605, which we remember every 5 November. Born in 1578 Sir Everard Digby was a Catholic convert who was hung, drawn and quartered in 1606 after being drawn into the plot to assassinate the Protestant King James I who ironically had knighted him at Belvoir Castle on 24 April 1603, two and a half years prior to the foiling of the plot aimed at killing the king! There have long been rumours that some of the plotting took place in Stoke Dry church, where Sir Everard was Lord of the Manor. However, research has shown this to have been improbable to say the least. But back in 1957 there were reports that Sir Everard’s ghost had been seen at North Luffenham Hall, while the area around Stoke Dry church was once reputed to be haunted by the spirit of a young woman accused of witchcraft who died after being locked up without food or water.

Up at Stretton’s Stocken Hall Farm in the early 1900s there were stories of a strange white dog that disappeared when approached, of a woman in black flitting down corridors and a spectral body hanging from a tree – quite a collection of strange sightings!

Back in 1896 there were newspaper reports of odd goings-on in Edith Weston, where a poltergeist had been reported as knocking loudly, once on a newly varnished still damp door, which, when inspected, showed no marking at all! Apparently, this phenomenon had been investigated by ‘persons of all ranks in society’, according to the press, who must surely have been having a slow day on the news front!

Belmesthorpe lies around 3 miles to the north of Stamford. There have been reports there of a kind of Quasimodo, a hunch-backed figure gliding towards a well and a faint scent of incense in the air!

Stamford’s

Silent Spectres

Of course, historic Stamford boasts its own collection of ghostly offerings, including one relating to The London Inn. One cold December evening in the late 1990s staff reported seeing a woman in black walk in and go through the pub to the toilets. She bought nothing, so they waited for her to emerge, intending to tell her that the Inn wasn’t a public convenience! But after 15 minutes she hadn’t reappeared, so the by-now concerned staff decided to investigate –there was no one in the toilets, no sign of anyone and the only way out was past the bar, and no window to climb out of either…

To conclude, as you sculpt those squashes and pumpkins to Halloween perfection, let’s go to Burghley House in 1909, when a strange dark, cigar-shaped object with a light was seen hovering over the grounds for several minutes before dissolving into the clouds above, all in perfect silence! Certainly not a Zeppelin – this was a full five years before World War I – so perhaps this is a classic UFO event.

As Richelle Goodrich wrote: ‘A pumpkin lives but once a year, when someone sets its soul afire! And on that night it stirs up fear, until its flame is snuffed… but e’en one night of eerie light is fright enough!’

You

Bill & Sue Crowe Tel: 01780 754043 Mob: 07766833076 www.bcit.co.uk Email: bill@bcit.co.uk Why does the computer always play up in the evenings when the repair shops are shut?

Ellie James

‘this girl’s amazing’

IWAS AT Stamford’s Bull & Swan in August for a nice meal with excellent service. My main objective was to seat myself in its lovely courtyard to listen to Ellie James. Basking in the evening sunshine, a glass in my hand and surrounded by people having a good time listening to crackingly good singing, felt like being on holiday.

I admit I was slightly suspicious of a singer accompanied by backing tracks, rather than a live accompaniment, but Ellie does it with aplomb. The talent that is seeing her study for a Masters degree in Songwriting obviously spills over into exemplary tech skills. The transitions were seamless and the sound sublime – the backing singers on Be My Baby could have been in the courtyard.

Ellie’s range takes in rock, pop, country, jazz and soul, and she excels at all of them. My favourites in a long list on the night

words: steve roberts

included Amy McDonald’s This is the Life, Paolo Nutini’s New Shoes and Amy Winehouse’s Tears Dry On Their Own. I am not exaggerating to say that I think I preferred Ellie’s version of Adele’s Set Fire to the Rain to the original.

Her gigs aren’t confined to the Bull & Swan. Ellie performs in many venues across our region, although she says her main business is weddings and private parties. As if all that is not enough, Ellie is also an experienced and respected singing, performance and songwriting coach. I doubt her feet ever touch the ground!

‘Ellie’s range takes in rock, pop, country, jazz and soul, and she excels at all of them’

Ellie lives in Peterborough, but as an ex-RAF child she says: ‘I am not really “from” anywhere.’ She was in Wittering when the family became ‘civvies’, and her service upbringing, life experiences and desire to understand her own neurodivergence (she was diagnosed as having ADHD at the age of 28) fuel her songwriting. It’s not about being commercial; Ellie writes about ‘connection, identity and the messy honesty of being human’, learning from the various research being done on the experience of children in care, disabled children, sufferers of baby loss or dementia, and those navigating the justice system. Ellie is particularly keen to work with children of RAF personnel and she will bring a bucket load of empathy to that.

But back to the Bull & Swan, where the audience were charmed by Ellie’s easy stage presence as well as her singing. I am not the most discreet of note takers, and just before the end of the show a lady approached me and said: ‘If you write anything in that book of yours, write: “this girl’s amazing.”’ So I did – and she is.

FIND OUT MORE & GO TO SEE ELLIE:

This month, you can see Ellie as follows:

• Friday 10 October, 7pm: Bull & Swan, Stamford

• Saturday 11 October, 8.30pm, The Bijou Cocktail Bar, Peterborough

• Sunday 19 October, 12pm, Milly’s Bistro at the William Cecil Hotel

• Friday 24 October, 8pm, The Golden Fleece, Stamford

To book Ellie, find out about her gigs or enquire about being coached by her, go to elliejamesofficial.com where you can find email and WhatsApp links.

We create unique buildings for discerning clients using traditional French oak alongside bespoke designs that can include glass, stone and steel. Our design and build service can cover every aspect of your project from initial concept to completion. Our passionate staff specialise in design led architecture, planning applications through to full working drawings, allowing our projects to seamlessly develop from concepts to full build construction.

simonlew@natural-structures.co.uk 01858 545518 simonlew@natural-structures.co.uk 01858 545518