EALING LIVING - AUTUMN 2025 - DIGITAL

ISSUE 11 | AUTUMN 2025

EALING LIVING

CELEBRATE

AUTUMN

WITH YOUR

LOCAL LOYALTY CARD

BURNT ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK EARTHY TONES ARE BACK

FOUR VOICES, ONE TRAIL MEET SOME OF THE ARTISTS EXHIBITING AT BEAT

NEW SEASON, NEW STYLE HOW LOCAL FASHION INSIDERS ARE STYLING THE SHIFT FROM SUMMER TO AUTUMN.

CONTENTS

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elcome to our Autumn issue of Ealing Living Magazine!

This edition is filled with seasonal inspiration, fresh ideas and the incredible stories that make our borough such a special place to live.

We begin with Autumn at a Glance – your snapshot of what’s on locally this season, from cultural highlights to community gatherings. In Just Landed, we showcase some exciting new arrivals across Ealing, bringing even more vibrancy to our streets.

This issue shines a light on two truly remarkable women: Anne Murray and Patima Shareefy.

Through our Jewel in the Crown and Community Spotlight features, we celebrate their dedication to helping others and the difference they make in our community.

As the days grow cooler, our Autumn Wellness Essentials guide recommends supplements to help you feel your best this season, while New Style, New Season showcases how local fashionistas are embracing autumn trends. At home, our interiors feature proves that Burnt Orange is the New Black when it comes to cosy seasonal styling.

We also put the spotlight on two local leaders: Alan Granley, Director and Co-Founder of the Ealing Film Festival, and Rebecca Lyons, the new Director of Pitzhanger Manor. Plus, our special feature introduces four brilliant artists taking part in this year’s BEAT – each bringing their own creativity to the heart of Ealing.

In Why We Love… Pitshanger Lane, we celebrate the charm of this much-loved high street, while our Confident Beginners guide shares expert advice on helping children start school with positivity and ease.

As autumn leaves fall and Ealing’s cultural calendar fills, I hope this issue inspires you to embrace the season - with style, with warmth and with pride in the community we share.

x a s i u o L

LOUISA MAIDWELL, EDITOR LOUISA@EALINGLIVINGMAGAZINE.CO.UK @EALINGLIVINGMAGAZINE

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EDITOR’S PICKS

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AUTUMN AT A GLANCE

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JUST LANDED

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JEWEL IN THE CROWN: ANNE MURRAY

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: PATIMA SHAREEFY

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AUTUMNAL WELLNESS ESSENTIALS

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5 LOCAL & NEARBY HALLOWEEN EVENTS

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COVER FEATURE: NEW SEASON, NEW STYLE

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EALING LIVING LOCAL LOYALTY CARD

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EALING’S MOST EXCLUSIVE: GRACE & LIGHT IN ‘OLDE EALING’

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COVER FEATURE: BURNT ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK

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5 OF THE BEST LOCAL GIFT SHOPS

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ALAN GRANLEY: EALING FILM FESTIVAL DIRECTOR & CO-FOUNDER

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COVER FEATURE: FOUR VOICES, ONE TRAIL

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5 LOCAL FIREWORK DISPLAYS

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REBECCA LYONS: PITZHANGER’S NEXT CHAPTER

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WHY WE LOVE... PITSHANGER LANE

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CONFIDENT BEGINNINGS: FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

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THE EALING LIVING KIDS TABLE

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AUTUMNAL RECIPES

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LOCAL NEWS, GROUPS & CLASSES

Beautiful front cover and picture at the top of this page photographed by Ian who you can find on Instagram @IAN_INLONDON

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EDITOR’S PICKS LOCAL LUST-HAVES FOR THE AUTUMN

SLEEP WELL TEA IVA PLANTS £7

PELARGONIUM LEAF FINE SILVER EARRINGS DENALIS JEWELLERY £32

LOCAL LITERATURE TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON ANTONIA’S PUMPKIN BY LESLIE FEORE £11.99

BEAUTIFUL, CUSTOM-MADE KNITWEAR FIFTY SHADES OF TAUPE, S EALING £118 (CARDI) £159 (SCARF)

CORNFLOWER BLUE KNITTED FINGERLESS MITTEN GLOVES OLIVER BONAS £22

PUMPKIN MUG FLYING TIGER £6

VISIT THE ONLINE MAGAZINE FOR DIRECT LINKS

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AUTUMN AT A GLANCE BLOOMS BY EBERE

KING LEAR AT QUESTORS

Celebrate the season at Blooms By Eberé Florist, 68 Northfields Avenue, with an Autumn Wreath Making class on 2nd October, 6–8pm. Using seasonal foliage, dried citrus, mini pumpkins and flowers, participants can craft a unique wreath to welcome autumn. All materials are provided - just bring your creativity! Spaces are limited, so book via orders@ealingflorist.co.uk for a fun, festive evening of hands-on autumn charm.

Devon-based touring company Oddbodies brings their acclaimed one-man adaptation of Shakespeare’s King Lear to The Questors Theatre, Ealing, for three performances on 2nd, 3rd and 4th October at 7.30pm. Performed and adapted by Paul Morel and directed by John Mowat, the inventive production is told from the perspective of Lear’s loyal fool, with only a drum, guitar, knife, and chair. Fastpaced, funny, poignant, and heartbreaking, it brings all the characters - Cordelia, Goneril, Edmund, Gloucester, and more - to vivid life. Renowned for their physical theatre and visual flair, Oddbodies’ King Lear is a dazzling, unmissable reimagining of Shakespeare. Tickets: www.questors.org.uk.

EALING HALF MARATHON

HANWELL LIBRARY TURNS 120

The award-winning Ealing Half Marathon returns on Sunday 28th September 2025, starting outside Lammas Park at 9:00am.

Runners will take on the 13.1-mile single-lap course through Central Ealing, Montpelier, Pitshanger, West Ealing, Hanwell and St Stephens, before finishing at Walpole Park via Uxbridge Road. First conceived in 2011 by local friends, the race has grown into the UK’s number one multi award-winning half marathon and West London’s only fully roadclosed event. Organised by the not-for-profit EHM Legacy CIC, the Half Marathon inspires thousands to run while raising funds for community projects.

A true highlight of Ealing’s sporting calendar!

Hanwell Community Library (HCL), run by the community since 2019, marks 120 years of serving Hanwell this September with a vibrant programme of events. A hub for learning and creativity, HCL offers free resources from books and IT support to workshops and social activities. Highlights include a Fun Day and Open Mic Night (27th Sept), Games Night (24th), a Publishers Talk (22nd), music (23rd), plus August workshops in crochet, collage and clothes swaps.

Info: hcl@hanwellcommunitylibrary.org.uk.

CHISWICK BOOK FESTIVAL West London comes alive from 10–15th September with the Chiswick Book Festival, celebrating writers and readers of all kinds. Highlights include Kathy Lette on her new novel The Revenge Club with Ronni Ancona, Anton Du Beke on 1960s Monaco in Monte Carlo by Moonlight, and Gill Hornby on Jane Austen at Chiswick House. The Children’s Book Festival also features workshops and readings with Michael Holland, Robert Tregoning and Zohra Nabi.

Full programme and tickets at www.chiswickbookfestival.net.

EALING MINI MILE The Ealing Mini Mile returns on Saturday 27th September 2025, the day before the Half Marathon. With races for ages 6–16 and families (11am–5pm), it inspires young runners to get active and join the excitement of one of West London’s biggest sporting weekends.

EALING FESTIVAL OF BUSINESS The Ealing Festival of Business returns on Thursday, 16 October at University of West London, offering local businesses a chance to showcase and promote themselves to the borough’s diverse business community. The day begins with a stakeholder breakfast featuring keynote speakers, followed by a business exhibition from 9:30am with up to 44 stands.

BEAT BEAT (Borough of Ealing Art Trail) returns on 6–7th and 13–14th September 2025, showcasing over 220 local artists across 66 venues. Founded in 2015, this volunteer-run, not-for-profit festival connects artists with the community, encourages collaboration, and celebrates Ealing as a creative hub.

Visitors can explore homes, studios and local venues using the digital trail brochure and map. BEAT 2025 promises another inspiring weekend of creativity right on our doorstep.

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JUSTnded la

THE LATEST OPENINGS, FRESH FINDS AND NEW LAUNCHES IN EALING GUTTERBALL ROLLS INTO EALING BROADWAY Ealing Broadway is set to welcome London’s first-ever Gutterball in September, bringing a dynamic new leisure experience from the Lane7 Group. Known for its nostalgic games and vibrant social energy, the venue will feature nine bowling lanes alongside darts, karaoke, arcade games and more, all under one roof. Perfect for birthdays, family outings or nights out with friends, Gutterball will also create 30 local jobs and enhance the centre’s growing line-up of leisure, food and retail. https://gutterballalley.co.uk/

DR TARA FRANCIS LAUNCHES JOURNEY CLINIC Dr Tara Francis, a trusted and respected aesthetic practitioner with a background in dentistry, has launched Journey Clinic on Spring Bridge Road in Central Ealing, a space dedicated to natural, confidenceboosting results. With over a decade of experience in renowned clinics, Tara has created a welcoming, calm environment where every client receives personalised care and treatment plans tailored to their needs.

Journey Clinic reflects her belief that beauty and wellness are deeply personal, blending clinical expertise with a holistic, thoughtful approach.

From consultations to ongoing care, the clinic prioritises comfort, integrity and expert guidance, offering a new standard of skin and wellness care in a reassuring, professional setting. www.journeycliniclondon.com ELM | 7

FINNEGAN’S WORLD BRINGS PLAYFUL CAFÉ EXPERIENCE TO WEST EALING Finnegan’s World has opened at 41 Broadway, West Ealing, bringing a whimsical and imaginative soft play café to the area. Designed to spark giggles and creativity, it offers a cosy, high-quality space where children aged 0–7 can explore, roleplay, problem-solve, make friends and party, while parents relax in a comfortable café setting. Housed in a former bank, the venue retains charming heritage features like arched windows and original vaults, creating a magical ambience.

With soft play, roleplay pods and a dedicated baby corner, Finnegan’s World is a bold and fun addition to West Ealing’s high street. www.finnegansworld.co.uk

SANTA MARIA RETURNS HOME TO EALING Santa Maria, one of London’s most celebrated pizzerias, proudly announces the reopening of its newly refurbished Ealing restaurant, marking a full-circle moment in its 15-year journey. Founded in 2010 by Neapolitan friends Angelo Ambrosio and Pasquale Chionchio, Santa Maria began in a modest 26-cover site on St Mary’s Road before quickly becoming a cult destination crowned London’s Best Pizza by Time Out. Now returning to its Ealing home with a refreshed design, spacious layout, and the same authentic Neapolitan hospitality, www.santamariapizzeria.com

YELLOWHAMMER BAR OPENS

LAYLA BAKERY EXPANDS TO ACTON

Yellowhammer Bar has officially opened at 21 Sunbeam Road, Ealing, as the taproom of Maison Miles Distillery. Open every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 4pm, the bar offers a unique experience where guests can enjoy cocktails made exclusively with Maison Miles’ small-batch spirits.

Located inside the distillery, visitors can explore the space and see firsthand the craftsmanship and secrets behind each spirit.

Combining expertly crafted drinks with an intimate, behind-the-scenes setting, Yellowhammer Bar invites locals and visitors alike to savour innovative cocktails and discover the art of distilling in a welcoming, relaxed environment. https://yellowhammerbar.com/

Layla Bakery is opening its second West London location at 53 Churchfield Road, Acton, on Thursday 4 September 2025.

Building on the success of its Ladbroke Grove flagship, the Acton site offers a takeaway-focused menu featuring Layla’s signature sourdough loaves, seasonal tarts, pastries, sandwiches and exclusive new bakes such as Hazelnut Praline & Chocolate Chip Cookies and Blackberry & Green Cardamom Bow Ties. The bakery will also serve Sayuri Ceremonial Organic Matcha, specialty coffee from Assembly Coffee Roasters, and teas from Good & Proper Tea. Founder Tessa Faulkner and Executive Baker Colton Dinner aim to bring the same care, creativity and community spirit that has made Layla a local institution. . https://laylabakery.com/

W7 EMPORIUM & MARIECLARE COOKS UNITE

JAPANESE-FRENCH PATISSERIE ARRIVES

Two much-loved local independents are joining forces as Claire Rosser of Hanwell’s W7 Emporium and Marie-Clare Alphonso of Ealing’s renowned Marie-Clare Cooks launch an exciting new catering partnership.

Combining years of expertise, diverse cultural influences and a shared passion for food, the collaboration will bring fresh creativity, focus and support to both businesses. With plans for unique supper clubs, pop-ups and special events, the duo promise innovative menus that reflect their distinctive stamp and flair.

The first date for food lovers’ diaries is a Supper Club with a twist this October, marking the start of an inspiring new venture. @marieclarecooks

Kova Patisserie has opened its doors in Dickens Yard, bringing its signature Japanese-French creations to Ealing.

Renowned for delights such as Mille Crêpes, chiffon cakes, and an array of matcha bubble teas and speciality coffees, Kova Patisserie prides itself on using only the finest ingredients to craft its menu. Each item is carefully prepared to appeal to a wide variety of tastes, combining elegance with indulgence. With its reputation for quality and creativity, the patisserie is delighted to welcome the local community and visitors alike, inviting them to enjoy its unique fusion of flavours in a warm, contemporary setting. www.kovapatisserie.com

LAYLA’S BISTRO TO OPEN AT GREENFORD QUAY Layla’s Bistro is coming soon to Greenford, offering a fresh approach to all-day dining. Inspired by comfort classics from around the world, the menu features warming brunches, nourishing bowls, layered bakes, and small plates designed to be savoured. Whether enjoying coffee and eggs to start the day, meeting friends for a leisurely lunch, or lingering over a slow, satisfying supper, guests can expect thoughtful, flavourful dishes in a relaxed yet refined setting. Located at Greenford Quay, Layla’s Bistro promises a welcoming space where community, creativity and good food come together, making every visit feel like home. https://laylasbistro.co.uk

MONTHLY BOOK CLUBS BEGIN IN EALING Ealing Book Tree, the online independent bookshop, has been running contemporary modern fiction book clubs since May and is now expanding its offerings. From October, two new monthly clubs will launch: one for Young Adult (YA) readers and another for non-fiction enthusiasts. For £20 a month, members receive a paperback copy of the book of the month along with related book-themed merchandise. Each club meets once a month to discuss the chosen book over a glass of wine or soft drink, creating a relaxed and social reading experience. For more details or to join, email Info@ealingbooktree.co.uk.

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JEWEL IN THE CROWN sponsored by Trisha Stewart, Director of Ealing Business Club

“When I got home and looked at the award, I thought about how proud my dad would have been.”

ANNE MURRAY

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SMALL ACTS OF KINDNESS THAT LEAVE A LASTING LEGACY

or more than four decades, Anne Murray has been a quiet but powerful force for good in Ealing. This year, her tireless commitment to others was recognised with two major honours at A2Dominion’s 2025 Making a Difference Awards: joint first place in the Great Neighbour category, and the coveted Overall Impact Award, the highest accolade of the day.

At 83, Anne shows no signs of slowing down. Every week, she can be found at Clayponds Community Centre, where she helps with the delivery and organisation of surplus food for local residents. But her contribution goes far beyond practical support. Anne is a steady source of friendship and reassurance, particularly for those who feel isolated. “Many people only see someone once a week when they come in,” she explained. “I enjoy meeting them, handing out food, and having a

chat. One gentleman who lives alone couldn’t wait to show me photos of his new kittens. It put a smile on his face just knowing I stood there and listened.”

Anne’s philosophy has always been simple: speak up when something isn’t right. Over the years, she has been a passionate advocate for A2Dominion residents, championing improvements large and small. From ensuring families living with damp were supported, to campaigning for tenants to have a say in the colour of their new kitchens, Anne has consistently sought dignity and respect for her neighbours. “These homes may belong to A2Dominion,” she said, “but they’re lived in by real people who deserve to feel heard.”

Her persistence has had a lasting impact, influencing decisions through scrutiny panels and property inspections, while

strengthening community connections on her estate. Colleagues praise her humility and warmth, with Communities Partner Julie Brooker describing her as “a true inspiration whose humanity has quietly transformed lives for decades.”

The recognition was deeply meaningful for Anne, who admits she was stunned by the award. “It was a wonderful surprise after 40 years of supporting A2Dominion and giving residents a voice,” she reflected.

“When I got home and looked at the award, I thought about how proud my dad would have been.”

Although she has lived in Ealing for more than 40 years, Anne still delights in exploring further afield. She cites the excellent transport links around Ealing Broadway as one of her favourite things about the area, giving her the freedom to visit other towns with ease.

For A2Dominion’s Director of Customers and Communities, Dawn Wightman, Anne is the embodiment of what these awards celebrate: “Her compassion, energy, and quiet determination have made a lasting impact on countless lives. She is a shining example of what it means to be a great neighbour and community champion.”

In her modest way, Anne insists the credit belongs not just to her but to those who have worked alongside her over the years.

Yet in the eyes of her community, she is undoubtedly a jewel in Ealing’s crown.

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PATIMA SHAREEFY LEADING WITH HEART AT ZNANIYE FOUNDATION

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y name is Patima Shareefy, and Ealing has been my home for as long as I can remember.

I grew up here, went to school here, and, after earning a scholarship to study Russian and Management at the University of St Andrews, I came straight back. My roots run deep in this borough, and so does my commitment to the children and families who call it home.

as more than a charity. We’re a lifeline, a safe space and a constant in children’s lives. Parents turn to us when their child needs help with homework, confidence or making friends. New arrivals find in us a warm welcome and guidance through the maze of settling in a new country.

For the children, we’re a place to be curious, creative and completely themselves.

My journey into community work is deeply personal. As a child growing up with English as a second language and facing social and financial barriers, I was once a beneficiary of the very charity I now lead. I experienced firsthand how inequality can chip away at a young person’s confidence, wellbeing, and life chances. But I also experienced the power of opportunity - and how one supportive community can change the trajectory of a life. That experience lit a fire in me to ensure every child, no matter their background, has the chance to thrive.

Over the past year, we’ve: Welcomed 50 children every Saturday for creative learning Engaged 25 more in hands-on STEM projects Supported 60 children in our literacy programme Partnered with schools to deliver mentoring, revision, and enrichment opportunities Reached over 250 pupils through our youth conferences

“Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Ealing one child at a time.”

In 2020, I re-founded and relaunched the organisation as Znaniye Foundation, giving it a new name, fresh vision and bold strategy. Our mission is clear: break down barriers, open doors to opportunity, and champion children and young people from underrepresented and underserved communities.

My own mixed Pashto and Kumyk heritage, with roots in Afghanistan and Dagestan, shaped my passion for representation.

Growing up, I rarely saw role models who looked like me or shared my experiences.

At Znaniye Foundation, we make representation a cornerstone of our work bringing in mentors, facilitators and ELM | 11

community figures with lived experience so our children can see what’s possible.

When I stepped into this role, we were supporting just 20 children a week. Today, we work with over 180 across the borough. We run everything from STEM and literacy programmes to school partnerships, youth conferences and summer camps. Many of our young people are on free school meals, and we work closely with local schools to reach those who need us most.

All of this is run by a tiny part-time core team, supported by over 50 dedicated volunteers.

One of my proudest moments came in 2024, when Znaniye Foundation was honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service the highest recognition a voluntary group can receive in the UK. It was a tribute not just to our work, but to our incredible volunteers and team members, many of whom once stood where our beneficiaries stand now.

To anyone reading this who believes in fairness, opportunity, and community power - I invite you to join us. Whether you give your time, your resources, or your platform, you’ll be helping us create lasting change for the next generation.

Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Ealing - one child at a time.

Ealing families see Znaniye Foundation

www.znaniyefoundation.co.uk

Looking ahead, I want to see our work expand into new boroughs, build youth leadership programmes, and continue challenging the systems that hold young people back. My vision is simple: every child in Ealing - and beyond - should see their background not as a barrier, but as a foundation for greatness.

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utumn is a natural season of reset... a time when the energy of summer begins to cool and we’re invited to slow down, reflect and realign. The crisp air, shorter days and vibrant changes in nature encourage us to ground ourselves and establish nourishing routines. It’s an ideal moment to focus on wellness because the rhythm of fall naturally supports balance: warm, hearty foods strengthen the body, cosy evenings foster rest and the shift in daylight reminds us to prioritise sleep and self-care. Autumn is also symbolic of letting go, much like the trees shedding their leaves, making it the perfect season to release habits, stress or patterns that no longer serve us and to create space for healthier practices before winter arrives.

A SERENE ESCAPE IN THE CHILTERNS

Sisterly: The Elevator is a daily women’s supplement with 23 synergistic nutrients in one sachet. It supports lasting energy, stronger immunity and balanced hormones while promoting collagen renewal.

Designed for glowing skin, healthy hair and strong nails, it’s a simple, sciencebacked solution for women’s overall vitality and radiance.

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ach new issue of Ealing Living Magazine begins with a pause – a chance to gather inspiration, sketch ideas and find the right rhythm. But this autumn, caught between the tail end of summer term and the pull of work, I needed a deeper reset. So when the chance came to escape to the newly opened Shepherd’s Huts at Drovers’ Hill, I leapt.

Perched on the historic Stonor Park estate in the Chiltern Hills, the huts offer a rare kind of seclusion. From my window I looked out onto rolling woodland, red kites wheeling overhead, and deer grazing beneath the 800-year-old Stonor House. It felt like stepping into another world – one of stillness and space.

The hut itself, designed by Lord and Lady Camoys and handcrafted by Plankbridge, was a jewelbox of comfort: king-sized bed with luxury linens, a log burner, compact but beautifully fitted kitchen, and sustainable toiletries in a perfectly tiled ensuite. Every detail – from a Dyson hairdryer to compostable Grind coffee pods – had been thoughtfully chosen.

While the RESET Wild Spa wasn’t yet open, its promise of saunas and cold-water therapy adds even more appeal for future guests. For now, I found joy in simple walks, woodland views and the quiet luxury of having nowhere to be.

My stay was more than a retreat - it was a reminder that wellness can be found in stillness, beauty and a deep breath of countryside air.

To see more scan the QR code to view our Instagram reel about this idyllic stay.

£79/month sisterlylab.com

The What’s That Patch Stress Less Patch helps reduce stress and restore inner calm, keeping you grounded and centred throughout the day. Featured at the Vogue Wellness Retreat 2025, its soothing formulation also inspired the exclusive Quiet Radiance Patch, designed to enhance balance, peace and wellbeing for a calmer daily experience. £20/month www.whatsthatpatch.com

Newly launched brand, Curated Beauty London’s Quiet Shift is a restorative supplement designed to ease stress, reduce fatigue and support deep, restful sleep.

Formulated to calm the mind and body, it relieves muscle tension, restores balance and helps you switch off - so you wake refreshed, clear and ready to take on the day. £35/2 months curatedbeauty.london

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Autumnal

WELLNESS ESSENTIALS THREE WAYS TO NURTURE MIND, BODY AND SOUL THIS SEASON

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LOCAL & NEARBY HALLOWEEN EVENTS

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NORTHFIELDS ALLOTMENTS Join the spooky Northfields Allotments Pumpkin Trail in London’s oldest allotments. Enjoy eerie fun, costumes, and treats from 3pm-7pm. Advance timed tickets only.

PITZHANGER MANOR Enjoy family-friendly activities at Pitzhanger, including Halloween storytelling, printmaking workshops and creative crafts inspired by Sir Howard Hodgkin’s exhibition. Fun for all ages, with tickets included in admission.

HOBBLEDOWN HEATH PUMPKIN PATCH Join the Hobblers for a thrilling Trick or Treat Challenge at Hobbledown Health this October. Solve the mystery of Hobbleween for a special reward.

Available on select dates, with pumpkins for sale!

OSTERLEY GHOST HUNT Join the bunnies on a Halloween ghost hunt at Osterley Park & House! Ideal for young children, enjoy fun activities like broomstick races and Halloween hoopla, plus a prize at the end.

HALLOWEEN AT KEW Experience a spine-chilling Halloween adventure at Kew Gardens with an illuminated trail, spooky surprises, creepy creatures, and festive treats. Running from October 17 to November 2, tickets required for entry.

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NEW SEASON, NEW STYLE FROM SCHOOL GATES TO SMART LAYERS, HOW LOCAL FASHION INSIDERS ARE STYLING THE SHIFT FROM SUMMER TO AUTUMN.

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eptember always arrives with a sense of change. The pace quickens, the school gates swing open, offices hum back to life and the air carries a cooler edge. Just as routines reset, wardrobes inevitably follow suit. But the move from sundresses and sandals to knits and boots doesn’t have to be abrupt - or expensive. This season, Ealing’s fashion insiders agree: September style is about transition, layering and reimagining what you already own.

On St Mary’s Road, Jolanta Pluwak of Fifty Shades of Taupe sees September as the perfect moment to lean into layering. “This autumn is all about sophistication with ease,” she explains. Her knitwear, made exclusively for the store, comes in rich tones of turmeric and ruby red (see the Editor’s Picks), designed to be paired with soft grey scarves or elevated with silk squares and statement jewellery. It’s a formula that feels both timeless and distinctive an elegant reminder that autumn dressing doesn’t need to weigh you down.

That sense of building on what’s already there is echoed by personal stylist Sarah Sole from Sourced Studio. For her, the key to feeling refreshed lies not in a shopping spree, but in reimagining your wardrobe. “Refreshing your style isn’t about more shopping - it’s about reimagining what you own,” she says. A summer dress layered over a fine-knit polo, or a sleeveless shift updated with a shirt beneath, can instantly carry you into the new season. Accessories do the heavy lifting too: a scarf tied at the waist, layered necklaces, or even a simple shoe swap can shift the mood completely. With warm neutrals like camel and cream as your foundation, Sarah recommends weaving in richer shades - rust, forest green or deep plum - to create depth and warmth without losing versatility.

For children, the challenge of seasonal dressing takes a different turn. Natasha Rawley, founder of Sunshine Follows You, believes that autumn is no time to dim the colours. “Just because the days are getting shorter doesn’t mean children’s outfits should get darker,” she says. Her collections celebrate cheerful brights, playful prints, and gender-neutral cuts that let children move freely and express themselves. Layering is still essential for cooler mornings, but Natasha insists that the more colour, the better - an easy way to keep spirits high on grey days.

Of course, parents often face their own wardrobe puzzles, balancing style with practicality. Local writer, model and influencer Riana Horner knows this well as a working mum. Her September staples include structured jackets with cinched waists - “a game changer” for instantly shaping a silhouette - alongside chunky-heeled Mary Jane pumps that take her seamlessly from office to nursery run. And when it comes to evening or weekend dressing, she’s embracing lace as a layering piece: a maxi dress softened with a cashmere sweater and grounded with ankle boots.

For Riana, it’s all about quiet romance woven into everyday wearability.

Colour remains the final thread pulling everything together. Sandy Lancaster of House of Colour notes that September is best navigated with transitional shades - lighter neutrals like stone and soft grey, lifted with accents of burgundy, teal or mustard. Even the smallest details, she says, can have an impact: a scarf, handbag, or lipstick in a richer tone can instantly refresh a look without tipping into winter heaviness.

Together, these perspectives show that September style isn’t about reinvention, but evolution. From turmeric-toned knits and polished jackets to rainbow-bright children’s layers, the season is best approached with a sense of playfulness and ease. The new season doesn’t demand a new you - just a refreshed, re-energised version, ready to step into autumn with confidence.

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DID YOU KNOW:

ON AUTUMN/WINTER 2025 CATWALKS, WIDE-LEG JEANS ACCOUNTED

TOP 5 PRODUCT TIPS HACKS ON LOOKING PUT TOGETHER WHEN YOU’RE REALLY NOT FEELING IT Some mornings, looking polished feels like a distant dream - but with the right shortcuts, you can fake that fresh, puttogether vibe in minutes. Start by giving your skin an instant lift with Trinny London’s BFF Cream (£39), the iconic, sell-out skin perfector that delivers a sheer wash of coverage and a healthy glow in one easy step. Its microencapsulated pigments melt into your natural tone, blurring redness while the built-in SPF 30 keeps your skin protected all day. For hair, reach for Batiste’s Naturally Dry Shampoo (£4.50, Amazon), a plantpowered refresh infused with green tea, chamomile, and bamboo fibre that absorbs oil, boosts volume and tames fly-aways without leaving a chalky residue. If you’re still short on time, disguise unruly strands with a chic hair accessory like the Green Floral Statement Bow Headband from Oliver Bonas (£22), printed with a retroinspired pattern in shades of green, light blue, brown, and cream. Finally, pull everything together with a styling trick: throw on a tailored blazer - like H&M’s textured-weave double-breasted blazer (£54.99) - over your jeans and tee, and finish with a pair of statement earrings, such as Orelia’s Statement Heart & Scattered Crystal Drop Earrings from Mooch (£25). The result? A look that says effortless and confident, even if you rolled out of the door in five minutes.

“The new season doesn’t demand a new you just a refreshed, re-energised version, ready to step into autumn with confidence.”

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West London Pick & Mix is a sweet-lover’s paradise, bringing a burst of colour, flavour and fun to every occasion. With an irresistible range of classic favourites and exciting new treats, it’s perfect for parties, gifts or simply indulging yourself. Whether you crave fizzy, fruity, chewy or chocolatey, there’s something for everyone. Locally based in Ealing, it delivers joy by the bagful - one scoop at a time.

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EMBRACE THE AUTUMN WITH THE EALING LIVING LOYALTY CARD! This autumn, celebrate the golden season and the warmth of local living with your Ealing Living Local Loyalty Card, for only £8. Discover exclusive offers at independent shops, cafés, and boutiques across Ealing.

From cosy coffee spots and seasonal menus to autumn wardrobe refreshes and pampering treatments, your loyalty card makes supporting local even more rewarding. Whether you’re stocking up on autumn home comforts, enjoying crisp walks followed by a hot chocolate, or treating yourself to self-care as the evenings draw in, Ealing has everything you need to make this season special.

Explore the brands involved at the link below (or via the QR code above) and read about some of our fantastic partners on the opposite page. www.ealinglivingmagazine.co.uk/localloyaltycard/

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EALING’S ve MOST exclusi

GRACE AND LIGHT IN ‘OLDE EALING’ ELM | 21

A GEORGIAN HOME WITH TIMELESS CHARM AND A GARDEN MADE FOR LIVING.

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n ‘Olde Ealing’, where leafy streets wind past elegant period homes and the air still carries a village-like charm, sits a Georgian house that feels as graceful as it is lived-in. For its owners, stepping through the front door was love at first sight. “The Georgian style, the proportions, the light, the garden, the roof terrace - it all just drew us in immediately,” they recall.

That first impression has only deepened with time. On the raised ground floor, light pours through sash windows into a pair of reception rooms, their high ceilings crowned by marble fireplaces and polished wooden floors. The kitchen, sleek and contemporary, opens onto a garden that feels more like a private slice of countryside than a suburban plot. “We love being in the garden in the summer - and in the winter, it’s just as special to look out over it,” they say.

There’s a sense of abundance here, of space to stretch and grow. Bedrooms are vast and versatile, the lower ground floor doubles as both practical utility and playful hideaway, and a self-contained annexe offers independence for teenagers or visiting family. The very top of the house is crowned with a terrace perfect for morning coffee above the treetops.

But perhaps the real beauty lies in the setting itself. As local estate agents Leslie & Co put it: “’Olde Ealing’ is celebrated for its leafiness, elegant architecture, welcoming pubs and independent coffee shops - the kind of qualities that give it a character both rooted in history and very much alive in the present.”

It’s a description that resonates with the owners, whose favourite haunts include Paperback café, Tetote Factory and the Rose & Crown. For them, this isn’t just a house - it’s a home in the truest sense, deeply entwined with the character and community of Olde Ealing.

Ealing Living Magazine & Leslie & Co are on the search for Ealing’s Most Exclusive houses. Do you want to feature? If so, email louisa@ealinglivingmagazine.co.uk and paul@leslieandcompanyuk.com

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BURNT ORANGE

is the new black

EARTHY TONES ARE BACK; BRINGING DEPTH, WARMTH AND NATURAL TEXTURE TO OUR HOMES. ELM | 23 ELM | 16

A

fter years of dominance, the reign of cool grey interiors is waning. In their place, a richer, softer palette is making its mark: think taupe, clay, sand, ochre and burnt orange. These hues - grounded in nature - pair beautifully with wood, brass and natural textiles, creating homes that feel calm, inviting and timeless. But why the resurgence now, and how can we incorporate these tones without slipping into monotony? We asked two local design experts for their take.

DESIGNED BY ANNABEL IKWUEKE

Why warm neutrals, and why now?

For Tara Rodrigues of Tara Rodrigues Interiors, the shift reflects broader lifestyle changes: “Post-pandemic lifestyles have increased the demand for soothing, grounded interiors. With more flexible and home working, we need sensory support and comfort from our homes. Warm neutrals age well and adapt to various styles, from modern to rustic - they’re timeless and versatile.”

Biophilic design is also part of the story, she explains. “Our innate love of nature is embraced much more, steering us away from greys and towards earthy palettes that bring the outdoors in.”

Annabel Ikwueke of Ambient Igloo Limited agrees that these tones speak to deeper needs: “Our modern lives are overloaded - with work, parenting and a constant stream of digital noise. Warm neutrals and earthy tones offer an antidote to blue light and grey cityscapes. People walk through the door and want their space to exhale for them - to offer that spa-like pause the rest of life rarely allows.”

DESIGNED BY TARA RODRIGUES

How to avoid the monochrome trap While neutrals can feel serene, they risk falling flat if not layered thoughtfully.

“Combine different textures like linen, wool, leather, and wood to add dimension,” advises Tara. “Introduce darker browns, charcoals or black accents to anchor the palette. Play with tonal variation - clay, sand, terracotta, caramel - for richness, and highlight with accent colours like deep green, mustard, or muted blues.” Lighting, she adds, is essential: warm, soft-white bulbs enhance the sense of cosiness.

For Annabel, it’s about layering and the power of surprise. “Start with a few shades from the same warm palette and build depth through varied materials. Then break the calm with a bold focal point: oversized art, a deep-toned statement piece, or - yes, you’ve seen it on Instagram - throw something red into the mix.

The unexpected keeps things alive.”

Photo credit: F9 Media Annabel highlights the importance of texture and light. “Textural walls - like béton ciré or Venetian plaster - instantly add richness and tactility. Upholstery in raw linen or velvet enhances the sensory experience. Then light it right: backlight your furniture, uplight your walls and place a few glowing orbs where you can. That’s how you get a space that feels as warm as it looks.”

Materials and finishes to embrace Both designers emphasise the role of tactile finishes in elevating warm neutrals.

For Tara, natural woods such as walnut, teak or oak bring organic warmth, while boucle, linen, velvet and wool add softness. Clay tiles, plaster or limewash walls create subtle movement and depth, and aged metals like brass or bronze lend richness and patina.

The enduring appeal of warmth Ultimately, the appeal of these palettes lies in their universality: calming, timeless and endlessly adaptable. In a world that feels fast and overstimulating, warm neutrals provide a backdrop of ease. Or as Annabel puts it, “They invite softness and serenity into the home.” www.ambientigloo.com | www.tararodriguesinteriors.com

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5

OF THE BEST LOCAL GIFT SHOPS

@EALINGLIVINGMAGAZINE

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FIFTY SHADES OF TAUPE 2 Ranelagh Rd, W5 This beautiful boutique offers curated gifts, chic homeware, stylish décor and delicate knitwear making thoughtful, elegant gift-giving effortless and memorable.

MOOCH 90 Northfield Ave, W13 & 120 Pitshanger Lane, W5 With shops on Northfields Avenue and Pitshanger Lane, Moochdelights with unique gifts, chic accessories and charming homeware - perfect for thoughtful, stylish presents.

BELLA MIRA 76 Pitshanger Lane, W5 Located on Pitshanger Lane, this welcoming boutique offers meaningful gifts, healing crystals and treasures handpicked to inspire balance, beauty and connection.

FOR ARTS SAKE 45 Bond Street, W5 A vibrant gallery bursting with creativity, showcasing eclectic artworks, unique designs and inspiring pieces - perfect for gifting, collecting, or simply admiring local artistic talent.

GREENKA 8 Oak Road, W5 This lovely independent plant shop offers lush plants, eco-friendly gifts and stylish greenery - bringing natural beauty and sustainability into every home.

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ALAN GRANLEY EALING FILM FESTIVAL DIRECTOR & CO-FOUNDER KEEPING THE REEL TURNING

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t all began in August 2020, in that strange moment between lockdowns when we were “eating out to help out” and cautiously rediscovering the outside world. I was sitting in Artisan Coffee in Ealing with my two co-founders, Annemarie Flanagan and Peter Gould. The three of us had floated the idea of an Ealing Film Festival before, but that day was our first real meeting to make it happen.

COVID had shut doors everywhere - cinemas were abandoned, audiences vanished and filmmakers had their creativity locked away. We wanted to do something to spark that creative energy again, to give filmmakers a platform and audiences a reason to come back together.

Over coffee, we looked up domain names.

Surely “EalingFilmFestival.com” would be taken - after all, we’re talking about the home of Ealing Studios, the oldest working studio in the world. But it was available.

We took it as a sign, bought it on the spot and got to work.

Our first festival had to be online because of the pandemic, but the following year we finally gathered in person - in a church hall at Ealing Green, right across from Ealing Studios. The support from the community and filmmakers worldwide has been extraordinary. In our first year, we had 118 submissions. Now, in our sixth year, that number has grown to almost 400 entries from 43 countries - a figure we’re incredibly proud of.

Balancing Ealing’s rich film history with fresh, contemporary voices has never felt forced. The quality of our entries honours that legacy all on its own. One filmmaker told me, “How could I not enter a festival with Ealing in its name?” There’s a reputation here, a heartbeat for film that runs deep. We’ve seen filmmakers of all ages pick up cameras - or even just smartphones - to tell stories, and nothing compares to the experience of seeing those stories on the big screen, with an audience laughing, crying and feeling together.

Before the festival, I ran the Classic Cinema Club for years, and I didn’t realise how much it taught me until the pandemic forced it to close. I learned to appreciate not just the films but the audiences - their trust, loyalty and passion. I learned about the importance of volunteers, the

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“Balancing Ealing’s rich film history with fresh, contemporary voices has never felt forced.”

intricacies of film licensing, and the balance between costs and creativity. Every bit of that knowledge helps us keep Ealing Film Festival running, entirely volunteer-driven, with all funds going back into workshops, networking, and the next festival.

Outside of film, I’m a keen photographer. Photography relaxes me it makes me slow down and really see things. Short films often spark photographic ideas for me; it’s like a movie, but one frame at a time. I keep threatening to make my own short film one day… though whether I’ve got the creativity for it is still up for debate.

If you’re thinking about getting involved in film - whether as a creator or an audience member - my advice is simple: follow your heart. Pick up that phone or camera. Buy a ticket to your local cinema. Keep your mind open and look for the remarkable efforts behind each story. Support your community and, especially, your local creatives. The next Greta Gerwig might be working right around the corner.

I can’t finish without mentioning Peter Gould, our co-founder, who passed away unexpectedly in February this year. His artistic vision was formidable, and his work with both the festival and Questors Theatre left a lasting legacy. We miss him dearly, but his spirit lives on in every frame of film we show.

The Ealing Film Festival 2025 is scheduled to take place from 2nd to 4th October 2025.

ealingfilmfestival.com

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SPECIAL FEATURE

FOUR VOICES, ONE TRAIL MEET THE ARTISTS BRINGING COLOUR, TEXTURE AND IMAGINATION TO THE BOROUGH OF EALING ART TRAIL.

SARAH STANLEY MOSAICS

This year at BEAT I’m really excited to be showing lots of new pieces. I’ve been working on a mix of large and small mirrors some designed for the home, others for the garden - all made with jewel-coloured glass that really catches the light. I’ve also created stepping stones to bring a splash of colour to the garden during the darker winter months, as well as coffee tables that can be enjoyed both indoors and out. Alongside these, I’m showing new framed wall pieces, some in calm neutrals and others full of bold colour and texture, with different sizes to suit a variety of spaces and budgets.

Being part of the Ealing arts community is such a pleasure.

During BEAT you spend time with fellow artists you may only know in passing and those connections often grow into lasting friendships. It makes the whole process feel collaborative and full of energy.

Although mosaics can be made from endless materials - stone, marble, ceramics, found objects, even broken china - I’m always drawn back to glass. I use glass from Italy, Mexico and Turkey, each with its own qualities: matt, striated with gold, shiny or translucent. What unites them is their depth and vibrancy of colour, which I find irresistible.

I hope visitors will be drawn to the richness of the glass and feel encouraged to touch the work. Mosaics are wonderfully tactile, and I love seeing people respond to that physical connection.

After BEAT, I’ll be busy with autumn fairs, local markets, teaching weekend workshops in Hanwell and completing a series of commissions - a real privilege, as creating something personal for someone’s home feels incredibly special.

www.sarahstanleymosaics.co.uk VENUE: OPEN EALING, Dickens Yard

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNE VALLUY

NEIL LEMAIRE

FINE ART AND BRONZE This year at BEAT I’ll be showing a collection of bronze bowls and vessels, alongside smaller sculptural works and jewellery.

Each piece is made using the ancient lost-wax casting process, which has hardly changed in thousands of years. My inspiration comes from nature – weathered rocks, eroded coastlines, plant structures - but I like to bring in an element of engineering precision too. There’s a tension between organic chaos and human order that I find endlessly fascinating, and my work often sits in that space.

Being part of the Ealing arts community has been hugely valuable. It’s such an open, supportive network where knowledge is shared rather than guarded. BEAT, in particular, is a reminder that art isn’t created in isolation - it’s about connection and conversation. Talking to visitors often sparks new directions, and seeing how people respond to my work feeds back into the process.

Bronze is at the heart of my practice. It’s timeless, tactile and endlessly versatile. I keep returning to themes of erosion, growth and transformation - forms that look at once familiar and otherworldly.

Surfaces fascinate me too: from polished mirrors to heavily patinated textures. The chemistry of patination feels like a creative playground.

I hope visitors will be drawn to the weight, texture and temperature of the metal - to really touch and feel the work.

Alongside BEAT, I’m showing at Brentford Creative Mile, and I’ll be developing new bronze casting courses at my foundry at the London Museum of Water & Steam. Looking ahead, I’m planning workshops and an artist retreat space - somewhere people can learn, make and connect with both craft and nature.

www.neillemaire.com/ VENUE: The Rickyard, Pitzhanger Manor

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ARUNA REDDY

TAPESTRY WEAVER I’ll be at Venue 2+ Perivale Library for BEAT this year, showing a selection of woven tapestries, some created recently and others from previous years. Tapestry weaving is a slow, meditative process that I find deeply rewarding. My pieces are often very colourful, using a mix of plain weave and textured techniques to bring richness and surface interest. I also have a small 20 x 20 cm tapestry in BEAT’s Small Works for Charity exhibition at the Brentham Club, in support of Crisis, which runs until the end of the festival.

My work is highly experimental, and I love exploring the tactile qualities of different fibres. I use natural materials such as wool, cotton, linen and silk, alongside recycled and unexpected ones - plastics, net bags from fruit and vegetables, newspapers, and even cordage made from plants like cordyline leaves, sedge grass and maize. I’ve even tried pineapple leaves. I often weave in other craft traditions too, like macramé, crochet, knitting, or embroidery.

Inspiration comes from my surroundings: the textures and colours I notice on walks, visits to museums and conversations with fellow makers. Talking with like-minded people often sparks new ideas or helps me resolve creative challenges.

Visitors at BEAT are always curious and engaged. Many share memories of weaving at school, and children especially love to have a go – I set up small warped cards for them to try.

This year is especially exciting, with work in the British Tapestry Group’s 20th Anniversary touring exhibition and upcoming shows at the Barbican Library and Morley Gallery.

Alongside that, I have commissions and projects waiting for 2026 - plenty to look forward to.

arunatapestries.art/ VENUE: Perivale Library

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNE VALLUY

DAVINA BOSANQUET VISUAL ARTIST

This year at BEAT I’ll be showing quite a mix of work, much of it created for exhibitions I have coming up later in the year. There will be some of my tiger paintings, which are going into two different wildlife exhibitions, as well as pieces promised for Art for Youth. I’ll also be showing a few examples of commissions I’ve completed over the past year. What I’m especially excited about, though, is a new direction where I’ve begun combining my portraiture with my abstract work. It’s been both challenging and rewarding, and as interest in this area grows, I’m eager to keep developing it further.

Being part of the Ealing arts community has been such a great way to share my work locally. It’s particularly helped with my portraiture, which I don’t usually show through galleries and instead rely on word of mouth for. Since moving to Acton four years ago, BEAT has really supported that side of my practice, giving me the chance to meet people face-to-face and connect directly with potential clients.

Wildlife has always been a big passion of mine, but recently I’ve also been exploring themes of childhood and play, inspired by my own family life. Oils remain my first love, but I’ve been using more acrylics, especially in backgrounds, and I find that working across different mediums keeps things fresh and creatively stimulating.

What I hope most is that visitors engage with the work, share their honest opinions, and start conversations. That direct feedback is something I really value.

www.davinabosanquet.com VENUE: 26 Spencer Road, W3

Ealing BEAT (Borough of Ealing Art Trail) is a vibrant, annual open-studios art event in Ealing, showcasing the work of over 220 local artists across approximately 66 venues throughout the borough It will unfold over two consecutive weekends in September 6–7 September and 13–14 September, with studio openings typically running from 11 am to 6 pm

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LOCAL FIREWORK DISPLAYS

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THE BRENTHAM CLUB Enjoy a family-friendly fireworks night at Brentham Club with fairground rides, a kids' disco, street food and face painting. Gates open at 5pm, with the spectacular display at 7:30pm.

EALING CRICKET CLUB Ealing Cricket Club hosts a fireworks display to pop tunes at 7:45pm, with a DJ afterwards. Enjoy children's rides, food stalls and drinks. Gates open at 6pm for a fun-filled evening.

TRAILFINDERS Celebrate November 5th with a fireworks display set to music, laser shows, stilt walkers, and fire breathers.

Enjoy food stalls, bars and entertainment. Gates open early - tickets sell fast, so grab yours now!

EALING & HARROW FIREWORKS DISPLAY This vibrant Bonfire Night-Diwali hybrid includes a 20minute musical fireworks display at ~7:45 pm, plus pre-show entertainment, food stalls, funfair rides and henna art.

LONDON MAYOR’S NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS Although not in Ealing, it's London's major firework event: on 31 December 2025 at 8 pm near the London Eye/Westminster. A huge spectacle requiring tickets; it's the pinnacle firework occasion for the city.

REBECCA LYONS PITZHANGER’S NEXT CHAPTER

T

his September, Rebecca Lyons will walk through the gates of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery as its new Director - the latest custodian of Sir John Soane’s Ealing masterpiece.

project, but as the beating heart of public engagement: “School groups are the most democratic way to involve young people. I want every child who comes here to feel that Pitzhanger belongs to them.”

It’s a role that seems almost tailor-made for her: a career steeped in historic architecture and bold contemporary art, a passion for learning and access for all, and a deep belief that museums should be as welcoming as they are inspiring.

“I love how Soane worked his way up from humble beginnings to design some of the most significant buildings of his time,” she says, her enthusiasm tangible.

“And he never lost his commitment to educating the next generation.”

Lyons arrives from the Royal Academy of Arts, where she has spent the past six years shaping its collections, archives and public programmes. Before that came senior roles at the National Trust, the National Gallery, Christie’s and the Attingham Trust. Her résumé reads like a greatest-hits list of British arts institutions - but she’s quick to point out that the thread connecting them all has been people.

And she’s keenly aware of the subtleties of inclusion: “Exclusion can be communicated in such subtle ways. I want Pitzhanger to feel open to everyone - and even to win over those who think it’s not for them.”

“I want every child who comes here to feel that Pitzhanger belongs to them.”

“It’s all for an audience,” she says. “What would we be without community engagement?”

A meeting of old and new Pitzhanger is, famously, where history and modernity share the same stage. Soane’s neoclassical gem sits in landscaped gardens, yet its galleries host exhibitions that could just as easily appear in Shoreditch or Mayfair. That interplay thrills Lyons.

“Soane’s manor was once contemporary architecture,” she comments. “The joy of ELM | 35

visual arts lies in that dialogue between past and present the old and the new.

And, as someone once told me early in my career, ‘all art was once contemporary.’”

This autumn’s programme is a case in point: Permindar Kaur’s playful sculptures, Prem Sahib’s minimalist interventions, and a winter show celebrating Howard Hodgkin. It’s a mix that Lyons sees as a statement of intent - wide-ranging, inclusive and ready to surprise.

Roots and responsibility For all her institutional polish, Lyons’ approach is grounded in lived experience. Growing up in Belfast during the Troubles gave her an acute sense of art’s power to bridge divides. Later, nearly a decade as chair of governors at a primary school in east London deepened her understanding of how education and community work go hand in hand.

She talks about school visits not as a side

A place for all seasons Lyons is already thinking beyond the galleries. She talks about the gardens with the same energy she reserves for the exhibitions. “They’re such an asset - not many galleries can say they make their own honey!” She imagines them as a place for conversation, reflection or just a quiet coffee on an autumn afternoon.

In that way, Pitzhanger under her watch might be as much a social and cultural meeting point as an art destination - a place where Ealing’s diverse communities can see themselves reflected in both its heritage and its future.

“It’s about building trust,” she says. “I want people to feel welcome here, whether they come for an exhibition, to take part in a workshop, or simply to sit in the gardens.

All are welcome.”

This September, as Rebecca Lyons steps into the directorship, Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery isn’t just getting a new leader. It’s gaining an advocate for art in all its forms - past, present and future - and for the people who make and experience it. www.pitzhanger.org.uk

PITZHANGER MANOR Pitzhanger Manor is a Grade I listed country house designed by the renowned neoclassical architect Sir John Soane. Built between 1800 and 1804, it served as both his family home and a showcase for his architectural style, blending elegant classical design with innovative use of light and space. The manor sits within Walpole Park, offering a picturesque setting that complements Soane’s vision of a rural retreat on the edge of the city. Over the centuries, the building has had many uses, including as a public library, but today it has been carefully restored to reflect Soane’s original designs. Now operating as a gallery and cultural venue, Pitzhanger Manor not only preserves an important piece of architectural heritage but also serves as a vibrant hub for art, history and community engagement.

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SPONSORED BY...

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNE VALLUY

WHY WE LOVE...

PITSHANGER LANE AN AWARD-WINNING HIGH STREET WITH A TRUE VILLAGE HEART.

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I

f you’re looking for a high street that still feels like a village, where shopkeepers know your name and neighbours stop for a chat, look no further than Pitshanger Lane. Known affectionately by locals as “The Lane”, this award-winning stretch - crowned London’s Best High Street in the Great British High Street competition - is the beating heart of Pitshanger.

Just a mile north of Ealing Broadway, Pitshanger Lane is home to around 50 independent traders. Traditional butchers, bakers, and greengrocers sit alongside modern gems like The Pitshanger Bookshop, Mooch, Pitshanger Bakery, Hook & Cleaver, Bella Mira and Harrisons W5. Cafés spill onto pavements, gift shops brim with curiosities and there are two pubs to choose from: the Village Inn and the Duke of Kent. Estate agent Paul Leslie captures the spirit perfectly: “It doesn’t get much better than a chicken wrap from Grillville, a coffee from Cinnamon,

“Pitshanger Lane has such a warm, welcoming feel, it’s like a little village tucked away in Ealing.

It’s a high street with heart - friendly, local, and full of life.” a stroll around Pitshanger Park and finishing with a pint in the garden at The Duke of Kent.”

Community is at the heart of Pitshanger.

Traders pride themselves on personal connections. Sandra O’Connell of Mooch explains: “Having close relationships with our customers cements our passion for being local this can’t be recreated in a busy shopping centre.” Belinda Harrison of Harrisons W5 agrees: “Many of my customers I now consider friends. I love the community spirit that still thrives in this unique area of West London.”

Beth Dunn, the new owner of

Pitshanger Bookshop, adds: “Pitshanger Lane has a true sense of community that you would be hard pressed to find elsewhere in London. The community loves to support the businesses along the lane, and as such we try to create a space where they feel welcome and appreciated. We do this at the bookshop through things such as ordering in books that we know specific customers will find interesting, or displaying the art of local artists. We are truly grateful to be a small part of such a lovely community.”

That community spirit extends beyond the shops. The Pitshanger Community Association organises annual highlights such as Light Up the Lane and Party in the Park. In recent years, events have moved into the Duke of Kent, but the emphasis remains firmly on bringing people together and raising funds for local causes.

Pitshanger also boasts beautiful green space. Pitshanger Park is a local favourite with tennis courts, a café, playgrounds, and the idyllic “Poo Stick Bridge” across the River Brent. The park backs onto Ealing Golf Club, whose course was reimagined by legendary designer Harry Colt. For those who prefer social sports and culture, the historic Brentham Club, founded in 1911, offers cricket, tennis, football and bowls alongside yoga classes, art groups, quiz nights and even summer street food markets.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNE VALLUY

For dog lovers, Pitshanger Lane has also become home to new ventures like Pooches of Pitshanger. Dean Horridge, who also runs Pitshanger Health & Fitness, says: “I am very excited to announce the opening of our local business Pooches of Pitshanger. I have lived in Pitshanger for over 30 years and have an amazing passionate team of dog lovers to welcome you and your dogs to our salon.”

At the spiritual heart of the Lane sits St Barnabas Church, more than just a place of worship. It doubles as a lively community hub, hosting ballet classes, scouts, a nursery and a popular programme of classical concerts.

As local resident and owner of children’s clothes brand Sunshine Follows You, Natasha Rawley sums up: “Pitshanger Lane has such a warm, welcoming feel, it’s like a little village tucked away in Ealing. It’s a high street with heart friendly, local and full of life.”

“It doesn’t get much better than a chicken wrap from Grillville, a coffee from Cinnamon, a stroll around Pitshanger Park, and finishing with a pint in the garden at The Duke of Kent.”

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Independent, family-friendly and overflowing with community spirit, Pitshanger Lane is more than a shopping street - it’s a way of life.

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D I F E N N O T C BEGINNINGS

SEVEN LOCAL EXPERTS GIVE THEIR ADVICE FOR YOUR CHILD’S FIRST SCHOOL DAYS

T

he first day of school is one of childhood’s most memorable milestones - a moment that blends excitement, pride, and, yes, a few butterflies. Whether your child is stepping into Reception for the first time or moving to a new stage, these early weeks set the tone for a love of learning.

Here in Ealing, local experts - from early years teachers and child psychologists to uniform specialists, nutritionists, booksellers and even family hairdressers - have shared their very best advice for a happy, confident start. And here’s the reassuring part: getting ready for school isn’t about cramming ABCs or counting to 100. It’s about nurturing independence, emotional resilience and curiosity… with a generous dash of fun.

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LEARNING STARTS WITH LIFE SKILLS

FEELINGS FIRST: SETTLING LITTLE MINDS

Aleks Mira from Scribble the Squirrel says: Forget the pressure of “perfect” handwriting in week one.

Reception is about readiness - and that means mastering little everyday tasks: feeding themselves, zipping a coat, changing for PE.

Dr. Cyra Neave from Little Branch Child Psychology Service says: It’s normal for both parents and children to feel a mix of excitement, anticipation and anxiety. Listen to your child’s worries, acknowledge their feelings and help them find their own coping strategies.

Early writing is playful: drawing in sand, tracing letters in the air, or building them from playdough. These activities strengthen the hand muscles children need for pencil control later on.

Practical prep helps too: get back into bedtime routines, involve children in choosing school supplies, and do a “practice run” of the school journey.

💡 Tip: “Little scribbles every day lead to big writing wins!”

💡 Tip: Parents, mind your own wellbeing - children mirror

INSIDE THE CLASSROOM

UNIFORM THAT WORKS FOR THEM

Keep writing sessions short and fun - 5 to 10 minutes is plenty. learnwithaleks.com/handwriting-workshops/

The Notting Hill & Ealing Early Years team says: Reception is a big adjustment, even for nursery veterans.

Familiar faces and familiar routines make the first days easier. Attend any “Stay & Play” sessions, and talk about school in positive, bite-sized conversations rather than overwhelming detail.

💡 Tip: Encourage curiosity: share picture books, explore

nature, cook together, and do puzzles. These activities build social, language, and problem-solving skills while strengthening fine motor control. And don’t over-schedule - rest is as vital as play. nhehs.gdst.net

your emotions. Staying calm and positive helps them feel secure. littlebranch.co.uk

Suzy Hill from Juniper Uniform, West Ealing says: Choose uniform with a comfortable fit and some growing room. Durable cotton-blend fabrics last longer, and wearing the uniform at home before term starts helps new starters feel at ease.

For children with sensory needs, work with the school to find acceptable alternatives - sometimes a small change, like a softer fabric or different collar, makes all the difference.

💡 Tip: Skip fabric conditioner and tumble drying to extend the life of school clothes. www.juniperuniform.com

FUEL FOR FOCUS

STORIES THAT SETTLE

Jacquie McBeth from meal kits brand Stir it Up says: Protein at breakfast keeps children focused and energised until lunch. Think omelettes, smoothies with yoghurt and fruit, or overnight oats.

Sulekah Joyce from Ealing Book Tree says: Reading together helps children imagine what school will be like, spot worries, and see it as an adventure. Sulekah’s top picks:

Packed lunches can be colourful and exciting: pasta salads, wraps, leftover dinners, and fresh fruit and veg in compartment lunchboxes.

1. I Am Too Absolutely Small for School – Lauren Child 2. Lulu’s First Day – Anna McQuinn 3. Hooray! It’s Our First Day – Martha Mumford

💡 Tip: Prep the night before - mornings are for getting out

💡 Tip: Read school stories together. Your child’s questions

the door, not packing sandwiches in a panic. stiritup.org.uk

can reveal hidden concerns - like a fear of getting lost - so you can address them early. ealingbooktree.co.uk

A CONFIDENT CUT Dora from Capelli Belli Family Salon says: Low-maintenance hairstyles make mornings smoother. Book trims a week before school starts, and let your child choose between a few parent-approved styles.

Turn haircut day into an event - bring a friend, watch a DVD at the salon and rehearse the first-day morning routine.

💡 Tip: Slip a tiny “good luck” note in their pocket for the first day - a secret smile for later. www.instagram.com/capellibelliealing

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EALING

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ACROSS 2. October 31st celebration with costumes 3. You jump in these crunchy things on the ground 6. Animal that gathers nuts for winter 8. Hot drink made from apples 9. Orange vegetable you might carve for Halloween 10. Worn to keep your neck warm in autumn DOWN 1. American festival celebrated in the autumn 4. Birds fly in this shape when migrating 5. What you wear to jump in muddy puddles 7. Season after summer

@EALINGLIVINGMAGAZINE ELM | 48

GOLDEN HARVEST FLAVOURS FOR THE AUTUMN

TROFIE WITH GREEN FIGS, PANCETTA & WILD FENNEL

BY ITALIAN COOK CRISTINA COSTANTINI This recipe may sound unusual — green figs, pancetta, and wild fennel — but together they create something truly special. Sweet figs, earthy fennel, and savoury pancetta come together in a delicate balance that feels like autumn on a plate. With figs in season from late August through October, this dish is best enjoyed in early autumn, when their gentle sweetness pairs beautifully with pasta and aged Parmesan.

Cook time: 40 minutes | Serves: 4 200–240g trofie pasta 20 green figs 120g Italian pancetta, diced 1 garlic clove 50ml dry white wine 100ml warm water

A few sprigs of wild fennel (or dill) 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Salt & black pepper Parmigiano Reggiano, to serve

Method Prepare the figs Blanch figs in boiling water for 2 minutes, drain and set aside.

Make the sauce In a large pan, warm the olive oil with the garlic until golden. Add pancetta and fennel, sauté until browned.

Stir in the halved figs, cook for a few minutes, then deglaze with white wine. Once evaporated, add warm water, cover, and simmer 8–10 minutes until figs soften.

Season to taste and remove the garlic.

Cook the pasta Boil trofie in salted water until 2 minutes short of al dente. Drain, reserving some cooking water.

Bring it together Toss pasta with the fig-pancetta sauce, adding ladles of cooking water as needed. Cook over high heat, stirring, until creamy and glossy.

Serve Finish with cracked black pepper, fennel fronds, and plenty of Parmesan. italianhomemade.co.uk ELM | 51

STICKY TOFFEE APPLE PUDDING

BY SOPHIA SALLOUM, PEBBLES LONDON A comforting twist on the classic - soft sponge with spiced apples, rich toffee sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients: Pudding: 250g dates, 250ml boiling water, 1 tsp bicarb, 1 tbsp molasses, 200g butter, 200g sugar (half dark, half light brown), 2 eggs, 275g selfraising flour, 1 tsp each cinnamon & ginger, 1 tsp vanilla paste.

Apples: 300g diced apples, 1 tsp cinnamon, 3 tbsp light brown sugar.

Toffee Sauce: 100g dark brown sugar, 50g butter, 75g double cream.

To serve: Vanilla ice cream, pecans (optional).

Method: Heat oven to 180°C, grease & line a baking tin.

Soak chopped dates in boiling water 25 mins.

Toss apples with cinnamon & sugar.

Cream butter & sugars, whisk in eggs. Blend dates with their liquid, molasses, spices & vanilla; stir in bicarb. Fold flour into butter mix, then add date mix.

Layer half apples, half batter, then repeat. Bake 45–50 mins.

For sauce: simmer sugar, butter & cream 5 mins until thick.

Cool pudding slightly, poke holes, pour over sauce, rest 20 mins.

Serve warm with ice cream, extra sauce & pecans. www.pebbleslondon.com ELM | 52

LOCAL NEWS, GROUPS & CLASSES

ART CLASSES AND LIFE DRAWING Tuesday weekly art classes, 10am -12 noon, and 12.45 - 2.45, and monthly Saturday Life Drawing Workshops, 10.00 -1.00pm, at The Brentham Club, 38a Meadvale Rd. Ealing, near Pitshanger Lane. Free parking. All experience levels welcome in longstanding, friendly groups. £156 for 12 week term or £15.50 weekly, payable by card. £25 including all materials and refreshments for Life Drawing.

For dates and information, contact Pamela Lloyd-Jones 07941938466 or email pamelalloydjones@hotmail.com.

STRONGER WITH PILATES CORPS At Pilates Corps, we deliver safe, progressive teaching of the Pilates Method in a welcoming, purpose-built studio above Sainsbury’s in West Ealing. Join group mat or reformer classes at affordable prices, or choose private and semi-private sessions with specialised equipment. We also offer workplace classes and home visits. Exciting news—our brand-new Reformer classes have arrived and are open to book now! Discover the full schedule and book today at www.pilatescorps.co.uk TIMELESS MEMORIES IN 3D Preserve Precious Moments.

We create bespoke 3D Life castings that capture the beauty of Pregnancy, New Life, Self Love, Family Bonds and treasured memories of loved ones. Each sculpture is a timeless piece of Art, created to hold and cherish forever. Follow us on Instagram @kieativekeepsakes www.kieativekeepsakes.com WELLNESS, BALANCE AND CONNECTION Virginia Offiah – @virginia_the_wellness_warrior Supporting women to recharge, restore balance, and find calm through soulful wellness retreats in the UK and abroad, alongside revitalising Vitamin B12 injections.

Virginia also hosts her popular twice-monthly Social Walking Group, Walk With Virginia — open to everyone — a welcoming space to walk, talk, and connect, finishing with a friendly pub social. Sign up to hear about next year’s Andalusia Adventure Wellness Retreat. www.soletosoulwellnessdays.com

ELM | 53

MAKE CREATE FEEL GREAT MUSIC Inspirational instrumental tuition on the clarinet saxophone flute by experienced professional available to all levels, based in Ealing. Holiday music Workshops and community events exploring rhythm, creativity and performance skills through ensemble music making. BUILDING CONFIDENCE and always FUN. For further details contact: Jody Sapsard https://jodysapsard.my.canva.site/home/ ARTFUL MOMENTS WITH NIXARTZ Welcome to NixArtz! I’m Nikki, a resin artist and crafter, and I’d love to invite you to discover the joy of creativity in my hands-on workshops. From glossy resin art to fabric “scrapes to landscapes,” there’s something inspiring for everyone. Each session is relaxed and welcoming, with step-by-step guidance to support you at your own pace. Leave with a unique artwork, a new skill, and a truly enjoyable experience. niki_2678@yahoo.com | @NixArtz RENEW, REFRESH, RESTORE Little Healing offers a residential sauna and ice bath booking service, now with a newly expanded sauna for an even more relaxing experience. Enjoy private access to hot and cold therapy (including cold shower and changing room) for an hour of de-stressing, recovery, and wellness. Come solo or bring a friend. Book in advance. eGift cards, memberships, and single sessions available. www.littlehealing.co.uk | @littlehealing_ THE GREAT OUTDOOR CLASSROOM Discover the magic of Forest School! Perfect for holidays, half terms, weekends and unforgettable birthday parties. Children step away from screens to explore nature, encounter wildlife, and enjoy hands-on activities like whittling, nature crafts, bushcraft, and outdoor cooking. Each session sparks curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the great outdoors. A place to make new friends, create lasting memories, and leave feeling relaxed, happy, and connected with nature. The ultimate adventure for young explorers and teenagers. https://bookwhen.com/forestbudslammasprogramme FIND YOUR FIGHTING SPIRIT Discover strength, confidence and community and our modern, inclusive martial arts academy in central Ealing. GFA offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Self Defence, Yoga & Conditioning for adults and children of all levels. Reconnect with your body, develop skills, and form meaningful social connections in a welcoming space. Whether you’re training for fitness, fun or to become a champion - move more, feel better and start your journey to becoming the best version of yourself. Book a trial at www.thegauntletfighyacademy.com

If you’d like to list your news, group or class, please email louisa@ealinglivingmagazine.co.uk with the information.

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HANDWRITING MADE FUN Handwriting Adventures with Aleks and Scribble the Squirrel Coming soon. Weekly Saturday sessions at 11.30 am for ages 6–9. Led by a qualified teacher, our fun, small-group classes build pencil grip, letter formation, spacing, and stamina, aligned with UK phonics guidance. All materials included, plus takehome practice so parents can support easily.

Launching this term in Ealing, space TBC. Limited places are available - JOIN the waitlist. Follow @scribblethesquirrelhq or email hello@learnwithaleks.com to register your interest now.

PLAY, LEARN, GROW TOGETHER Tots Play Acton offers, fun, interactive classes for babies and toddlers, combining, baby, massage, yoga, sign language, music, sensory play, and more. Designed to support early development, classes include baby, development, discovery Tots, and social Tots, suitable from birth to 3 years. Led by Taibah at Acton Gardens, community centre, sessions are relaxed, friendly, great for bonding and making new friends. book your place or find out more at www.totsplay.co.uk/acton follow us on Facebook and Instagram- Tots Play Acton GROW YOUR SKILLS AT GREENKA Greenka on Oak Road in Ealing is more than a plant shop - it’s a place to learn, create and connect. Alongside their curated selection of houseplants, Greenka hosts engaging workshops and classes, from terrarium building and repotting sessions to creative plant-care tutorials. Perfect for beginners and seasoned plant parents alike, these hands-on experiences make caring for greenery accessible, fun and social. Discover upcoming classes and nurture your green skills at greenka.uk.

INSPIRING DANCE, LASTING CONFIDENCE SA Dance in Ealing is dedicated to training the artists of the future while nurturing confidence, creativity, and joy in movement.

With classes in Acro, Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Lyrical, PBT, Sing & Act, and Tap, there’s something for every age and ability. Children and adults alike can discover their passion for dance in a supportive, inspiring environment.

Book a trial class today and take your first step with us. www.sa-dance.co.uk | @sadance.uk

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