Life Magazines (Kent editions) August 2019

An entertaining programme of events and activities set amidst award-winning gardens.

WELCOME TO OUR

August ISSUE THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5HZ, UK 0844 800 8439 www.thelifemagazines.com

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© All Rights Reserved. Life Magazines are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd. takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in these publications and any loss arising therefrom. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to Life Magazines, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the loss or damage to such material. Fish Media Group Ltd. reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication.

Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.

Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Ben Jones ••••• Fashion Editor Lewis Casserley ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• business development managers Tim Lees, Lisa Westerman ••••• SALES Vanessa Lane, Anita Hill ••••• Accounts Kathy Manning, Andree Georgiou ••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

09

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

41

HOUSE & GARDEN

49

FOOD & DRINK

69

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best

Chislehurst Office: Suite 5, Langford House, 7-7a High Street, Chislehurst, Kent, BR7 5AB Beckenham Office: 48 High Street, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 1AY

Keep it local for everything house and home Bringing you updates on the local food and drink scene

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i ma g e : C ON C OURS O F E L E G A N C E

OUT & ABOUT

8 august

Funky Fridays Disco for over 21’s including DJ, Photobooth, LED dance floor and raffle. Playing all the best cheese, 80’s, 90’s, kisstory, club classics, old skool garage, club hits as well as taking requests on the night. Our photobooth will be free to use throughout the night and our photographer will be going round taking photographs throughout.

Elite Venue, Dunkirk Road, Gravesend, Kent DA15 2ND

[events]

OUT & ABOUT 8 august

until 30 august

Sevenoaks Barracudas Activity Day Camp Keep your little ones out of trouble and occupied this summer with Sevenoaks Barracudas Activity Camp! They run fun activity days and weeks for children aged from 4.5-14 years during the school summer holidays. With 80+ activities including archery, motorsports, arts and crafts, sports and more, there is something for everyone.

Standard hours are 8.30am5.30pm with an option to extend from 8am-6pm for an additional fee.

Walthamstow Hall, Hollybush Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3UL 10 AUGUST 2019

open air cinema The Greatest Showman (2017, cert PG, 1hr 46mins) A feel good film for all the family with plenty of opportunity to singalong, celebrating the imagination of showman P.T. Barnam. £11 adults, £9 under 16s. Gates open at 7pm, film starts approx. 8.45pm Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ

UNTIL 1 september

Summer Holiday Fun: Animal Antics!

Pick up our Summer Holiday Activity Pack complete with “Explorer Card”. Each child completing the card will receive a free Firework Spectacular Ticket. There will also be a variety of shows in our Big Top, all included within the admission price. Don’t forget to catch our Animal Antics show too with our livestock team.

Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone ME14 3AU

25 august

West Malling Farmers Market The farmers market in West Malling is held on the 4th Sunday of the month. The farmers market is open between 9.30am and 1.30pm and a wide variety of local produce from the area is available including fish, cakes, pies, bread, wines, fruit juice and much more. Winner of Best Farmers Market in Kent 2016 and listed in National Geographic Food Magazine in the Top 10 Farmers Markets in the UK to visit - December 2017.

Winner of Best UK Market 2018 Farm Shop and Deli Awards. Contact: 07775 736116 West Malling High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6NA

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

2-4 august

Athena Wellness Retreat Join us for a relaxing and rustic weekend in the West Kent countryside, where we will explore The 5 ways of Wellbeing; Mindfulness; Yoga; Developing self-awareness and connection alongside our horses; Learning new healthy eating habits; Traditional Cacoa ceremony.

To book your place contact info@athenaherd.org.uk.

High Lees Farmhouse, Wagon Lane, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PT

15 august

4 AUGUST

Orchard House, Spenny Lane - Open Garden for NGS A relatively new garden created within the last 13yrs. Gravel garden with potted tender perennials, cottage garden and herbaceous borders. Potager with vegetables, fruit and flowers for cutting. Bee friendly borders. Tropical style planting with breeze house added 2018. Hornbeam avenue underplanted with camassia. Small nursery on site specialising in herbaceous perennials and ornamental grasses.

Orchard House, Spenny Lane, Tonbridge, Kent TN12 9PJ

29 JULY - 2 AUGUST

Animal Magic Bearded dragons, cute bunnies, mischievous meerkats, hungry chicks, pygmy hedgehogs and many, many more. Get up close and personal with all the amazing animals from Animal Magic. A great experience for children and adults alike. 10am, 11.30am & 2pm (1hr session). Book in advance.

Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ

26 AUGUST

Ice Cream Festival Kent Life welcomes back the Ice Cream Festival! Sample tasters of what is to offer from many ice cream vendors and sweet stalls.

Take part in the animal activities or visit our face painter. Why not sit back and listen to the bands perform on the Dairy stage. Or take a trip on our fun farm ride!

Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone ME14 3AU 12 AUGUST 2019

Bat Walk Join us on a dusk walk through the gardens to hear and see these nocturnal creatures. Bat detector supplied!

Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ

17-18 august

Truckfest South East Truckfest returns to Kent! Join us for a great family fun filled weekend with monster trucks, stunt bike action, childrens characters, celebrity guests and hundreds of trucks on show!

9am-5.30pm. Tickets available on www.truckfest.co.uk Hop Farm, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY

OUT & ABOUT

Judge & Priestley recruit a new partner for the residential conveyancing team

J

udge & Priestley Solicitors are excited to announce the appointment of Kavitha Rajah as a partner in the busy Residential Conveyancing department, based in their Bromley office.

Kavitha is already well known and respected in the local area, having previously set up her own successful practice in 2008. Kavitha’s unique style of service and leadership is an asset to her clients.

She is looking forward to providing legal services to her existing clients and to her new Judge & Priestley clients with her customary professionalism and enthusiasm.

Kavitha brings with her over 20 years’ experience in all aspects of freehold and leasehold conveyancing including re-mortgages, transfers of equity transactions and lease extensions.

The appointment of Kavitha grows the J&P

14 AUGUST 2019

Residential Conveyancing team to 20-strong. The team is led by partner and Head of Residential Conveyancing, Madelaine Henwood who has been with the firm since 2008.

Madelaine commented “We are very proud to have Kavitha join us at Judge & Priestley. Her outlook and progressive vision of the future mirrors our own plans and we are pleased to welcome her here. Her positive, energetic and hardworking approach will fit in very well with the ethos of this firm and we are excited for the future Kavitha added “I am elated to be joining such an established and reputable Bromley practice. I now have the opportunity to realise my long term ambitions with a firm that has a similar vision to my own.

For any enquiries, please contact Nita Newsome on 0208 290 7425.

“We are very proud to have Kavitha join us at Judge & Priestley.

Her outlook and progressive vision of the future mirrors our own plans”

L-R Kavitha Rajah, Partner and Madelaine Henwood, Partner and Head of Conveyancing at J&P.

OUT & ABOUT

ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF THE BERKELEY BAR & TERRACE

T

he Berkeley has revealed a new addition to the landmark five star hotel, with the opening of The Berkeley Bar & Terrace.

This is the second bar at the hotel, joining the legendary Blue Bar which opened in 2000.

With a rich design story conceived by Irish interior designer Bryan O’Sullivan, The Berkeley Bar offers a finely curated menu of exemplary rare wines, champagne and dark spirits. The bar is intimate and refined, with a sense of old world glamour, with its own terrace for alfresco gatherings, and The Snug for private parties.

“I am honoured to have been asked to create this very special space for The Berkeley, famous for creating iconic bars” The Snug has been designed for more secluded occasions, set away from the main bar and seating up to nine guests. It features a spectacular mural, painted by New York-based artist TM Davy, in a concept developed together with Bryan O’Sullivan.

Davy was inspired by original snug spaces in public houses, usually reserved for women and their secret discussions, when men and women did not mix socially. The mural depicts gazing female faces with mysterious and knowing expressions, all connected with rhythmic lines to portray the connection and trusted relationships between them. With its own sound system and call-for-service button, The Snug provides visitors with their own bespoke space.

The Berkeley Bar & Terrace, will be a destination for wine connoisseurs and guests looking for expert, intuitive service. Exquisite wine – spanning a wide range of grape varieties and countries – plus exclusive champagne, whisky, cognac, rums and more make up the menu, from both under the 16 AUGUST 2019

radar producers such as Japanese whisky maker Ichiro, tequila producer Fortaleza, rum maker Trois Rivières and notable names such as Sassicaia and Macallan. A capsule menu of nine old time and modern classic cocktails such as the Sazerac and the Corpse Reviver are also being served. To mark the opening, The Berkeley team worked with Scottish whisky producers Gordon and MacPhail on the creation of a rare whisky from 1972, the year the hotel opened. There are only two bottles of this unique spirit sourced.

The menu includes small plates with dishes such as Cornish crab and lobster beignets, Iberico ham toast with manchego, apricot and salsa verde, and camembert chicken tulips, alongside classic caviar and oyster dishes. The bar is also home to an edit of fine cigars.

Bryan O’Sullivan said “I am honoured to have been asked to create this very special space for The Berkeley, famous for creating iconic bars.

The rich history of the building provided a spring board of inspiration for what we hope is a timeless yet contemporary new edition to this London landmark. We are delighted to introduce The Berkeley Bar to our guests and, of course, our local community,” says Knut Wylde, General Manager of The Berkeley. “The hotel continues to contribute to the vibrant London bar scene with this opening which will complement our much-loved Blue Bar, and add something extra special to the hotel.”

THE DETAILS Opening hours are 4pm – 1am, Monday to Saturday. www.the-berkeley.co.uk The Berkeley Wilton Place Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RL 0207 235 6000

ABOUT THE BERKELEY In leafy Knightsbridge, The Berkeley, sister hotel to Claridge’s and The Connaught, is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. With stunning rooms and suites, Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, fashion favourite afternoon tea Prêt-à-Portea in the Collins Room, cocktails in The Blue Bar and The Berkeley Health Club & Spa complete with rooftop pool, The Berkeley provides the ultimate urban retreat in the heart of London.

How dreams take shape Let your dreams take shape in the elegant form of a Stoneham hand-built kitchen. Each one is made to your individual specifications, thoughtfully and meticulously designed using only the finest woods and quality finishes. At Kitchen Design of Sevenoaks we have 39 years experience in both contemporary and traditional designs.

All of our handmade British kitchens offer a pleasing choice of innovative features, inspiring technology: each and every kitchen can be your dream come true.

118 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1BS Email: kdofsevenoaks@aol.com www.kdofsevenoaks.com

01732 741100

OUT & ABOUT

18 AUGUST 2019

More Space, More Light, More Wow!

Our exclusive seasoned oak glazed extensions will transform your home with a stunning new living space. A place to spend quality time with family, entertain guests or enjoy your garden all year round.

 Listed property & planning specialists  Free expert design consultation  Bespoke craftsmanship  Family owned business

Call 01323 01892 442255 481417 or

download our brochure at www.oakconservatories.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Trinity Theatre’s Autumn Highlights F

ollowing a summer of firsts for Trinity Theatre – taking two youth theatre shows to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe; the Gardening Club volunteers participating in Britain in Bloom; and launching ArtsBox, a brand new fringe arts festival for Tunbridge Wells – and ahead of this year’s Christmas show, Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen, there’s a bumper programme of unmissable theatre, music, comedy and film on offer this autumn.

To celebrate NT Live’s 10th birthday, the hilarious West End and Broadway hit One Man, Two Guvnors returns for an encore screening on Sunday 6th October, featuring a Tony Award winning performance from James Corden. This slapstick knockabout follows the charmingly hapless Francis Henshall, recently fired from his skiffle band, and now minder to small time East End hood Roscoe Crabb. Hailed as “the funniest show in town” by The Telegraph, Francis must muddle through escalating double dealings and mistaken identities in this fast paced comedy riot.

Striking a different tone, the enchanting Posting Letters to the Moon offers a romantic, funny, and very touching portrait of life during the early 1940s. Featuring readings of wartime letters between Oscar nominated actress Celia Johnson (of Brief Encounter fame), and her explorer and writer husband Peter Fleming (brother of James

20 AUGUST 2019

Bond creator Ian Fleming), performed by their daughter Lucy Fleming, this “theatrical gem” (British Theatre Guide) comes to Trinity on Sunday 29th September.

Trinity are also delighted to be welcoming back Tenors Un Limited, the self styled “rat pack of opera”, on Friday 4th October. The number one selling classical vocal trio thrill once again with their uplifting new show, That’s Amoré, as the Tenors take a journey through some of the best loved songs of the last century, made famous by other “icons of song”, such as Pavarotti, Lanza, Sting, Bublé and Freddie Mercury. All your troubles will melt away as these three greatest of showmen present a diverse programme with their trademark soaring vocals, velvet harmonies, and killer sense of humour.

Trinity favourite Griff Rhys Jones also makes a welcome return with his brand new full length stand-up show on Friday 8th November. It’s time to join one half of Smith & Jones, one quarter of Not the Nine O’Clock News, and one third of Three Men In a Boat as he presents an evening of hilarious true stories, riffs, observations, and details of his recent medical procedures. It’s all guaranteed to be packed with wicked insights into the pains of celebrity, the vicissitudes of parenthood, and encounters with the great, the good, and even the royal.

For younger audiences, don’t miss the spellbinding I Believe in Unicorns on Monday 21st October, as best selling children’s author Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story comes to life on stage.

This intimate show is set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of a young boy called Tomas. An enchanting and interactive production, this big hearted theatrical treat is sure to spark imagination in both young and old.

For more information, and to book tickets, visit trinitytheatre.net, or call Box Office on 01892 678 678

“The number one selling classical vocal trio thrill once again with their uplifting new show, That’s Amoré, as the Tenors take a journey through some of the best loved songs of the last century, made famous by other “icons of song”, such as Pavarotti, Lanza, Sting, Bublé and Freddie Mercury”

OUT & ABOUT

A Classic Day Out

Concours of Elegance 2019 6-8 September, Hampton Court Palace

READER OFFER:

2-4-1

TICKETS

T

he most astonishing cars ever produced, a line-up of world-famous luxury brands, and one of the UK’s most beautiful historic settings. That’s the very successful recipe for the world-famous Concours of Elegance.

Presented by luxury watchmakers, A. Lange & Söhne, the Concours of Elegance first began at Windsor Castle in 2012 and has since hosted at St James’s Palace, Hampton Court Palace, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Hampton Court Palace in 2017 and 2018 where it returns once more this year.

Concours of Elegance has a stunning collection of cars at its heart – morphing into a celebration of luxury goods, fine food and drink, wonderful music and superb displays of art.

The line-up is a feast of the most famous brands in the world; Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Bugatti and Lamborghini. Each car in the Concours is by invitation only - your car must be extremely special - one-offs, rarities and models with incredible backstories.

On display is an impeccable and highly original Ballot 3/8 LC, hidden for many years and only recently rediscovered. It turned out to be even more momentous, as it came to light this Ballot was the exact car that won the first Italian Grand Prix back in 1921. An impeccable piece of motorsport history.

The line-up continues with a collection of fine Italian supercars from Pagani. Concours of Elegance will gather six examples, spanning its near-

22 AUGUST 2019

20-year production run.

In total, nearly 1000 cars will gather in the Palace grounds for a number of other features, including the sixth annual Royal Automobile Club Trophy.

The UK’s finest car clubs, from Jaguar, Ferrari, Aston Martin, enter their finest vehicles for an opportunity to win a much-vaunted place among the Main Concours collection of cars in the 2020 event.

A special feature will see a number of Ferrari 166 models – the only car to have won the Le Mans 24 Hours, the Mille Miglia and the Spa 24 Hours races.

Visitors can browse one example of each of its gorgeous masterpieces created in partnership with Aston Martin.

All of these cars provide a unique atmosphere for a whole host of luxury experiences at Concours of Elegance, including three-course luxury picnics, an on-site fine-dining restaurant by Tom Aikens and champagne by the original Champagne Charlie, Charles Heidsieck.

CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE READER OFFER The prestigious event are offering our readers 2 for 1 tickets.

Simply head to www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/ tickets and use the code LIFEVIP to claim your discount.

OUT & ABOUT

Totally Thames 2019 announces festival programme Sunday 1st – Monday 30th September 2019 Top left: Newly illuminated London, Cannon Street, Southwark & Millennium Bridges. Photo: Illuminated RI

T

otally Thames 2019 has announced their 2019 programme exploring the environmental importance and the rich and varied cultural heritage of the capital’s river. The event encourages visitors to participate in artistic, historical and musical events in celebration of this iconic landmark. Its diverse culture and its connection to the rest of the world, Totally Thames 2019 is jam-packed with exciting events bringing together local communities with visitors from across the globe.

Illuminated River Boat Tours, various locations Tue 5th & Tue 10th Sept, 9.15pm – 10pm, Thu 12th & Thu 19th Sept, 9pm – 9.45pm. £4.50-£6.

Join official City Guides and experts from Historic England as they take you on a stunning journey under the newly illuminated London, Cannon Street, Southwark and Millennium Bridges.

Classic Boat Festival, St Katharine Docks, E1W Fri 6th – Sun 8th Sept, various times. Free.

Over 40 beautiful vintage sailing and motor boats will be on show for visitors to explore. There will be a programme of family-fun events including river trips aboard the Thames Sailing Barge Lady Daphne.

Highlights include: Foreshore Festival, Fulham Palace, SW6.

Sun 1st Sept, 11am – 3pm. Free.

Discover London’s past beneath the waves and underneath your feet. Visitors can celebrate the history of Fulham on the river, and get hands on with some of the objects found at the Palace!

Discover London’s Wildlife Secret with ZSL, The Riverside Walkway, 1 London Bridge, SE1.

Sun 1st – Mon 30th Sept.

Join ZSL on a virtual reality journey into the Thames. Peer into ZSL’s VR portal to discover the incredible wildlife. As you ‘swim’ along, you will join ZSL’s conservation team in discovering all the amazing species that call the River Thames home.

RNLI Tower Lifeboat Station Open Days, Lifeboat Pier, WC2R Thu 5th, Fri 13th, Wed 18th & Sun 29th Sept, various times. Free, pre-booked.

The Tower Lifeboat Station is opening up to encourage visitors to learn all about the RNLI’s amazing Lifeboat crew, their important and essential work, and to take a tour of the Station!

24 AUGUST 2019

“Discover London’s past beneath the waves and underneath your feet”

Regatta London, Hammersmith – Greenwich and Putney – Big Ben. Sun 29th Sept, 8am. Free.

The Thames’ newest and biggest river extravaganza features kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards and rowed boats, racing for environmental causes.

Join in the fun at the start of the race at Putney Riverside Festival, or mid-way through at Shadwell Riverside Festival.

Full details of the Totally Thames 2019 programme can be found online at www.totallythames.org @TotallyThames, #TotallyThames

OUT & ABOUT

Tea Time by Beauty of the Soul

Autumn Collection in-store from 31st August 2019

R

einventing the ritual of teatime with endlessly renewed creativity and unparalleled savoirfaire…that’s the challenge that Pierre Marcolini sets himself each year!

This year the chocolatier explores an ingredient of exceptional delicacy: tea. Oolong, Gyokuro, Pu-Erh, Matcha, etc.

With the combination of grands crus of cacao and exceptional teas, teatime becomes an art form. The art of tasting and discovery of unexpected flavours.

PURE GANACHES These perfect cubes of ganache with no coating invite us to sample grands crus chocolate combined with rare and precious teas. Each recipe combines a crunchy base and soft ganache and conveys a sublime duality of tastes and textures.

Six creations take the spotlight: • Oolong tea, madagascan dark chocolate and Madagascan vanilla • Gyokyro hikari tea, sugar-free house milk chocolate, and saké • Orange valley darjeeling tea, house sugar-free Cameroon Ecuador dark chocolate, and crunchy almond and caramelised sesame • Matcha tea, yuzu, house white chocolate and crunchy hazelnut and caramelised sesame • Dark pu-erh tea, house cameroon-ecuador smoked dark chocolate and pumpkin and sunflower seed crunch • Smoky lapsang tea, house milk chocolate and crunchy hazelnut and caramelised sesame The ‘plumier’ of 18 pieces: €/£19.90 and The ‘malline’ of 36 pieces: €/£39.0 For You...

MATCHA HEARTS The House icon, adapted according to the seasons and the wishes of Pierre Marcolini, the renowned Heart takes on the colour of jade. It contains a ganache with matcha tea and yuzu in a shell of House white chocolate. An absolute must-eat, limited edition product.

The ‘plumier’ of 15 pieces: €/£19.90 State of Grace

Sweet Bubbles

MELOVE CAKE Marshmallow and tea go hand in hand with two limited edition recipes: Marshmallow with Smokey Lapsang tea, crunchy hazelnut and a shell of House dark chocolate and Marshmallow with Earl Grey tea, crunchy hazelnut, and a shell of House milk chocolate.

The ‘plumier’ of 8 pieces: €/£ 19.90 Connoisseur’s Delight

THE TABLET WITH MATCHA TEA House milk chocolate fondant, the subtle flavour of matcha tea and the crunch of sesame.

The autumn’s essential chocolate tablet is here.: €/£11 Like a Dream

CHOCOLAT BAR2 Irresistible treats on-the-go, chocolate bars are welcome at any time of day. This season, they take on the flavours of the Far East with two limitededition recipes.

• Ganache with Jasmine Chung Hao tea, House dark chocolate and crunchy pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

• Ganache with Smokey Lapsang tea, House Milk chocolate and crunchy hazelnut and caramelised sesame.

MATCHA TRUFFLES

Chocolate pastilles

When a great chocolate classic is offered at teatime… it gives a sublime fragrant truffle. An exclusive recipe based on matcha tea and House dark chocolate from Cameroon-Ecuador.

The ‘plumier’ of 18 pieces: €/£ 19.90

To nibble during a coffee break or to use in baking, their chocolate pastilles are available in two original beechwood-smoked recipes: Smoked dark chocolate pastilles:€€/£15 - Smoked milk chocolate pastilles: €/£15 Available at: Pierre Marcolini, 37 Marylebone High Street, W1U 4EQ Counters in Selfridges and Harrods.

Online at https://uk.marcolini.com.

Facebook.com/PierreMarcolini.

Twitter/ Instagram - @pierremarcolini

Tribute to Japan

GLUTEN-FREE CAKE WITH EARL GREY TEA The Japanese tea ceremony, also called Chanoyu, is always accompanied by a delicate pastry. Pierre 26 AUGUST 2019

Marcolini pays tribute to the land of the rising sun with this Earl Grey cake topped with a creamy yuzumatcha tea ganache. The recipe, based on rice flour, is gluten-free.

The House cake is available in a brand-new size, more elongated and easier to slice. €/£9.90

West of London

Over 100 Pianos. Largest choice of quality new and used upright pianos for London and the Home Counties. All pianos delivered and set up anywhere in the UK. Easy Free Parking – Only 25 miles from London.

Showroom open 6 days a week. Well worth a visit.

Showroom: 194 Penn Road, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP15 7NU www.countrywidepianos.co.uk | Tel: 01494 813388

OUT & ABOUT

A LICENCE TO BUILD U

LEGO® Creator Expert James Bond™ Aston Martin DB5. Suitable for ages 16+

ncover the secrets of 007’s most iconic vehicle with the awesome LEGO® Creator Expert 10262 James Bond™ Aston Martin DB5. This impressive 1:8 scale replica model captures the elegance and timeless sophistication of Agent 007’s world-famous 1964 Aston Martin DB5 sports car. Regarded by many as the most beautiful Aston Martin ever produced.

Goldfinger was the third film in the James Bond series and the first featuring the Aston Martin DB5.

It comes with a wealth of authentic gadgets and gizmos – all created in Q’s workshop. Open the doors and you’ll discover an elaborate detailed interior with a concealable radar tracker and a door compartment containing a telephone. And when it’s time for action, turn the revolving number plates, raise the rear-window bulletproof screen, deploy the wheel-mounted tyre scythes and pull back the gearstick to reveal the front wing machine guns!

Unwelcome passengers are also easy to deal with— simply activate the passenger ejector seat!

The exterior of the car, painted in Silver Birch just like the original, also features a detailed straight-6 engine, drum-lacquered silver front and rear bumpers, opening boot, bonnet and doors,

28 AUGUST 2019

It comes with a wealth of authentic gadgets and gizmos – all created in Q’s workshop.

moulded silver-coloured wire wheel rim inserts and front and rear Aston Martin logos. The model has been designed to provide a challenging and rewarding building experience full of nostalgia— a must-have for fans of the Aston Martin DB5, James Bond movies and LEGO building sets.

Featuring 1,290 pieces, you can combine the understated sophistication of Aston Martin with the joy of LEGO building and create your very own piece of James Bond™ memorabilia.

This LEGO Creator Expert model, packed with a wealth of James Bond™ gadgetry, is sure to have fans rubbing their hands with excitement.

The finished model measures over 3” (10cm) high, 13” (34cm) long and 4” (12cm) wide, making this a perfect display piece whilst showcasing the timeless elegance of 007’s iconic sports car.

The LEGO Creator Expert James Bond Aston Martin DB5 10262 007 toy car advanced building set can be built together with all other original LEGO sets and LEGO building blocks for creative construction.

Available from LEGO Stores and shop.LEGO. com and other reputable retailers. RRP £129.99. www.astonmartin.com

OUT & ABOUT

London Design Festival Announces its 17th Edition: A Citywide Celebration of Design

Clockwise from top left: Please Be Seated, Paul Cocksedge; Affinity In Autonomy at V&A; Iri-Descent, Liz West; Camille Walala, South Molton Street

14-22 September 2019

L

ondon Design Festival returns with an inspiring programme of events and installations, bringing together global designers, artists and architects with a vision to celebrate and promote London as the design capital of the world.

This year marks 11 years with the V&A as a collaborating partner and the official Festival hub. The world’s leading museum of art, design and performance will again host specially-commissioned projects by internationally-renowned designers and LDF’s leadership programme, Global Design Forum, which celebrates design with an inspirational line-up of talks, debates, daily tours and workshops.

There will be 10 official Design Districts, each organised locally and independently via the platform of London Design Festival. New for 2019 are Kings Cross Design District and Chelsea Design District, which join design districts in Bankside, Brompton, Clerkenwell, Marylebone, Mayfair, West Kensington, Pimlico Road, Shoreditch Design Triangle and Victoria Connections.

LANDMARK PROJECTS include: British designer Paul Cocksedge is transforming Finsbury Avenue Square, Broadgate with: PLEASE BE SEATED. The large-scale installation, fuses innovation and technology, and responds to the changing rhythm of the community: its design features curves for people to sit on and walk under, further enhancing London’s largest pedestrianised neighbourhood.

FESTIVAL COMMISSIONS include: • LIFE LABYRINTH by Patternity will be located at Westminster Cathedral Piazza. The heart of the installation will be based around a giant geometric labyrinth formation, a pattern-based journey proven to have positive health benefits for the user as they meander through the journey to the centre of the piece. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the sacred space, amidst the hustle and bustle of London life.

• Iri-Descent by Liz West is a suspended arrangement of 150 skeleton-framework cubes located in the atrium of the historic Fortnum & Mason store in Piccadilly. Clad with dichromatic film in two differing colour-ways, the cubes appear to change colour as visitors move around the atrium and between the floors above and below.

SPECIAL PROJECTS include: Camille Walala returns in a characteristically colourful manner. The designer has been commissioned by Grosvenor Britain & Ireland to energise and enliven South Molton Street, in the heart of the West End, with a bold and beautiful family of street furniture. Combining head-turning colour and geometric shapes, the 11 3D sculptural benches of Walala Lounge will give visitors something unexpected to look at – and to sit on.

PROJECTS AT THE V&A include: • Canadian designer, Matthew McCormick, 30 AUGUST 2019

presents Falling Sky, a multi-story design-art installation featuring countless deconstructed, frost-like formations, positioned over the heads of its onlookers. The asymmetrical fragments are seemingly frozen in time, offering observers a means to take pause and reflect on the effects of planetary change through global warming.

• Affinity in Autonomy - translating innovation into perceptual experiences is the theme for the creation of this interactive robotic pendulum. The independence and free-will of robotics is portrayed by its random movements. Human presence can be detected and recognition appears from within the kinetic motion, engaging visitors seeking an emotional and physical response.

For further details visit www.londondesignfestival.com #LDF19. Instagram: L_D_F_official.

Twitter: L_D_F. Facebook: LondonDesignFestival

OUT & ABOUT

50 YEARS OF TRAMP

London’s most iconic private members club, TRAMP is celebrating 50 years at the pinnacle of the nightlife industry

32 AUGUST 2019

Images: Getty

O

pened in December 1969, the Jermyn Street club has welcomed a who’s who of A-list celebrities through its unassuming doors and into the 300-capacity basement of bacchanalia, below.

Original members included Sir Mick Jagger, Sir Roger Moore, Sir Michael Caine and sisters Joan and Jackie Collins, but the club quickly became a magnet for movie stars, musicians and even royalty, and before long, Tramp became a byword for sophisticated debauchery.

During the 1970s it wasn’t uncommon to see George Best on the dance floor while Sir Matt Busby frantically called the club’s front desk, trying to locate his absent star player; Marlon Brando holding court in the restaurant over a glass of scotch and Amaretto; and Frank Sinatra relaxing on his favourite seat in the lounge area, where guests would fall over themselves at the sight of Ol’ Blue Eyes as they emerged from the adjacent women’s toilets.

Sir Rod Stewart once said of the club: “I remember coming out of Tramp when I used to play Sunday morning football and I’d get home at about four or five in the morning and I’d get up about three hours later for an 11 o’clock kick off smelling of booze!”

The club’s original decor has been lovingly preserved, with beautiful, 17th Century oak panelling throughout and chandeliers from the Rothschild Palace hanging from the ceilings - save for one, memorable absence, where legendary The Who drummer, Keith Moon leapt from his table and brought the chandelier crashing to the floor before being escorted from the club screaming: “You can’t ban me from Tramp! Where else will I go?”

“During the 1970s it wasn’t uncommon to see George Best on the dance floor while Sir Matt Busby frantically called the club’s front desk, trying to locate his absent star player”

He was welcomed back 24 hours later, after apologising profusely and paying for the damage.

But while celebrity anecdotes undoubtedly helped to build interest in this mysteriously secretive club on the border of St. James’s and Mayfair, it has flourished through five decades thanks to its core principles: To offer luxurious service and fine dining in a relaxed and sociable environment; and to treat every member as a VIP. General Manager, David Fleming, says: “Tramp is more than just a members club. It is an intimate space with a limited membership and we pride ourselves on being able to welcome each and every guest by name, remember their favourite drink and where they like to sit in the restaurant or bar.

“The club was built on quiet word-of-mouth, with our details being passed on by members on film sets, in business meetings and between bands, and over the years it has almost become a ‘password’ around the world; members frequently tell me how they’ve been to a far flung place and been given the best table in a restaurant because the owner is also a member of Tramp.

“We talk about our membership as a family and in many cases, they really are - we have original members whose children and even grandchildren have grown up and joined the club and three generations can use it together.

“If these walls could talk, they’d have a lot of stories to tell; but of course, they wouldn’t say a thing - because that’s the Tramp way.”

The club launched its 50th anniversary celebrations with a star-studded party in May, attended by Sir Rod Stewart, Sir Michael Caine, Dame Joan Collins, Bill Wyman, Nathalie Dormer, Mark Ronson and many more, and members will enjoy further special events throughout the rest of the year.

Prospective members may apply via the club’s website at www.tramp.co.uk/memberships.

But remember: What happens in Tramp, stays in Tramp.

AUGUST 2019 33

OUT & ABOUT

Somerset House

welcomes a taste of Spain with

San Miguel summer terrace S THE DETAILS Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 12pm – late Sunday: 12pm – 6pm Food served: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 9:30pm #sanmiguelterrace Somerset House West Wing The Strand WC2R 1LA Reservations: can be made for groups of 10-80 guests via email on terrace@compass-group.co.uk Or telephone 020 7845 4651 www.somersethouse.org.uk

34 AUGUST 2019

omerset House is embracing the summer sun with the launch of a terrace in partnership with San Miguel, located on the banks of the River Thames. In a prime position on the Victoria Embankment, Somerset House Terrace serves a selection of chilled San Miguel beers and a menu of Spanish-inspired snacks until the end of September.

With a relaxed and contemporary environment, the terrace has been furnished with comfortable seating and benches, summery florals and an outdoor swing. Open daily from lunchtime until late, the terrace bar features signature San Miguel beers such as their San Miguel Especial, San Miguel Selecta and 0% ABV San Miguel 0,0.

Also available is a selection of tap station beers exclusive to Somerset House and inspired by San Miguel’s journey around the world. These include the likes of San Miguel London, an amber colour beer, hoppy, aromatic and moderately bitter with a sweet touch of malt, and San Miguel Bilbao, an intense lager, with a good body, cereal flavours, and a well-balanced, moderate bitterness. A selection of beer-based cocktails is also on offer, including the Piscolinho, a refreshing mix of Pisco, Cointreau, agave syrup, lime, San Miguel Especial and Costa Del Chilli, combining Licor 43, lime, bitters, chilli, San Miguel Especial.

For an accompanying bite to eat, guests can enjoy a selection of tapas such as Padrón peppers, Choricitos al vino, and Albondigas with romesco sauce, as well as stone baked flatbreads topped with Spanish ingredients such as Chorizo, manchego and rocket and Tetilla, Piquillo pepper and chilli. Cheese and charcuterie sharing boards showcasing Spanish delicacies are also available.

An ideal place to make the most of the summer sun with colleagues, family or friends, Somerset House’s San Miguel terrace is open until 30th September.

OUT & ABOUT

Enjoy Family Fun at Hever Castle V

isit Hever Castle & Gardens to enjoy an entertaining programme of events and activities set amidst award-winning gardens.

Discover over 700 years of history in the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The splendid rooms of the double moated castle contain fine furniture, tapestries, antiques, an important collection of Tudor paintings and two prayer books inscribed and signed by Anne Boleyn herself.

The Knights of Royal England will once again delight crowds with the annual Summer Jousting Tournament which continues throughout August.

Spectators will be treated to exhilarating displays of action, stunts, falls and fights in an authentic arena complete with Royal Box. Join the procession from the Castle forecourt as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and the Knights of Royal England make their way to the Jousting arena.

Jousting tournaments take place on August 10 & 11; 17 & 18; 23 – 26.

Kids can experience what it was like to grow 36 AUGUST 2019

up and serve in a royal household in medieval time during Knights & Princesses School (until 30 August).

Children can learn how to prepare and protect armour, discover the best way to arm and disarm their master before battle, find out the correct way to give a proper and perfect greeting and take part in a have a go Hobby Horse Jousting activity. New for 2019 your kids will also learn how to slay a dragon before receiving their ‘School Certificate and being officiated as Knights, Princes and Princesses of Hever Castle.

The jousting season comes to an end over the August bank holiday weekend where visitors are also invited to discover different eras with Journey through History, featuring encampments, reenactments and stalls and demonstrations.

Visitors are taken from the age of the Romans, the Saxons and Vikings, Tudors and Stuarts through to the Georgian and Edwardian times when William Waldorf Astor used this fortune to restore and extend the castle and right up to World War II.

“Discover over 700 years of history in the childhood home of Anne Boleyn”

In the grounds wander through the encampment to watch the Vikings and the Saxons go head to head with weapons display. Experience medieval life with demonstrations of armour, medicine, cooking and weaving. There will also be the opportunity to watch archery displays and men at arms skirmishes.

In September discover the best of the UK’s designers and artists at Hever Castle’s new craft event (5-8 September). All exhibitors have designed and made the work that they display and have been selected for their individuality and innovation in contemporary design, as well as outstanding technical ability. Visitors will also be able to see demonstrations, sample food and listen to live music.

As the gardens turn vibrant shades of red, pink and gold and the leaves tumble from the trees, it’s the perfect time to enjoy autumn colour (from 1st October). The Castle is arguably at its romantic best in the autumn when the Boston Ivy adorning the front of the Castle turns a vivid shade of red.

Free garden tours providing information about seed collecting will take place on Tuesday and Wednesdays throughout October (with the exception of Half Term).

Children will be encouraged to take up the Leaf & Seed Collection Challenge with 10 different seeds and leaves to be collected on Anne Boleyn’s Walk and Lake Walk. They will also be able to take home a bulb to plant.

Prepare to be spooked this half term at Haunted Hever (19-31 October).

Join the ghostly storytelling, take part in the Halloween craft activity, follow the scarecrow scavenger hunt around the grounds and sink your teeth into a sweet treat at the deadly delicious biscuit decorating workshop* (*small additional charge).

Don your scariest outfit to take part in the fancy dress costume (with prizes for the best dressed) and finish your creepy creation off with a freakish facepaint* (*small additional charge).

With welcoming log fires, and beautiful decorations in the Castle, a Christmas trail to follow and the chance to see Father Christmas – be enchanted by the magic of Christmas at Hever (23 November to 24 December).

This year the theme is Alice in a Christmas Wonderland. Fall down the rabbit hole and follow the whimsical trail through the grounds to try and catch up with the white rabbit, join the Mad Hatter

“Children can experience what it was like to grow up in medieval times”

at his tea party and meet the infamous Queen of Hearts.

As well as the events schedule visitors to Hever Castle can also enjoy the 100-year old Yew Maze (how long will it take you to get out?) and the popular Water Maze (until 28 October).

Older children will love the thrilling Tudor Towers adventure playground complete with its own moat, drawbridge and turrets. Kids rule this castle, with three towers to climb and two fireman’s poles to escape via, children will love discovering what’s around each twist and turn of the adventure playground.

Under 7s have their own natural play area with a 2 metre high living willow structure, a giant sandpit, a grassy mound with three tunnels to clamber in and a slide and a climbing frame. Located in the trees are two lookout platforms linked by a clatter bridge and with a slide for making a quick escape.

There’s also 42 play boulders of various sizes dotted around the play area to climb on, sit on or to use as stepping stones.

Two gift shops stock a wide selection of gift ideas, souvenirs, books, local produce and plants.

The two restaurants serve delicious hot and cold food and there are a number of picnic areas in the grounds.

For more information visit hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on Images: Hever Castle & Gardens

AUGUST 2019 37

OUT & ABOUT

FOCUS/19

AT DESIGN CENTRE, CHELSEA HARBOUR 15 – 20 September 2019

D THE DETAILS Focus/19 is a Design Destination at the London Design Festival.

For a list of all participating showrooms visit www.dcch.co.uk Trade preview: 15 – 17 September 2019 All welcome: 18– 20 September 2019 10am – 6pm Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, London SW10 0XE

Social Media #Focus19AtDCCH @designcentrech

38 AUGUST 2019

esign Centre Chelsea Harbour’s creative landscape is constantly evolving with exciting expansion plans, events and experiences. As Europe’s leading design destination, it nurtures its vibrant design community and champions creative excellence.

For six days in September, Focus/19 is a dynamic platform dedicated to inspire, inform and deliver and the place where industry professionals and design enthusiasts come together at one address.

Expanding the show this year, an enhanced programme features more product launches and showroom openings than ever before, alongside an abundance of insider insights and specialist knowledge.

New collections from 600 international brands look to the future by showcasing fresh colour stories, original narratives and inventive techniques, while meet the designer sessions, workshops, discovery tours and artisan demonstrations further inspire and inform. At Focus/19 visitors can engage with established makers and emerging innovators at close hand. On the main stage, a stellar line-up of international speakers share their experiences at the acclaimed Conversations in Design series.

This season, the world-famous nexus of design adds another layer to the offering with an array of

guest pop-ups that will augment home-grown talent.

From lighting, flooring and furniture makers to carpet and fabric designers, it will be the first time they have been able to exhibit at Focus/19.

Specially commissioned installations and places to eat and drink, complement the event’s dynamic approach.

This wealth of experience is extraordinary and, what’s more it is a free resource for every visitor, reflecting Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour’s commitment to creativity and connection.

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i mag e : f i z z g o e s p o p

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Award-winning Aesthetics Welcome to Appearances Aesthetics, a multi award-winning Skincare and Permanent Makeup Clinic in Chislehurst, Kent

H

aving achieved a highly successful and recognised business for over 30 years, I believe I have set myself apart in the industry with my awards, experience, dedication, and professionalism.

My experience ensures I deliver dedicated, passionate, individual and bespoke services in a safe, hygienic environment.

My latest awards for 2019 include Finalist in the Kent Women in Business Awards for “Contribution to the Community”. In addition, I was Winner of the Kent Health and Beauty Award for “Semi-Permanent Makeup Artist of the Year” in 2018, and also received a Bronze Award for Aesthetic Clinic of the Year.

I am so proud of what I have achieved.

I have had great success in removing small skin lesions, including moles, skin tags, pigmentation, milia, warts, and veruccas, as demonstrated in the before and after photographs showing some of my recent work on different areas of the body.

Following on from my success in winning so many awards, I am now solely focussing on my skin lesion removals.

Therefore, we have built a support team, which includes Belinda, a highly qualified professional micropigmentation specialist, and Anita, a top 30-year experience ex-salon owner who is now offering bespoke, personalised, facials and peels at my Chislehurst clinic.

As well as this, I am dedicated to support

42 AUGUST 2019

local charities, especially Breast Cancer Kent and Skin Cancer charities which involves me helping clients who have serious illnesses such as Cancer, Alopecia, Trichotillomania, Vitiligo, and people who have suffered burns injuries, to improve their confidence so they lead happier lives.

I am passionate about giving back to my clients and the community. I fundraise for several charities, having raised over £25,000 for Breast Cancer, and volunteering for the Look Good Feel Better charity, a female cancer support charity who run free skincare and make-up masterclasses for women undergoing treatment for, or living with, cancer.

I am honoured and privileged as this enables me to help people undergo remarkable transformations, making a huge positive difference to changing and improving lives.

I hold an unparalleled portfolio of nonsurgical procedures in the fastest growing industry. Apart from being outstanding in all the “normal” life-changing treatments that I perform, through working with an Orthopaedic Surgeon, I have been able to introduce a revolutionary new tattooing procedure, which I perfected on his patient who has a congenital disfigurement of her toes. My treatment was published in the British Medical Journal in 2015.

I have trained with top Educators in UK, Europe and USA, ensuring my treatments are always at the highest standard.

In attending regular training courses, I stay at the forefront of the developing treatments in my field, ensuring my treatments are always up to date and relevant.

I continually attend courses and launches to keep up to date with the latest developments in my industry, such as the Image Skincare launch event in 2019. I have recently completed 2 updates for my Advanced Courses with Sterex and the BIAE for Advanced Electrolysis and Advanced Cosmetic Procedures in which I achieved 100%.

I am delighted I have earned trust, gaining very high-profile clients, as well as Dame Kelly Holmes, and international DJ Paul Newman.

I have been on Local Radios and filmed for Sky TV. I work alongside doctors, nurses and surgeons who refer patients to me, sometimes removing the need for further surgery. I am proud to hold endless glowing testimonials, from clients, doctors, surgeons and Industry professionals.

07711 067 789 gillian@appearancesaesthetics.co.uk www.appearancesaesthetics.co.uk

SKIN TAG REMOVAL

BEFORE

AFTER

CYST REMOVAL

BEFORE

AFTER

SEBORRHOEIC WART REMOVAL

BEFORE

AFTER

MULTI KENT AWARD WINNING SPECIALIST IN SKIN LESION REMOVALS & REDUCTIONS • Skin tags and age spots • Clear and brown moles • Red veins and blood spots • Milia, syringomas and xanthelasma • Pigmentation and lentigo • MCA - treatment for fine lines and wrinkles • Seborrheic Keratosis Warts

OTHER PROFESSIONAL TREATMENTS • Introducing skin smoothing injections • Semi-permanent makeup - eyebrows and eyeliner • Scar relaxation - improvement to trauma scars • Scalp hair stimulation tattooing for men and women

Gillian has been in the industry for over 30 years and has trained in the UK, Middle East, USA and Europe.

BIAE, ITEC, BABTAC, SPCP, C&G, CIBTAC, MGBT, IDI, IIAA.

APPEARANCES AESTHETICS PROFESSIONAL 07711 067 789

gillian@appearancesaesthetics.co.uk www.appearancesaesthetics.co.uk

Follow Gillian at:

2019 finalist kent women in business

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Pilkingtons:

Specialists in high end repairs of standard and customised Rolex’s

P

ilkington Jewellers has been an established business based in the heart of Bexley Village since 1985 and welcomes customers from all over the world. The business was established by Mr Pilkington, who holds over 50 years of experience as a trained watch repairer; specialising in the high end repairs of standard and customised Rolex’s. Pilkington jewellers carries out in house repairs and battery fittings of all brands and styles of watches, providing its customers with a service that is fit for each individual. Pilkington’s sees numerous returning customers each year, and prides itself on being an individualised traditional jewellers. www.pilkingtons.uk.com

44 AUGUST 2019

WE WISH TO WECOME BELINDA BELINDA ST JOHN-SLATEr AT

APPEArANCES AESTHETICS PErMANENT MAkE UP ArTIST FrOM WEDNESDAy 10TH JULy

ErnEsto DE La Cruz VaLDEs registered osteopath

Specialising In Permanent Make Up: • Digital Brows (Hair Stroke, Powder, Ombré) • Nanoblading • Eyeliner • Lash Enhancement • Lips • Permanent Make Up Removal with Salt & Saline • Colour Correction Medical Tattooing: • Areola Reconstruction • Dry Needling for Scars & Burns Tissue • Vitiligo Camouflage • Scalp Micropigmentation

APPEARANCES AESTHETICS PROFESSIONAL 20 Berens Way, Chislehurst BR7 6RJ

07711 067 789 or 07753 818 885 gillian@appearancesaesthetics.co.uk appearancesaesthetics.co.uk

arthritic pain • Cramp • Fibromyalgia • Cervicogenic Headaches Joint pains (hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist) General, acute & chronic backache, back pain Minor sports injuries and tensions • Muscle spasms neuralgia • rheumatic pain • sciatica • neck pain the Medical Centre, sundridge: 173 Main road, sundridge, sevenoaks, Kent, tn14 6EH

07909 397202 www.cruzosteopathy.co.uk

strawberry House Clinic, 12 station approach, Hayes, Bromley, Kent, Br2 7EH

Beauty and elegance Beauty and elegance time after time... time after time…

ROLEX APPROVED WATCHMAKER ROlex Qualified WatchmakeR

We use only genuine Rolex parts in our second Our fully trained with over 50 years hand Rolex watches.

Ourwatchmaker two fully accredited Watchexperience, Makers will will fullyrepair restoreand your Rolexyour WatchRolex restore to its original condition in only two weeks. watch to its original condition in only 1 week.

Pilkington PilkingtonJewellers Jewellers Ltd Ltd.

Established 1970

Established 1970

We repair and service all of these brands and more

39-41 Bexley High Street, Bexley, Kent, DA5 1AB | T: 01322 521664 | W: www.pilkingtons.uk.com

39-41 Bexley High Street, Kent, DA5 1AB | T: 01322 521664 | W: www.pilkingtonsuk.com | Instagram@pilkingtonsbexley

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION

LADY IN RED

A SPLASH OF COLOUR Fizz Goes Pop is the colourful brainchild of Lizzie Iafrate, a creative with a penchant for all things colourful and shiny, there is in fact every chance she was a magpie in a past life. Her background in graphic design pokes through into everything she does, be it wearable art in the form of juicy mirror perspex jewellery or her beautifully bold monogram and letter plaques. Her work is designed for ALL, not just colour lovers and not just women. In fact her mission is to make her art accessibly enjoyed by all people and for there to be no boundaries for who it is worn and used by. www.fizzgoespop.com

SUMMER SCARF

PERFECT pair

We love this beautiful silk twill Totty scarf. Finished by hand with silk thread. 100% Silk Twill. 160cm x 20cm. The ‘Poppy Neon’ is from a Charles Tottenham original illustration Printed and made by hand in England. www.charlestottenham.com

MIRROR MIRROR… This pretty Fox Badger pocket mirror featuring the Foxley Wood illustration is 3 inches diameter, so it’s the perfect size mirror for being small enough for your bag but big enough to see what you’re doing! These also make great gifts and favours for any occasion and perfect stocking fillers if you are already thinking ahead to Christmas. www.kraftspace.co.uk 46 AUGUST 2019

We love this Polly Red Gipsy Dress from Dollydagger. www.dollydagger.com

We love these high waisted straight leg trousers by Cecile Jeffrey. All their knitwear is machine knitted and finished by hand and each garment is made in the UK. www.cecilejeffrey.com

TIME TO TRAVEL IN STYLE A pretty perfect, playful pouch designed by Elizabeth Scarlett.

This travel pouch is colourful, inspired by and features several toucan birds; the birds are hand illustrated and embroidered onto a teal velvet base. The pouch has a gold zip with an embossed lotus flower; peace, purity and perfection! www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

MARTIN CLARK BUILDING & LANDSCAPING

Friendly, Professional, Reliable and Tidy.

• Driveways • Patios • Groundwork • Fencing • Decking • Brickwork • Extensions FAMILY RUN BUSINESS OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

07411 964597

HOuse &

garden – Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : b r f l o o r i n g

H OUSE & GARDEN

BUILDING ON THE PAST Little Smarden House Front of the house before the renovation.

A T Palmer Ltd, respected historic building, conservation and restoration specialist contractors, undertook the renovation of Little Smarden House

W

orking on Little Smarden House in the heart of the picturesque Kentish village was a return to Simon Palmer’s roots. Not only is the property just down the road from the Smarden HQ of his building firm, but it was originally constructed 40-plus years ago by his grandfather Arthur, the founder of A T Palmer, the family firm.

When the new owners of the house, Nick and Louise

BUILDING ON THE PAST Little Smarden House Holmes, spoke to Simon about having the house extended and renovated, he was therefore keen to take on the project.

He soon found out that the connection was even closer, with three of his longest-serving current staff 50 AUGUST 2019

“Smarden’s prosperity grew in the Middle Ages thanks to the local weaving industry”

having actually worked on the original construction: Colin Maddocks, a master craftsman; Graham Winder, a painter and decorator with 50 years’ service in the company; and Brian Hutchinson, now the firm’s Estimating Director but who was an apprentice carpenter during the original build.

The recent work, including a large two-storey extension, took just over a year. It increases the number of bedrooms from four to six and has given the house a prestigious and harmonious new yet traditional look, which fits well in the historic village with its generous scattering of 15th and 16th century houses (there are 155 listed buildings).

Smarden’s prosperity grew in the Middle Ages thanks to the local weaving industry, and in 1333 it was granted a Royal Charter permitting weekly markets and an annual fair.

A T Palmer’s own history began 70 years ago with six tradesmen and a dilapidated old van, after Arthur returned from being an engineer in World War II and set up in business with wife Myra. Since then, A T Palmer has gained a strong reputation for careful conservation and restoration of historic buildings in Kent and beyond. Third generation Simon is Managing Director, working alongside his Company Secretary wife Natasha among a team of 35 employees with the assistance of 10-15 subcontractors.

They use local suppliers wherever possible: for example, for the windows on the Little Smarden House project they worked with another local family-run business, RGH Contracts from Ashford; Rencraft provided the kitchen from their bespoke workshop near Sevenoaks; innovative bathroom specialist C P Hart (Tunbridge Wells and Dartford) looked after the sanitaryware; flooring was supplied and fitted by Carpets Direct of Charing; hanging roof tiles came from Tudor Roof Tiles of Lydd.

A T Palmer Ltd currently has a number of projects throughout Kent, The Weald and East Sussex. An excellent reputation, word-of-mouth and personal recommendations mean they never have to look far from home for business – though it may be hard to get closer than renovating your own grandfather’s creations. www.atpalmer.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

HTheomelei g h complete building, gardening and DIY Group

Trading for Over 50 Years

project wherever and whenever you need it. From all types of bricks, varying density blocks and damp proofing through to bulk orders of aggregates, sand, cement and other building consumables we can supply what you need for any size or type of construction project.

DIY and Gardening products Homeleigh will make sure that you get the right tools and quality products to make a success of your home or garden project because they have built a solid reputation across Kent as the place to come to for a superb range of DIY and gardening supplies, they offer excellent value, low cost options for those on a budget to a complete stock of famous brands and market leading products.

Fencing and landscaping Homeleigh can help you to create the garden of your dreams with an amazing selection of fencing & landscaping products. Make your garden bloom with their superb range of fencing and landscaping supplies from attractive block paving to stunning natural slabs, an impressive stock of flag and kerb stones which will fit strikingly into a lovely path snaking across the lawn or choose from a range of colourful rockery stones.

Homeleigh stock a massive, comprehensive range of building supplies including Timber, Bricks, Blocks, Fencing, Tools, Fixings, Landscaping, Aggregates, Plumbing, Drainage, Ironmongery, Decorating and everything you will need for your home and garden.

H

omeleigh’s have been in business since 1966 and have become the go-to builders merchants in Kent with branches in Staplehurst, Cross-at-hand, Aylesford near Maidstone and a new depot in High Halden.

Homeleigh offers a comprehensive range of building materials for the trade and DIY customers.

Because Homeleigh are experts in their field you can trust them to provide the very best in quality and service at competitive prices.

52 AUGUST 2019

Aggregates If you need large quantities of aggregates for professional building needs or an attractive selection of gravels, stone chips or decorative shingle, Homeleigh stock a wide variety of materials at highly competitive prices and for the building trade they have everything builders need for any size of project, including high quality building sand, cement and sharp washed sand, they also stock a range of specialist materials with more and more emphasis being placed on using environmentally friendly materials.

Bricks and Blocks Homeleigh stock a wide range of bricks and blocks for building and construction in a range of styles, densities and finishes, they also include reclaimed.

Whatever you’re building Homeleigh quality bricks and blocks will stand the test of time, so whether you need standard or specialist bricks for external, internal, cavity walls, foundations or floors they have a huge range of stock to match your exact requirements. Homeleigh can help you choose the type of brick to match your needs or budget.

Building Materials Homeleigh pride themselves on their fast supply of high quality, building materials of all types, for any

Painting and decorating Homeleigh are the first stop for high quality paints, varnishes, woodstains and painting supplies for all your decorating needs. They will give you all the help you will need with expert advice and highly competitive prices to give you the perfect finish to any painting project.

Plumbing and drainage Homeleigh say that they are the first people to come to for all your plumbing & drainage needs and it’s hard to disagree because they provide a watertight solution to your plumbing or drainage needs and have an unbeatable selection of plumbing and drainage solutions at competitive prices. If you are looking for sanitary ware, tools, spares or sundries and everything you could need for your heating, drainage or plumbing.

Timber and sheet materials Hardwood, softwood, plywood, MDF, C16/ C24 carcassing, doors, mouldings, Homeleigh are there to help. Because they have the complete solution to all your timber, wood and sheet material requirements.

Homeleigh are the leading stockists in Kent of a wide selection of timber, wood and sheet materials for use in the building trade, construction and DIY. For more information visit www.homeleighgroup.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

BR FLOORING:

90 Years of Outstanding Quality and Service

B

R Flooring is a family-owned business with branches in Petts Wood and Eltham.

Covering Sidcup, Chislehurst, Blackheath, Bromley and all surrounding locations in South East London, we understand how important it is that you select the right kind of carpets or flooring for your home, office space or business property.

If you want luxury carpets, hardwood flooring or laminate flooring that not only looks good but that also delivers on practicality and your lifestyle choices, you’ve definitely come to the right place.

We also specialise in premium quality vinyl flooring by offering a full range of Karndean products to customers in the local area.

Other solutions include laminate flooring and hardwood flooring in the Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Opus and Tile ranges. With such prestigious names, it’s only right that you would expect these products to be truly special. Everything we do is built around the supply of beautifully-designed flooring of the highest standard.

Karndean offers a state-of-the-art virtual flooring design service that helps you choose the perfect product for your home or office. We also sell carpets and other flooring materials from Westex, Axminster, Amtico, Quick Step, Crucial Trading and Real Wood.

“If you want luxury carpets, hardwood flooring or laminate flooring that not only looks good but that also delivers on practicality and your lifestyle choices, you’ve definitely come to the right place”

90 Years of Outstanding Quality and Service Following a rebrand in 2014, we have extended our reach by supplying carpets, hardwood flooring and laminate flooring for many valued customers in the surrounding Chislehurst, Sidcup, Bromley and Blackheath areas.

With over 90 years of providing great service and value, we have the knowledge and the experience to bring you flooring that truly reflects individual taste and personality.

BR Flooring offer you a desirable range of carpets made from either natural or manmade fibres. There is almost no limit to our vast number of options and we can supply patterned or plain fabrics covering everything from the dazzlingly funky to the more neutral and understated style.

Our showrooms in Petts Wood and Eltham also supply high-end hardwood flooring and easy-to-fit laminate flooring. Both outlets provide you with exceptional choice, honest advice and outstanding customer service. We also offer free estimates and measuring. www.br-flooring.co.uk 54 AUGUST 2019

1/2

price Carpets*

SUMMER SALE up to

plus fREE fitting ** on all carpets

15% off Karndean and Amtico

2b/2c, fairway Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent BR5 1EG Telephone: 01689 822100

216-218 High Street, Eltham, SE9 1BA Telephone: 020 8294 2660

www.brflooring.co.uk *on selected items **free fitting on minimum order of 10sq metres

H OUSE & GARDEN

Modern heritage goods

with guaranteed Great British provenance

S

irGordonBennett. com is a specially curated online store that purveys great British craftsmanship goods and gifts, all with a guarantee of ‘Made in Britain’ provenance.

And it now delivers to the USA including a free shipping option - perfect for the discerning American shopper who wants high-quality British craftsmanship products in their lives but can’t access them locally.

From 200-year-old brands on the Queen’s own Royal Warrant to 2-year-old brands with a right royal future - they are all lovingly created in Great Britain and curated only at SirGordonBennett.com.

Buy yourself a Fox Umbrella which was a firm favourite of JFK and supply the Peaky Blinders TV show for authenticity. Or an ACME whistle that created the First Mate whistles for the fateful Titanic. Treat your lady to a Kent Brush who have been making brushes since 1777 and hold 9 Royal Warrants. Or delve into the delights of the modern apothecary offered by Haeckels of Margate, unique products made from hand-harvested seaweed on the Kent coast. There is a wealth of quality products and amazing stories and histories to be told in the 34 carefully selected brands that SirGordonBennett.

56 AUGUST 2019

com showcases.

At SirGordonBennett.com all of the products it sells have to fulfil 4 cascading pillars. 1: Look beautiful, because no one deserves ugly in their lives. 2: Made well, so they last longer, thus have less of an impact on the planet’s resources. 3: Do the job intended, otherwise why would people want them in their lives. 4: Be made in Great Britain, as we believe in the innate skills of the craftsmen and women of Britain.

As the world is collectively choosing wiser in the products they allow into their lives SirGordonBennett.com is excited to be able to finally deliver British craftsmanship products to the US and be at the forefront of the new British Invasion.

‘The US is an exciting territory for SirGordonBennett, our American cousins still hold a fascination for the old country and vice versa,’ says Neil Elliot the Co-Founder.

‘We are convinced that the American public will love our well made handcrafted products with maybe a touch of nostalgia thrown in’. www.sirgordonbennett.com

“They are all lovingly created in Great Britain and curated only at SirGordonBennett. com”

H OUSE & GARDEN

CHARTWELL OAK: handcrafted oak framed buildings

C

hartwell Oak Buildings Ltd specialise in providing handcrafted oak framed buildings. We design and make all of our products from our workshop in Kent but operate all over the county as well as Surrey and Sussex.

We are a reasonably small company who prides ourselves on our strong work ethic and building close relationships with all of our customers.

Our creations are built to last using traditional building methods. One of the key skills when designing and building oak structures is considering the movement of the wood; during just the first few years, oak can shrink by up to 5% as it loses its moisture.

While the length of the wood stays the same, the width and thickness of the beam can move and shrink. At Chartwell Oak we are well practiced at taking these factors into consideration in our designs.

The Process We use the shrinking of the wood to our advantage by ensuring that all the shrinkage results in is the tightening of the existing joints. We use the traditional draw pegging method on our mortice and tenon joints to ensure that all of our buildings 58 AUGUST 2019

“All of our frames are constructed by hand in our Kent workshop – we create each of our designs with extreme precision”

benefit from strength and durability. Many firms use the modern dowel method on their oak framing but we feel that this doesn’t provide the same level of strength in the joints.

All of our frames are constructed by hand, we create each of our designs with extreme precision so once it comes to supply and assembly we have no problem constructing your building both quickly and accurately.

We provide a high level of site supervision so that our high standards of construction are carried out correctly, resulting in a high quality finished product. www.chartwelloakbuildings.co.uk

Traditional Craftsmanship for Modern Applications

Garages & Outbuildings Glazed Garden Rooms Quality Buildings at Competitive Prices

chartwelloakbuildings.co.uk Call for a quote 01959 447477 Filston Farm, Filston Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 5JU

PHONE: 020 3247 4328 EMAil: info@maidsin.co.uk WEb: maidsin.co.uk

A MAID SERVICE CREATED BY YOU Maidsin.co.uk was created by the experienced Director of a hotelier cleaning company serving 5***** hotels in the capital for over 35 years.

Our teams of maids have the training and experience to provide the following services, Household cleaning, window cleaning, gardening services and dog walking.

The best thing about maidsin.co.uk is that we know the industry 100%, however this is not enough as we wish to learn what your needs and expectations are. After all, no two houses are the same and so it goes with the owners.

For peace of mind, all of our cleaners are checked by a third party checking company called Onfido and are trained to NVQ level 1 in cleaning and hygiene.

Prices start at only ÂŁ15.00 Per Hour.

LIVING THE DREAM JUST BECAME REALITY

H OUSE & GARDEN

Exclusive product preview and live music work in perfect Harmony for

Beoshop Group’s 30th birthday celebrations

T

he UK’s first customer demonstration of the latest television from Bang & Olufsen coupled with fantastic live entertainment ensured that the Beoshop Group’s latest event was a night of perfect harmony in more ways than one.

The Group, which operates Bang & Olufsen showrooms in Bexleyheath, Cambridge, Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone, unveiled the forthcoming 77inch BeoVision Harmony television at a special VIP ceremony hosted at the prestigious London Golf Club, near Brands Hatch in Kent. Also delivering a superb level of sound was an ABBA tribute band.

Guiding the Group’s 100 guests through the new

60 AUGUST 2019

BeoVision Harmony, which officially launches in October, was Steve Devonshire, Bang & Olufsen EMEA Training Manager. With over 41 years’ experience of the esteemed audio-visual brand, Steve was the perfect host to guide customers through the new television – the exclusive preview revolving round the demonstration of one of only five prototype BeoVision Harmony TV sets in the whole world.

The exciting evening, which began with a champagne reception, also celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Beoshop Group. The choice of band was particularly relevant, not only referencing Bang & Olufsen’s Scandinavian roots, but also paying homage to the super group that shares part of the name of the founding company of the Beoshop Group – Abba Hi-Tech.

ABBA Hi-Tech used the initials of founder Arthur Blake – first in order and then in reverse – and the name was used to gain early, alphabetical entries into business and telephone directories. Since opening in 1989 it has grown from one store in Bexleyheath to become one of the most successful Bang & Olufsen retail groups throughout Europe.

So impressive was the prototype BeoVision Harmony that orders were taken on the night, while one lucky guest left with a Bang & Olufsen smart speaker worth £2,500 after having her ticket pulled first from a free prize draw.

Paul Blake, Managing Director, Beoshop Group, said: “Considering what we were celebrating, the event was fittingly one of our best ever and we’d like to thank all our guests who joined us and made it a night to remember. There was plenty of clapping, singing and dancing and we couldn’t have hoped for a better reaction to the new BeoVision Harmony and the night’s entertainment. It was a great way to celebrate such an important milestone in our history.” www.bang-olufsen.com

“The exciting evening, which began with a champagne reception, also celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Beoshop Group”

It’s time for the kitchen you’ve always wanted

www.hammertons.co.uk 01435 868611

Sunset Farm • Heathfield Road Cross in Hand • TN21 0UJ

Q UA L I T Y B U I L D S S I N C E 197 5

020 8328 3393

info@montila.com

www.montila.com

Free bespoke Interior Design with every build DESIGN I BUILD I FURNISH SpecialiSing in luxury buildS offering a full turnkey Service

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS Seek Inspire Create Part of the new series this new collection explores the coastal landscapes & botanics of Sri Lanka. Hand embroidery sits delicately on linen weave, organza and handwoven fabrics. www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ ovobloom

FLORAL BEAUTIES

Katy Clemmans joins Wallsauce.com with a beautiful floral watercolour mural collection. Discovered in Wallsauce. com’s recent competition to find the next best creatives, Katy was a favoured runner-up with her delicate, floral designs.

Featuring clever watercolour blends and simple silhouettes, these uber-stylish designs are perfect for pretty much any room in need of a statement wall. Nominated for a TV ‘craft’ BAFTA, in the Graphic Design category for her work on the BBC Sport title sequence for the Athens Olympics, Katy works across both print and screen-based media. www.wallsauce.com

METALLIC MADNESS Scandinese We love metallic furniture, mirrors and home decor! Melody Maison boast a stylish collection of Gold, Silver and Copper toned home accessories, so check out their collection now! www.melodymaison.co.uk

THE NEW BLACK Joining the iconic Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan collection of mixable decorative paints, Athenian Black offers a velvety matt finish and can be applied to almost any surface including furniture, walls and floors without priming or sanding. www.anniesloan.com 62 AUGUST 2019

Japan and Scandinavia are superpowers when it comes to style and, while miles apart geographically, their aesthetics share a close connection that’s influenced by sleek silhouettes and authentic materials. Co-existing with a mutual respect, the Scandinese trend from Oak Furnitureland is a serene union that brings the best of both worlds to your home. www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk

AUTUMN COLOURS

Autumn is soon to be upon us, and you know what that means!

It’s time to dress our homes in essential plush blankets and warm burnt orange hues to curate a delectable warm and cosy cove of autumn goodness to snuggle up in. Hurn & Hurn have prepared us for the temperature drop with a variety of products that will have your house radiating, ‘Autumn vibes’ all season long. www.hurnandhurn.com

RESIN BOUND THE MOST VERSATILE SURFACE

GIVE YOUR PROPERTY A FRESH LOOK

All projects of any size welcome Find our work at the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew and look us up on Check a Trade, Facebook and Twitter

Enviro-Tech Resin Systems Ltd CALL TODAY FOR EXPERT ADVICE

01825 890973

G&S

Roofing Specialists Ltd

01892 886916 07881 532497

Web: www.gandsroofing.co.uk Email: gsroofingspecialists@gmail.com

Our successful business has expanded into Kent

H OUSE & GARDEN

JUNGLE

FEVER Romantic Jungle Wallpapers by Andrea Haase

J

ungle vibes have been the talk of interiors for a few seasons now, but Wallsauce.com’s latest designer collection introduces romantic tones to update the jungle look.

Keen traveller and inspiring illustrator, Andrea Haase is one of the latest talents to join the designer wallpaper collection at Wallsauce.com. Discovered in its recent competition to find the next best creatives, Andrea was a favoured runner-up with her layered, jungle designs.

Featuring vintage-style maps underneath intricately illustrated jungle scenes, these impactful wall murals have a delicate romantic feel to them.

Made to your dimensions and available on a choice of wallpaper materials, discover the full Andrea Haase collection at www.wallsauce.com.

64 AUGUST 2019

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

BATHROOMS MAKING ME BLUSH We love these tiles from Claybrook Studio. Hayek Hex Blush tiles shown on the wall, Renzo Hex tiles shown on the floor with Charon MarbleForm freestanding bath. www.claybrookstudio.co.uk

Form meets functionality

Part of the Holborn collection. Beautifully combining form and function with sumptuous styling, this exquisite model is twin-skinned and double-ended with a traditional bateau-style shape. Available in classic white or statement graphite, complete the opulent feel with an optional plinth in black, white or brass for a truly centre-stage look. www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk

URBAN INTERIORS

Doblo Polished Porcelain represents the pinnacle of urban interior style, oozing understated finesse thanks to these tiles’ rectified edges and sleek polished finish. We love these tiles from Tile Mountain. They are massively on-trend right now, with rectified edges for clean, sleek look.

Their large format means less tiles used and therefore a quicker installation process. Long lasting and durable construction, also suitable for commercial installations. www.tilemountain.co.uk

66 AUGUST 2019

shower in style

Merlyn’s Arysto quadrant door is truly one of a kind, the smoothest gliding quadrant door on the market. This door is the ultimate luxury solution for a Bijoux bathroom. Bespoke options available, lifetime guarantee. www.merlynshowering.com

MIDCENTURY MODERN Break with the norm and embrace a fresh take on iconic, Midcentury Modern design. It features a classic 1950s vintage design offset finished in a soothing oak and matt white blend.

Boasting an innovative, wall-mounted design that’s perfect for increasing the illusion of space in narrow areas.

Perfect for anyone looking for creative and retro-inspired bathroom furniture. www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk

SCANDINAVIAN LUXURY Lapuan Kankurit is a Finnish jacquard linen and wool weaving mill, where weaving skills, production technology and material know-how have been refined into excellence within the same family since 1917.

Sold around the world through renowned and independent retailers, Lapuan Kankurit is one of the finest Scandinavian brands of contemporary, high quality soft furnishings. www.lapuankankurit.fi

USKUDAR

Turkish Mediterranean bar & grill

Special lunch set menu

Available Tuesday to Saturday served 12 -4pm 2 courses £10.95 3 courses £13.95

Special dinner set menu Available Sunday to Thursday 2 courses £14.95 3 courses £17.95

61 Queensway, Petts Wood, BR5 1DQ Tel: 01689 820 055 Email: info@uskudarrestaurant.co.uk Web: www.uskudarrestaurant.co.uk Instagram: uskudarrestaurant

Open days: Tuesday to Sunday

FOOD & DRINK – Bringing you updates on the local food and drink scene – i ma g e : TH E B E R K E L E Y B A R & T E RR A C E

FOOD & DRINK

RAISING THE STEAKS

Branded comes to Sevenoaks O

“A top-quality independent bringing London standards to a local audience” – The Resident

70 AUGUST 2019

ne of Beckenham’s finest dining venues Branded has now opened their doors in Sevenoaks. The original Branded Beckenham brought a dynamic new West End style to the suburbs… Offering a stylish quality modern menu, fabulous fine wine list, superb cocktails and attentive but friendly service. These elements have all been combined & replicated in their newest opening at Branded Sevenoaks.

Specialising in Steaks & Burgers, and boasting the ‘best in British Beef ’, from their butcher Donald Russell, who are award winning and supply under royal warrant to Buckingham palace. They have a varied and exciting menu using high quality produce offering fresh fish, pastas, chicken, salads and exciting & unique vegetarian combinations.

Both venues occupy an impressive central high street position and are accessible for a casual lunch or dinner as well as being suitable as a destination venue for a special celebration. A lively ambience with a chilled modern vibe makes for pleasant entertaining any day of the week and the ever-popular Sunday Roast is a must with family & friends...

Dine throughout the day on Sunday from a two course set menu at £17.95 or three courses for £19.95 ... Newly introduced is the ‘healthy eating’ set menu available Monday to Saturday- 12.00 to 18.30 at £12.95 two courses/ £14.95 three courses.

This gives credit to the current social trend for great food to promote good health and offers an extensive selection of seasonal specialities at an amazing value price making this the perfect opportunity to sample the Branded cuisine #beBranded #foodie #healthyeating.

Branded Sevenoaks: 63-65 High Street, Sevenoaks TN13 1JY. Branded Beckenham: 51 High Street, Beckenham BR3 1AW Tel – 020 8658 5757 www.brandedsteaks.co.uk.

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Havet, High Street, Bromley This month, Food editor Regan Anderton has visited Havet to give you her view on their menu.

Other local restaurant reviews, recipes and dinner party game ideas can be found at www.whatiatelastnight.com

Ambiance This vibrant, Turkish restaurant has been going for six years now, and it still looks as fresh and busy as when it first opened. With a second restaurant in Tonbridge opened a couple of years ago, the family run business is going from strength to strength, and constantly refreshes its menu to meet both customer and environmental needs.

Service With over 200 seats, there are a large team of kitchen, bar, and restaurant staff all working seamlessly to deliver great service. Our waitress helped us to choose some of the dishes, and ensured we had topped up glasses throughout the evening.

Food A recently updated menu sees slightly smaller side portions, but still with the same amount of amazingly high quality, delicious meat - this is to help reduce the food waste that they were experiencing, and to give customers a better balance.

We tried some of the new dishes on the menu, all of which were full of flavour and well received, but our favourites included Kiyama Borek - a filo pastry parcel filled with minced lamb, chopped onion and spiced herbs, served with a chilli salsa that packed a pinch! For main, the Saslik kebab - tender,

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Overview “Consistently good Turkish food, with the freshest of ingredients�

thinly sliced aged lamb fillet marinated in a Havet marinade and skewered together with large slices of onion was totally melt in the mouth, and went well with the Turkish Baldo rice and browned vermicelli.

For dessert, we were advised to try the Baklava - not too sweet, light, and served with pistachio cotton candy floss, and vanilla ice cream‌so good!

Drink A good selection of wine and Turkish beers are available, as well as cocktails, spirits and liqueurs. I opted for a refreshing classic mojito to start, and then a glass of the house red - a nice mediumbodied Tempranillo that went well with the lamb.

195-197 High St, Bromley BR1 1NN. 020 8290 6717. www.havetrestaurant.com

havet HaveT aRe pRoud To aNNouNce THe opeNiNg of THeiR THiRd ReSTauRaNT iN Royal TuNBRidge WellS, comiNg SooN!

Fresh Food, modern vibrant dining “We wanted to create a dining experience reminiscent of our childhood mealtimes. The result is Havet: a friendly, buzzing, authentic Turkish restaurant, full of atmosphere”

Bromley: 195-197 High Street, Bromley, BR1 1NN 0208 2906717 Tonbridge: 150-152 High Street, Tonbridge, TN9 1BB 01732 387387 www.havetrestaurant.com

“From the minute you walk through the door your senses tell you what we’re about: freshness, quality food, expertly prepared and cooked and a great dining experience”

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT REVIEW

The Star Matfield Maidstone Road, Matfield, Tonbridge This month, Food editor Regan Anderton has visited The Star Matfield to give you her view on their menu.

Other local restaurant reviews, recipes and dinner party game ideas can be found at www.whatiatelastnight.com

were perfectly cooked, the meat was melt in the mouth good, and a large sharing vegetable platter came complete with carrots, broccoli, red cabbage, and cauliflower. For dessert, our favourite was the Eton mess - jam packed with large fresh berries, meringue, and cream. In addition to pub favourites like beer battered fish & chips, burgers, and hunters chicken, there’s also a daily specials board so be sure to take a look if you visit.

Overview

Ambiance This cosy and friendly pub is situated in the pretty village of Matfield. With outside grassy play area for the kids, and another separate outdoor dining area, it’s perfect for a sunny day. Inside are low ceilings and fairy lights - a warm and welcoming place to sit and enjoy a drink, good food, and when we visited, live music.

Service Bar and service staff are friendly, welcoming, and fantastic with children. We were greeted as soon as we stepped foot in the door, and service was to the table for both drinks and food.

Food A pleasing pub menu with special nights like Friday fish night, and roasts on a Sunday with live music.

We started with tempura prawns served sweet chilli dip and a fresh salad garnish. For main, we visited on a Sunday so couldn’t resist the lamb shank and roast beef. Yorkshires were crisp and light, potatoes 74 AUGUST 2019

“A friendly local family pub with great tasting food”

Drink Due to being a pub there is a well stocked bar with most things on offer, but in addition to this there was a good selection of different gins, and menu card offering suggestions of wines to go with the different meats and dishes for the roast. We opted for a glass of the Malbec as suggested to go with the roast beef, and it complemented it very well.

The Star, Maidstone Road, Matfield, Tonbridge TN12 7JR. 01892 725458. www.thestarmatfield.com

Here at The Star we only serve the food that we love to eat. Being nestled in the heart of the ‘Garden of England’, The Star strives to source from the wonderful selection of local produce. We love our grub. We’re not visionaries, we’re not food snobs, we’re not aiming for Michelin stars, we just simply want to make stuff that tastes good.

That’s our kind of grub, and if you think it might be yours too, give us a call on 01892 725458 to ask about our specials or to book a table.

We’ll be waiting for you with a warm welcome.

RegulaR events

Wednesdays & Thursdays 2 Courses for £12.00 - 12 - 9pm Thursdays Quiz Night Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the Month - Booking Essential Fridays £7 Fish & Chips - Eat in or takeaway - All day Sundays Roast lunch served 12 - 5pm - Booking is highly recommended Live Music Various Saturdays through the year. Call us to see.

Open Mic Night every 1st Tuesday of the month.

THE STAR, MAIDSTONE ROAD, MATFIELD, TONBRIDGE TN12 7JR Tel: 01892 725458 email: thestarmatfield@outlook.com www.thestarmatfield.com

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Joy Kitchen, High Street, Orpington

For more local restaurant reviews, recipes and cooking tips visit Regan’s food blog www.whatiatelastnight.com

Ambiance

We were warmly welcomed at the door and shown to our table. All of the staff were extremely friendly, helpful, and clearly had a passion for the food being produced and where the dishes came from.

Goreng - wok fried flat rice noodles which were incredibly moreish, with egg, chilli, soy sauce, bean sprouts, spring onion and large, juicy king prawns.

We were also advised to try the beef rendang - a slow cooked dish with a nice spicy kick, and deep rich sauce of coconut, galengal and lemon grass sauce, served with rice. We were so full that we couldn’t fit in a dessert, however on our next visit we’ll definitely be trying the Indonesian pineapple crumbly tart!

Food

Drink

Joy kitchen offer a selection of South East Asian dishes. We opted for a mixed starter platter to share which included succulent chicken and prawn satay, BBQ spare ribs, crispy prawn sesame rolls, Thai fish cakes and a sweet chilli and satay dipping sauce. For main, we were advised to try a traditional Indonesian dish called Kway Teow

There were a great selection of juices available the lychee and coconut water with lime, soda, and lychee fruit pieces was really refreshing, and there were also a wide selection of teas, Asian beers, and world wines.

318 High Street, Orpington BR6 0NG; 01689 829341; www. joykitchen.co.uk

We visited on a Friday evening when the restaurant was fully booked and busy with friends and families grabbing a bite to eat to start their weekends.

Service

76 AUGUST 2019

Overview

“Authentic South East Asian dishes served by warm and friendly staff”

At Joy Kitchen we serve fresh tantalizing Southeast Asian dishes from Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand

Details of our fabulous dishes can be found at www.joykitchen.co.uk

Wok-fry noodles, soups, curries and many things that will make you feel the warmth of Southeast Asia. Whether you are looking to feed a crowd or whip up a quick meal, our meals never disappoint.

All of our Southeast Asian dishes are home cooked in our modern scratch kitchen, with only the finest ingredients, for tastes both unexpecting and comforting.

We also stock a full selection of spirits, Asian Beers, draught beers, cocktails and an unparalleled wine list.

318 High Street, Orpington. BR6 0NG

01689 829341 www.joykitchen.co.uk

Dine in, take away and delivery*

We’re on Trip Advisor

Find us on Facebook

FOOD & DRINK

Welcome to The Rib Shack, Pettswood A locals favourite for the for dry-rubbed Memphis style ribs.

O

ur family friendly, vibrant atmosphere offers a menu packed with a variety of American classics, from stacked burgers to Philly Cheesesteaks, with a cocktail list to match. It’s no secret but the trick to great Bar.B.Q starts with meat; All our meat comes from trusted butchers who prepare the finest cuts from carefully selected partners We cater for parties of all shapes and sizes throughout the week, catering to any of your requirements.

With Live music running throughout the festive period making it ideal for an entertaining evening with friends and family.

Ladies Nights and Happy Hours are just some of the offers we have here to really help you discover the relaxed but attentive dining experience at the Rib Shack.

Staying in for the night? Deliveroo and Ubereats bring our menu straight to your door...

So decide for yourself. Best ribs in town? Only one way to find out‌ www.theribshackgrillandbar.com

78 AUGUST 2019

The Rib Shack in Petts Wood offers delicious food combined with a family friendly atmosphere, whether your looking for a light lunch or dinner and cocktails.

The Rib Shack... Where taste matters.

The Rib Shack Bar and Grill, 5 Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent BR5 1LY Tel - 01689 836181 | www.theribshackgrillandbar.com

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Ming, Station square, Petts Wood This month, Food editor Regan Anderton has visited Ming to give you her view on their menu.

Other local restaurant reviews, recipes and dinner party game ideas can be found at www.whatiatelastnight.com

Ambiance We visited early on a Saturday when the restaurant was set up ready for a fully booked evening. There were a mix of couples, families and large groups of friends celebrating birthdays and anniversaries.

Service The service was friendly and faultless. From the moment we arrived, we were advised on the food and drinks menu’s, and made to feel relaxed and not rushed at all. The food was delivered at a nice pace, and our drinks topped up throughout the evening.

Food We opted for one of their set menu’s - the ‘Lobster feast’ to share between two people.

Generous portions, beautifully balanced dishes, and wonderfully presented. To start, we had the salt and chilli prawns and squid - a good crunch to the batter, and tender squid and prawns with lots of flavour from the spring onions and chilli. We were then presented with a whole lobster which had been cracked, ready to eat by the Chef, and cooked in a zingy ginger and spring onion sauce. The lobster was extremely fresh, and fantastic quality. To follow were four additional dishes - king prawns in fresh asparagus. garlic pak choi, special seafood rice, and steamed, tender, sweet seabass with ginger and spring onion in a soy dressing. All were delicious and all went so well together. To finish the meal, we shared banana fritters in a crunchy sesame toffee batter, flambeed in Cointreau and served with vanilla ice cream - heaven on a plate.

Drink A well stocked bar with beers and spirits, as well as a great wine menu. We opted for the New Zealand Sauvignon blanc, which complimented the lobster and the zing of the ginger.

23 Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent, BR5 1LY www.mingrestaurant.net reservation@mingrestaurant.net Telephone orders welcome: 01689 820 427 or 01689 828 986

80 AUGUST 2019

Overview “An opulent local Chinese restaurant with fabulously fresh fish”

“Ming offer a selection of Peking and Cantonese cuisine, with a small Thai section to their men”

cHiNese ResTaURaNT & TaKeaWaY peKiNG & caNToNese cUisiNe

At the Ming restaurant, you can be sure of a warm welcome and fantastic Chinese food. A perfect environment for a romantic dinner for two, or a place to celebrate or relax with family and friends.

OPEning HOuRS Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – 11pm Friday & Saturday: 12pm – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – 12pm Sunday: 12pm - 10pm, eat as much as you can 12pm - 4pm (last order 3pm) Sunday dinner evening A-la-carte 5pm-10pm

special offeR every Wednesday & Thursday

UpcoMiNG fRee liVe MUsic:

scoTT elVis 25 SEPTEMBER

• Whole lobster £15 • (max 2 lobster per group),

• Whole seabass £8 • • half price • Crispy aromatic duck

KaReN BiZZel 30 OCTOBER

23 Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent, BR5 1LY Keep up to date with Ming Restaurant news and offers via our web site: www.mingrestaurant.net Email: reservation@mingrestaurant.net • Telephone orders welcome: 01689 820 427 or 01689 828 986

www.schmidt-sevenoaks.com