Life Magazines (London editions) October 2022

Unforgettable

Professional | Approachable | Bespoke

Restoring and Transforming

The ‘zoom’ effect is a phenomenon where attention is drawn to wrinkles, scars, eye-lid bags and jowls.

Chris Abela is an experienced reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon. He has seen a large increase in people actively exploring surgical and non surgical options to address areas of new concern or areas impacting self esteem.

Chris explains: “The pandemic has facilitated a change in everybody’s outlook. Our faces and bodies tell our life story and the last two years has meant starting a new chapter for many people. Many of my patients have survived COVID or other traumas and are now focused on their quality of life: aiming to thrive not just survive.”

Chris prides himself on providing each individual with a professional, bespoke and compassionate approach with a gentle bedside manner and discretion at the heart of every consultation.

He has clinics at 84 Harley Street, 102 Sydney Street, Chelsea and at Wimbledon Parkside.

Consultant

Sur geon

LIFE MAGAZINES

Tucked away in 300 acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside lies The Grove, a fivestar, family-run hotel where unforgettable memories are made. Just 18 miles from London, the former home of the Earls of Clarendon is home to five dining outlets, two bars, a newly-refurbished spa, a championship golf course and woodlands.

Positioned just as the nights are getting darker and thoughts are turning to Christmas, the 31st Winter Art & Antiques Fair, running for over 30 years, will sparkle with diamonds, glass, silver and mirrors. Over 70 of the UK’s finest specialist dealers will present an outstanding selection of irresistible pieces from the modern and eclectic, to the traditional and classic, including furniture, art, sculpture and object d’art in time for the Christmas buying and interiors-focused time of year.

In a ground-breaking project that has seen teams of experts excavate five floors into the London clay, to pave the way for the next 200 years of Claridge’s life, the legendary Mayfair hotel announces the opening of its first ever spa.

This autumn, Japan House London, located at the heart of Kensington High Street, presents The Carpenters’ Line: Woodworking Heritage in Hida Takayama. This brand new exhibition explores the art of master carpentry, from Japan’s well-known woodworking region.

Faye Manning Editor

EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITORIAL ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER SUB EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER FASHION EDITOR LARA ACCISON DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA WADE SOCIAL MEDIA PARKER JONES ACCOUNT MANAGERS

VANESSA LANE, NICOLA DREW, LISA WESTERMAN ACCOUNTS TRACEY HALLS, ANDREE GEORGIOU DIRECTORS RORY SMITH, PATRICK SMITH

PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD 0844 800 8439

WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM

London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2022

In true tradition, the Royal Automobile Club, in partnership with RM Sotheby’s, will be staging the remarkable event on the first Sunday in November. Crowds can expect a magnificent spectacle with the rare opportunity to watch more than 350+ owners of prized pre-1905 horseless carriages embark upon a 60-mile journey from Hyde Park to Madeira Drive on Brighton’s

Last year’s very special 125th anniversary edition of the world’s longest running motoring event was widely acclaimed as one of the best ever. The Veteran Car Run commemorates the Emancipation Run of 14 November 1896, which celebrated the passing into law of the Locomotives on the Highway Act. It was this Act that raised the speed limit for ‘light locomotives’ from 4 mph to 14 mph and abolished the requirement for these

vehicles to be preceded by a man on foot waving a red flag. A group of intrepid early motorists set off from London for the Sussex coast to mark the life-changing moment when motorists were finally given the freedom of the open road and the arrival of a new era of mechanical horsepower.

On leaving Hyde Park at the break of dawn at 7am, the veteran cars will pass many iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace, Horseguards and Big Ben before crossing Westminster Bridge.

Participants then leave London via two routes to avoid congestion - one via Clapham Common, Balham, Tooting and Mitcham and the other via Brixton and Streatham Common. Uniting just north of Croydon, the route continues past Sutton on the A217 to Banstead, Tadworth, Reigate and Redhill. From there it takes the A23 to Horley and Crawley where the route heads to Brighton via Pease Pottage, Staplefield, Cuckfield, Ansty, Burgess Hill, Hassocks and Clayton where it joins the A23 for the run into the finish at Madeira Drive.

The route ensures there are plenty of fabulous viewing spots for the many thousands of spectators who line the streets to wave the veterans on their way.

For more details of the 2022 RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, visit veterancarrun.com.

THE DETAILS

For more details of the 2022 RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, visit veterancarrun.com.

The Golden Age of Motoring Sale

ith the main motorsport season coming to a close, the spotlight falls on the pioneers when the world’s longest running motoring event, the Veteran Car Run, travels from London to Brighton on Sunday 6 November, with crowds lining much of the 60 plus mile route. On Friday 4 November, Bonhams will celebrate the occasion with its Golden Age of Motoring Sale at its New Bond Street saleroom - offering a fine selection of Veteran motor cars, many of which are stalwarts of the Run, plus automobilia relating to the pre-war period.

Of particular interest among the early consignments is an 1897 Daimler Twin-Cylinder 4HP Tonneau, the second car manufactured at the Daimler factory in Coventry and believed to be the oldest still on the road. The Daimler’s first owner was Arthur Mulliner, of the eponymous coachbuilding family, whose cousin H.J was of course famous for creating bespoke bodies for Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

Not surprisingly, this Daimler is clothed in a bespoke Mulliner Tonneau body, most likely added when the car was returned to the factory for updating – including tiller steering and front suspension - circa 1900. This car has undertaken no fewer than 50 Runs, starting with the 1897 Commemoration Run, a year on from the Emancipation Run which celebrated the raising of the speed limit from 4mph to a heady 14mph.

The Daimler is now offered from 72 years’ single-family ownership, having been acquired by the vendor’s father in 1952 who oversaw a total restoration of the car, before driving it to Brighton

THE DETAILS

For more information visit

bonhams.com

Bonhams – Auctioneers since 1793

101 New Bond Street

London W1S 1SR

in that year’s Run and, two decades later, leading a drive to Brussels to mark the UK’s entry into the Common Market.

Other early highlights include an 1898 Peugeot Type 15 8HP Twin-Cylinder Double Phaeton, estimate £275,000 – £325,000; a 1917 Lancia Theta Sports Tourer, estimate £120,000 – £160,000, which boasts a complete electrical system including starter motor, headlights and a button horn, and a 1907 Stanley EX steam-powered motor car, estimate £85,000 – £100,000.

WINTER ART & ANTIQUES FAIR, OLYMPIA

1 – 6 November 2022 - Preview 31 October.

The UK’s last major Art and Antiques Fair before Christmas.

Positioned just as the nights are getting darker and thoughts are turning to Christmas, the 31st Winter Art & Antiques Fair, running for over 30 years, will sparkle with diamonds, glass, silver and mirrors.

Over 70 of the UK’s finest specialist dealers will present an outstanding selection of irresistible pieces from the modern and eclectic, to the traditional and classic, including furniture, art, sculpture and object d’art in time for the Christmas buying and interiors-focused time of year. Visitors will find truly unique gifts and exclusive pieces to add to their collections, from over 20,000 works of art, antiques, furniture, sculpture, jewellery, textiles and collectors’ pieces.

All buyers, at any level, are reassured by the ‘vetting’ process which sees a team of experts check every piece for sale before opening to ensure quality and authenticity.

Beloved by interior designers as well as collectors and creative homeowners, the fair presents an extraordinary range of pieces from the traditional to the quirky, the grand scale to the minute with prices starting at under £100 and

heading well over £100,000 for rare, museumquality pieces.

Discover truly one-of-a-kind pieces created by legendary artists such as Lalique, Matisse, Meissen, Cartier, and Van Cleef & Arpels; discover furniture dating from the 16th century to the 20th century. There will also be an unrivalled selection of antique jewellery, including pieces by Cartier, Boucheron, Vacheron Constantin, and Tiffany.

Coming together for six-days only collectors, interior designers, Christmas shoppers and homelovers will be able to buy original works priced from £100 to £1 million.

Fair Director, Mary Claire Boyd, says of the six-day event. ‘Expect the unexpected. You just never know what the dealers will have discovered. It could be a pendant made for Charles I, glasses given to Humphrey Bogart or Andy Warhol’s mirror. That is the excitement of an antique fair like Olympia.’

The fair is the last major art and antiques fair before Christmas and runs alongside The Luxury Travel Fair and The Spirit of Christmas fair in the National Hall at Olympia.

Website olympia-art-antiques.com Twitter twitter.com/ OlympiaAntiques Facebook facebook.com/ olympiaartandantiques Instagram instagram.com/ olympiaartandantiques

Above: Anthony Gilbert, Red Patterned Lady

Cédric Grolet Unveils A New Afternoon Tea At The Berkeley

The menu evolves and changes with the seasons but for Autumn, Grolet features the chef’s iconic vanilla flower, a Paris Brest, a pistachio cookie and, for a purist English nod, a scone with cream and jam. The sweet piece de resistance is a glistening trompe-l’œil green apple which, inside, features fresh apple and dill. The savoury goodies are Grolet’s highly intricate take on avocado on toast and a trompe-l’œil burrata which reveals tomato gel and basil pesto when cut open. A mini comté cheese and bacon quiche, warm from the oven, is bought to table mid-service to complete the savoury offering.

“In true Cédric Grolet style, surprising touches are presented throughout the service”

In true Cédric Grolet style, surprising touches are presented throughout the service such as chef’s circulating the room with trays of freshly baked madeleines.

Cédric Grolet’s Goutea at The Berkeley is £85 per person, served seven days a week and bookable at noon, 2pm and 4pm. Reservations can be made by visiting theberkeley.co.uk/restaurants-bars/ the-berkeley-cafe

ABOUT THE BERKELEY

Nestled between bustling Knightsbridge and leafy Belgravia, The Berkeley is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. Stunning rooms and suites are accompanied by Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, a fashion favourite afternoon tea at Prêt-à-Portea and Cedric Grolet at The Berkeley, courtesy of one of the world’s most famous pastry chefs. Complete with the Blue Bar and The Berkeley Bar & Terrace for drinks, the Bamford Wellness Spa and a rooftop pool with jaw dropping Hyde Park views, The Berkeley continues to surprise and enchant.

Cédric Grolet – one of the world’s best pastry chefs – opened the doors to his first patisserie outside of France, Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley in February 2022. With a string of accolades citing him as the best pastry chef in the world, Grolet is known for his trompe-l’œil artistry and legendary Instagram channel which has a following of 3.6 million, which he runs himself with signature flair and spontaneity.

Guests seated in the surroundings of The Berkeley Café designed by Remi Tessier, are welcomed with an iced vanilla tea and Grolet’s cake stand – perfectly paired with tea, coffee or champagne – showcasing two savoury and five sweet creations.

CLARIDGE’S UNVEILS FIRST SPA IN ITS HISTORY

In a ground-breaking project that has seen teams of experts excavate five floors into the London clay, to pave the way for the next 200 years of Claridge’s life, the legendary Mayfair hotel announces the opening of its first ever spa.

Situated three floors down with 7,000 square feet of space, Claridge’s Spa is a haven of wellness and tranquillity featuring its first ever swimming pool, steam rooms, sauna and seven treatments rooms. The space is an epicentre of wellness, showcasing healing rituals, a knowledge of restorative body work and the latest bioinnovation to amplify emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. The service is signature fivestar Claridge’s, with touches of the iconic timeless glamour synonymous with the hotel. Claridge’s Spa offers both a best-in-class list of resident brands including Josh Wood, Augustinus Bader and FaceGym, and an ever-evolving roster of visiting wellness masters, featuring nail artist Harriet Westmoreland and acupuncturist Ross J. Barr, ensuring guests are expertly treated, head to toe.

Guests cross the iconic monochrome lobby and embark on a journey to a sensorial space of calm serenity, with sounds of flowing water, a visual play of light and shadow, and energy-cleansing music. Escaping the bustle of the capital, spa guests can feel time moving at a slower pace and experience a sense of replenishing restoration. The heated swimming pool is central to the spa, framed by a striking, multi-vaulted ceiling and stone columns. Cabanas set back from the water

offer privacy to relax and unwind. In addition to private consultation spaces, the treatment rooms are oak panelled and ensuite, where each treatment is personalised to the individual, inspired by the ancient concept of omakase (‘leaving another to decide what is best’).

The piece de resistance is Josh Wood at Claridge’s – a dedicated hair and beauty space within the spa, where celebrated British hair colour expert Josh Wood brings his hand-picked dream team of A-list stylists to the hotel. This collaboration sees his first home in Mayfair, and a 21st century reimagination of what haircare looks like in hotels.

THE DETAILS

Claridge’s Spa is open to both hotel and outside guests, MondaySunday 8am-9pm. 90 minute treatments include access to the pool. To book treatments please call 0207 409 6565. claridges.co.uk/spa

Unforgettable experiences at The Grove

Tucked away in 300 acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside lies The Grove, a five-star, family-run hotel where unforgettable memories are made. Just 18 miles from London, the former home of the Earls of Clarendon is home to five dining outlets, two bars, a newly-refurbished spa, a championship golf course and woodlands. Also on-site is an activity centre, where adventurers of all ages can enjoy archery, laser clay pigeon shooting, bike rides, tree climbing and more.

As autumn leaves begin to settle over the grounds, embrace this seasonal shift and experience the golden-leafed paradise for yourself. Relax, unwind and take a welcome break from the bustling city of London. On 5 November, the terrace fire pit will be lit to celebrate Bonfire Night, with mulled cider, hot chocolate and

other sweet treats served ahead of a spectacular fireworks display over the 18th-century mansion. Blink, and before you know it, the country estate will be covered in a light dusting of snow and glittering lights, heralding the start of the festive season. On Christmas Eve, guests will arrive to a wintry wonderland with carol singers and live music playing in the Lounges, and Father Christmas’ reindeer waiting on the terrace to greet the little ones. Families with kids will also be able to take part in festive arts and crafts, including bauble decorating and gingerbread making. On Christmas morning, wrap up warm and take a stroll around the frosty grounds to work up an appetite for the festive feasts ahead. As part of the package offerings, guests can either opt for a fourcourse Christmas lunch at The Stables or a buffet at The Glasshouse, before the kids meet Father Christmas himself. A Boxing Day barbeque will be available the following day.

For those looking to ring in the New Year in the most glamorous of surroundings, The Grove will be on hand with sumptuous dinners, Champagne, a live DJ set in the main hotel lobby, and, of course, a show-stopping fireworks display at midnight, accompanied by a traditional Scottish piper. There’s no better way to start 2023. Visit thegrove.co.uk to find out more.

“As autumn leaves begin to settle over the grounds, embrace this seasonal shift and experience the goldenleafed paradise for yourself”

IDEAL HOME SHOW CHRISTMAS

23–27 November 2022, Olympia London. Discover a world of festive delights!

Ideal Home Show Christmas brings you everything you need for the festive season - inspiring ideas on everything from decorations, gifts, Christmas puddings and festive fizz, to furniture and home improvements – the show has it all! Bringing together more than 600 exhibitors from across the UK, the show offers a unique shopping experience.

The Ideal Home Show Christmas isn’t just for shopping – there will be live entertainment, celebrity chefs and expert demos to set you up for the festive period.

Celebrity Guests and Experts

Offering visitors live Q&A’s and demonstrations on stage to help you create that wonderful Christmas at home - from what to cook and how to entertain, plus great interior styling tips!

Christmas Theatre 2022

Enjoy free 45-minute sessions focusing on everything from creating a stylish Christmas tablescape, to gift wrapping like a pro. This is the place to be inspired.

The Christmas Kitchen

A live demonstration theatre with top chefs, foodie favourites and drinks experts to educate and inform with flair. Visitors will be able to enjoy watching some of television’s most celebrated chefs and mixologists bring their unique style of cooking and cocktail making to life.

Workshops

From learning how to make beautiful wreaths and decorations to fun choc-making, you will have a lovely interactive day out.

Good Homes Christmas Roomsets

Featuring the latest looks for furniture and

homeware and showcasing on-trend colours and festive accessories to give your home a magical feel and wow your guests. Plus floorcoverings, fireplaces, sofas and comfy chairs. Also bringing you all the shimmer and sparkle to give the front of your house some festive kerb appeal.

Kids Zone

Bringing a whole host of fun, interactive activities to keep the kids amused

Pamper Lounge

Add a little relaxation to your day by visiting The Pamper Lounge

Eat & Drink Festival

Your Ideal Home Show ticket includes entry into the adjoining East & Drink Festival. Watch chefs cooking live. Enjoy drinks masterclasses and shop from a selection of street food vendors, drinks brands and artisan food producers.

Whether you’re after a family day out, an inspiring shopping trip or simply the time to pamper yourself, this year’s seasonal show is bound to leave you feeling festive!

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk

“From learning how to make beautiful wreaths and decorations to fun choc-making, you will have a lovely interactive day out”

Tea Cups London was born out of love and necessity during the turbulent times brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. MICCOLI, a family band, were missing the buzz of performing on the Wembley stage and touring life when they turned their attention to another passion: tea.

The sibling trio of musicians discovered whilst on the road that tea just doesn’t taste quite the same out of a canteen paper cup, and they set about creating a fine bone china tea cup with a twist.

Using a naturally occurring composite material instead of animal bone ash, Tea Cups London were able to create beautiful and elegant tea sets whilst retaining the fine, translucent and pearl like properties of fine bone china but without the need to use animal products.

Their first vegan friendly faux bone china tea cup is adorned with illustrations from the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland”. The unique tea cup designs have proved popular with tea lovers from all over the world, from Bognor Regis to Tokyo and beyond.

Tea Cups London has continued to grow, introducing new designs and teaware from tea spoons, tea strainers to on the go porcelain travel mugs.

2022 sees Tea Cups London make its debut

at the Ideal Home Christmas show, offering all attendees exclusive exhibition prices and gift bundles perfect for the Christmas season. Every purchase of a T.C.L faux bone china tea cup will see customers receive a free box of tea (whilst stocks last) and a portion of the sale donated to The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) - a UK-based foundation dedicated to establishing and protecting the rights of all animals.

So head to their stand at H320 and take an enchanting piece of Tea Cups London home with you. www.teacupslondon.com

LONDON RESTAURANT FESTIVAL

This month, London Restaurant Festival in partnership with American Express, is back for its fourteenth year and showcasing some of the most exciting talent behind London’s dynamic food scene. With a line-up of over 50 carefully curated culinary events, this year’s festival is serving up everything from gastronomic tours across the capital’s best restaurants to evenings with Britain’s most esteemed critics.

Many of the city’s leading chefs are taking part with a hand-picked timetable of ‘Tasting Menus’ including a celebratory Indian banquet from Kricket and a feast from chefs Will and Jack at Fallow in St James’s Market. A new addition for this autumn will be ‘The Resy Hit List presented by London Restaurant Festival’, where the city’s

hottest restaurants – curated by booking platform Resy – are offering a unique menu or dish for the duration of the festival.

The festival also brings a series celebrating the best of the fashionable neighbourhoods of Mayfair and Belgravia, including an evening of creativity at Eccleston Yards and an experience showcasing the best of North Audley Street.

‘Talk of the Town’ events offer exclusive gastronomic experiences with bespoke menus in a restaurant take-over and include ‘Feast from Fallow‘ from Fallow at St James’s, Oxeye at Embassy Gardens and a live jazz evening alongside a seasonal British four-course menu at the elegant Rotunda Bar and Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square. The Festival also incorporates the

William Sitwell, Food Critic

ever popular ‘Masterclasses’ – featuring an Italicus Spritz masterclass, the best of Negronis at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane and a Spanish cookery class with Nieves Barragan of Sabor, paired with Estrella Galicia beer.

Much-loved Saturday Kitchen regular Anna Haugh is hosting guests at her restaurant Myrtle in Chelsea as part of the ‘Ultimate Gastronomic Weekend’, including a stay at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square and a dinner at the hotel’s restaurant Mei Ume, which showcases traditional dishes from both Chinese and Japanese cuisines with a modern approach. Meanwhile, ‘Binge’, the popular series at Television Centre returns for a second year, featuring the best combination of food and TV viewings. For those who are partial to a food and drink pairing across multiple restaurants, ‘Restaurant-Hopping Tours’ returns in Belgravia (with Luigi Bosca wines), Covent Garden (with Innis & Gunn beers) and Chelsea (with Martin Miller’s Gin cocktails).

LRF is also bringing back their successful ‘Festival within a Festival’ member programmes for American Express Centurion and Platinum Cardmembers. The Platinum Card® have access to a series of ‘Chef-Hosted New Openings’ at three of London’s most exciting new launches: Chantelle Nicholson’s Apricity in Mayfair, Carlo Scotto’s immersive dining experience at Amethyst and Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal.

Art à la Carte’ allows guests to explore some of London’s best collaborations between artists, curators and restaurateurs, including Langan’s Brasserie - with walls covered in fine art. Seasonal ‘Autumn Spotlights’ include a King’s Caviar Tasting in the William Kent Room at The Ritz and a Seafood School at The Sea, The Sea hosted by chef Leo Carreira. American Express Cardmembers also have the option to ‘Discover Regent Street & St James’s’, with specially curated experiences including a one-off Supper Club in

the Fortnum & Mason Crypt and a Gourmet Odyssey lunch at Maison François, Chutney Mary and Michelin-starred Wild Honey, paired with Gusbourne’s range of English sparkling wines.

The ‘Penthouse Supper Club’ is hosting in an exclusive residence on London City Island offering panoramic views whilst guests enjoy an intimate dinner cooked and hosted by Tim Spedding, former chef of The Clove Club. The event features a sommelier-led tasting of Oregon wines served from LG SIGNATURE’s state-of-the-art Wine Cellar. The most discerning of Centurion members can also partake in a rare opportunity to join some of the nation’s most respected restaurant critics - Fay Maschler, Nigel Barden and William Sitwell - as they take guests to some of their favourite spots in town.

For the first time, London Restaurant Festival is proud to be partnering with London’s hippest restaurant booking platform, Resy. ‘The Resy Hit List - presented by London Restaurant Festival’ includes hand-selected spots, each granting guests access to special menus and dishes, including a Caravel fan-favourite, potato rösti with sour cream and caviar. For more information visit londonrestaurantfestival.com

“Art à la Carte’ allows guests to explore some of London’s best collaborations between artists, curators and restaurateurs”

Anna Haugh

JAPAN HOUSE LONDON

This autumn, Japan House London, located at the heart of Kensington High Street, presents The Carpenters’ Line: Woodworking Heritage in Hida Takayama. This brand new exhibition explores the art of master carpentry, from Japan’s well-known woodworking region.

The exhibition celebrates the essence of Japanese craftsmanship through the story of an enduring woodworking heritage cultivated in the densely forested Hida region of Gifu Prefecture in central Japan. From the raw materials of the Hida forests and the tools developed to work them, to the involvement of Hida craftsmanship in global furniture design of today, visitors to the exhibition will be immersed in extraordinary craftworking legacy.

The city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture has maintained a vibrant woodworking tradition for over 1,300 years, developing in that time an international reputation for its highly skilled carpenters. First recorded in the eighth century CE, the woodworking skills of these craftspeople were provided to the imperial capital in place of taxation, such was the importance placed upon the carpentry techniques originating in Hida. It was the extraordinary skill of these Hida craftspeople that built many of the famous shrines and temples still seen in the ancient capitals of Nara and Kyoto today.

Today, the practice of woodworking still thrives in Hida, with internationally renowned workshops well known for their collaborations with international designers, the results of which can be seen in museum collections across the globe.

Visitors to The Carpenters’ Line encounter a series of installations demonstrating the legacy of skill and innovation that runs as a continuous strand through Hida’s woodworking history, focussing on woodcraft techniques and materials, technology and innovation, and products.

The Carpenters’ Line runs from Thursday 29 September to Sunday 29 January 2023 at Japan House London, 101 – 111 Kensington High Street. Admission is free, and guests are invited to book their visit at japanhouselondon.uk, or simply to drop in. A series of exclusive themed events and workshops will also accompany the exhibition, further details of which can be found on our website.

japanhouselondon.uk

THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW

ExCeL 15-16 October

the latest wedding fashion trends!

Head to ExCeL London this Autumn to meet

a wide range of local wedding suppliers from London, Surrey, Kent and the surrounding areas. You’ll also find plenty of wedding inspiration, fullscale catwalk shows, and hundreds of dresses and suits to try on!

With an amazing line-up of leading wedding suppliers, a stunning live catwalk, the WED Talk Stage and many more surprises in store, the countdown to the Autumn 2022 season of The National Wedding Show is officially on!

Get ready for a day of all things wedding! When you arrive at the National Wedding Show, make sure to relax and indulge with a glass of bubbly in The Champagne Bar, while you plan out the rest of your day. Walk around with your wedding party, take a look at the different suppliers, talk to the specialists and come join us at The Catwalk. You can watch a spectacular show, whilst checking out our talented bridal designers and looking at the new bridal trends. What more could you want?

From flowers to cakes to stationery, we’ve got you sorted for your big day. Don’t miss out on one of our shows in London or Birmingham. See you soon!

• The UK’s No.1 wedding show

• The ultimate destination for wedding inspiration and wedding planning

• Featuring 100s of wedding specialists, unique ideas, expect advice and exclusive discounts

• Enjoy the perfect wedding planning day out

• Book VIP tickets and receive exclusive benefits to make your day at the show even more special. Relax in the VIP lounge with an alcoholic drink and pick up your VIP tote bag filled with goodies from the likes of Lancôme. With reserved catwalk seating, you’ll be able to get the best seats to see

At the show, you’ll find plenty of wedding inspiration, catwalk shows, and hundreds of dresses and suits to try on! Find your perfect cake, get inspired for your wedding day attire on the catwalk and if you book VIP, a relaxing area for you to unwind in. nationalweddingshow.co.uk

“From flowers to cakes to stationery, we’ve got you sorted for your big day. Don’t miss out on one of our shows in London”

Immerse

THE CHELSEA ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR

Wednesday 2 to Sunday 6 November 2022

Chelsea Old Town Hall, King’s Road, Chelsea, London SW3 5EE

Frequented by interior designers and collectors, this stalwart of the London fairs’ calendar is taking place again this November, this time with a new feature – the Cadogan Oriental Suite. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Asian Art in London, with which The Chelsea Antiques & Fine Art Fair coincides this month, the Cadogan Hall is being transformed into a dedicated Oriental themed exhibition within the Fair. Curated by 2Covet’s own director and Japanese art specialist Steve Sly, the Cadogan Oriental Suite is showcasing exceptional Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Islamic and Oriental themed works of art to create an eclectic mix of the Asian arts for visitors to purchase.

Dr Shanshan Wang, dealer in early Asian art, is giving a series of talks on Wick Antiques’ stand where some of her pieces will also be for sale: Tuesday 1st November at 3pm (private preview

day) - Chinese Neolithic pottery vs. European antique furniture

Thursday 3rd November at 1pm - From Persia to China, blue in ancient ceramics Saturday 5th November at 1pm - Japanese ceramics and bronze sculptures to create a wabisabi European home

Apart from the Oriental element, there are many other experts gathering from around the country selling different disciplines from vintage watches, ceramics, glass, paintings and furniture to jewellery, aeronautica, antique boxes, maritime items, silver, objets d’art and so much more. All items are vetted for quality and authenticity. The perfect opportunity to pick up exquisite and unique Christmas presents or something splendid for your interior.

Over the years, the Fair has maintained strong links with a variety of charities. This November, the Fair is supporting The Edward Guinness Appeal in aid of Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for the disabled. Onsite catering is provided by 28°50° Wine Workshop and Kitchen Chelsea..

For opening times, tickets, exhibitors and other information, visit the website at chelseaantiquesfair.co.uk or follow the Fair’s social media:

Facebook:

ChelseaAntiquesandFineArtFair

Instagram:

@chelseaantiquesfineartfair

Pinterest:

@chelseaantiquesfineartfair

Mary Fedden RA OBE (1915-2012)‘Pansies and a Lighthouse’ gouache. 11” x 8”. £6,200 from Kaye Michie Fine Art

Gents Vacheron & Constantin wristwatch from 1951 in 18k rose gold case. £12,600 from Timewise Vintage Watches

Satsuma vase by the highly regarded Kinkozan studios, Japan. (29.2cm high x 26cm wide x 23cm deep) circa 1895-1900. £24,000 from Steve Sly Japanese Art

Wick Antiques’ rare and exceptional Meiji period hardwood exhibition display cabinet, Yokohama, Japan, circa 1900, £78,500,

Ide

Spirit of Christmas Fair 2022

Celebrating 21 years, the Spirit of Christmas Fair is back to full capacity supporting over 700 small independent brands and designer-makers this year, all handpicked for their quality and originality and approved by House & Garden Magazine. Visitors can discover over 200 new and exclusive brands to the Fair as well as hundreds of returning favourites presenting the finest distinctive gifts. Many returning visitors share the Fair as an annual unmissable social calendar date and enjoy a wonderful experience with friends – to kick-start the festive season.

With sustainability at the heart of how many of these small independents are run, visitors can shop with the planet in mind. Using good quality natural or recycled materials is just a part of

THE DETAILS

For ticket options and more information visit spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk

Spirit of Christmas 2022 also takes place alongside The Luxury Travel Fair, for more details visit luxurytravelfair.com

what they do to care for our planet and support local communities also making it easy to add a luxurious touch to gifting this year whist shopping consciously.

There’s something for everyone within the cornucopia of inspirational boutiques, selling homeware, fashion for both men and women, baby & child, decorations, health & beauty, food & drink and stunning jewellery. From grand, show-stopping pieces to the quirky and beautiful, discerning shoppers will find endless never-beforeseen items across the seven days. Visitors can meet face-to-face with brands that can’t be seen elsewhere because many are only accessible online or use the Fair as their only consumer touch point, otherwise selling to trade.

Bursting with delicious festive essentials, visitors can discover over 100 of the finest artisan producers including Great Taste Award winners in the Gallery Food Hall. Home to an unrivalled mix of leading artisans, independent producers and Great Taste Award winners, it is sure to inspire festive banquets and Christmas gift giving.

Highlights of the Spirit of Christmas Fair will include:

• Exclusive show offers and competitions from a unique collection of boutique brands

• Enjoy a glass of the finest Champagne in the stylish Louis Roederer Champagne Bars

• The Food Hall where the Fair presents an entirely delectable mix of leading artisans, independent producers, Royal Warrant holders and Great Taste award-winners

• Late night shopping Thursday 3 November 10am - 9pm

THE HORROR SHOW! A TWISTED TALE OF MODERN BRITAIN

27 October 2022 - 19 February 2023. Embankment Galleries, Somerset House

Somerset House presents a major exhibition exploring how ideas rooted in horror have informed the last 50 years of creative rebellion.

The show looks beyond horror as a genre, instead taking it as a reaction and provocation to our most troubling times. The last five decades of modern British history are recast as a story of cultural shapeshifting told through some of our country’s most provocative artists.

The Horror Show! offers a heady ride through the disruption of 1970s punk to the revolutionary potential of modern witchcraft, showing how the anarchic alchemy of horror – its subversion, transgression and the supernatural – can make sense of the world around us.

Featuring over 200 artworks and culturally significant objects, this landmark show tells a story of the turbulence, unease and creative revolution at the heart of the British cultural psyche in three acts – Monster, Ghost and Witch. Each act interprets a specific era through the lens of a classic horror archetype, in a series of thematically linked contemporaneous and new works:

MONSTER

Opening The Horror Show!, Monster delves into the economic and political turbulence of the 70s

and the high octane spectacle and social division of the 80s. Against a backdrop of unrest and loud uprising, it charts the origin story and ascent of the individuals who will go on to disrupt, define and destroy British culture, while exploring the monsters which plague society today.

GHOST

Ghost marks the collapse of hyperinflated 80s culture into an uncanny temperature change that presided over the 90s and early 00s. It traces an unsettling path through to the global financial crisis of 2008, a turning point in time between a century of old and new, at the dawn of a digital age of faceless audiences and invisible cyber wars.

WITCH

Witch focuses on a Britain spanning 2008’s financial crash until the present day and celebrates the emergence of a younger generation and their hyper-connected community – a global coven readily embracing a dynamic grounded in integration and equality. The exhibition will have an accompanying programme of talks and events, for more information and to purchase tickets, visit somersethouse.org.uk

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“REBEL WITH A CELLO”

Visionary. Spectacular. Rule-breaking. Sunday 12th November 2023, London, The O2

The bad boy of instrumentalists and founding member of 2CELLOS known simply as HAUSER announces his much anticipated, first-ever worldwide solo tour “Rebel with a Cello” which includes two UK dates at o2 Apollo Manchester and London’s The O2.

Armed with the momentum from his last and final sold-out 2CELLOS tour, the superstar cellist and visual artist is launching the ultimate musical, showcasing his signature performance pyrotechnics alongside his romantic and soulful, playing sound and style.

And while music’s mischievous romantic is including everything his fans have come to know and love through his visual media presentations, like the wildly popular “Beach Party” and musical dreamscapes like the “Alone Together,” visual concepts, HAUSER’s first “Rebel with a Cello” tour features a third act of rocking and rhythmic retro into modern globally-influenced dance tracks from his new solo album which is available Worldwide now, “The Player.”

Dance with him and experience the captivating magic. HAUSER has a new video out now. HAUSER. He is a rockstar with a cello...and this is only the beginning.

THE DETAILS

HAUSER, LIVE. ‘REBEL WITH A CELLO’.

The Worldwide tour.

UK DATES:

Saturday 11th November 2023

O2 Apollo Manchester Sunday 12th November 2023

London, The O2

VIP meet and greet packages available. Tickets from Eventim.co.uk, ticketmaster.co.uk, axs.com hauserofficial.com

ASCOT RACECOURSE FESTIVE DINING

are invited to choose from our Christmas à la carte menu. For groups of eight or more, menu pre-ordering is required. £10 per person deposit is required for all bookings.

Ascot Shared Christmas Parties

The glitz and glamour of the roaring twenties arrives in style at Ascot this Christmas with showstopping Great Gatsby-themed shared Christmas party nights teeming with opulence and elegance. Hosted in the grand Pavilion Suite, guests will be transported back to this decadent decade with a festive three-course meal and entertainment courtesy of Ascot’s resident DJ. Prices for shared parties start from £82.80 per person incl. VAT.

For those looking to bring company-wide colleagues together to party on a grand scale, we also offer exclusive fine dining packages for up to 700 guests. Prices for exclusive parties start from £102 per person incl. VAT.

With a grand sense of style and occasion, Christmas festivities are brought to life at Ascot with the magic of exquisite cuisine. From dazzling Christmas party packages to worldclass festive racing, discover the array of unbeatable dining options to match the occasion this Christmas. Encouraging togetherness, camaraderie and plenty of cheer, Ascot provides the perfect opportunity to bring people together and reminisce at the most wonderful time of the year.

Christmas Lunch and Dinner

The contemporary award-winning fifth-floor ON5 Restaurant showcases panoramic views that marvel the racecourse and Windsor Great Park from its viewing balcony and private terrace. This popular dining destination is revolutionised into the ultimate Christmas lunch and dinner venue. Guests can dine on a three-course à la carte festive menu prepared by our in-house team of the finest chefs, served to exceptional standards. Catering for up to eight people per table, guests are invited to get social whilst still keeping an element of intimacy.

For Christmas lunch and dinner at Ascot, guests

All the above options are available on selected dates throughout November and December. Enquire today at ascot.com or call 0344 346 3000 to speak to a dedicated member of the team and make this Christmas an occasion that will never be forgotten.

“The glitz and glamour of the roaring twenties arrives in style at Ascot this Christmas with show-stopping Great Gatsby-themed shared Christmas party nights teeming with opulence and elegance”

SANDBANKS JETS: RIDE OF YOUR LIFE

If you’ve yet to charter a private jet then there is no time like the present; but be warned, after a taste of the high life, you may never want to fly commercial again!

This unparalleled level of luxury and convenience has seen an increase in the number of travellers opting for this elite form of air travel over commercial flying, going as far as choosing a private jet over the opulence of first class. Sandbanks Jets however, have taken the experience to new heights as they continue to pave the way with their innovative approach to the industry and attention to detail, which can be encapsulated by their tag line, ‘The Ride of Your Life’.

Imagine pulling up to the steps of your aircraft

only to find that you are ‘Wheels Up’ 15 minutes later - This really is the epitome of effortless, luxury travel. From the first point of contact, the team at Sandbanks Jets will ensure your experience is above and beyond everything you would expect from choosing the aircraft to match your specific requirements to providing sumptous food and beverage options, you really do have the choice to travel the way you desire.

In a hugely difficult year for the aviation industry, demand continues at record levels for private jet charter, with a substantial spike in enquiries. This is understandable when you consider the demand created post pandemic, and current last minute cancellations due to ground handling issues at airports. Private jets can often

travel to destinations where scheduled airlines cannot go, depart at your convenience, and you can enjoy the privacy of your very own aircraft without even setting foot inside a busy terminal.

Sandbanks Jets have carefully chosen a select group of partners with the intention of enhancing the customer experience, including teaming up with one of the most prestigious stores in the world, Harrods, to provide their onboard retailing. They have also been welcomed into ‘The Sunseeker Family’ by the prestigious Sunseeker London Group enabling them to work closely with mutual clients to offer luxury yacht charter and transfer opportunities. The all female team are not content at stopping there, as their ability to recognise what could exceed the clients expectations now leads them to offer an exciting and delicious onboard catering experience that will be developed with Rick Stein Restaurants.

The four Directors founded the company after a decidedly average experience booking a private jet. They felt the casual approach they received did not justify the product being sold, and there was room in the market for improvement, attention to detail and innovation. The four friends Laura Green, Amanda McGivney, Lucy Redknapp and Alex Fellows all local to Sandbanks, set about creating the brand, Sandbanks Jets in 2020. Despite the uncertain times due to Covid-19 restrictions, Sandbanks Jets has seen exponential growth in the past 12 months and there are no signs of this slowing down.

continues at record levels for private jet charter, with a substantial spike in enquiries”

KEW’S TEMPERATE HOUSE TRANSFORMED:

Explore the vibrant art and creative culture of Mexico this October Saturday 1 October – Monday 31 October 2022

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew invites visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and astonishing biodiversity of Mexico. The Mexico Festival will see Kew’s iconic Temperate House, the world’s largest surviving Victorian glasshouse. transformed by a vivid array of art and horticultural installations, each showcasing the unique spectacle of this North American nation, home to 12% of the world’s biodiversity.

Innovative Mexican artist Betsabeé Romero will create two must-see installations, these brandnew creations will highlight the close connection between Mexican culture and the natural world, as well as drawing on the vibrant creative traditions at the heart of Mexican art.

Romero’s central installation (Flower of light and song) will draw on the rituals and traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) on a huge scale, transforming the Temperate House with a giant chandelier in the shape of the Quincunce, which represents a harmonious relationship between nature and humanity in pre-Hispanic cosmology. This piece will immerse visitors to the Temperate House in one of the central symbols of the Day of the Dead, the Mexican marigold, also known as cempasúchil.

Romero’s second creation, inspired by Hanal Pixan (the Mayan Day of the Dead celebration) is formed as two ceremonial alters, spaces for thoughtful reflection and commemoration, evoking a ritual which is still a central part of Yucatán culture today.

Elsewhere in the Temperate House, visitors can encounter the curious creations of Mexican designer Fernando Laposse. Crafted by transforming plant fibres including sisal into sustainable pieces of art, Laposse’s work focuses on topics such as the environmental crisis and biodiversity loss, and he regularly collaborates with indigenous communities across Mexico to raise awareness about the challenges which they face in an increasingly globalised world.

Kew’s focus on Mexico for the 2022 autumn festival highlights the country’s position as a biodiversity hotspot, estimated to be home to an astonishing 26,000 species of flowers. Mexico is classified as one of the world’s top five most megadiverse countries, representing 12% of global biodiversity in just 1.5% of global land area. Kew has many collaborative scientific projects in Mexico, which include focusing on the conservation of tree species, seed banking and training the next generation of taxonomists. For more information, visit kew.org

Royal Botanic Gardens Of Kew

Fernando Laposse

Jon Lee 2018

Royal Botanic Gardens Of Kew

Southwest’s Ultimate Fairytale Wedding Venue

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES INCLUDE:

Somerset Wedding Venue of the Year Winner

2nd Best UK Wedding Venue by Perfect Wedding Magazine

9th Best UK Wedding Venue by Marie Claire

BA Award for Excellence for Leading the Way within the Weddings Industry

Shortlisted by the Independent Newspaper as Best National Wedding Venue

Orchardleigh’s Exclusive Estate Wedding Experience, set within 500 acres of unspoiled Somerset countryside, just ten miles from the Historic city of Bath, is no finer setting for a Luxury Wedding. Couples can choose to marry in one of the estate Churches or alternatively the house is fully licensed for civil ceremonies inside and outside in the beautiful estate grounds.

The estate is accessible via a 3 mile private drive, helipad or airstrip, Orchardleigh also has its own fleet of Rolls Royce’s, Horse and Carriage, and Helicopter to choose from to move around the estate in style.

across the estate for up to 200, including 12 traditional cottages and 41 opulent letting rooms so guests will have the option to drink and dance ’til dawn. Completing a bespoke luxury wedding is a newlywed stay at the Lakeside Palladium Boathouse and hot tub overlooking 35 acres of private lakes. Dog-friendly rooms are available. Home to the 18-hole Brian Huggett designed Golf Course, make use of the stunning course whilst you are here, available from £20 per round.

For gallery pictures, more information and details of other packages, please visit www. Orchardleigh.net or call 01373 472550.

To book a viewing, please email info@orchardleigh.net.

orchardleigh.net

Orchardleigh House, Orchardleigh Estate, Frome, Somerset BA11 2PB

Start your magical stay with a night at Orchardleigh Castle sleeping up to 24 complete with gardens with a countryside view and private hot tubs. Then for the following one or two days, you and up to 300 guests can have exclusive use of the whole estate, comprising Orchardleigh House - an opulent 19th Century Mansion and its surrounding grounds, and the Estate’s walled gardens known as Elmhay Park with its Picturesque Orangery and Italian Garden.

With locally sourced food cooked by their expert chefs and an extensive wine list to choose from, you and your guests will live like royalty for the duration of your stay. There is accommodation

Secrets of the City at London Transport Museum

Visit London Transport Museum over October half term to discover a secret side to life in the capital…

From the antics of London’s nocturnal wildlife to weird and wonderful jobs on the transport network, the hidden lives of some of the city’s residents will be the theme of movement workshops, ‘make and take’ craft activities and a family trail around the Museum’s galleries.

• Movement workshops

From the sly, bushy-tailed red fox to the hooting, swooping tawny owl, learn about London’s urban wildlife and see the city from their perspective in an imaginative dance and movement workshop.

• Bat-tastic crafts

Get creative in a ‘make and take’ craft workshop that celebrates London’s bat population. Learn about these special creatures and make bat masks inspired by them to take home.

“Weave around heritage buses and trains and past iconic transport posters and quirky objects on a trail through the Museum’s galleries”

• Family Trail

Weave around heritage buses and trains and past iconic transport posters and quirky objects on a trail through the Museum’s galleries. At each stop you’ll discover a ‘hidden job’ on the transport network.

• Unusual object handling

Learn about unusual jobs on London’s transport network and meet the people behind them. In this sensory activity young visitors can examine mystery objects linked to these hidden roles to discover the stories they reveal about life in the capital.

Families can also see real buses, Tube trains and maps spanning 200 years of the capital’s transport history, learn how to drive a modern-day Elizabeth line train in the Future Engineers gallery, and have fun climbing aboard an array of kid-sized London vehicles in the All Aboard play zone.

THE DETAILS

Family activities will run from Saturday 22 to Sunday 30 October. Adult tickets to London Transport Museum cost £21 and include free return entry for a whole year.

Kids go free! Book online at ltmusem.co.uk

Monaco Yacht Show:

The must-attend event for the world’s most discerning travellers

Monaco Yacht Show: The must-attend event for the world’s most discerning travellers.

By Joanna Lewis

The world’s most discerning yachting enthusiasts gathered at the September 2022 Monaco Yacht Show. Held amidst the glittering setting of Port Hercules, the show is the largest in-water display boasting a stunning line-up of the world’s finest superyachts for charter and sale, along with the world’s leading yacht service providers.

Yachting Partners International, a European yacht brokerage with offices in the heart of London and Monaco, had a significant presence at the show. With their global headquarters just moments from the show, the team were well positioned to offer guidance to the world’s most affluent travellers on yacht ownership, charter, and management.

YPI has had a continued presence at the Monaco Yacht Show since the show’s inception in 1991. With 50 years of expertise and a global network of 55 professionals, YPI has become the leading choice for those seeking to enjoy every aspect of their luxury yachting experience.

A BOOMING MARKET

The yacht market has soared in the past few years, spurred on by a boom in UHNWIs and the desire for the world’s richest to enjoy private and highly exclusive holidays. According to research, the yacht market size surpassed US$12 billion and has an expected compound annual growth rate of 4.5%,

providing exciting business opportunities for leading global yacht brokerages.

YPI’s yacht brokers have been at the centre of this ever-growing market. Their boutique offering enables them to provide a highly personalised experience to select clients, while their industry expertise and global network of contacts enable them to connect clients with the world’s finest superyachts for charter and sale anywhere in the world.

EXQUISITE YACHTS ON SHOW

YPI showcased a selection of spectacular vessels for sale and charter at this year’s show, with Life Magazines enjoying an exclusive tour of motor yacht PREFERENCE 19 and LUNA B. Captains of both yachts provided fascinating insights into each vessel and the luxury offerings that the world’s super-rich enjoy.

PREFERENCE 19, FOR CHARTER

Motor yacht PREFERENCE 19 is a boldly styled 36.4-metre charter yacht. She recently joined the

YPI fleet, offering charters in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

PREFERENCE 19 was built by Tansu – a shipyard renowned for creating bespoke militaryinspired vessels focused on paired-back luxury and exceptional performance. According to her captain, she is designed for thrill seekers seeking action-packed fun, and is especially popular with families and groups of friends seeking fun getaways in more remote ports of call. Croatia and the Dalmation Coast were popular hot spots for the summer months, with PREFERENCE 19 set to cruise to Grenada shortly.

Her extensive deck space is a match for much larger vessels, yet her smaller size enables her to access secluded anchorages. She can accommodate up to 10 guests across five spacious guest cabins, each boasting an elegant beach house vibe. Amongst her many highlights is an incredible selection of tenders, toys, and exercise equipment. Her Seabobs are particularly popular, with the crew’s bespoke Seabob safaris a regular hit with charter guests.

During our tour, Life Magazines enjoyed a glimpse into the incredible levels of service that guests enjoy courtesy of her seven crew, which includes a personal trainer. We were treated to an elegant spread of gourmet hors d’oeuvres and Champagne while we soaked up the sun enjoying panoramic views of the French Riviera.

Her many highlights are too many to list but include a vast cinema with plush seating, voluminous deck space, and a breathtaking hot tub with a cascading waterfall feature.

She boasts a luxurious stateroom, VIP cabin with a walk-in wardrobe and private lounge area, four double cabins, and two additional staff cabins for guests who wish to bring their own team, such as a nanny, personal assistant or security.

Her interior, designed by the late Parisian designer Alberto Pintos, is ultra-luxurious, with rich fabrics, leathers, and marble throughout, offering a sumptuous space for relaxation and entertaining.

She is available for charter and listed for sale at 42.5 million Euros with Yachting Partners International - ypiyachts.com.

YPI; A LEADING YACHT BROKERAGE

• 50 years of experience

• 55 global professionals

• 1st company to offer 360 services

• 15 languages spoken COYA

Life Magazines wrapped up our day at the Monaco Yacht Show with a private cocktail party at COYA Monte-Carlo, an awardwinning Peruvian restaurant set in Larvotto, one of Monaco’s most exclusive districts.

COYA’s menu boasts a curated selection of traditional Peruvian dishes coupled with Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish cooking techniques. The restaurant’s elegant setting, with bespoke hand-carved furnishings, contemporary art, and traditional Peruvian trinkets, elevates the dining experience even further, providing the ideal way to end a day of superyacht viewing.

LUNA B, FOR SALE AND CHARTER

Following a gourmet lunch at the Monaco Yacht Club, Life Magazines enjoyed a tour of motor yacht LUNA B, a breathtaking 66-metre vessel built by the esteemed Dutch yard Oceanco in 2005.

According to her captain, she is a particularly popular yacht with tall VIPs and athletes such as NBA players, thanks to her impressive headroom and oversized beds. The yacht’s captain was also keen to point out how she has been carefully designed to ensure maximum privacy for guests, with complete soundproofing and dedicated crew corridors and stairwells providing discreet service.

“Life Magazines enjoyed a glimpse into the incredible levels of service that guests enjoy courtesy of her seven crew”

Photography: Sebastien Arsi

FROM DUSK TO DARKNESS… HALLOWEEN AT CHISWICK HOUSE & GARDENS

Installations have been announced for a spectacular illuminated Halloween trail

Abrand-new immersive Halloween trail will run between 14 and 31 October and promises to be the perfect half term experience for all the family!

Chiswick House & Gardens are inviting visitors to wander in wonder, from one spooky space to another.

Atmospheric installations will include an illuminated statue avenue, demon trees, a haunted graveyard and a witch’s lair, whilst there will also be live actors and fire performers at which visitors can marvel. The immersive trail will follow a route through the beautiful gardens of the 18th century English Heritage property in south west London. The sights and sounds of Halloween come alive to surprise and scare. You’ll have to duck for cover from the swarm of neon spiders, in a garden filled

with creepy neon cobwebs, ghastly ghouls and other ominous characters. Watch the flickering flames, stomp through the crisp autumn leaves and find daring fire artists and grinning pumpkins aglow.

Rozanna Colquhoun, senior commercial manager at Chiswick, said: “We were drawn to the concept of hosting a Halloween trail as it’s a fun, interactive event that showcases the gardens in an innovative way, highlighting the historical features of the gardens with a spooky Halloween twist.”

Chiswick House & Gardens director Xanthe Arvanitakis said: “We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with Sony Music to host a very special Halloween family experience this year. An amazing opportunity to explore the gardens at night and see a trail filled with innovation and fun– expect to be spookily surprised!”

There will be a delicious twist to the sweetest of treats on offer - enjoy a wickedly good *hot toddy or devilishly decadent *hot chocolate, or *toast a marshmallow with someone special around the fire bowls. *separate charges apply Halloween at Chiswick House & Gardens is an unmissable outdoor experience, designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

THE DETAILS

Book early to guarantee your choice of date and time

Adult: £16.50, Child (age 3-16) £12, Family £54. Please note that there is no parking at the site.

Visit halloweenatchiswick houseandgardens.co.uk for more information

or follow Chiswick House on facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Burlington Lane, Chiswick, London W4 2RP

VEGFESTUK LONDON RETURNS IN STYLE

The UK’s biggest indoor vegan gathering of the year VegfestUK London, opens its doors to the public again when Olympia Grand plays host to an incredible extravaganza of all things vegan and plant-based, with a vast array of new products, new vegan businesses, firm favourites from pre-pandemic days and a whole host of exciting developments in the plant-based world.

16 hot food caterers with menus from across the globe ensure no shortage of tempting plantbased street food, and the addition of various artisan food producers, including an array of cakes and savouries ensures that visitors to Vegfest are spoiled for choice when it comes to devouring vegan options. But it’s not just the food – the whole plant-based lifestyle opens up with a plethora of vegan footwear, accessories, clothing, body care, make up, and other plant-based lifestyle options in abundance.

There will be talks and features for people new to plant-based lifestyles, including supportive areas specifically for people wanting to find out more about the benefits of plant-based lifestyle choices. If you want to know where you can get your protein on a plant-based diet, this is the place to find out!

The event will also host a Cop27 conference focusing on solutions at hand to climate change challenges, and a Cookery Classes area with useful and inspirational recipes for both beginners and the more adventurous chefs among us with a whole host of plant-based options to hand from

talented experts.

There will also be a vibrant Fitness area with Olympic medallists and top-flight football players in attendance, to explain the benefits of plantbased diets at a competitive level, and a Nutrition room focusing on evidence-based research and up to date information on plant-based diets. Added in the expected 250 exhibitors and anticipated 10,000+ visitors, the weekend is set to explode into a celebration of sensational food, coupled with sustainable living and a real hope for the future for the decade ahead.

Open Saturday 10am – 6pm and sunday 10am – 5pm. Tickets on sale from: london.vegfest.co.uk/tickets

AN EXCEPTIONAL CHRISTMAS AT HARRODS WITH THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF DIOR

About Dior

As the end-of-year festivities approach, Dior pays tribute to the unbreakable ties it has woven with Harrods over nearly seventy years, and to Christian Dior’s love of Christmas celebrations.

From 10 November 2022 until 3 January 2023, the House will dream up The Wonderful World of Dior, a spectacular new mise-en-scène, creating a magical atmosphere on each floor of London’s prestigious department store.

For this occasion, and for the first time ever, the facade of the famed Brompton Road address will be adorned with a monumental installation, reinterpreting the compass rose – a symbol treasured by the founding couturier – animated by a dazzling interplay of lights featuring classic Dior emblems. The Dior gold star, Bar jacket and Medallion chair will guide pedestrians to the renowned Harrods windows, the full run of which will be transformed into fantastic tableaux vivants in a captivating decor composed of gingerbread, caramel and multiple delights showcasing the House’s various universes and iconic symbols from fashion, perfume and jewellery, to beauty and homeware.

Dior has a thousand fascinating surprises and

gourmet treats for guests to discover within the British capital’s treasure trove. Unforgettable moments of magic and sharing are promised by two exclusive pop-ups, featuring exclusive creations imagined by the House for Harrods, a café and a Dior micro-village, the latter of which plays with proportions to magnify the enchantment.

A spell-binding invitation, marrying the audacity and heritage of two Houses, united now more than ever by a quest for excellence and the desire to keep the Dior dream alive.

Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road

Christian Dior, commonly known as Dior is a French luxury fashion house] controlled and chaired by French businessman Bernard Arnault. The company was founded in 1946 by French fashion designer Christian Dior (1905–1957). The luxurious brand sells shoes and clothing exclusive to Dior boutiques. dior.com

About Harrods

Located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, the store occupies a five acre site and has 330 departments covering 1.1 million sq ft of retail space. It is one of the largest and most famous department stores in the world. The Harrods motto is ‘Omnia Omnibus Ubique’ which is Latin for “all things for all people, everywhere”. harrods.com

© James Robjant

BENTLEY MULLINER ICONIC SPEED SIX TO BE BORN AGAIN

RECREATING AN ICON

To deliver 12 new Speed Sixes that are authentic to the design of the racers of 1929 and 1930, the Mulliner team has first created a complete 3D CAD model of the car, from both the original blueprints and detailed analysis of original cars. Two cars have been referenced for this process.

Bentley Mulliner is to bring the iconic Speed Six back to life with a new and highly exclusive Continuation Series of 12 cars, each mechanically and aesthetically authentic to the Bentley racers that won Le Mans in 1929 and 1930.

Created to honour the achievements of the original cars and while continuing to develop and preserve Mulliner’s heritage skills, the new Speed Sixes will become the second pre-war continuation project in the world after the Blower - both created by Bentley Mulliner.

The most successful Bentley racing car of its era, the Speed Six is regarded as one of the most important Bentleys in history, winning Le Mans in 1929 and 1930 at the hands of Woolf Barnato, Sir Henry ‘Tim’ Birkin and Glen Kidston.

Not only further demonstrating the marque’s world-beating performance credentials but also proving the concept of the Grand Tourer – a fast car that remained comfortable and luxurious, and capable of covering huge distances with ease. Every Bentley since has followed the same ethos. The 12-car series has been designed, and will be developed and built, by the same team of Mulliner specialists that have created the Blower Continuation Series – the first pre-war continuation project in the world. This acclaimed run of 12 new 4½ litre ‘Blower’ Bentleys was based on the company’s own 1929 Team Car #2 – the most famous and valuable Bentley in the world, which raced alongside the Speed Six in 1930 – and sold out instantly. The same is true of

the new Speed Six continuations, with all 12 cars already reserved by lucky customers around the world.

The Mulliner team will once again be supported by an incredible array of artisans from a number of automotive heritage specialists across the UK, delivering recreation parts that are not only physically identical but in many cases are crafted using the same techniques used in the 1920s. This dedication to complete and total authenticity is integral to the success of such a complex project.

“Old Number 3” was the third of three Speed Sixes entered by Bentley into Le Mans in 1930. Despite a difficult race it survived the ordeal and has been immaculately preserved since. Still fully road legal and actively raced by its owner today, Old Number 3 has been a valuable source of design details and reference points for the creation of the new cars.

Alongside Old Number 3, Bentley’s own Speed Six (GU409) – part of Bentley’s expanding Heritage Collection – is a 1929 road car wearing an identical four-seat Vanden Plas body to the original racers and restored to the same specification. GU409 will provide benchmark performance and handling data for the continuation cars, including a full power and torque curve for the 12 new engines to match – or beat.

The first new Speed Six in 92 years will be assembled in the second half of this year and become the engineering test and development car for the project. Speed Six Car Zero will be retained by Bentley, joining Blower Car Zero as the forebears of the families they help to deliver. bentleymotors.com

FINEST HOUR EXPERIENCES

If you’re looking for a gift experience within an hour of London that someone special will never forget, Finest Hour offers unforgettable flying experiences in a fleet of immaculately-restored vintage and classic aeroplanes, taking in the sights of Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and the Cotswolds. Take the controls yourself as you float over the spires of Oxford in the quintessential English biplane, the open-cockpit Tiger Moth, or view the white horses of Ancient England, Cotswold country houses, castles and palaces or Inspector Morse’s favourite watering hole, all while learning to master this ancient aerial machine during a true ‘wind in the wires’ experience.

Finest Hour’s pilots are all top-end professionals with the broadest imaginable aviation experience, including airline, military and display flying, so the opportunity to experience a gentle aerobatic manoeuvre – a loop or a roll - towards the end of your flight is included, if desired. If that isn’t enough, Finest Hour also offers the adrenalinepumping aerobatic experience in its specialist CAP10 aerobatic aeroplane and the opportunity for 2 people to fly alongside each other in close formation – another truly unforgettable experience.

Finest Hour’s main base is at the historic Bicester Aerodrome, linked to the classic motoring destination at Bicester Heritage and just minutes from outlet shopping attraction Bicester Village. For those who prefer to weekend in the depths of

the Cotswolds, Finest Hour deploys for a few days each month to Cotswold Airport at Kemble, near Cirencester in Gloucestershire.

Finest Hour has researched and published the stories of those who flew its aeroplanes during the 1930 and 40s, so the nostalgic even have the opportunity to study the detail of those in whose footsteps they’re following before or after their own unforgettable experience.

A flight with Finest Hour makes the perfect gift for a special occasion, as all flights are sold as professionally-produced and gift-wrapped vouchers to be redeemed for a flight during the 12 months following purchase. The shortest flight duration is 15 minutes, the longest an hour, with 20 and 30 minute flights providing sufficient time to grasp the essentials of the aeroplane, while the 45 minute themed tours of Midsomer Murders, Inspector Morse, English Civil War, Aviation Heritage and Railway history locations also prove

“A flight with Finest Hour makes the perfect gift for a special occasion, as all flights are sold as professionallyproduced and gift-wrapped vouchers”

From top: Tiger Moth & CAP10 over the Cotswolds; Two Tiger Moths over Bicester Heritage; Tiger Moth & CAP10; Left: Two Tiger Moths in formation, all by Lewis Hurley

LONDON COCKTAIL WEEK

13-23 October 2022. Two weekends to explore the best bars in London

London Cocktail Week will be returning to the capital this October, once again giving cocktail lovers a reason to celebrate London’s world-leading cocktail scene.

NEW for 2022, the organisers are bringing Little Cocktail Villages to the festival line-up. The four ‘micro-hubs’ will be dotted across the city, popping up in Belgravia, Borough Yards, Covent Garden and Devonshire Square - and will each host a collection of immersive pop-up bars, all serving up delicious cocktails. Entry is completely free and London Cocktail Week wristband wearers get to enjoy drinks at the festival price of £7. The Little Cocktail Villages will be the perfect place to start an evening before exploring the fantastic bars across the capital taking part in the festival.

Wristbands can be purchased for £15 via londoncocktailweek.com and allow the wearer access to specially created Signature Cocktails in 300 of London’s best bars for just £7. The list of participating bars includes some of the world’s leading drinking destinations, including Tāyer + Elementary, Blue Bar at The Berkeley and Artesian at The Langham, plus some of London’s most exciting new openings, including Seed Library, The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental and Soda & Friends.

There will also be a full schedule of brilliant

events, from the festival’s seven major drinks portfolio partners - Amber Beverage UK, BacardiMartini, Brown-Forman UK, Edrington UK, Moët Hennessy UK, Pernod Ricard UK and Remy Cointreau UK, alongside more than 30 individual drinks brands. The line-up will feature masterclasses, dinners, parties and takeovers, with bartenders from all over the world flying in to shake up delicious drinks in venues across London.

One wristband. £7 Cocktails. Hundreds of London’s best bars.

Wristbands are available NOW via londoncocktailweek.com and available to collect from any of the participating bars once the festival begins.

“There will also be a full schedule of brilliant events, from the festival’s seven major drinks portfolio partners”

The World’s biggest cocktail festival is back for its 13th year!

Rachel Usher Interior Design is a multi-award winning, high-end interior design practice specialising in providing outstanding luxury interiors. Embracing with passion, the individuality of each client is at the heart of the practice’s approach. With a focus upon enhancing the way that their clients live and maximising the interior architecture of a building, Rachel Usher leads a talented team of designers with a wealth of experience working upon some of the most prestigious properties around the globe.

Sotheby’s to stage sale dedicated to The Sex Pistols

London, 10 -21 October 2022

the most comprehensive Sex Pistols collection ever to come to auction.

The collection includes rare handwritten lyrics for unpublished songs written by Vicious in the months before joining the Sex Pistols early in 1977 (estimates between £800 – 6,000).

The Sex Pistols infamously split up on 15 January 1978 following their concert in San Francisco, after Rotten walked out upon learning of McLaren’s plans for the band to film with Ronnie Biggs for The Great Rock ‘n’ Roll Swindle. With Rotten refusing to film, McLaren’s solution was to construct a small number of animated sequences that reconstructed the story of the Sex Pistols.

Discover the value of a work of art, browse sale catalogues, view original content and more at sothebys.com and by downloading Sotheby’s apps for iOS and Android

The Sex Pistols ignited the UK Punk movement with a unique mixture of caustic lyrics, urgent riffs, provocative visual imagery, youthful swagger, and amazing clothes. This autumn, Sotheby’s London will offer for sale a uniquely authoritative collection of original artwork, posters, manuscript lyrics, rare documents and ephemera, which together tell the remarkable story behind Britain’s most notorious band.

It examines how the Sex Pistols successfully upended the world of music and visual culture under the watchful eye of their visionary manager Malcolm McLaren, who, from the very beginning, conceived the band as part of a living work of art. McLaren carefully constructed the image of the band through subversive visual imagery and dramatic acts, inspiring a generation of punks to take the band’s message of dissent, transgression and refusal, and live it as art on the streets. In McLaren’s own words: “I work with human beings. Instead of using the canvas, I have to use human beings. It’s just the work I’ve chosen to do.”

The Stolper-Wilson collection will be offered at auction in London from 10-21 October 2022. Having been exhibited around the world, this is

“We’re not into music … we’re into chaos” – Steve Jones 1976

Top: Helen Wellington-Lloyd and Nils Stevenson, Handbill for the 100 Club,

June and 6 July 1976, est £600-£800

Above: he Great

Swindle,

A DOG’S LIFE

There’s nothing better than buying a Christmas present for someone that benefits you too - cheeky but very tempting and satisfying.

When buying for the dog this year, why not invest in some Ruff and Tumble products, which do just that?

Drying and stylish on dogs and time saving and practical for humans, they are a double winner.

Drying Coats dry dogs completely - unlike towels - and all you have to do is pop it over the dog’s head, fasten with velcro and watch the dog dry itself. Two layers of thick cotton towelling wick wet from the dog’s hair and they are so comfy and warm to wear, dogs love them. In 17 sizes from XXXS-Giant Mountain Dog, from £31.95-£69.95, and eight stock colours, all breeds from 1-120Kg can find one to suit them.

Match with a pair of Drying Mitts, £21.95, and the legs and paws will be dried easily and quickly too. These make a great stocking filler or a present for the new dog owner/dog lover. Hung up by the back door or in the car, muddy paws on floors are stopped in their tracks. ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

London event set to wag tails!

Tickets are now on sale for the capital’s biggest dog event, Discover Dogs. Prospective owners, canine enthusiasts and dog lovers are all welcome to meet, greet and discover more about over 200 different breeds, all gathering under one ‘woof’.

Organised by The Kennel Club, Discover Dogs features hundreds of different breeds so visitors can learn more about their favourite four-legged friends from dedicated experts, find out about how to buy a dog responsibly, and how to look after their new canine companion. The two-day event provides those who are mad about dogs the opportunity to meet all types of breeds, of all shapes, sizes and personalities, from the popular favourites, to the lesser known ‘underdogs’.

Visitors can also meet rescue dogs looking for their forever home and find out about The Kennel Club Breed Rescue organisations, and learn about the work of other welfare organisations, like Guide Dogs for the Blind, Support Dogs, Hypo Hounds and more. Other features include fast-paced agility displays and competitions, including Crufts 2023 qualifiers, the much-loved crossbreed competition, Scruffts, and impressive displays from clever Medical Detection and Metropolitan Police Dogs.

There are plenty of activities for the younger generation of dog lovers, with the Young Kennel Club area showcasing the range of canine activities teens and kids can get involved in with their dog and a Kids Zone for hands-on activities.

Elsewhere, visitors can meet some of the British and Irish vulnerable native breeds, like the Skye Terrier or Otterhound, and learn about the issues that these historic breeds can face, and why it’s important to raise their profile.

Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive at The Kennel Club, which organises the event said: “Discover Dogs is a fun event for anyone who’s dotty about dogs! It’s the perfect opportunity to meet hundreds of different breeds, of all shape and sizes, and to find out which is best suited to your lifestyle, if you’re thinking about becoming an owner. it’s one of London’s most unique events and provides something for everyone – including of course our four-legged friends!”

Tickets cost £18 or £15 for concessions, with under 8s going free. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: discoverdogs.org.uk

A Gala Celebration of Gilbert and Sullivan

to the highest standards.” Portsmouth News

Tarantara aims to build an audience for the future, as well as captivating existing fans of this repertoire, by performing the music in as vibrant and true a way as possible with the highest calibre of singer, and with the size of orchestra Sullivan envisaged. In our celebration of all that’s best in Gilbert and Sullivan’s extraordinary operas, acclaimed soloists will perform favourites from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore and many others, including some less familiar gems.

“E

xcellent” Brighton Argus Tarantara Productions are delighted to announce their Gala Celebration of Gilbert & Sullivan. This highly anticipated gala concert performance will delight both Gilbert & Sullivan aficionados and newcomers alike.

“Performed the much-loved savoyard repertoire

This unique gala concert will be performed by singers from English National Opera, Scottish Opera, Welsh National Opera, Opera North, Carl Rosa and D’Oyly Carte featuring Alexander Robin Baker, Rebecca Bottone, Barry Clark, Siân Dicker, Yvonne Howard, Judith Le Breuilly, Timothy Nelson and Matthew Siveter, conducted by Martin Handley (ENO, Royal Danish Opera, Australian Opera and regular presenter for BBC Radio 3).

Come and hear the unparalleled comic genius of Gilbert and Sullivan, unleashed.

THE DETAILS

Venue: Richmond Theatre

Dates: Sunday 13th November

Time: 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Box Office: 0844 871 7615

Online: atgtickets.com/richmond

Rolex at Chiswick Auctions

Arare variant of perhaps the most celebrated of all Rolex ‘tool’ watches comes for sale at Chiswick Auctions next month. The November 24 sale of Fine Wristwatches & Pens includes a 1970s Submariner with the so-called ‘single red’ Mark IV dial.

This version of the iconic diving watch was produced for only a brief period of less than three years between 1973-75. It features a calendar with ‘cyclops’ lens and the dial with the word Submariner picked out in red. It was the last Sub to feature red lettering and the last to use tritium for its luminescence. Such things matter a lot in the booming market for vintage branded watches – this timekeeper, with factory paperwork dating it to December 1975, is expected to bring £16,000-20,000. A Rolex dress watch with a provenance to an American diplomat and friend of President Ronald Reagan is guided at £35004500. This elegant 14ct yellow gold automatic Oyster Perpetual Day-Date c.1979 was previously owned by Charles H Price who in 1983 was tasked with the mission of strengthening the ‘special relationship’ with the UK. He was also a director of US steel distribution firm with this watch inscribed ‘In appreciation Charles Price, director

1979-1981, Earle M. Jorgensen Co.’

This will be the first Watch sale held at Chiswick Auctions’ new saleroom at the Barley Mow Centre, just off Chiswick High Road, as the department headed by specialist Tomas Aznar, goes from the strength to strength. Sales in March included both a rare 1980s issue of the Patek Phillipe Nautilus with a blue sigma dial (£43,750) and an early version of the Blackpain Fifty Fathoms diving watch c.1953 (£25,000).

THE DETAILS

Consignments for the November watches sale are still being welcomed until October 14, so for your chance to take part in this exciting sale, get in touch with specialist Tomas today (tomas.aznar@ chiswickauctions.co.uk, 020 3089 6863)

Chiswick Nursing Centre

Offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence & respite care

Restore your strength and health after an illness or operation by letting us take good care of you with individually tailored nursing care and our in-house physio, excellent chef and expert hairdresser. The Chiswick Nursing Centre’s physiotherapists work seamlessly with nursing staff to provide the highest levels of integrated care.

As a part of the rehabilitation programme, the Centre’s qualified physiotherapists work closely with nursing staff to help patients achieve their goals. Highly experienced in the treatment and management of numerous conditions, the Centre’s physio team are experts in the field of rehabilitation. We support convalescence after surgery and to aid cancer recovery, including care of those with a range of other complex needs. We have particular expertise in rehabilitation following hip replacements and knee replacements.

The physiotherapy sessions are tailored to help recover mobility and the physio team aims to provide early detection of any movement related problems. Through their treatment the Centre’s physios help patients and residents to regain their confidence and independence to promote an excellent quality of life through improved health and wellbeing. New for 2022 is Massage Therapy including Acupressure, Advanced Deep Tissue Massage, Seated Hot Bamboo Massage, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage all helping to escape the day-to-day stresses of life whilst you enjoy an

THE DETAILS

Please email enquiries@ chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk or call 07568 106258. chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk

hour long session with our trained and qualified therapist. Massage Therapy is available to residents and to outpatients, so book an appointment today.

*Some treatments may be subject to Covid restrictions.

A sister of a resident at the Chiswick Nursing Centre has seen the impact of care first-hand, she said, “ My sister (86) was admitted to this home during the virus crisis. The staff have been so caring and compassionate! She told us the carers were so kind and that the food was wonderful. The staff meet her every need and she feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily.”

Chiswick Nursing Centre offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence, respite & nursing care. We also offer holiday stays for carers who need a break – with maximum peace of mind –so they can take time for themselves. Respite care should be a proper break for you. Short term or long term, we can take care of your loved one so that you can rest, recuperate and re-energise, or simply catch up on your to do list.

With free parking on-site, the care home is a convenient location to be treated for a range of conditions including post-surgical rehabilitation and orthopaedic and musculosketal conditions.

So, whether its physiotherapy, rehabilitation or convalescence, respite care, dementia care, longterm complex nursing care or general residential care, rest assured your loved one will be in safe hands at the Chiswick Nursing Centre.

“The staff meet her every need and she feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily”

LUXURY LIVING AT THE VALE

Ahome is more than just bricks and mortar. At The Vale, their collection of 30 luxury apartments available to rent, have been designed, so you can enjoy your retirement in a welcoming and vibrant community, without the worry of maintaining a property. Their contemporary apartments are beautifully crafted to the highest standards. Lightfilled open-plan living spaces, luxury kitchens and beautiful bathrooms combine style and accessibility.

Expect Porcelanosa kitchens with integrated Bosch appliances, built-in storage, underfloor heating and walk-in showers. Senior living can bring a change in pace and priority. They believe that The Vale enables you to live life to the fullest, safe in the knowledge that personalised care is available if required.

Their aim has always been to combine convenience, security contemporary retirement living in south London and affordability with access to a comprehensive range of hospitality. Knowing that support is available means you can embrace life with peace of mind.

With the Fleming one-bedroom elegant apartment, you can have the best of both worlds with a restful, stylish, open plan living room

complete with hi spec, fully fitted kitchen. Add to this a chic double master bedroom with its fitted wardrobe and contemporary bathroom, all for a monthly cost that needn’t break the bank.

At The Vale you can have as much company and social life as you wish. The Bar & Bistro is perfect for catching up with friends. For a cosy place to read the papers or play cards, the library and lounge offer a comfortable, beautifully decorated environment. And If pampering is what you’re after, the on-site hair salon offers treatments or if you want to learn a new craft, the hobbies room is the place to go.

Nestled in a peaceful location a short distance from Streatham, The Vale is more than just a new home - it’s a future filled with opportunities.

Are you unsure about making the move to a retirement village? At the Vale, they offer a trial stay experience so you can gain a feel for what it’s like to be a resident and whether retirement living is right for you. Meet the friendly team and residents which form the heart of their community.

Please contact them for a private appointment or they offer virtual appointments via FaceTime so you can experience The Vale virtually.

Some services may not be available on your chosen trial

BE A PART OF HISTORY:

Leading placemaking developer, Comer Homes, has opened the doors to Newland Park, an impressive residential development set on 200 acres of landscaped grounds. Under private ownership since the 14th Century, this is the first opportunity to live on this iconic site, with a collection of 74 luxurious new-build houses and apartments, ranging in price from £695,000 to £1.950 million, released in the first phase.

Each available exclusively through sole agents Hamptons, at 1.425 million, the first collection of 10 semi-detached 2,045 sq. ft. three/four-bedroom houses will provide exceptional living spaces, with high ceilings, contemporary kitchens fitted with high-grade integrated appliances, ensuite bathrooms, spacious landscaped front and rear gardens, as well as private driveways and ample visitor parking.

The first phase also includes the impressive Pankhurst Collection of two and three-bedroom ground floor and duplex apartments. Priced from £695,000 and ranging in size from 1,055 sq. ft. to 2,831 sq. ft., the heritage-style homes are wellproportioned and configured to meet modern lifestyle needs, with flexible spaces that can be freely arranged. The majority of homes include private terraces or balconies, as well as allocated parking with the option of electric vehicle charging points.

Setting a new standard of living in the area, the interior design of each home will reflect the prominent surroundings and refined history of the site, with bespoke handmade furniture specially curated to create the highest quality finishes.

A stunning health & wellness spa facility will be open to residents of Newland Park, as well as members of the local community. The state-ofthe-art spa centre will provide a swimming pool, tennis courts and Racquets Club, multi-sports pitches, Padel courts and tennis courts with an

inflatable dome. There will also be a five-star spa, bar, restaurant and relaxation terraces.

Additionally, there will be ample underground parking, with the facility for electric charging units, whilst 24-hour security will be present across the site. There will also be a courtesy shuttle bus service in operation, exclusively for residents to local commuter stations and popular shopping destinations.

Newland Park will also offer residents direct access to expansive private grounds that have been restored to retain the design and layout created by eminent landscape designer Thomas Mawson in 1903.

Steeped in history, Newland Park has been home to or welcomed a wide range of eminent figures. One of the most notable to frequent the manor house is King George III, who used to enjoy hunting on the grounds with then owner Henry Gott.

Surrounded by thick woodland, Newland Park offers fantastic privacy, which once made the former estate the perfect safe haven for Emmeline Pankhurst and numerous Suffragette members. Under the ownership of politician and women’s rights advocate Henry Devenish Harben and his wife Agnes Harben (founder of the United Suffragists) the house and grounds became a refuge for suffragettes from 1910 to 1921.

The calm and peaceful setting has also attracted numerous famous authors, poets and playwrights, such as acclaimed author H.G. Wells and Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.

THE DETAILS

For further information on the first phase at Newland Park contact the Comer Homes sales team or Hamptons on 01494 506 364, Email: info@newlandpark.com or visit newlandpark.com

Take your chance to live on the spectacular private grounds of a former Georgian mansion at Newland Park

SALES SUCCESS AT RICHMOND SQUARE

The success of Richmond Square was never in doubt.

The location of this exquisite collection of boutiquestyle apartments is superb, set around landscaped courtyard gardens and overlooking the Old Deer Park in Richmond’s Kew Road Conservation Area. The development itself is unique, combining the historic facades of the restored, converted buildings of the former Royal Hospital with interiors that are light and spacious with incredibly high ceilings and top-quality fixtures and fittings. It’s hardly surprising that the two-bedroom apartments have already sold out but, as a visit to the show apartment reveals, buying a one-bedroom apartment doesn’t mean compromising on space, style or quality. Given the sales success, early viewings are recommended.

THE DETAILS

Further information, photography and a show home video are available on the website at richmondsq.co.uk but these apartments need to be seen to be fully appreciated. For an appointment to view, please email sales@richmondsq.co.uk or call 0203 369 0179.

LUXURY TRAVEL

THE VALUE OF A TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL SUCH AS B AWAY

Unparalleled flexibility

In addition, they are also able to offer great flexibility with their “Book Now Decide Later” where they don’t ask for deposits on their B away in Luxury programme as they appreciate circumstances change.

Client Protection and Peace of Mind

Exceptional Value for clients

In an era of the supposed domination of the internet many people have become “travel bookers”. Spending hours looking at the next website striving to save money but are likely spending many hours failing to find the best value.

Travel Professionals save you time and ensure you get the best value whilst offering valuable experience, advice and insights as is proven by the return to agent post-pandemic.

B away specialise in luxury travel and cruising with their websites bawayinluxury.co.uk and bawaycruising.co.uk and with extensive relationships enables them to negotiate excellent offers, most of which you can’t find on the internet or in most other agencies.

“Can you beat the prices on the Internet?” is the constant challenge...the answer must be yes or how would they flourish but they prefer to offer a high level of service to deliver a great value to their clients.

As a new client recently asked “..Where were you in December when the snow closed the airport as I couldn’t get hold of anybody from the internet company I booked with?”. They were in the office until midnight re-arranging client’s holidays and not charging a penny for their time.

Their Air Travel Organisers License (ATOL) as granted by the CAA offers you protection on your money but also places the responsibility to absorb any costs incurred due to airline cancellations that impact your holiday.

If you book a holiday with another ATOL holder, then all your funds are placed in an independently run trust account.

The combination of security, knowledge, emergency care and better value than is offered online is ensuring continued growth at B away.

They welcome the opportunity to discuss your future travel arrangements and if they don’t offer the best value then they don’t deserve your custom.

bawayinluxury.co.uk

“Travel Professionals save you time and ensure you get the best value whilst offering valuable experience, advice and insights as is proven by the return to agent postpandemic”

In the festive spirit with Pride of Britain Hotels

At Christmas, there is no greater gift than creating enchanted memories with family and friends. Pride of Britain Hotels offer the ideal setting to relax in style and comfort, with none of the work involved in entertaining guests at home. The charming hotels are dotted across the British Isles, each with an independent spirit, and each with a chef showcasing their individual style - so guests can savour a superb selection of epicurean delights.

In Berkshire at The Vineyard, Chef Tom Scade loves the abundance of ingredients available during the festive season; he claims the hotel’s game pie to be extremely popular, served with home-made Cumberland chutney that also perfectly accompanies cold cuts on Boxing Day. (Recipe included!)

At Talbooth House & Spa in Dedham, Essex, Chef Andrew Hirst favours pigs in blankets, sourcing chipolatas locally and wrapping them in streaky cured bacon. Talbooth’s five-course gourmet Christmas menu features seasonal delights such as duck liver parfait with fig, and pear soufflé with mulled wine ice cream. Perfectly paired wines accompany each course.

If you fancy a trip to glorious Wales, pay a visit to Chef Douglas Balish at Grove of Narberth

in Pembrokeshire. He confides that one of his favourite Christmas desserts, served in the hotel’s Fernery restaurant, is a chocolate fondant tart with Araguani (Venezuelan dark chocolate), vanilla and candied chestnut; delicious eggnog is infused with pine nuts from the grounds.

In Scotland, Chef Craig Douglas at Ness Walk in Inverness loves the inspiration that the changing seasons bring to his menus. The Torrish Restaurant serves festive spices & flavours, alongside mulled wine and warming liqueurs. For dessert, he recommends a gingerbread fondant with fragrant tonka bean-scented ice cream.

Northcote in Lancashire creates truly gastronomic experiences in the delightful Ribble Valley. Festive menus are created by Executive Chef, Lisa Goodwin-Allen; Christmas puddingflavoured ice cream is but one part of a sumptuous seasonal dessert. Northcote’s warm northern welcome and first-class cellar, make Christmas a simply magical experience.

Wherever you choose to stay across the British Isles, each Pride of Britain hotel will offer intimate, cosy experiences with a quintessential Christmas ambience, creating magical memories - without any of the hard work!

Plan your Christmas festivities now at prideofbritainhotels.com.

Ingredients for this simple-tomake recipe:

5 kg frozen cranberries

500g Demerara sugar

6 onions

Zest from 8 oranges

150g redcurrant jelly

200 ml Ruby port

2 tbsp wholegrain mustard

30g Cabernet Sauvignon Vinegar

Method

Fry the onions, add cranberries, sugar and the rest of the ingredients to the pan and cook down to a chutney consistency, stirring regularly.

THE LUXURY TRAVEL FAIR RETURNS TO LONDON OLYMPIA

From 3-6 November 2022

The Luxury Travel Fair returns to Olympia London after a threeyear hiatus. Visitors can uncover leading experiential tour operators, exclusive resorts and exceptional boutique hotels, undiscovered holiday destinations and create original once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences - all at London’s only travel event dedicated to the most discerning and experienced traveller.

The Fair boasts the finest leading and specialist tour operators who visitors can meet faceto-face and will create bespoke itineraries for those seeking meaningful cultural experiences, extraordinary polar adventures, the inner calm and tranquillity of a spiritual retreat or enriching the senses with unexplored landscapes and natural wonders. Whatever you wish to immerse yourself in you can plan your dream getaway here.

The Fair plays host to brands including Seabourn, Audley travel, Rovos Rail, Oceania Cruises, Travel Essence, Mundy Cruising, On Track Safaris, Mysteries of India. There’s something on offer for every holidaymaker –whether it’s sensational out-of-the-ordinary experiences, epic adventures, relaxing retreats or a journey of discovery for personal fulfilment.

Visitors can also enjoy specialist travel talks from leading personalities and knowledgeable travel editors in the Travellers’ Tales Theatre for inspiration before winding down to toast to their travel plans over a glass or two of the finest Champagne in the Louis Roederer Champagne Bar.

Highlights of The Luxury Travel Fair include:

• Inspirational & Expert Speakers and travel personalities in the Travellers’ Tales Theatre

• Exclusive show offers and competitions from our unique collection of boutique travel brands

• Mosimann’s Winter Restaurant where visitors can enjoy an exquisite brunch or a Champagne Afternoon Tea

• Co-located next to the Spirit of Christmas Fair offering you the chance to get ahead with your Christmas shopping. Whether you’re looking for beautiful interior decorations, a sumptuous gift or a fashion accessory to complete your festive ensemble, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

THE DETAILS

The Luxury Travel Fair also takes place alongside The Winter Art & Antiques Fair, one of the UK’s finest and most established art and antiques fairs –olympia-art-antiques.com For ticket options and information visit luxurytravelfair.com

Re-energise with flower power on botanic beauty St Lucia

Dragon’s blood, hanging crab claws and giant fishtails surround me, heightening my senses – although I’m in an environment far more calming than these strange horticultural names might suggest.

Working my way through acres of palms, I brush past scarlet ginger lilies, fragrant frangipani and a tree offering trailing black berries, which my guide Coady describes as Bob Marley’s dreadlocks.

I’m in St Lucia’s Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens (diamondstlucia.com) – six acres of horticultural exotica and a UNESCO world

heritage site, featuring a natural gorge with healthenhancing waters.

This is where dragon’s blood, a striking deep red sedum, provides creeping ground cover. Spiky red flowers with yellow tips give the illusion of suspended crab or lobster claws, and huge palms mimicking giant fishtails form part of the exotic planting within this tropical landscape, part of the 2,000-acre Soufriere Estate.

Coady points out wafts of lemon grass, which make a great alternative to regular mosquito repellent if you rub the leaves on your skin, as well as St John’s Bush, which is said to ease menstrual cramps, and the aptly named tree of life, which

apparently aids the immune system and helps reduce cholesterol.

Further on, we reach the Diamond Waterfall, not the most imposing at 50ft high, but whose therapeutic mineral-laden cascades have tinted the rocks a blend of yellow, green and purple. It is served by sulphur springs upstream, its mineralrich volcanic waters spilling over the rockface.

While you can’t swim at the foot of the falls, hot spring baths nearby should satiate anyone’s desire to take a dip. It is said that bathing here aids rheumatism, respiratory complaints and ulcers.

Volcanic soil is the key to the lushness of this Caribbean island, situated between Martinique and St Vincent and to the northwest of Barbados, its richness and tropical rains encouraging even the most difficult of plants to thrive.

Around 300,000 years ago, volcanic activity created a legacy of beauty in the famous Pitons – Gros Piton and Petit Piton – majestic mini mountainous lava globes rising from the Caribbean Sea, and now covered with vegetation and trees. They’ve become prime hiking trails accessible to tourists wanting to get a better view.

Nestled between those Pitons like a perfectly fitted Cinderella’s slipper is the luxurious Sugar

“Around 300,000 years ago, volcanic activity created a legacy of beauty in the famous Pitons – Gros Piton and Petit Piton”

Hannah Stephenson finds a haven of health-enhancing flora and fauna on this lush and volcanic Caribbean island.

Beach resort, itself a botanical paradise spread across more than 100 acres of tropical forest with enough planting to mimic Diamond Botanical Gardens’ flora and fauna.

Formerly a working sugar plantation, the property has a long history of owners including Lord Glenconner, famously known for his friendship with Princess Margaret, and is now owned by the Green family, owners of The Connaught and Claridge’s in London, and managed by Viceroy.

It’s super-luxe with white-on-white interiors, a plunge-pool in each accommodation and butler service. But its stand-out beauty lies in the majestic scenery which envelops it. From one end of the large swimming pool near the beach, it feels like you could touch Petit Piton’s almost vertical charcoal-coloured rockface.

Following a steep meandering road down from the barriered entrance, there’s no indication that Sugar Beach houses 105 resort accommodations and 25 residences, because they are all so subtly positioned, from the beachfront bungalows which overlook the shimmering white sand imported from Guyana, to luxurious, vast villas secreted among the plantings of palms, flamboyant trees and other tropical gems.

Hollywood star Matt Damon reportedly rented out the whole resort in 2013 to celebrate the renewal of his wedding vows, inviting George Clooney, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones to the celebrations, although Sugar Beach staff remain tight-lipped about any celebrity presence.

An enviable collection of modern art ranging from the likes of Andy Warhol to Damian Hirst provides a contemporary twist, adorning walls throughout, even in the well-equipped children’s club.

Sugar Beach was the first resort on the island to re-open after the pandemic, and wisely kept the gardeners on throughout lockdown, explains head gardener Julian Joseph.

“The gardens have evolved over the years, as landscapers had different ideas. We’ve tried to avoid the use of imported materials and plants which are going to become invasive,” Julian explains.

A major refurbishment – the resort closed for

five months last year – has produced nine new luxury accommodations, upgraded culinary outlets, a beachside fitness facility, a refreshed spa and a new main pool area, as Sugar Beach celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

You can dine on oysters and Tomahawk steak in the grand colonial splendour of The Great Room or go to the beach for more informal pizza, pasta and tacos at the Bayside Restaurant.

Edibles including bananas, mangoes, coconuts and avocados are pointed out in the regular garden tours, which are conducted by the horticulturalists on site.

Much of the produce goes into the salads, salsas, sauces and other delicacies on the menus, or is incorporated into the plethora of cocktails served in the stylish resort bars.

Wellbeing is big here – from yoga to Piton hikes, rainforest spa treatments featuring natural products, and gentle walking trails where you may spot hummingbirds, will certainly encounter lizards, and according to one young guest, may come across the odd scorpion.

Deep within the network of tropical planting is a rainforest spa, a lantern-lit long wooden corridor leading to treehouses on stilts, perched high above the ground and fringed by a stream. Here, singles or couples can have a range of treatments, many with a nod to the landscape – bamboo massages, body scrubs made from cinnamon, and coconut and sulphur mud wraps to detox and relax.

But if a hotel beauty treatment feels a little sterile, there are natural remedies a short drive away, which will provide a grittier, smellier experience altogether.

Venturing out, I dunk myself in toe-curlingly hot muddy water at Sulphur Springs – Soufriere

“Hollywood star Matt Damon reportedly rented out the whole resort in 2013 to celebrate the renewal of his wedding vows”

(the former capital) gets its name from the French meaning sulphur mine – slathering myself in gritty, sand-coloured volcanic mud, known for its exfoliating and skin-enhancing properties. The site is a short walk from the edge of the crater known as La Caldera (the cauldron), described as the Caribbean’s only ‘walk-in’ volcano.

While waiting for the mud to dry on my skin, an artistic aide war-paints me with a necklace of charcoal-coloured mud for fun, before I wash the whole lot off in another slightly less scalding pool. The healing mud is said to relieve sunburn and ease sore joints and arthritis. My skin feels smooth, soft and refreshed.

But it is the sight of the crater nearby, a rocky landscape dotted with mud pits of scalding bubbling water throwing up clouds of smoke and steam, which really sets my skin tingling.

Here, the pungent, rotten-egg stench of sulphur billowing from the cracks in the earth catches your throat, and the stark landscape is far removed from the lush oasis its volcanic nutrients have served in the nearby botanical garden. At least the smell keeps the snakes and spiders away, our guide John says, grinning.

While the volcano hasn’t erupted in thousands of years, it is still active and the crater around which we stand is now cordoned off. Yet John recalls that as a child, he and his friends would

How to plan your trip

Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort (viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugarbeach), has rooms from £414/$500 per night (two sharing) including breakfast. For more information on St Lucia visit stlucia.org.

picnic and play on the hot sulphur-infused terrain, dodging those deadly bubbling pools as they went.

All that changed 33 years ago, he recalls, when a tour guide jumped rather too hard on the surface and the earth gave way, resulting in him suffering second-degree burns. That’s why we are now only allowed to observe the scene from a distance.

In the heat of the day, the lush forested oasis of Sugar Beach is beckoning, as we wend our way down to the beach, past deep red crotons, phoenix and areca palms, coral hibiscus and sizzling scarlet flamboyant trees. Hanging crab claws and dragon’s blood never felt so inviting.

Emirates & Citibond bring you Luxury Indian Ocean Holidays

Whether you want to relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world that are only found in the Maldives, sample some aromatic tea directly from a plantation in Mauritius, or meet the famous Giant Aldabra Tortoises during a visit to Curieuse Island in Seychelles, a friendly team at Citibond Holidays can arrange this for you.

Established in 1974, Citibond Holidays is a family-run business that creates tailor-made holidays for the more discerning traveller to destinations worldwide.

With offices in London and Leicester and a team of international agents, they handcraft bespoke holiday packages to meet the needs of their clients. When you book your holiday with Citibond, you will always have a knowledgeable personal travel assistant on hand to help or advise you whenever you need.

CITIBOND ARE APPOINTED TRAVEL PARTNERS FOR EMIRATES

Citibond Holidays has specialised in providing luxury holidays to worldwide places and are the appointed agents for Emirates.

The Emirates story started in 1985 when they launched operations with just two aircraft. Today, they fly the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering customers the comforts of the latest and most efficient widebody aircraft in the skies. Emirates inspire travelers around the world with their growing network of worldwide destinations, industry leading inflight entertainment, regionally inspired cuisine, and world-class service.

EMIRATES BUSINESS & FIRST CLASS

Emirates goes to great lengths to ensure comfort and the thoughtful little details that make the experience memorable from chauffeur drive services and dedicated check-in facilities to wellequipped lounges and amenities on board for connectivity or relaxation.

One of the biggest initiatives in the airline’s history is the installation of the world’s first private First Class suites, featuring privacy screens for maximum exclusivity. The suites have massageenabled leather seats which convert to flat beds.

Comfort covers, cosy fabric sleeping suits and slippers, down pillows and cotton lined blankets all support a good night’s sleep.

ONBOARD SHOWER SPA ON A380

Emirates is the first airline to introduce two fully equipped bathrooms in its First Class cabins, including shower facilities in an aircraft.

A380 ONBOARD LOUNGE

First Class and Business Class passengers have the exclusive use of the Onboard Lounge situated at the rear of the Business Class cabin on the upper deck of the A380.

Whether you want to see the tallest building on earth in Dubai, you fancy snorkelling in the warm waters of Mauritius teaming with tropical fish or you fancy exploring luxury islands in the Maldives we have got you covered.

If relaxing on the pure white sands of Seychelles and watching the calm turquoise waters lap the beach while you sip on a refreshing cocktail is more your thing, Citibond Holidays can arrange a holiday that delivers all the peace and tranquillity you want especially when flying with Emirates.

Since Citibond deal with Emirates directly, they can offer you discounted rates in Business and First class travel. So why not upgrade your holiday and enjoy all the comforts that it brings.

Citibond will take care of all your travel needs, so you can sit back and relax, knowing the arrangements for your luxury holiday is in safe hands.

Start planning your next luxury trip with Citibond Holidays.0207 290 0607 sales@citibond.co.uk

LIVE IT, LOVE IT, OWN IT!

Live the life you love with Away Resorts holiday home ownership. Away Resorts can give you the gift of relishing more time, just for you, with a boutique barn in Cornwall or a cosy cottage on the Isle of Wight. Indulge in sneaky breaks away with your favourite people; or long leisurely hols with no rush to return to reality. You can also put your property to work with a fuss free holiday letting scheme or a 7% fixed return investment option, earning you pensionable cash back from your purchase too.

Away Resorts’ 999 year leasehold holiday properties are built to residential standards and sold fully furnished, ready to enjoy. They are located on beautiful resorts, with no second home buying restrictions to worry about, and fabulous facilities to make the most of. These properties have capital appreciation potential and if you choose to let them you could benefit from favourable tax regulations too.

RETALLACK RESORT & SPA

Enjoy a Cornish retreat close to holiday hotspots Padstow and Newquay with a stylish boutique barn with 2, 3 or 4 bedrooms. All come with private decking space and beautiful countryside views, but the four bed really wows with a showstopping rooftop terrace. Prices start from £295,000.

THE BAY COLWELL

The Bay Colwell is a quiet resort, tucked away on the Western tip of the Isle of Wight, just a short stroll from the beach huts and sandy shores of Colwell Bay. There is a limited opportunity to buy an attractive cottage with a private front garden with prices

THE LAKES ROOKLEY

An all-action resort, nestled at the heart of the island. Within easy reach of all the Isle of Wight can offer, it’s ideal for families of all ages and is convenient for both ferry ports. Our recently refurbished, brick-built cottages at the Lakes Rookley are priced from £165,000 and there are limited lakeside positions available.

INVESTMENT BUYING

The Away Resorts’ long lease holiday property options offer you two attractive earn back options. Opt for a variable return and flexible personal use, by choosing to make use of the managed letting scheme; alternatively you can select a fixed net return of 7% for a period of 3 – 5 years with limited personal use*. For more information call: 01637 226109 or visit: awayresorts.co.uk

“Enjoy a Cornish retreat close to holiday hotspots Padstow and Newquay with a stylish boutique bar”

Ancient woodland opened to public after 500 years

An ancient woodland has opened to the public for the first time in more than 500 years.

The Woodland Trust conservation charity hopes Mourne Park will now become a popular visitor attraction, having bought 156 hectares of the 212 hectare site last year.

It is currently raising funds to buy a further 46 hectares.

As part of the £5.2 million campaign, the trust has reinstated walking paths in woodland that has not offered public access since the 1500s.

Three trails have been completed over loose gravel paths covering a variety of gradients and lengths. They have been called the Bluebell Walk, the Woodland Loop and the Whitewater Trail.

Mourne Park is near Kilkeel in Co Down on the edge of the Mourne Mountains, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

The charity says the park is home to extremely rare woodland and is also inhabited by wildlife such as red squirrels, otters and pine martens.

The Woodland Trust, which is celebrating its 50th year, has bought 1,200 sites across the UK in the last five decades.

The initial purchase of Mourne Park was part funded by Stormont’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Garfield Weston Foundation.

Ian McCurley, director of Woodland Trust

By David Young

Northern Ireland, said: “Mourne Park is one of the most important areas of natural beauty in the whole of Northern Ireland, with 73ha of precious ancient woodland so incredibly rare to find.

“We want to open Mourne Park up in a sensitive way, to allow the public to enjoy it in all its glory. So we have created three walking trails in our first phase of works.

“In these times, when people are calling for more green space, access to the countryside has never been more important.”

He added: “We need help to acquire the additional 46ha, to complete restoration in this precious ancient landscape, improve access for people and create more havens for wildlife.

“To be able to protect woodlands on this landscape scale means more for nature, more for people and more for climate change.” For more information visit woodlandtrust.org.uk/mourne.

“The trust has reinstated walking paths in woodland that has not offered public access since the 1500s”

BOOST YOUR WINTER MINDSET WITH A TRIP TO THE BEACH

The nights are closing in and the temperature is dropping. As we transition out of summer, the colder, darker months can feel like the tougher half of the year. Mourning the end of the holidays, a lack of vitamin D and unwanted winter coughs and colds are all contributing factors. However, having a positive winter mindset can challenge all that.

A recent study by the University of Tromso in Norway found a strong correlation between a positive wintertime mindset and higher levels of life satisfaction and greater psychological wellbeing. Almost as if to compensate for the increasing cold and darkness, the further north participants lived, the more positive their winter mindset was. These findings are reiterated by

the World Happiness Report, which ranks 156 countries by how content their citizens perceive themselves to be. The five happiest countries, Finland, Denmark, Switzerland, Iceland and Norway, all have long, dark winters.

So, the key to enjoying the colder, wetter and darker months is to embrace winter and Wellies & Windbreaks, an independent holiday rentals agency in the Witterings, West Sussex shares its top tips for how to achieve this.

Get outside for a walk

Autumnal days bring the best coastal walking weather with cooler temperatures and quieter beaches. If you have a dog then even better. The Witterings are blessed with six and a half miles of beach, stretching from the expansive dunes of the National Trust’s East Head and powder soft sands of West Wittering beach down to the shingle beaches of East Wittering and Bracklesham Bay.

Take a dip in the sea

A growing amount of evidence suggests that cold water swimming helps to improve mental wellbeing. Immersing the body in cold water boosts dopamine levels and increases the release of endorphins plus overcoming the resistance to entering cold water can help us to build mental resilience and reduce symptoms of anxiety. Swimming is popular in the shallow waters of East Wittering and Bracklesham Bay and swimming groups are a great way to start new friendships.

Exercise Away those Winter Blues

Exercise is so important for us all. It increases all those good chemicals that help us to stave off seasonal affective disorder and autumn colds. Nothing beats an early morning beach run to give you a great serotonin and endorphin boost as well as all the health benefits of sea air and coastal interaction. The Witterings stretch of the West Sussex coastline is a perfect running track. If cycling is your thing, The Salterns Way is a 12-mile cycle route from the centre of Chichester to the sand dunes of East Head or you can try your hand at windsurfing or kite surfing for a full body work out.

Get creative

Being creative also boots mental wellbeing. Head to the dunes with a palette and paints to

lose yourself to the moment and capture your favourite subjects on paper. Comb the beach for curious stones, pretty shells, interesting pieces of driftwood or glistening sea glass. You may find a lovely keepsake or even turn your finds into beach-inspired art or jewellery. Or, for the kind of priceless fun that entertains all generations, do some drawing in the sand. Trace shadows, write messages, draw a stick man, play noughts and crosses or have a game of Pictionary. No equipment needed, just a stick (or your finger!)

Book a winter break

Holidays are not just for summer. A change of scene and a break from work is great way to recharge our batteries even in winter. Storm watching, getting toasty by the fire with a really good book, playing a family board game or hunkering down for Sunday roast in cosy pubs make a winter break one to be remembered. To find some of the best properties available to rent in the Witterings area, check out Wellies & Windbreaks’ handpicked portfolio of highquality holiday homes. Beach-front, hot tub, large occupancy, pet friendly, couples’ retreats, whatever you are looking for they have something for every occasion. Imagine kickstarting your winter mindset with a New Year’s Day swim in the sea! welliesandwindbreaks.co.uk

“A change of scene and a break from work is great way to recharge our batteries even in winter”

LUXURY LODGE HOLIDAYS IN THE DERBYSHIRE PEAK DISTRICT

There is no better place than the Derbyshire Peak District to enjoy a short break or a family holiday. The Peak District is ideally located in the Heart of England and is bursting with majestic landscapes, stunning views, stately homes and unique family attractions.

Award winning Landal Darwin Forest is situated between Matlock and Bakewell and combines luxury self-catering lodges with fantastic onsite facilities. Whether you want peace and tranquillity on a romantic break, action packed adventures or fantastic local attractions for entertaining friends and family, our lodges provide the perfect base from which to explore.

The luxury lodges at Landal Darwin Forest are nestled within a 47 acre woodland paradise. The parks 135 lodges are sympathetically interwoven into the forest, which enables you to get back to nature and enjoy the picturesque environment. We have created a holiday park where children can explore, and young and old will feel carefree and relaxed.

There are several types of accommodation options to choose from which will keep the whole family happy. Most popular are our spa lodges that include a private hot tub on the veranda and really enable you to appreciate the serenity of our forest setting. We also have a number of pet friendly lodges.

At Landal Darwin Forest we have created the perfect setting for you to relax, enjoy your holiday and leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life far behind.

Landal Darwin Forest is the perfect destination to enjoy a family holiday. Our fantastic onsite facilities include Evolution Health & Fitness, which has a swimming pool, spa, gym and beauty rooms.

For the younger members of your family, Little Monkeys indoor play centre will provide hours of fun and entertainment. The Activity Den is perfect for older children with pool tables and a games room to keep them entertained. We also offer a range of fun activities onsite that are suitable for children and adults. Let our qualified instructors train you in the art of archery or the skills of fencing. The more adventurous could experience the thrills of bodyzorbing, waterwalkerz or snorkelling! For all the family to enjoy, we have a tennis court, mini golf and an abundance of footpaths and cycling trails.

If you want to give yourself a break from cooking you can enjoy a coffee and lite bite at the Explorers cafe or you can visit the Foresters bar and restaurant which has an extensive menu serving fresh, locally sourced produce.

Many families enjoy celebrating Christmas or New Year at the park, or gathering the family together for a birthday or anniversary. No matter what the time of year, we are confident your friends and family will have a fantastic break.

From snow-capped mountains to vast savannahs

How to meet the stars of Dynasties II. By Sarah Marshall.

Head to Chile, Zambia and Kenya if you want to meet the animal A-listers of BBC One’s new blockbuster wildlife series.

Nature soothed our souls during the pandemic, even though some of the greatest wildlife regions around the world were temporarily off limits.

BBC One’s new Dynasties II is a reminder of what we’ve all been missing, providing an incentive to get out and explore once again.

During the four-part series, David Attenborough unravels the complex lives of several animal families, presenting their highs and lows, and providing us with an intimate insight into the challenges they face.

But if you want to meet the stars in the flesh, here’s where to go…

PUMAS: TORRES DEL PAINE, CHILE

Fierce winds and bone-jingling temperatures might be challenging for humans, but South America’s charismatic mountain lions have found a comfortable home in the icy wilds of Patagonia. Although the area is rugged and remote, it’s surprisingly easily to spot the animals in one of the region’s most popular tourist attractions – Torres del Paine.

Rupestre, the puma featured in the opening episode of Dynasties II, is well known by guides and trackers in the Chilean national park, and can often be seen along the Hunter’s walking trail.

“Being on foot, you live the day as the puma would live it; you feel the same temperatures, the wind in your face,” explains producer Felicity Lanchester, who admits she was amazed by the amount of drama the team managed to capture during an 18-month window of filming.

“We predicted we’d get cute cubs and a few predation attempts, but the big surprise for us was her battles with other pumas,” she says. “The range of challenges in that environment is astonishing.”

Although it’s possible to encounter pumas along trails in the park, one of the best – and most ethical – ways to witness the cats is by signing up to a day safari with Fundación Cerro Guido Conservación, who operate in an estancia neighbouring the park.

How: Abercrombie & Kent (abercrombiekent. co.uk) offers a seven-night stay in Chile from £5,399 per person, including a five night allinclusive stay at Tierra Patagonia, transfers and flights. Puma experience costs extra.

CHEETAHS AND SPOTTED HYENAS: LIUWA PLAIN NATIONAL PARK, ZAMBIA

A remote corner of western Zambia sets the scene for two stars of the series – each in a remarkably different environment.

Wide open expanses provided a backdrop for cheetah Kali and her cubs, forcing the camera

“One of the best – and most ethical – ways to witness the cats is by signing up to a day safari “

crew to travel up to 50km in a morning, to catch up with them.

“One of the biggest challenges facing cheetahs is that they need a huge space to roam,” says series producer Simon Blakeney, reflecting on why the species is in alarmingly rapid decline.

But along with capturing the difficulties faced by these vulnerable cats, the team were eager to celebrate their athletic skills and showcase more tender moments – including an amusing encounter with a mole rat, which ends up attached to one of the cheetah’s toes.

Similarly intimate moments were also captured during the filming of spotted hyenas in the muddy floodplains.

“We’ve got this lovely scene where a mother takes a bath,” explains Blakeney, who hopes the footage will dispel stereotypes about a species often portrayed as villainous. “She’s so exhausted, she gets into the water and literally falls asleep, then wakes up blowing bubbles.”

How: Wildlife Worldwide (wildlifeworldwide. com) offers an 11-day Zambia’s Wild West: Kafue and Liuwa Plain group trip from £6,595 per person (two sharing), including flights.

ELEPHANTS: AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK, KENYA

Some of the last big tuskers can be found in Kenya, on the border with Tanzania, congregating

on grasslands in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. Although elephants have been under threat across Africa, numbers are bouncing back in this patch of East Africa.

“We were very lucky,” explains Blakeney. “Our lead character, Angelina, had twins during filming, which is incredibly rare and has only been recorded five times before in Kenya.”

But cause for celebration is tempered by the continual struggles the family face: the dangers of drought, the threat of predators and trauma of moving tiny calves through a thick, muddy swamp.

How: Coral Tree Travel (coraltreetravel.com) offers a six-night Kenya family holiday, including a 5-night full-board stay at Elewana Tortilis Camp, Amboseli National Park, from £2,300 per person (based on two adults and two children), including flights.

Catch Dynasties II on BBC iPlayer

“along with capturing the difficulties faced by these vulnerable cats, the team were eager to celebrate their athletic skills”

B away Cruising

Baway are renowned as an established cruise tour operator. They use their extensive experience to deliver exceptional value, combining quality hotels and tours with exciting cruise itineraries without compromising on the standards you would expect. All cruise holidays are fully bonded under the CAA ATOL scheme to give you peace of mind.

What’s next on your travel list? Sometimes, it’s the famous attractions, delicious food, or stunning hotels that draw us to a certain destination and is the focus of the exciting trips curated by B away

This Rio Carnival and Caribbean package offered exclusively by B away seems to tick off a lot.

Fly to Rio to enjoy three nights on the worldfamous Copacabana beach during the Rio Carnival (tickets included).

Next stay for two nights at the iconic Belmond Hotel da Cataratas in prime position to one of the planet’s greatest natural wonders, Iguazu Falls. While all other visitors enter via tour buses

between the hours of 9am and 5pm, you can walk from the lobby to the falls in under 30 seconds. It honestly feels like you’ve got the world’s biggest water feature in your own back garden, especially at dawn and dusk.

Next you fly back to Rio to join the ultraluxurious Silver Moon built by Silversea for an all-inclusive twelve-night cruise to Barbados. Building on the phenomenal success of Silver Muse, Silver Moon mirrors her sister ship and establishes a new era of cruising. With a capacity to accommodate 596 passengers, Silver Moon maintains the small-ship intimacy and spacious allsuite accommodation which are the hallmarks of the Silversea experience.

Upon arrival in Barbados, you will then enjoy a relaxing three-night stay at the five-star O2 Beach Club & Spa. Unwind in unadulterated luxury with stunning rooms, gourmet dining, serene spa experiences, exhilarating land and water adventures and inspiring daily activities that redefine the meaning of ‘luxury all-inclusive.’ Flights and transfers are included for full peace of mind.

THE DETAILS

This unique experience starts at £6,590 per person

Visit bawaycruising.co.uk for more details or contact one of their dedicated cruise specialists

248 2355

ART GUIDE

ART BY KATHARINE EDWARDS

Keeper of Woodwork at the V&A, my father Tim Edwards who became the President of the National Museum in Wales, and most notably our great family friend Kyffin Williams RA.

I would often stay with Kyffin in Anglesey, and we’d walk and talk for hours. He helped me entirely immerse myself in landscapes.

Later on, when my husband and I moved to a bothy in Northumberland, we were surrounded by a forest, with wood-burning stoves and gas wall lamps. The remoteness and silence became central to my drawings.

Tell us more about your Andalusian landscapes.

As our family grew up we were looking for a change and found a house surrounded by a patchwork of olive trees and mountains near the Subetica National Park in Spain. I was immediately intoxicated by the colours, the smells, the light… such raw and dramatic scenery.

I want to capture the heat, the calmness, the wilderness, but all seen from the eagle’s view, blissfully unconnected with the noise from the earth below, which I think we all crave. katharineedwards.co.uk

The changing landscapes of Katharine Edwards’ life inspires every canvas and are an antidote to the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Born from her deep emotional response to the varying landscapes of her life, classically trained Katharine Edwards takes a bird’s eye view of the world, soaring above the petty squabbles on earth.

When did you become an artist?

As far back as I can remember, I’ve always covered every surface available to me – including the family placemats - with paint and drawings! My parents never minded, actively encouraging my passion, and feeding me lots of visual stimulation in the form of childhood holidays spent exploring the Black Mountains in Wales.

Tell us more about your inspiration. I was lucky enough to have significant artistic influences in my life in the form of my grandfather, Ralph Edwards, who was the

The changing landscapes of Katharine Edwards’s life inspire every canvas and are an antidote to the hustle and bustle of the everyday.

Spotlight On:

Limited Edition Graphical Art Prints, plus Newly Launched Statement A2 Size – Eco Home and Christmas Gifting Storigraphic

Storigraphic is bringing design home with their stylish range of bold, limited and open edition graphical art prints, available in a growing number of designs from across their collections.

Just launched in their new larger A2 (£38) size, adding to the A3 (£23) and A4 (from £8) size options already available, alongside newly-launched Boho colour edition options of their popular

Seventies Series designs, the stylish wall decor is set to impress.

For added exclusivity, first edition prints are produced in a limited run and then individually hand-numbered for posterity.

Printed in the UK on 350gsm GF Smith Colorplan White Frost, FSC certified, acid-free and 100% virgin ECF fibre. Perfect for statement wall hanging or subtle framing in the home, business, place of work or as a beautiful gift for everyone.

All Storigraphic products are produced in the UK, using FSC certified paper, recyclable (no glitter, foil, metallic ink, lamination), plasticfree and sustainably made using the smallest environmental footprint.

Storigraphic is an award-winning independent design studio and store, creating exclusive eco paperware, gifts and homeware to transform the everyday. All products are plastic-free, recyclable and sustainably made in the UK, with 5% of sales profit donated to homelessness charity, Crisis UK, and a portion of each sale allocated to planting a young native tree across the world. storigraphic.com

“Storigraphic is an award-winning independent design studio and store”

THE ARTIST WITH AN UNUSUALLY BEAUTIFUL HARVEST

Kyra Powell from Kynuka is putting her family farm in Herfordshire to a new use. Rather than the usual harvest, Kyra grows, picks, dries and presses flowers in the farm’s cottage garden before turning them into orginal pieces of art.

Originally trained as a cabinet maker, designing bespoke coffins (“something that’s always a good conversation starter... or stopper, dependant on the company,”) Kyra found that being involved in the furniture manufacturing world didn’t sit comfortably for many reasons – from the amount of waste involved, the lack of traceability of materials, greenwashing, materialism and overconsumption of our planet’s virgin materials. This led her to set up a creative business creating botanical art, with as small an eco-footprint as possible.

“It’s very important to me to ensure my products have a traceability throughout every process, that they do not have a detrimental effect on the environment and that they waste as little of our planet’s precious commodities as possible. I believe in a circular economy and therefore all my products are made from natural, biodegradable or recycled materials.”

She creates her botanical pieces in a cabin she built herself from scrap. As she explains: “This way of reusing and reinventing materials is something I’ve done all my life. I think it stems from my traditional farming background; getting creative with what you’ve got rather than buying new.”

It functions as the perfect studio for Kyra, providing not just daily inspiration but a space to think and create, away from the pressures of our constantly connected society. “The natural world is where I find solace,” says Kyra. “That’s pretty much why I live in a tiny cabin in a field. In many ways I have somewhat rejected ‘conventional society’ for my own sanity.” Kyra sells her pieces on Folksy in her shop: folksy.com/shops/Kynuka

Natalie Papamichael is a contemporary figurative artist. She studied Fine Art at Central Saint Martins and an MA in art History at the Courtauld Institute of Art where she researched the exclusion of women artists from art history and academic training. Her work challenges this exclusion. She studied the painting techniques of the Old Masters in Florence. She has continued with this training, beginning with the copy and then going on to create her own narratives. Self portraiture is integral to her work.

Natalie undertakes commissions, sells prints and creates designer clothing using her artwork.

The Art That Goes with The Flow

Centuries-long techniques have been turned into soothing, meditative art

Discover a world of texture and calming energy with Tanya Vacarda’s latest collection of artworks. Using mindful practices and working within the intersection of craft and fine art, Vacarda’s work is abstract, tactile and exudes a soothing presence.

Building on the long-standing traditions of Venetian plasterwork, Tanya brings new life to this craft by incorporating mixed media and experimenting with new materials. Now, Vacarda Design has introduced a new selection of textural artworks that goes beyond interior decoration to more visually refined and conceptual pieces of tactile art.

Texture Elegance

Created using a combination of heritage techniques such as decorative plastering and fresco, this art collection features one-of-a-kind wall décor pieces that are perfect for adding depth and lightness to any interior. The artworks are designed with serenity and tranquillity in mind, which is helped by the natural harmony of the pattern, and radiate warm, soothing energy.

Encouraging you to pause throughout your day, to stimulate the senses and truly become present in the moment, these rare and exquisitely tactile pieces beg to be touched. Using meditative practice, the artist collaborates with the material, letting the Venetian plaster have its say in the creative process. Handcrafted with layers of pigmented plaster, the artworks feature precision gilding that exudes a sense of ancient luxury.

The Tao Series

Alluding to the Tao philosophy of accepting the natural flow of the Universe, each piece from this limited mixed-media collection is a meditative collaboration with the material that captures dynamism with stillness, quietness with depth and movement, exuding the calming energy of imperfection embraced.

While paying homage to the traditional Venetian plastering practice, an expert of textured surface design Tanya Vacarda experiments with various plaster compounds and a calligraphy technique, to visualise the different states of mind and emotions expressed through a delicate dance between the texture and paint.

About Vacarda Design

Vacarda Design, a creative studio based in Northern Ireland, specialises in artisanal Italian plaster surfaces and décor. Using traditional craftsmanship and innovation, Tanya Vacarda creates bespoke textured finishes with a distinctly meditative and textural appeal. Embracing the tactility of the world and the natural flow, studio’s original works are inspired by the idea of reclaiming the beauty of touch and promote the mindful and meditative qualities of a simple caress.

Exclusive to the studio is Italian plaster veneer, a handcrafted finish that gives this traditional material a new definition in a reusable form. View Tanya Vacarda’s unique artwork at vacardadesign.com

“Vacarda Design

specialises in artisanal Italian plaster surfaces and décor”

JANE SWAN

“Flow Sweet River Flow”, 137cm x165cm, Acrylic and powdered slate

Talbot Capes Fine Art Management

Talbot Capes Fine Art Management offers high-quality, discreet curatorship and care for art collections of all sizes and contents. The team handles everything from cataloguing, provenance research and inventory management, to shipping and installation, advising on climate control and conservation. Working to museum quality standards, they ensure the highest level of care to art collectors all over the world.

Prior to founding the company, director Sarah Capes had worked in both the public and private sectors of the art world for over ten years; exclusively with private collections for five years. She identified a clear market need for a business that could combine the curatorial skills necessary for public museums and galleries with those needed in private collections. She notes:

“The most exciting part of being an art collector is looking at art, making a purchase, and enjoying hanging that piece on the wall. But every work of art has a life of its own beyond that. Even a brand new contemporary artwork needs to be appropriately cared for in order to preserve it for future generations: it needs to be skilfully installed and well-lit, in safe environmental conditions. It needs to be properly logged, photographed and documented in a secure database, in order to save time and money on administrative procedures later down the line. All public museums and galleries have at least one curator – if not several – carrying out these tasks, and we believe that private collections should be able to secure with absolute confidence that same detailed level of care.”

By combining research, administration, curatorship and preventive conservation advice, Talbot Capes Fine Art Management provides peace of mind that not only are their clients’ artworks being appropriately preserved, but the value of the collection is fundamentally protected.

Sarah and her expert team streamline what can be the daunting and time-consuming process of organising the documentation associated with every art collection – purchase records, sales invoices, photography, literature, import / export documents; this in turn can streamline a host of other processes, from organising insurance policies to legacy and estate planning.

The art market remains an opaque and unregulated one, where it can be difficult to know who to trust. As impartial and unbiased curators, Sarah and her team are able to offer honest opinions and act as a sounding board when clients are presented with acquisition proposals.

Having an overview of an entire collection allows the team to advise on acquisitions that will contribute thematically and sensibly to the collection as a whole, which can subsequently increase its value.

Many collectors lack the time to organise and manage their collections themselves. Talbot Capes Fine Art Management alleviates all of the many tasks involved, removing the burden from the collector and allowing them to carry on focussing on what it is they truly love: collecting.

“Sarah is a fantastic exponent of the art world. Her attention to detail and her approach to research and client support has been exemplary, and it has been truly inspiring to work with her and to benefit from her knowledge and expertise.” – Private Client, London talbotcapes.com

MIKE BERNARD Collage and Acrylic Contemporary Art

Born in Kent in 1957 award-winning leading artist Mike Bernard trained at the West Surrey College of Art & Design, Farnham, followed by postgraduate studies at the Royal Academy Schools

Since then he has exhibited widely in London and the provinces. The artist was elected a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour in 1997.

He moved to Devon in 2008 where he has been inspired by the amazing light.

Mike Bernard enjoys experimenting with media and techniques, often using mixed media incorporating collage and acrylics. Mike has used paper collage for several years and has developed a highly original and appealing style of his own. As a base to his paintings it has allowed him to create abstract structures that in turn develop into those “happy accidents” which come about from time to time. Random textures, colours and shapes suddenly fall into place. This method allows picture to evolve their own personality as they progress, which avoids them becoming over-representational.

Mike’s initial starting point was collecting on the spot sketches, with subjects varying from harbour coastal scenes to street and market scenes and occasional still life. He is selective when describing detail, wanting to portray only the essence of the subject.

Back in the studio he starts his paintings, (surfaces can include, paper, board and canvas), with layers of paper collage, newspapers, tissue,

leaflets, magazines etc, glueing with acrylic medium.

Mike can create shapes which relate to the abstract structure of the subject. When the glue is dry, he applies acrylic ink in bold random strokes which encourages wonderful colour and textural ‘happy accidents’. From this state of chaos he endeavours to definite the subject through various drawing techniques, to a finished stage where the subject has recognisable passages, but at the same time retains a semi- abstract, impressionistic feel, engaging the viewers imagination.

Mike now paints almost exclusively in mixed media, combining collage, acrylics and pastel. He enjoys the way textures, shapes, colour and ‘happy accidents’ steer the direction of his paintings. Mike’s favourite subjects continue to be harbour scenes, market and street scenes both in Britain and abroad.

If you would like to enquire about purchasing one of Mike’s paintings, please email him with the painting you are interested in and he will be able to confirm availability, price etc. Commissions are also undertaken.

For more details of Mike’s work visit mikebernardri.com or email mikebernardri@gmail.com

Affordable Art Fair returns to Battersea with art for all this Autumn.

AFFORDABLE ART FAIR BATTERSEA AUTUMN

Battersea Park, 20 – 23 October 2022

The Affordable Art Fair returns to Battersea Park this autumn with the 22nd instalment of its flagship fair from 20 – 23 October. Packed with 1,000s of original artworks from over 110 galleries, whether you’re after the next big thing or simply on the hunt for a bold and bright print to freshen up your space, head to Battersea this autumn to discover the joy of collecting art.

Affordable Art Fair is gearing up for an unmissable Autumn edition in London’s Battersea Park, showcasing the best in affordable contemporary art under a ceiling price of £7,500.

With 1,000s of original artworks on offer from household names alongside up and coming talent, this edition offers a mighty selection of contemporary art in all styles, from print and photography, to sculpture, painting and mixedmedia.

Alongside over 110 exhibitors, visitors can enjoy special installations, a showcase of cutting-edge graduate talent, augmented reality performances, family activities and much more.

Continuing the fair’s tradition to help emerging artists break into the art market, Affordable Art Fair has joined forces with Nephertiti Oboshie Schandorf, Artistic Director of Peckham Platform,

THE DETAILS

To find out more and book tickets

visit: affordableartfair.com/fairs/ london-battersea-autumn/

Supported by Lead Partners JM Finn, experts in wealth management, and Hotels Partner Dorsett International

to curate her standout selection of the best and brightest artistic talent to emerge from UK art schools this year.

Be first to see all the fun of the fair at the Private View, enjoy art after dark with drinks, DJs and more at Thursday and Friday Lates, or bring the whole family along to Family Hour at the weekend.

Explore a dedicated space for works to take home for under £500.

PAD LONDON RETURNS

Berkeley Square, Mayfair.

10-16 October 2022

This October, after two years of onlineonly activity, PAD London returns to the capital for a week-long showcase of exceptional design. This high-profile event takes place every October on Berkeley Square, in the heart of London’s affluent Mayfair district.

Founded in 2007 by fourth-generation Parisian antique dealer Patrick Perrin, PAD London is the only fair in the UK exclusively dedicated to Contemporary, 20th Century Design and Decorative Arts. Celebrating craftsmanship and innovation, the fair’s 14th edition will once again delight art and design lovers with a world-class selection of works spanning contemporary and decorative arts. From major cities across Europe, North America and Asia they are coming together to offer an exceptional panorama of the most coveted and iconic works available on the market today. 18 new exhibitors join 67 returning galleries and include Francis Sultana (London), Charles Zana (Paris), Cristina Grajales (New York) and Galerie Gabriel et Guillaume (Beirut).

Faithful to the distinctive flair and originality that forged PAD’s reputation over the years, this highly anticipated edition will premiere outstanding works by emerging and iconic talents, while also shedding light on rare, age-old techniques, new sustainable crafts and innovative materials that inform design today. Many of the visionary exhibitors who have contributed to PAD’s prestige are returning, joined by prominent

international galleries and jewellery houses which will make their debuts at the fair.

AA permanent fixture on Paris and London’s vibrant art and design circuits, PAD fair has become a byword for connoisseurship, exquisite taste and curatorial flair. With their distinct approach to collecting, PAD fairs epitomise how artistic genres across time and periods interact to reveal astonishing combinations and create the most individual and striking interiors.

PAD offers visitors the opportunity to both immerse themselves and purchase museum quality objects with a fascinating history behind them.

Zappy console n°615, 2020 Spider wardrobe n°566, 2020 Electron floor lamp n°58, 2020

By Hervé Van Der Straeten

Courtesy of Hervé Van Der Straeten Photo credit: Cecil Mathieu

THE DETAILS

PAD London

10 – 16 October 2022

Berkeley Square, Mayfair, W1 Tickets available for online purchase on padesignart.com

Follow the fair on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn: @padesignart #PADLondon

Aqua Fossil table lamp by Amarist Studio, 2021 Courtesy of Amarist Studio and Priveekollektie Photo credit: Saúl Lozano Photography

Bubble armchair by Léa Mestres, 2021 Courtesy of Léa Mestres and Galerie Scène Ouverte Photo credit: Bastien Gomez

Bird stool-sculpture by Abel Cárcamo Courtesy of Abel Cárcamo and 88 Gallery

Sprout by Randy Polumbo, 2018 Courtesy of Randy Polumbo and Cristina Grajales

PATRICIA GAGIC : ARTIST

Patricia Gagic has been internationally lauded for her work - as one of Canada’s most exceptional communicators, as an award-winning contemporary Artist, Author, Percussionist, and successful Entrepreneur. Patricia is an etheric energy leader – founder of the “Karmic Art Experience/Wisdom of Karma” merging realism with soul.

Patricia is named one of the 2022 TOP 10 Contemporary Artists by World of Art and again in 2023. She was Artist of the Year 2019 by Art Tour International and again in 2023. In 2017, she was presented the Excellence in the Arts for Courage and Commitment to Human rights, Dignity and Freedom Award by the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and is a four- time named WXN (Women’s Executive Network) Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2018. She is the 2020 Universal Women’s Network Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and Ambassador.

Patricia is a proud Rotarian and member of the IWF, International Women’s Forum. Speaking engagements include the Harvard Club of Boston, Carnegie Hall, and NASDAQ. Recipient of the 2019 SNBA Gold Medal at the Carrousel du Louvre, in Paris, and Silver and Pewter Medal recipient at Academique Societe Arts Sciences Lettre of Paris, France. Patricia is a Certified Meditation Specialist completing Applied Mindfulness and Transformative Mindfulness at the University of Toronto. For her long- time work in Cambodia, Patricia was Knighted as a Dame of the International Order of St. George Grand Prior.

Art by Marilyn Simler

variety of media including drawing, watercolours, acrylics and collage on both paper and canvas. Paint is applied with a great variety of brush strokes, that create interest and texture from transparent washes of colour to thick impasto.

Drawing includes anything that makes an interesting and varied mark from charcoal, pencil, crayons to paint markers. The work is multi layered so drawing and various mark making is visible beneath and on top of transparent and opaque swathes of colour. Collage is frequently integrated into the surface of the work, resulting in a few surprise elements.

Defying Gravity 100x100cm mixed media on

Simply reading the titles of some of Marilyn Simler’s paintings gives an indication of what her new body of work represents –‘Defying Gravity’, ‘Life Force’, ‘Blooming’, ‘Ascending’, ‘Fragmenting’, ‘Buoyant’, ‘Surging’, ‘Regenerating’, ‘Transforming’.

Simler’s paintings reference the magnitude of the natural world which becomes a metaphor for the ‘Cycle of Life’. Her preoccupation is with the organic structure of plants and seed pods, and the celebratory glory of flowers, the journey from germination, sprouting, growing, budding, flowering, fading, drooping, folding in, dying, drying, merging… To re-emergence.

The Cycle of Life, a recurring theme in her work, took her on a more penetrating exploration during lockdown, with so many concerns over life and death. What has emerged is a series that has come from within, which reflects the impact of the pandemic and being more solitary. The introspection has resulted in works that always maintain and element of positivity and renewal.

TS Eliot’s words, written from a poets view point, are equally relevant to the visual artist: - “A person who creates experience is in a different world in every decade of their life. As they see the world with different eyes, the material of their art is continually renewed”.

The aspect of ‘renewing’ in Simler’s painting is in abstraction. Recognisable forms emerge and recede in abstract indeterminate spaces. The work evolves intuitively in an exploratory manner, each piece becoming a journey of its own. She uses a

Colour is a crucial element in these works. Simler prefers to mix her own muted colours that she stores in sealed containers so they can be used again in different works. This creates a continuity and flow and harmonious thread to the work.

After the more introspective works painted during lockdown and the world opened up a bit, the sea and water informs a further body of work. The Rockpool series continues the preoccupation with the Life Cycle, revealing and concealing shell forms, plant forms and the reflection of the self as one gazes down and contemplates life in all its forms.

To find out more about Simler and her work, visit: marilynsimler.net Instagram: marilyn_simler Email: marilynsimler@gmail.com

Top: Blooming 60x91cm mixed media on canvas

Above: Rising 57x76cm mixed media on paper

Below: Rockpool Series: Looking Down 4 76x61cm mixed media on canvas

SOPHIA ROSE ART

Sophia Rose is a self-taught Canadianborn artist that developed a passion for art from a young age. She is best known for her unique and vibrant automotive paintings that capture and honour the individual characteristics and personalities of each automobile. No different than someone sitting for a portrait, Sophia chooses to focus on the “facial features” of the cars, their grills and headlights. She believes that this is where their personality lies.

For her, the creative process begins with creating the groupings whether by colours, namesakes or sociocultural themes. The Chromatic series acknowledges that everyone has a favourite colour, even if they don’t know it. There is a palette of favourite colours amongst car enthusiasts, from plum crazy to rosso corsa, and each has the power to stir emotions and evoke memories.

The Animalier series pays tribute to the car companies that over the years have often looked to the animal kingdom for inspiration when naming their creations. The names chosen have embodied the superior traits of the animals, such as the agility of the cougar, the speed of the barracuda, or the intimidation factor of the cobra. The Heritage series reflects a journey through themes of cultural and historical significance. The themes span from the enduring desire for precious metals, to the pervasive presence of the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse in pop culture.

Those who have commissioned works from

Sophia have expressed that sometimes the value of a vehicle is not determined by its collectibility factor or its notoriety. Instead, the worth is determined by the wealth of memories and sentiments that it holds.

The paintings are meant to be fun and invitingone does not need to be a car person in order to enjoy them or feel a connection. Each painting is thoughtfully composed, and created on stretched canvas with acrylic paints. The cars are painted in realistic style in order to capture their unique details and tangible beauty.

All paintings are one-off creations with no prints or reproductions. This year a number of Sophia’s distinctive paintings have been placed in exhibitions in Spain and France.

Eleanor Mcknight Art

My inspiration comes from the beauty of our planet. I create atmospheric abstracts and semi abstract paintings full of emotional content. Each work is different in terms of content, structure and colour though I have a passion for blue. Shortlisted for Royal Academy Summer show. Available for commissions, the paintings in this gallery are recent sales and new work for sale.

Based in London UK. Contact me anytime by Email: McKnightEleanor@yahoo.com

@Eleanormcknightart | Eleanor McKnightArt

www.eleanormcknightart.com.

Represented by The wey gallery

Carmen Delprat is a professional contempo rary fine artist who lives in Newcastle, Australia.

In her art, she captures an allegory of the natural world and transforms it into a dream-like interpretation with vivid colour. She is stimulated to represent the local environment and its inhabitants with all its complexities. Fusing multiple layers of symbolic imagery into one composition to softly alternate the main subject and reveal a new narrative.

The multidimensional world has been a conceptual cornerstone for most of Carmen’s career as a figurative and landscape artist. She is fascinated not only with the external visible appearance, but also the invisible energies that delicately radiate outwards and slightly touch our experiences with interconnectivity.

Carmen’s work embodies an interplay between nature and the spirit and our connection to time, which you can see in her Australian fine art prints. Visit www.carmendelpratart.com and follow on IG /carmendelpratart.

YUMMY MUMMY

FUNKY LITTLE DARLINGS

Funky Little Darlings is an award winning interior design company specialising in designing children’s rooms and spaces, and creating modern luxury family living. Since designers Mandy Colliss and David Quinton established the company in 2006, they have developed a reputation for exceptional creativity and an uncompromising approach to design. They have designed for all ages and stages, from nurseries to first bedrooms and playrooms through to über cool teen spaces, delivering beautifully finished and perfectly tailored rooms that are inspiring, beautiful and practical whilst providing the highest quality professional service.

As experienced interior designers, they offer a range of interior design services that mean they can be used as much or as little as needed. From Mood Boards and On-Line Design through to fully managed services, they have design options to suit each family’s individual requirements and budget. Their goal is simply to create stylish, memorable spaces filled with character and warmth and to always exceed expectations. Their in-depth interiors knowledge ensures a child’s room not only looks fantastic, but it’s practical as well as functional, with longevity built into the design. They can design bespoke furniture and accessories to suit a room as well as source products from around the world to ensure that each project has a unique, personalised finish. Whatever is needed, they will help in creating

modern luxury living spaces.

They have a boutique on-line shop that brings together the finest furnishings, decor and accessories that help style-savvy parents source luxury design for their children. Everything is handpicked, beautifully made and magical.

They have expertise in interior design, graphics, 3D and packaging design having worked in the children’s toys and computer games industry, and have designed for the BBC, Disney, Hasbro and Endemol and on global brands such as Monopoly, Teletubbies, In The Night Garden, Playskool, Big Brother, Action Man and Sindy. Their products and services have been used worldwide in hotels, restaurants, cafés, retail establishments and private homes and they have featured internationally in the press, magazines and on television.

Phone number: 01993 898834

Email: studio@funkylittledarlings.co.uk

Website: funkylittledarlings.co.uk

Instagram: @funkylittledarlings

“As experienced interior designers, they offer a range of interior design services that mean they can be used as much or as little as needed”

BABIES & KIDS

CHRISTMAS CLASSIC

Meet the Toniebox; the musical storybox that brings kids’ favourite musical characters to life. Made for little hands and big imaginations, the Toniebox is the perfect present for every child on Santa’s list. tonies.com/en-gb

FOREVER YOUNG

We love these most prettiest of blouses made using Liberty Betsy cotton fabric with a peter pan collar, smock detail and mother of pearl buttons down the back. peterpanswardrobe.co.uk

AUTUMN COLOURS

These Raisin print dungarees are the perfect for playing and learning. Made from super-soft organic cotton, they look great paired with a Mini & Humble bodysuit or t-shirt underneath. miniandhumble.com

COSY COMFORT

HANDCRAFTED HALLOWEEN

Make Halloween extra magical with our handmade fabric crown - perfect for Halloween parties and general sorcery. Made with a spellbinding cotton fabric designed by the iconic Rifle Paper Co. magicandmonroe.co.uk

Simple and classic, these Fir & Festivities pyjamas are perfect for the whole family come Christmas. Featuring a subtle Christmas tree print and a Nordic pattern, these jammies are sure to get everyone feeling super excited about the big day. mychristmaspyjamas.co.uk

Transform your child’s bedroom

With the summer holidays in full swing and little ones seizing the spotlight, it might be time to give their bedrooms an update.

After all, kids’ bedrooms often double up as toy rooms and play areas as well as slumber sanctuaries – not to mention all the kit they need to store –and children can outgrow things fast.

You don’t necessarily need to redo the whole room, however. Swapping in one or two new items can provide a fun refresh, and help the room ‘grow’ with them.

From stylish storage solutions to blissful bedding, these best bedroom buys will blend beautifully into existing schemes – and might even bring out the big kid in you…

(top) Sleepmasters Wig-Wam X Bed Frame, £199.99 (was £249.99), Bensons For Beds With tent and camping vibes, this wig-waminspired bedframe is sure to fire their imagination – especially if they have a wall or ceiling full of stars to sleep under.

Rocket Children’s Wall Light, £19.99, Lights4fun

Aspiring astronauts or rocketeers will love this whizzy wooden rocket lighting up their favourite space. Backlit by 18 warm white LEDs.

Tipi Bed, £299 (was £399), Studio

With space for their favourite cuddly toys, this white and mint green tipi-shaped headboard should entice them to settle down. Plus, two roomy pull-out drawers can be used for

Kids Polar Bear Plush Animal Head Wall Décor by Wild & Soft, £44.95 (was £49.95), Cuckooland

This is Basile! And he’s our new favourite beastie, with his plush faux fur and sweet face.

Snurk Childrens Princess Duvet Bedding Set in Yellow, £44 (was £49) Cuckooland

Are you thinking what we’re thinking? Why don’t they make beautiful make-believe bedding like this for grown-ups! Your little princess can take dressing up as Cinderella to the next level, when they head to dreamland with this winning duvet set.

Shopping for a child’s bedroom? Sam Wylie-Harris reveals some best buys.

books, spare bedding and PJs – or anything left lying around.

Kid’s Bookcase with Storage – White, £69 (left; other items from a selection), Dunelm When you want to take the chore out of sorting and organising their favourite things – and teach them to be bedroom proud – this handy bookcase comes with three shelves at just the right height, with two compartments at ground level and space for stacking baskets.

George Green Apple Cushion, £7, Direct.asda

Not green but a lovely pretty pink, the apple of your eye deserves a fun cushion to snuggle up with.

(below) Rattan London Bus Book Shelf, £245, The White Company

An investment piece for sure – this iconic London bus offers wheels of fun for all ages and will stand the test of time. It’s the perfect height for tots and little kids to store their treasures, with ample room. Plus, it’s versatile enough for teens to top it with succulents or trailing ferns.

Kids Rattan Clothes Rail, £199, Dunelm

This stylish rattan clothes rail will be a godsend when you’re laying out their new uniform – not to mention their holiday wardrobe, party clothes or football kit.

World Map Pillowcase – Colour In & Learn, £15.95, Eat Sleep Doodle

When you want to spark a taste for adventure or introduce them to far-flung destinations, this colour-in world map pillowcase comes with a set of 10 wash-out fabric pens. Genius.

Harry Potter fans mark moment train leaves for Hogwarts at King’s Cross

Harry Potter fans were treated to a magical display at King’s Cross Station on Thursday to mark the moment Hogwarts students board the train to school.

The departure board lit up and announcements were made ahead of the 11am fictional departure from platform nine and three quarters, before a countdown led by Made In Chelsea’s Sam Thompson and Capital FM presenter Vick Hope.

The ‘Back To Hogwarts’ event in the capital also included wand combat workshops as well as a rendition of a wand dance from the West End cast of Harry Potter And The Cursed Child.

Thompson, who hosted the event, said: “Being a massive Harry Potter fan, I jumped at the chance to come down to King’s Cross and host the live countdown for the Back To Hogwarts Day celebrations this year.

“My expectations were already sky high, but I was blown away when I saw so many amazing Wizarding World fans had come down for the day, absolutely smashing it with their costumes!

“Highlight for me was having one-on-one wand combat training with Paul Harris, the Wizarding World wand choreographer, and it was brilliant to see the cast of Harry Potter And The Cursed Child perform the ‘wand dance’ too.”

By Max McLean

STYCH Launch AW22 Clothing and Accessories Collection

STYCH – the unique online clothing and accessories shop – has launched its whimsical AW22 collections, full of sparkle and shine for children aged 3-8 years old! The smileinducing designs feature luxe fabrics including taffeta, velvet and tulle, with embroidered unicorns, butterflies and STYCH’s signature rainbow in an enchanted collection full of fantasy and delight…perfect for fashion-forward kids who love to stand out from the crowd!

The captivating collection includes a butterfly velvet dress and bold party skirts (all adorned with embroidered butterflies and mystical unicorns!), a gold star dress, textured and playful bags, colourful hair accessories and sparkly headbands, plush butterfly earmuffs and a furry eye mask, cosy cloud themed socks and tights, a rainbow belt, characterful jewellery, giftable vanity boxes, and wearable butterfly wings for magical adventures!

The hugely talented and creative STYCH team design gifts and accessories with love and thought, to make every little recipient ‘Smile Till Their Cheeks Hurt!’. The beautiful collections bring joy, inspire play and imagination, and have a timeless hand-me-down quality so they can be cherished for years. The AW22 collection uses organic cottons and incorporates more recycled materials, including recycled glitter fabric and recycled

plastics in clips and headbands.

STYCH has also created a very special heritage print for the AW22 collection, which has been designed in-house in the UK to incorporate all of the brand’s icons since they began. The print features in the 2-piece Heritage Print Hair Gift Set, which includes a bow Alice headband and matching bow scrunchie, both made and printed in the UK, working with small companies on home soil.

For a personal present that will be treasured for years, STYCH also offer a ‘Build A Gift’ option, with small, medium and large gift packages with the option to include a thoughtful handwritten note. All the gift sets are hand wrapped and beautifully presented in eco-friendly reusable boxes and bags, for that extra special touch.

THE DETAILS

STYCH’s AW22 collections can be purchased at stychaccessories.com and from selected retailers.

SLUMBERSAC

As the cold nights draw in, it can be a worry knowing how to keep your baby warm and comfortable at night. Research shows that conventional bedding can overheat a child or be kicked off to leave them cold. Baby sleeping bags are designed to maintain a constant temperature throughout the night and give a safer, secure sleep.

Slumbersac’s award-winning Sleeping Bags with Feet are a fantastic choice for little ones. The innovative design offers babies and toddlers the freedom to move around safely while still enjoying the comfort of a soft, cosy sleeping bag at bedtime.

Designed by mums for mums, there are a number of practical design features including feet covers to keep toes warm and toasty, a non-slip sole so toddlers can walk safely, press studs for easy nappy changing or detachable arms to adapt to the ever-changing UK weather.

As a trusted brand for parents, Slumbersac

works hard to source high-quality cotton materials from reliable suppliers which are perfect for baby’s sensitive skin. These are rigorously tested and certified to Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and therefore free of harmful substances.

Slumbersac’s Sleeping Bags with Feet come in a range of fun designs as well as 4 Togs so that you can choose the right thickness for this time of year. View the Autumn/Winter range at slumbersac.co.uk and follow @slumbersac

‘WHY DO BABYGROWS HAVE ALL THESE POPPERS?’

All ZIPPYUPs have concealed zips so they do not have contact with your baby’s skin and the tab at the neck ensures the zip puller doesn’t catch on any little chins.

Sleeves have turn back cuffs so you don’t need separate (often lost or odd) mittens.

There is a wide variety of prints and colour combinations including unisex colours such as aqua and pale grey along with traditional whites, pinks, blues and rainbows.

I am very excited to have also launched the new ZIPPYUP sleeping bag with legs and detachable arms. Select from 1 Tog and 2.5 Tog thickness, designed to be worn as a baggy fit so it can also be layered with a ZIPPYUP babygrow underneath for extra warmth. The sleeves simply zip on or off depending on your babies needs. Sizes are from 6-12 months up to 24-36 months.

BEAUTIFUL BABYGROW

This is a question most parents probably ask as they are dressing their newborn in the middle of the night.

As a Mummy of two very wriggly little boys I have first hand experience of the struggle to dress them, it’s like wrestling a lion cub trying to get them dressed after bath time. ZIPPYUP’s will make nappy and outfit changes so much quicker and easier.

With this in mind I got to work on making ZIPPYUP a brand that gives you not only useful but stylish babygrows.

Before promoting myself to the position of Mummy I had a background in textile design and fashion, a passion I didn’t want to be lost in the midsts of motherhood. I have taken the many years of experience and put it to good use by designing a babygrow that works well for both the wearer and the dresser.

ZIPPYUP products aren’t just well designed, they are beautiful quality. The collection has now expanded with an organic cotton range in a variety of colours, Winter fleece onesies are great for after swimming or just to keep cosy on strolls in the buggy…and now sleeping bags with legs. I personally source and work with the factories making ZIPPYUPs to get the best possible materials.

New to the ZIPPYUP family this month is a subscription service, you can have a range of babygrows delivered straight to your door every month! Choose how many and what size you want in either girl, boy or neutral colours and we do the rest!

At ZIPPYUP we are always developing new designs, prints and colour combinations, I look forward to sharing these with you. zippyup.com

“I couldn’t be happier with this beautiful babygrow. Night feeds in particular are so much easier now I can just zip up and I don’t have to fiddle with poppers” –Simone M

(Spring Garden Bunny Printed Zipped Babygrow)

FREEDELIVERY

JOLI NOUS

The small Swiss brand Joli Nous is creating high quality and elegant baby carriers (Ring Sling). Sewn in Switzerland, the Ring Sling is an essential for parents carrying children from birth to three years. It is very quick, simple and easy to use and allows you to have both hands free while having your baby close to you. Available in stylish colours and in OEKO-TEX certified in high quality European linen and organic cotton (GOTS).

Shop at www.jolinous.ch or visit @joli_nous on Instagram

ATHLETICA LONDON

Our silky smooth Superstripe, Tricolour and Perform leggings have been bestsellers since launch. These leggings are ultra-flattering, stretchy and perfect for any activity. Our signature V stripe hoodies are made from the softest brushback organic cotton fleece and available in four eyecatching colours: electric blue, hot pink, navy and crisp white. Our sports tees and tanks are made from high quality, stretch performance fabrics, which are lightweight and quick-drying to allow you to freely move and play.

Athletica London is a design-led activewear brand for girls aged 7-14 years made from eco-friendly, performance fabrics.

Designed in London and ethically made using super-soft, premium Italian techno fabrics, the launch collection includes bright leggings, hoodies, tees and tanks, perfect for sport and everyday.

Our customers love the simple bright colourways and the way the collection works together to create different stylish outfit combinations, so girls can look and feel great, leading active and happy lives.

We are delighted to offer Yummy Mummy readers 20% off our collection with the code YUMMYMUMMY20 through October. athleticalondon.com

READER OFFER: SAVE 20%

“Our customers love the simple bright colourways and the way the collection works together to create different stylish outfit combinations”

Scandinavian design for kids

and accessories that are fun and stylish!

Mini Objects of Desire – MOOD Kids was founded in 2017 and is constantly striving to provide excellent customer service. With sustainability at the heart of what they do, they look to source furniture that will last through the years. Cots converting into toddler beds or Sofa’s and Cribs converting into a cute reading bench. Highchairs that will see a family through from 6 months to 9 years old!

MOOD Kids brings you Scandinavian design from the leading manufacturers in Children’s furniture and accessories.

Stocking brands such as Oliver Furniture, Leander, Micuna and Oeuf amongst many others, their furniture gives you clean classic lines you’d expect from Scandinavian style, while Matty by Bols Tent and Treehouse beds adds fun and practicality.

MOOD Kids can help you create a room full of dreams and adventure. Their aim is to source items that fit in with the modern family. Children’s furniture that is sleek and highchairs that bring a sense of style to your dining table

READER

With their in-house dedicated delivery team your order could be with you the very next day. Be sure to check out their Christmas gift guide on their website. Their Mr Maria Miffy lights have always been a popular choice for gift giving as well as the classic Baghera Riders and the Playforever cars! With fun and vibrant gifts which include their BIBU cushions and range of corduroy Miffy soft toys you can wrap up your Christmas shopping with MOOD Kids.

THE DETAILS

10% off using LONDONLIFE10

miniobjectsofdesire.com

Tel: 0330 330 0126

Email: Info@mood-kids.com

MENOPAUSE

Dr Catrin Bevan, The London General Practice

Never before has Menopause been talked about so much in the press and media.

Leading employers Astra Zeneca, BBC, Royal Mail, COOP AND TSB are the latest organisations signing the menopause workplace pledge. As it should be, as Menopausal women 45-55 make up the largest proportion of the employed women’s workforce.

It’s time to deal with the mystery and misinformation associated with this time of a women’s life.

As a doctor who myself is going through the menopause, I understand the complexities and difficulties a woman has describing the myriad of physical , mental, and emotional symptoms that can make her life a misery. Sometimes just talking to a doctor who will listen, explain, investigate if necessary and give good accurate, evidence based medical advice that covers all aspects of support and treatment can make a huge difference. I also try to ensure that other medical conditions and screening are not forgotten in the haze and brain fog of the menopause.

Menopause and its treatment are variable and complex as every woman is different. One woman may have no symptoms and not want or need any form of support or treatment, whilst another may have every symptom in the book and require various treatments for different symptoms,

sometimes for many months or even years.

It takes time to answer questions and explain the different forms of treatment, from diet and exercise to psychological support. We also take time to discuss different medical treatment options such as homeopathic medications and the various forms of HRT. It is important to understand the pros and cons of various forms of treatments.

Symptoms often described are, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, chills, night sweats, sleeping problems, mood changes, thinning hair and dry skin. The list goes on.

You should not feel alone or helpless. Many other women of varying ages are suffering and experiencing similar problems.

If you would like to discuss any aspects of the menopause or women’s health, then please contact me at the London General Practice ... I am here to help in any way.

DR CATRIN BEVAN MBBS, DRCOG

Celebrations begin as The Baby Show turns 21 at Olympia London this Autumn

The Baby Show, the UK’s leading and largest pregnancy, baby and parenting event for new and expectant parents returns to Olympia to celebrate its 21st year. Sponsored by Lidl GB, The Baby Show will once more play host to the UK’s biggest selection of baby brands all under one roof.

The Baby Show with Lidl GB enables visitors to try before they buy, take advantage of unbeatable offers and listen to the nations’ top experts within the baby and parenting sectors and even watch live demonstrations to help with those all-important big purchase decisions.

With over 350+ brands and thousands of products to discover, including well-known and loved household names such as iCandy, Lindex, MAM, Silvercross, Mamas & Papas, Tommee Tippee, Stokke®, Chicco, BABYZEN™, Daisy First Aid, Nuna, Inglesina, Venicci, Vitabiotics, Obaby, Nanit, Peg Perego and BabyBjörn to name just a few, The Baby Show has been an integral part of supporting families on their journey to parenthood for 21 years.

Parents can hear from the UK’s most respected leading baby and parenting experts on the Live Talks Stage, which offers a jam-packed timetable of informative and inspirational talks every day on topics such as baby first aid to breastfeeding, sleep, birth, weaning, the fourth trimester and even mental health

Other show features returning include the Baby Feeding Café with free baby food and a quiet breastfeeding area. Headline sponsor Lidl GB will be presenting their full Lupilu baby range, from nutritious meals, snacks, and purées to everyday baby essentials. Visitors can sample and use their wipes and award-winning nappies free of charge within their fully equipped Lidl Lupilu Baby Change Area too.

For those keen to shop smaller and visit boutique, not on the high street brands suitable for all stages of pregnancy, this year The Baby Show is introducing the New Kids on The Block area. Welcoming newcomers such as Eddie & Bee and House of Margaux, a complimentary Shop & Drop and handy Collect-by-Car service will also be available at the show, making shopping a breeze. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit thebabyshow.co.uk/olympia

“Other show features returning include the Baby Feeding Café with free baby food and a quiet breastfeeding area”

INTERIOR

by parents across London

Eklektik Studio offers a range of design services from Single Consultations to Full Project Management. Each design is developed in collaboration with the client to get a sense of the family’s lifestyle and aesthetic preference. Priding ourselves on our eye for detail, meticulous planning & colour knowledge

Joanna Landais is the founder of Eklektik and one of the co-authors of the nursery design book, The Nest Planner. She founded Eklektik Studio in 2017, focusing her design studio on nurseries and child spaces. Bringing together beauty, functionality and safety, Joanna believes in creating spaces for her clients that are unique and curated.

NURSERY • KIDS’S BEDROOM • TEENAGE BEDROOM • PLAYROOM

The Kensington Wing

The Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women and birthing people with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – part of one of the UK’s top rated hospital Trusts – your baby’s and your safety and wellbeing are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times 24/7, dedicated to the needs of our patients.

To ensure the safety of women, birthing people and birth partners, The Kensington Wing has important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven, and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team and are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.

THE DETAILS

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the opportunity to discuss midwife-led care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women and birthing people who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.

The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of their experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They continue to support you through the postnatal period, including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.

The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.

SMART CELLS IS MORE THAN A STEM CELL BANK

The first private stem cell storage company in the UK, Smart Cells has been preserving and storing umbilical cord stem cells for more than twenty years. Smart Cells has successfully released more samples worldwide for the treatment of life-threatening illnesses than any other private company in the UK. Now part of FamiCord Group, Europe’s largest stem cell bank, we bring expertise from more than 20 countries.

SMART CELLS SAMPLES SAVE LIVES

Smart Cells works closely with the best clinicians and maternity hospitals in the UK, including The Kensington Wing, they trust our research-led, quality approach above anyone else. A scientific director with over 35 years’ experience in the this field oversees the release of every sample, and ensures the highest levels of quality assurance.

CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY, GLOBAL REACH

A state-of-the-art laboratory ensures samples are processed and stored using the latest science and

technology. Samples are stored close to Heathrow airport, ensuring they can be collected and released from or to anywhere in the world – fast.

A dedicated UK phlebotomy service with emergency contacts and call out personnel operates 24/7 to save you the inconvenience of having to find, book, and manage this service yourself.

EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE

MAKES SMART CELLS DIFFERENT

Smart Cells work with clients all around the world. The expert team supports you every step of the way. Pricing and service plans are clear and honest, as is our data on sample success – no misleading claims. All costs and guarantees are fully transparent from the start, including phlebotomy services (UK only), maternal blood testing, and shipping fees.

GIVE YOUR CHILD THE BEST CHANCE POSSIBLE IN LIFE.

For more information, please visit smartcells. com or contact Emilio on 07821 110 554 or email emilio.garcia@smartcells.com

Top Tips For Looking After Baby Skin With Original Sprout, This Winter

Baby skin is 30% thinner than adult skin, losing moisture twice as fast through the skin barrier, thus making little ones’ prone to dryness and their skin particularly permeable to water.

This, combined with the change of season, makes it extremely common for babies to experience changes in their skin, with the dry, cold air and precipitation in Winter holding less moisture, meaning their skin can dry out extremely quickly.

Caring for your baby’s delicate skin can be a challenging task, and with lots of different factors to consider, it can be difficult to know where to start. Although lack of moisture is normal in baby’s skin, there are simple ways to protect your new-born to ensure they stay moisturised.

Remember to keep their baths lukewarm. Babies, especially new-borns, do not always need to be bathed every day, and a bath two or three times a week is enough to keep them clean. Original Sprout’s Hair and Body Babywash is rich in moisture and offers your little one a quick

clean with gentle moisturising ingredients such as organic calendula and refreshing, natural rosemary extract, formulated for sensitive, dry or itchy skin. With a gentle pH of 6.0 – 7.0, a little goes along way, and it is advisable not to scrub their skin clean, but to wash gently and pat dry with a soft towel.

Moisturiser can also be vital in preventing and treating a baby’s dry skin, and Original Sprout’s award-winning Scrumptious Baby Cream is vegan with no soy, gluten, honey, peanut or dairy, leaving skin feeling nourished, and hydrated. Natural zinc provides defence against environmental stressors whilst added rosemary calms sensitive skin, for a multi-purpose protective barrier Baby Cream which is guaranteed to leave your little one feeling, as soft as velvet.

For the best results, apply generously after bathtime, when your little one’s skin is still slightly damp, to ensure maximum absorption and moisturised skin, throughout the Winter. originalsprout.co.uk

“Moisturiser can also be vital in preventing and treating a baby’s dry skin, and Original Sprout’s award-winning Scrumptious Baby

Cream is vegan with no soy, gluten, honey, peanut or dairy”

Collagen – It’s not just for skin

The use of collagen has really taken off in wellness circles but with a focus on skin and appearance. There is however, many little known benefits to taking this wonderful supplement.

Collagen is a type of protein which is present in more than 70% of our body’s structure and provides an important matrix, strength and elasticity to many of our tissues. It is found in skin, tendons, bones, cartilage, and connective tissue. The amount of collagen we have in our bodies declines gradually from the age of 30 onwards leading to many of the aging effects we see on the outside of our bodies but also on the inside.

We don’t consume enough skin, bone, cartilage, and tendons within our diet to make up for this gradual loss and can experience ill effects from collagen deficiency.

Not all collagen supplements are equal and not all are easily absorbed. Hydrolysed collagen peptides are known to be the most absorbable and enhanced levels of collagen peptides are found in the body after taking this supplement. Collagen is also used to treat burns, wounds and ulcers by healthcare professionals.

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Reduction in joint pain – studies have shown a reduction in symptoms of osteoarthritis and also a reduction in joint pain.

• Improved bone density – Bones is made of collagen, supplements reduce the rate of bone loss which may lead to osteoporosis

• Surgical healing – improved rates of healing after surgery as it helps to lay down new skin

• Reduced greying – collagen has antioxidant properties that may reduce the loss of melanin which can lead to greying

• Healthier gut – The lining of the gut is formed of collagen and collagen peptides help to regenerate this layer, reducing symptoms of leaky gut and IBS.

• Metabolism - Taking collagen supplement helps to modify hunger pangs due to the increased protein intake which means sugar is absorbed more slowly.

• Skin and hair - increased hydration and thicker hair.

So it’s definitely one to add to the list. For better absorption it’s good to combine it with a Vitamin C supplement which is important for integration into the body.

THE DETAILS

For more information visit purervita.com

Purervita Ltd

8 second Cross Road Twickenham

Follow on Instagram

@purervita @purermama

Email: Hello@purervita.co.uk

purermama.co.uk for pregnant mums

Email: Hello@purermama.co.uk

To discover the Superfood Collagen range, visit www.purervita.com and award-winning pregnancy supplements and pregnancy and postnatal collagens visit purermama.co.uk

Bigger and better Urgent Care Clinic for St John’s Wood

St John & St Elizabeth Hospital has recently opened the doors to its bigger and better Urgent Care Clinic, ensuring the best possible service for the local community.

ACCESS DOCTORS WHEN YOU NEED THEM MOST

Designed for life’s slips, trips and falls, as well as those unexpected minor illnesses, the clinic is ready to give you the care you need, no appointment necessary. Open seven a days a week, and trusted by the St John’s Wood community for over 10 years, the new facility offers almost instant access to doctors when you need them most.

A FAMILY FRIENDLY SERVICE

The improved clinic includes a designated children’s waiting area and treatment rooms, and is for all the family, including children aged one and up.

A WIDE RANGE OF TREATMENTS

The clinic can treat minor injuries and illnesses, including sprains, strains and fractures, cuts, burns and grazes, eye and ear infections, stomach bugs

and colds. If you’re not sure whether you should come in, give the friendly team a call and they can advise you.

If needed, instant referrals can be arranged for tests and scans, including x-rays, ultrasound, and MRIs, physiotherapy and specialist consultations –all under one roof in John & Lizzie’s comfortable private hospital, so you can access results and treatment without the wait.

VISIT THE URGENT CARE CLINIC

The clinic is based at 60 Grove End Road, and is part of St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, just a short walk from St John’s Wood station. Initial consultations with a doctor cost £120 and a nurse’s appointment costs £65.

GET IN TOUCH

St John & St Elizabeth Hospital

60 Grove End Road

NW8 9NH

Call the team: 0207 432 8300

Find out more: hje.org.uk/ services/urgent-care-clinic

Opening times

8am - 8pm (last appointment 7pm) Monday to Friday

8am - 6pm (last appointment 5pm)

Weekends

FOSTERING CURIOSITY

Joseph Birchall – Head of King’s Magna Middle School, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate

AYear 6 curriculum focused on delivering skills that are important for future success, with no formal SAT testing, fosters curiosity for the important journey into Key Stage 3 and beyond, says the new Head of King’s Magna Middle School at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE), Joseph Birchall.

“At QE, our mission is for all members of our community to aspire to the Hill Standard ‘To be the best that I can with the gifts that I have. As Head of King’s Magna, the middle school of QE’s unique four-school model, we harness this individuality through an innovative curriculum. This is a curriculum which supports the transition between the Collegiate’s primary education at Chapter House, our Preparatory school, and the demands of GCSEs and beyond in our two senior schools.”

“In a difference from the traditional school model where children stay in primary education until the end of Year 6, here at QE students join King’s Magna in Year 6, and stay with us until Year 9. We find many students are ready for a new challenge at the end of Year 5, so we made it our focus to develop a unique curriculum for this transitional year, with content designed in partnership between secondary school subject specialists and highly experienced primary age teachers.”

“Importantly, we have made a crucial decision not to assess our Year 6 students using SATS testing. Students are instead assessed formally at three points during the year using standardised and moderated “common evaluation tasks” - these are used to track progress and identify what each student can do and what they could do to improve further. This decision allows us to focus on delivering those skills that the students need to be successful in Key Stage 3 and beyond.”

“Our all-encompassing, holistic approach to developing the whole student, which is at the heart of everything we do here at QE, creates a supportive, vibrant and caring school environment throughout King’s Magna. We are committed to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to move seamlessly to our College or Faculty at the end of Year 9, growing and maturing into their teenage years with confidence.”

Joseph Birchall – Head of King’s Magna Middle School

To find out more about their innovative curriculum visit qe.org for more information, where you can book on their next Open Day taking place on 26 November 2022.

“Our all-encompassing, holistic approach to developing the whole student”

Thomas & Friends to introduce first autistic character Bruno the Brake Car

Children’s TV show Thomas & Friends is introducing its first autistic character who has been created in collaboration with autistic writers and organisations.

The new role of Bruno the Brake Car will be voiced by nine-year-old autistic actor Elliott Garcia from Reading, who the National Autistic Society helped cast.

Bruno is a “joyful, pun-making brake car” who is detail-orientated and enjoys schedules, routine and knows where all the tracks lead in the area.

He rolls in reverse at the end of the train, which gives him a unique perspective on the world, as he helps the other engines by keeping heavy cargo steady with his strong brakes.

The engine car also use his a lantern on his red exterior to communicate his emotional state, moving when he is excited or cautious and he can create ear defenders by puffing out steam if he feels sensitive to loud noises.

Garcia said: “When I won the role of Bruno, I imagined that it was a dream, but it wasn’t! I felt really excited and happy.

“It’s great that they are representing autistic characters because I watch the Thomas & Friends series and for there to be an autistic character makes me feel very happy and excited.”

He added that he can relate to the character in some ways, explaining: “His ear defenders I do relate to, because if there’s a really loud noise I can’t cope.

“I can get quite worried about things, I have to think of new strategies, same as Bruno.”

The character and storylines were developed by Mattel Television in collaboration with US autism organisations including the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) and Easterseals Southern California as well as autistic writers and spokespeople.

Autism is a developmental disability which affects how people communicate and interact with the world, as described by the National Autistic Society.

Tom Purser, head of guidance, volunteering

THE DETAILS

Bruno appears in episodes of Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! on Channel 5’s Milkshake. The character’s introduction will also feature in the show’s YouTube series, music album, the Thomas & Friends Storytime podcast and the upcoming feature-length special Mystery Of Lookout Mountain.

By Naomi Clarke

and campaigns at the National Autistic Society, said: “It’s important that everyone sees autistic characters on our screens because there are 160,000 school-age autistic children in the UK and they want to see their stories told, but it’s also important that non-autistic children get insight and understanding into what it can be like to be autistic.

“What Elliot brings to this role is his joy and enthusiasm, his autistic experiences and he just brings the character to life.”

He added: “This is a real moment for autism because the history of autistic children and their relationship with the Thomas & Friends brand has been massive and I think to really recognise the importance of reflecting neurodiversity and autism in the Thomas & Friends series is an amazing moment for Mattel, for the Thomas & Friends brand, and for autistic people.”

Christopher Keenan, senior vice president and executive producer of global content development and production at Mattel, added: “Bruno’s introduction organically embraces a global audience that is underrepresented and deserves to be celebrated in children’s programming.

“So much care and thought went into the development of his character, and we can’t wait for audiences to meet and love Bruno as much as we do.”

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS SHOW

Considering an Independent School education for your child?

Two hours at the Independent Schools Show could transform your child’s future. 12-13 November, Battersea Evolution, London, SW8 4NW

Following another successful year, the Independent Schools Show returns to Battersea Evolution for the fifteenth time this November.

Visit this prestigious Show and meet the biggest names in British education, all under one roof. With 200+ top independent schools exhibiting, this is the best way for parents to explore the life-changing educational opportunities available at independent schools. Parents have a fantastic chance to meet a selection of the most prestigious independent schools without travelling hundreds of miles. Make key introductions and speak oneon-one with the admissions directors and the heads of top independent schools, from pre-prep through to sixth form.

London Choices - discover schools near to where you live, explore other areas of London, consider home counties schools, specialist schools & boarding options.

Fee Assistance - a wide range of schools will be speaking in our NEW Bursaries Pavilion about the fee assistance they have available, plus the Good Schools Guide will be explaining how to navigate the rigorous financial assessments if you decide to apply.

Your questions answered - with more schools exhibiting, plus five theatres and workshops, there are more opportunities than ever before for parents to get specific answers to their education questions.

THE 2022 TALKS PROGRAMME

Hear from heads and leading educational experts in five Education Theatres and workshops to find out more, from guidance in choosing the right school to getting smart about funding your child’s education. There is no better way to find out about entry requirements, explore scholarships and bursaries and to get answers to your specific questions than to attend the Show, and speak to schools in person.

THE DETAILS

For the full programme and to register for free tickets, visit schoolsshow.co.uk

Saturday 12 November 10am – 5pm

Sunday 13 November 10:30am4.30pm

Battersea Evolution, London, SW8 4NW

FOSTERING CURIOSITY

Joseph Birchall – Head of King’s Magna Middle School, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate

AYear 6 curriculum focused on delivering skills that are important for future success, with no formal

SAT testing, fosters curiosity for the important journey into Key Stage 3 and beyond, says the new Head of King’s Magna Middle School at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE), Joseph Birchall.

“At QE, our mission is for all members of our community to aspire to the Hill Standard ‘To be the best that I can with the gifts that I have. As Head of King’s Magna, the middle school of QE’s unique four-school model, we harness this individuality through an innovative curriculum. This is a curriculum which supports the transition between the Collegiate’s primary education at Chapter House, our Preparatory school, and the demands of GCSEs and beyond in our two senior schools.”

“In a difference from the traditional school model where children stay in primary education until the end of Year 6, here at QE students join King’s Magna in Year 6, and stay with us until Year 9. We find many students are ready for a new challenge at the end of Year 5, so we made it our focus to develop a unique curriculum for this transitional year, with content designed in partnership between secondary school subject specialists and highly experienced primary age teachers.”

“Importantly, we have made a crucial decision not to assess our Year 6 students using SATS testing. Students are instead assessed formally at three points during the year using standardised and moderated “common evaluation tasks” - these are used to track progress and identify what each student can do and what they could do to improve further. This decision allows us to focus on delivering those skills that the students need to be successful in Key Stage 3 and beyond.”

“Our all-encompassing, holistic approach to developing the whole student, which is at the heart of everything we do here at QE, creates a supportive, vibrant and caring school environment throughout King’s Magna. We are committed to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to move seamlessly to our College or Faculty at the end of Year 9, growing and maturing into their teenage years with confidence.”

Joseph Birchall – Head of King’s Magna Middle School

To find out more about their innovative curriculum visit qe.org for more information, where you can book on their next Open Day taking place on 26 November 2022.

“Our all-encompassing, holistic approach to developing the whole student”

Where Happiness Gets Results

We’re seeing a movement away from pressurised, examorientated schools”, says David Bradbury, Headmaster at Portland Place School - an independent coeducational school for ages 10-16. “Parents want their children to get great results, but not at the expense of their wellbeing.”

“The happier a child is, the more receptive they are to new ideas. We give them space to discover their passions; small class sizes allow us to see every child’s potential and set it free.”

The Good Schools Guide describes them as “a haven for creativity”. But this isn’t just about rehearsing at the RADA studios or giving free music tuition to every Year 7 student. The school is also creative in the way they teach science, how they adapt history lessons to students’ individual needs or hold one-minute maths challenges to get everyone involved. The teachers are free to be adventurous and ambitious in their teaching, which sparks a life-long love of learning in the students.

There is an emphasis on supporting the students’ mental health, improving their personal resilience and wellbeing. Coaching is part of the curriculum. Students at Portland Place quickly develop a sense of independence. Complimentary to this is their enrichment programme – an

opportunity for students to explore and develop new skills and interests. Activities range from horse riding to photography, rock band to mad scientist.

The school makes the most of their central London location by playing sport in Regent’s Park and visiting the world-class galleries and museums on their doorstep.

In addition to the day school, Portland Place have pioneered the first hybrid school, offering a mix of online and on-site learning. The Hybrid School has gone from strength to strength, providing the same standards of academic and pastoral care that befit an Alpha Plus independent school.

“Our aim is for all our students to achieve personally, socially and academically,” David concludes. “We’re open-minded about what success looks like because it’s different for every child.”

If you’re interested in finding out more about how happiness gets results at both Portland Place School or Portland Place Hybrid School contact the registrar at admissions@portland-place.co.uk or visit the school by booking a November Open Event. portland-place.co.uk

“The happier a child is, the more receptive they are to new ideas. We give them space to discover their passions; small class sizes allow us to see every child’s potential and set it free”

Navigating the “untravelled worlds” of change

Antonia Geldeard, Head of Sydenham High School

As a parent and a teacher who has been part of a number of key rites of passage in a child’s life, I recognise the significance of “liminal states”; moments where a parent and child stand on a threshold of a new start or transition: beginning school (that wonderful snapshot of the first day), moving to secondary school (and the onset of puberty), choosing GCSEs, selecting A Levels (growing into adulthood), and finding a future pathway.

Transitional moments can feel like a boundary

GDST, talks about supporting key moments of change.

between the state of knowing and not knowing but change is transformative and key to ongoing development. We want each of our girls to successfully navigate a period of flux and emerge secure and happy in their new phase: to enjoy coming to school, to feel known and valued within their community and to feel energised and enriched by the change and the new possibilities.

The prospect of taking the first steps over a threshold can be more anxiety-inducing than the reality. Encouragement and preparation are key, alongside continued support during the early stages

“Change is transformative and key to ongoing development”

when each child is adapting and connecting.

For our 4+ and 11+ entrants at Sydenham High, we are firm believers in plenty of visits, taster and familiarisation sessions, allowing early connections with peers and teachers who build a close rapport to manage transition. From something as simple as giving a child the opportunity to inhabit a new space and create the memory of a positive experience, embedding a strong sense of a promising future, to our more structured induction programmes which work to develop ‘tool kits’ to help each individual manage their experience, we are committed to devoting the time and attention needed. Communication with home is equally important - even little things can feel big during moments of change.

Behind the cries for independence, older teenagers equally need support, sometimes more in fact, as they prepare to make decisions which can be seen as more definitive. Solid foundations are built on dedicated career advice and one-to-one discussions of the academic choices and options for each individual. Taster lessons and research are key for GCSE and A Level, to guard against decisions based around short-lived criteria. An informed choice provides our young women with an increased sense of control over their pathways and furthers self-belief.

I believe in the importance of developing flexible and varied skill sets to prepare for the changing world of employment ahead. Our bespoke sixth form enrichment programme includes building professional skills, undertaking voluntary work, as well as academic electives and EPQs to broaden critical perspectives and prepare students for the transition to higher education or the world beyond, complemented by many developmental opportunities offered through the GDST network to connect pupils with a network of alumnae.

In addition to the benefits of educating our girls all the way from aged 4 to 18, I value ongoing relationships which recognise the character and aspirations of each girl and their development through childhood and adolescence to adulthood at their own pace, able to learn from mistakes and make changes. Committed, regular connections between all the sections of our school see pupils supported through academic and personal journeys by their ‘big sisters’ as well as staff, fostering the inner strength to be bold in their voyage of

discovery.

Crossing these liminal spaces can be extremely exciting and fill us with a sense of mastery but we recognise that this can also feel unknown and daunting. Like Tennyson’s poetic vision of Ulysses standing on the shore of the untravelled world, and yearning for the “gleaming” opportunity, I see these as moments to be seized but always fully supported. Discover more by visiting this Autumn: sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net/admissions/ open-events-taster-days

“I believe in the importance of developing flexible and varied skill sets to prepare for the changing world of employment ahead”

CLAYESMORE IS A SCHOOL FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

which puts the individual child at the centre and allows them to fly.

Clayesmore considers itself a family school with strong relationships with the parent community who feel able to have open communications with academic and pastoral staff. The Houseparents (for day and boarding pupils) are particularly impressive, knowing and understanding each of the children in their care and swift to intervene if they notice something amiss, or equally quick with praise and encouragement when things go well. There’s no room for children to slip through the cracks here.

Clayesmore offers bespoke family visits to the school and initial conversations with the Head. To find out more email admissions@clayesmore.com. clayesmore.com

Dorset-based independent boarding and day school, Clayesmore, is highly regarded for providing parents with the certainty of outstanding pastoral care for their children - no matter what age.

An all-through school for children aged 8-18, it focuses on cultivating a warm, friendly and kind culture in all its pupils, with older children taking an active role as mentors and guides to the younger students; particularly in the boarding environment.

“This, and our innovative LEX programme of personal development, is what makes us stand out from other schools,” explains Head, Mrs Jo Thomson. “We are lucky to be able to offer parents continuity of education through Prep, Senior and Sixth Form, allowing all their children to be educated in one school and helping to ensure they excel no matter what their talents and passions.”

Mrs Thomson is quick to clarify that although the ethos of the school is one of kindness, warmth and friendliness, it is no less rigorous in its academic or competitive ambitions. Almost all those applying to university last year were awarded their first choice destination and the breadth of courses and universities students have accepted is impressive - showing real evidence of a school which supports the individual and helps them achieve their goals. This is no ‘hot house’ academic environment but rather an educational community

“Clayesmore considers itself a family school with strong relationships with the parent community”

POTENTIAL FOR A FREE PLACE AT EATON HOUSE

Eaton House Schools launches 100% free fully funded bursary scheme for pupils with ‘potential’

Do you know of a bright young mind that would thrive on the challenge of an Eaton House Schools education?

If you do, then he or she could join the many generations of children educated at these wonderful single sex schools since 1897 –absolutely free.

Through its new Eaton House Foundation, Eaton House Schools is proud to announce that it is offering three 100% fully funded bursaries for entry into Year 3 (age 7). These bursaries are for children that have the potential to benefit from an Eaton House education.

The initiative is the school’s first fully paid bursary scheme. A bursary is worth 100% of school fees, which include lunches, stationery and day trips. Residential trips are also included, as is support for uniform and equipment costs.

For September 2023, there is one place available at the Eaton House The Manor Boys’ School in Clapham, one place at Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School at the same site, and one place at Eaton House Belgravia near Sloane Square.

The bursaries are available to individuals from the local community who may not have access to a

private education otherwise and individual incomes and circumstances will be taken into account. Candidates in Year 2 at state primary schools are encouraged to apply and will receive a warm welcome.

Bursaries are awarded based on a number of criteria, which include a positive reference from the pupil’s current Head and a strong performance in an interview with the Head of the Eaton House School to which they are applying. We also look for a performance that indicates potential in our 7+ English and mathematics assessments, and a standardised cognitive ability assessment.

Ultimately, the prospective pupil must be deemed by the Head to be able to make good academic progress following admission and to participate in the wider life of the school. We often consider other mitigating factors, such as health and family circumstances. Our aim is to make this process as easy and comfortable as possible for all the children that take part –and, hopefully, fun!

THE DETAILS

To find out more, you can look at the website at eatonhouseschools. com or ring Miss Sam Fielding, Head of Admissions, on 0203 917 5050 for a confidential chat about your child’s special potential and the application process.

Exciting times for Cothill House

These are exciting times for Cothill House! After 150 years as a dedicated and successful prep boarding school, Cothill is now accepting applications from potential day boys eager to join a prep school where boys can be boys and where lifelong childhood memories are made. From September 2023, boys from the local Oxford area will be welcomed as day boys. They will be in school from breakfast through to after prep and will be so much more than day boys – in fact as close to boarding pupils as it’s possible to be.

The world is a different place to what it was 150 years ago - and what some of today’s parents are looking for in terms of a prep school education for their sons has changed too. It takes a school that is comfortable in itself to be ready to adapt and develop to meet parent expectations while also knowing that, by doing so, it will not lose its special ethos, ambition and community.

Cothill House is globally recognised as one of the UK’s leading prep schools set in wonderful grounds just a short drive from central Oxford. A successful and established prep school, Cothill will remain loyal to its boarding heritage and continue to offer an exciting, extensive and enriching education to its full boarding pupils. Its pupils enjoy inspirational teaching and an amazing range of opportunities outside the classroom – not to mention proven preparation for entry to some

of the country’s top schools. The boys leave us as confident, happy young men who know and embrace the value of hard work, integrity, teamwork and decency – young men who will forge a place and make a difference in the world.

All this means that what Cothill offers will be open to more families, so if you are considering a boarding or a day place for your son, then visit the website and sign up for a private visit or one of the events run regularly throughout the year.

They would be delighted to welcome you. Cothillpst.org/events

Cothill House, Cothill, Oxfordshire, OX13 6JL 01865 390 800 cothillpst.org

SEPARATE YET TOGETHER

both schools are single-sex environments, there is every opportunity for boys and girls to mix in planned activities and during free time.

A BEAUTIFUL LOCATION

As well as regular joint socials, pupils from both schools enjoy meeting informally in Sherborne’s attractive town centre and the schools regularly collaborate in concerts, drama, expeditions and CCF to enhance their co-curricular provision, as well as engaging with the local community.

In these ways, they learn to be comfortable in each other’s company, while avoiding the distractions that a coeducational setting can create.

GROWING TOGETHER

With a girls’ school and a boys’ school working in close harmony, Sherborne offers the best of both worlds when it comes to educating your children

In an era when an increasing number of independent schools educate girls and boys together, the beautiful Dorset town of Sherborne offers a unique proposition.

Here, you’ll find separate girls’ and boys’ schools, located within a stone’s throw of one another and working closely to offer the focus of single-sex teaching with the social benefits of a co-educational setting.

Sherborne has long been regarded as a centre of learning in the South West. The two schools – Sherborne School and Sherborne Girls – have a history of working together to enhance the experience of their pupils.

STRONGER TOGETHER

The schools remain discrete entities:

At Sherborne Girls, pupils are empowered to make a positive difference to the world around them. They are encouraged to find their voice, recognising the role they have in shaping the future and giving back to society.

At Sherborne School, a culture of kindness and compassion is woven into the fabric. Boys are given space to grow, finding their unique gifts and relishing the joys and opportunities of life in a busy boarding environment.

Both schools have a full-boarding approach. Their calendars are aligned, making life straightforward for parents with sons and daughters at each. And while the classrooms of

This close cooperation produces pupils who are ready to face the challenges of the modern world, alive to the difference they can make, and ready to embrace the future.

sherborne.org; sherborne.com

ARTSED THE ARTS AT THE HEART OF AN OUTSTANDING EDUCATION

fostering of an environment that supports and encourages everyone in all their endeavours.

Packed Timetable

ArtsEd Day School & Sixth Form is an independent school like no other; a school where pupils are engaged in excellent academic study whilst pursuing and developing their passion for performance. Founded over 100 years ago, ArtsEd’s ethos remains much the same today as it was then: to provide a broad and balanced education, stretching pupils to achieve their academic, artistic, and personal potential.

Academic Success

A tailored programme of teaching and learning ensures individual pupils are supported to achieve their full academic potential. An international leader in Performing Arts education, ArtsEd is also a local and national leader in its wider academic provision. Pupils achieve value added scores in the top 1% nationally.

Outstanding Vocational Training

Expert vocational teaching instils in ArtsEd students a passion for learning that feeds into all aspects of their educational and personal development enabling them to excel across the board.

Pastoral care

Outstanding pastoral care is a core part of the school’s offer. Regular tutor group meetings, small class sizes, and a family atmosphere mean that every young person feels valued, supported, and encouraged to be the very best they can be. This level of care is an essential element in the development of pupils’ self-confidence and the

In the Day School, pupils spend a third of their time on their vocational studies; dance or drama in years 7 and 8, to which Musical Theatre can be added in year 9. The rest of their time is spent on their academic subjects. The academic curriculum is broad, with classes of no more than twelve in all core subjects, ensuring that students get the attention that they need. Science and Maths are strong departments and a brand new science lab has just been installed. Classics is also being introduced to the curriculum from 2022/23.

Equipped for life

Students spend time every day doing what they love most, whether it’s dance, drama or music making and the positivity and energy from these classes feeds into all their other subjects. The result is confident, collaborative, and well-rounded young people, fully committed to holistic education and armed with a set of skills and experiences that prepare them for whatever pathway they choose to follow. Find out more at artsed.co.uk

“In the Day School, pupils spend a third of their time on their vocational studies; dance or drama in years 7 and 8, to which Musical Theatre can be added in year 9”

A GEM IN THE HEART OF WEST LONDON

comfortable spaces to read. All pupils make excellent use of these and read widely. Added projects on top of the timetabled subjects –outdoor learning, the postcard project, ‘play in a week’ - enrich children’s learning.

Most class sizes are around 12, enabling individual, tailored teaching. Children come from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities, but they are all motivated. In this supportive environment, students are generally happy and confident with high self-esteem. Stress is minimised to enhance children’s ability to learn.

Fees include free after-school club and holiday club is affordable. There are no hidden extras - all meals, trips and exam fees are included. Entry is by interview, not exam and prospective children spend a trial day with their class before being offered a place. There is exceptional pastoral care and LWSF is proud to be a Stonewall school with equality and diversity at the heart of the school’s welcome.

The Lloyd Williamson Schools Foundation has been offering its unique style of education for 23 years. As an all-through school from nursery right up to Year 11 (GCSE year), the school offers a consistent and nurturing approach to school.

The values are remarkable – every child can be their own individual self. Creativity and problem solving are highly valued so that children learn to think for themselves, develop resilience and become self-motivated. The school encourages a love of learning, inspiring students to continue to develop and adapt as they continue their education.

As Ofsted noted in their recent inspection, “The headteacher has created a school in which staff are ambitious for pupils and make sure that pupils feel valued. Leaders and staff take an interest in every pupil as an individual and nurture their personalities. Staff make sure that each pupil is noticed, and their achievements celebrated. “

The curriculum is ambitious and varied –French and Spanish are taught from Nursery with Latin added in Year 3. This year, the school has introduced Astronomy for the first time and a PE GCSE.

The school has three beautiful libraries with

Come and see for yourself – the head, Lucy Meyer would love to show you how different they are.

Call the admin team on 020 8962 0345 or email admin@lws.org.uk. lloydwilliamson.co.uk

“The headteacher has created a school in which staff are ambitious for pupils and make sure that pupils feel valued”

Rise to the Challenge of Learning with ‘Excellent Learning’ Animals

Set within five acres of green fields and woodland, Dulwich Prep London’s Early Years is a popular choice for families who are looking to provide their children with a solid foundation to their education right from the start. Children spend two fantastic years at the Early Years site (Nursery and Reception), before moving up to the purpose-built Pre-Prep, for Years 1 and 2 at Dulwich Prep’s Alleyn Park site.

The transition from the Early Years to the Alleyn Park site is made seamless for the children through the continuation of important key themes. Parents visiting the Pre-Prep for the first time, after coming from the Early Years, often comment on the abundance of diverse decorations and displays hanging from walls and ceilings and immediately feel at ease once they see the fabulous facilities. When it comes to their child’s learning, the language of Excellent Learning is one that the whole of the Early Years community know like the back of their hand.

Developed by Dr Ruth Burtonshaw, during her tenure as Head of Early Years at Dulwich Prep London, the Excellent Learning programme was designed to help children form positive learning skills, recognising that attitudes to learning are significant in determining how well we learn. Are you a ‘Willing Wolf’ or a ‘Persevering Parrot’? Through the Excellent Learning animals children are taught how to rise to the challenges of learning.

The Excellent Learning animals provide children with a framework for learning. Each week, children from Nursery to Year 8 focus on one of the 12 characteristics of Excellent Learning. Children are supported to become more aware of their learning skills and to develop good learning habits so that they leave Dulwich Prep as confident, motivated,

independent and successful learners.

Importantly, Excellent Learning is visually appealing and simple for children to understand, using animal ‘hooks’ and bright colours to aid memory. From a teachers’ perspective, it is a simple scaffold to incorporate into curriculum planning and tailor to suit the needs of individual children.

Listening actively to instructions, being a happy and optimistic learner, using your imagination, developing targets and goals, doing your best and knowing that effort counts and sharing knowledge and ideas are all personal attributes that, through engaging with Excellent Learning, the children at Dulwich Prep London develop and take with them through their journey in education and beyond.

THE DETAILS

If you would like to explore Dulwich Prep London’s Early Years and Pre-Prep further, please email their Registrar, Mrs Viki Cryer, via admissions@dulwichpreplondon.org or call 020 8766 5525.

The Benefits of Online Schooling vs Traditional School

Minerva’s Virtual Academy is a unique, online independent school for pupils aged 12 - 18. Pupils study the British Curriculum from the comfort and safety of their own home, wherever they live in the world, receiving an affordable, world-class education to rival traditional school for the first time. The school enables its pupils to thrive academically, make friends online and off, and helps them develop the skills needed to succeed in the modern world. Pupils choose from 20 subjects at GCSE and A Level. Personal mentors support each child outside lesson hours. A dynamic weekly timetable includes live lessons, virtual assemblies, after school clubs, wellbeing sessions, and an exciting co-curricular learning programme called “World Changers” that tackles the most urgent issues of the day. Minerva’s Virtual Academy is run by Headmaster Lawrence Tubb, who taught at Wycombe Abbey for nine years, and is supported by a team of outstanding teachers and mentors who’ve come together to re-define what’s possible for school-age children in the 21st century.

• Pupils can receive a world class education at home, anywhere in the world

• Pupils can study at speeds that suit them - they are no longer held back or silenced by the class majority

• Anxious pupils can gain confidence by leaving the pressure of the traditional school behind them

• Pupils receive higher quality one-to-one attention via personal mentors

• Parents are closer to their children on a daily

“The school enables its pupils to thrive academically, make friends online and off”

basis, helping to create strong family bonds

‘We think the pandemic has been an opportunity for us to reflect on what is important and we are getting very comfortable with the fact that there are many paths to success for children and that traditional school does not always bring out the best in every child. Overall, Minerva has been a life-saver for all of us. It has been a great experience and it has brought out the best in our daughter.’

Mr & Mrs W. minervavirtual.com

Bringing the future to the past

Updating old school buildings to meet the needs of the next generation

classroom do not serve every child. As educators, they must work hard to provide opportunities for every child to engage creatively and critically with their learning. This adaptable space is not only geared towards the teaching of Digital Skills but opens up all sorts of possibilities for different departments to do things differently, from weather reports and model making in Geography, to set and lighting design with Lego in Drama and automated solutions in Business Studies.

More House School also plan to host Lego building competitions in the space, involving the whole school community, as well as children from their two state partner schools. They envisage the More House Creative Suite as a place of wonder - without limits, but filled to the brim with possibility, adventure and engagement. Even old buildings like More House School can offer a taste of the future! morehouse.org.uk

Faith Hagerty, Head of More House School in Knightsbridge, discusses her school’s recent transformation of a classroom into a future-focused Creative Suite, as an example of how schools can bring innovation to old school buildings.

At More House School, they are blessed with a stunning 19th century building in the heart of Knightsbridge. There is without doubt a wow factor as prospective families step back in time on entering the brick gabled converted house on the beautiful Pont Street. While celebrating this snapshot of history, they must also prioritise looking to the future. While the school will never transform their building into something resembling the futuristic, sustainable and technology-rich new builds, they have adapted one classroom to provide a nod to the future their pupils need.

Their new Creative Suite, sporting five wall mounted energy efficient screens, adaptable work stations where students often stand instead of sitting, access to robotics and raspberry pis, an abundance of Lego and four Cricuts, is providing opportunities for all departments to explore, discover and create.

At More House School, this new space marks a step towards the development of a curriculum that acknowledges that the confines of the standard

“More House School also plan to host Lego building competitions in the space, involving the whole school community, as well as children from their two state partner schools”

A Golden Era for St Dunstan’s College

St Dunstan’s College, Catford, south London, was delighted to be named Independent Senior School of the Year in June at the Tes Awards 2022 at Grosvenor House Hotel.

The awards, known as the Oscars of Education, celebrate the work of teachers and schools across the United Kingdom. The event was held in person for the first time since the start of the pandemic, and for the first time in Tes’s history the awards brought together both state and independent schools for the ceremony.

Speaking about the award, St Dunstan’s Head, Mr Nick Hewlett said: ‘We are absolutely delighted to have been recognised in this way. It is testament to the extraordinary drive and ambition of so many that we have been able to create the unique school culture we enjoy today.

‘To transform a school so that it challenges and trailblazes in the sector takes a colossal community effort. My gratitude goes to everyone who has

contributed to our incredible journey as a school.’

Winners were chosen by a panel of experts –including school leaders, inspectors, and education researchers.

Judge David James has worked in independent schools for over 20 years and is an experienced inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate. He said: ‘There’s a very clear and coherent vision of what they want to do, both with the curriculum and the local community.

‘The head is asking interesting questions of the sector, including areas like privilege and responsibility, which go beyond the usual platitudes. It’s a really interesting school in a tough market, trying to not just survive but actually make something different for the children and families they’re working with.’

The award comes at an exciting time for St Dunstan’s. Last year, the College’s new £25million Junior School, STEM and Sixth Form buildings officially opened, which were the most significant developments since the school opened in 1888. The College’s forward-thinking approach is now matched by modern, bright, and inspirational facilities. St Dunstan’s has also been shortlisted for eight awards at the upcoming Independent Schools of the Year Awards in October.

Among the eight awards, the College has been shortlisted for Contribution to Social Mobility for its unique partnership, the Lewisham Young Leaders Academy (LYLA).

Last year, St Dunstan’s College, Westside Young Leaders Academy (WYLA) and Lewisham Council announced the ground-breaking partnership establishing the academy for young people in the borough.

The academy was established in response to research and evidence showing disparities in attainment and outcomes for Black Caribbean and dual heritage (Black Caribbean/White) children and young people, not just in Lewisham, but throughout London and the UK.

Through weekend classes, Lewisham Young Leaders Academy provides additional support to young people from across Lewisham through transformative teaching in life skills, including

leadership, teamwork, presentation skills and CV building. The programme is designed to develop 12 traits of leadership in the young people attending: bearing, courage, decisiveness, enthusiasm, initiative, integrity, judgement, knowledge, loyalty, perseverance, responsibility and unselfishness.

Speaking about the shortlisting, St Dunstan’s Head, Nick Hewlett said: ‘I am delighted that this unique partnership has been recognised by the Independent School of the Year Awards. St Dunstan’s College is passionate about and dedicated to providing life-enriching opportunities to our local community. We realise that we hold a privileged position as an independent school both in terms of our facilities and the experiences of our staff and pupils, and we are proud to work closely with Westside Young Leaders Academy (WYLA) and Lewisham Council on Lewisham Young Leaders Academy (LYLA).

‘The team at Lewisham Young Leaders Academy (LYLA) are changing the lives of the young people attending each week, and I look forward to growing our continued partnership.’

Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham said: ‘We live in the wealthiest city in Europe, and for too long many of our young people here in Lewisham, and particularly those from African and Caribbean backgrounds, have found it difficult to access those top jobs and opportunities.

‘I’m very grateful to St Dunstan’s for hosting the programme and working with us on this brilliant initiative, that is already making such a difference. I’m excited to see what happens next for the programme.’

Find out more about life at St Dunstan’s College at stdunstans.org.uk

“It’s a really interesting school in a tough market, trying to not just survive but actually make something different for the children and families they’re working with”

US COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES ON THE RISE

Studying at a US College is becoming an increasingly popular option for ambitious UK students. With Cheltenham Ladies’ College reporting rising offers from US Colleges over the last few years, we take a look at the story behind the numbers.

For pupils at Cheltenham Ladies’ College (CLC), the most popular higher education destinations are UK universities such as UCL, Edinburgh, and Oxford, but recent years have also seen a significant increase in applications to US Colleges.

A total of 57 offers were secured by CLC A Level and International Baccalaureate students for US Colleges in 2022. These have resulted in students opting to take up places at UCLA, Brown, Columbia, NYU, Vanderbilt, Johns Hopkins, Colgate, and Boston University, to name a few. Canada is also becoming a popular option with students taking up places at McGill, Toronto and UBC.

Each year, students apply to universities across the world, not only to Colleges in the US and Canada, but also to prestigious universities in Australia, Asia and throughout Europe. A small number also opt to set up businesses or pursue professional sporting, music or creative arts

careers.

The students are supported with their ambitions, not only during Sixth Form but throughout their time at CLC, by the school’s Professional Guidance Centre. The centre has been selected as Finalist in this year’s Independent School of the Year Awards, in the Student Careers Programme category.

It has an experienced team available to guide pupils as they apply and interview to study at universities in the UK or abroad, where they would otherwise face an unfamiliar and sometimes complicated process. Pupils are also supported in applying to a wide array of courses, with this year’s graduating class heading off to read Aerospace Engineering, Music, Law, French & Italian, Medicine, Fashion, and Liberal Arts.

For many students, studying at a top university in the UK will still be the right path, but it is exciting to see the next generation being actively encouraged to consider the global options, broaden their horizons and follow their ambition wherever it may lead.

To find out more about Cheltenham Ladies’ College, visit cheltladiescollege.org or contact their Admission Department directly (admissions@cheltladiescollege.org)

“A total of 57 offers were secured by CLC A Level and International Baccalaureate students for US Colleges in 2022”

Space for students to keep moving and learning at FELSTED SCHOOL

‘O

ur pupils don’t sit down for long,’ says Sarah Capewell, Deputy Head at Felsted, an independent boarding and day school an hour from London in the north Essex countryside.

‘We have a 90-acre campus here and there is a great emphasis on breaking up the school day with opportunities for students to move around, so they can learn and think creatively and also take part in all the sporting, artistic and adventurous activities that go on.’

Even in lessons, Felsted students are likely to be standing up. The school’s brand new, multi-millionpound Marshall Centre for Learning has ten bright classrooms, all with writable walls so students can jot down their ideas and thoughts for group discussion, and huge interactive screens for sharing work with the class. A wall between two of the rooms can be retracted to create a big space.

‘Research tells us that students’ brains work harder when they’re up and about, and when they collaborate they achieve bigger and better things,’ says Sarah. ‘Students love the Marshall Centre –

they gravitate to it during the day between lessons to work on projects, or just to read in one of the learning pods or quieter areas. In the evenings, it’s a favourite spot for our boarders, who study in groups or independently.’

In fact, around 80 percent of Felsted senior school students aged 13 to 18 choose to board in one of eight comfortable on-campus houses, with weekly boarding a popular arrangement for families based in London.

The school’s own buses collect students from various locations across the region on Sunday evening and return them on Saturday afternoon to spend quality time with their parents, and there is an ‘exeat’ - a weekend spent at home - every half-term.

‘Pupils have the advantage of the space and facilities at Felsted – sports pitches, music school, theatres, indoor pool, gym and more – but most importantly they have room to stretch their legs and energise their brains, which helps them learn and develop as young adults. To find out more, please visit felsted.org

FASHION

BEAUTY

FASHION & BEAUTY

QUOTING SHAKESPEARE

Taking centre-stage in Rory’s extensive collection of signature silk scarves - this collection celebrates the 400th of the publication of William Shakespeare’s 1623 First Folio. The designs features references to the First Folio’s publication date, Shakespeare’s birth and death years, and his portrait, as well as figures dressed in Elizabethan costume, and recurring motifs in the plays, including a rose, crown, dagger, skull, and quill pen.

SIMPLY ENCHANTED

Stunning wrap effect top with ruffle detailing, concealed button and ties up to the front.

with the Far Away Skirt for the dreamiest combination!

SET OFF IN STYLE

We love this Waxed Canvas and Leather Backpack, a practical and stylish all round bag to take you from work to the wilderness. scaramangashop.co.uk

BRITISH BEANIES

This simple, classic cuffed hat is the perfect partner for all outdoor activities. The cuff makes sure your ears stay nice and cosy. The eco-friendly yarn we use is soft and very pleasant to wear - and of course it’ll help protect our planet too.

STEP INTO AUTUMN

Our autumn/winter collection this year is focused around the collector. There is a fascination with collecting objects and revealing long-forgotten treasures. It’s all about the find, big or small, and how objects come together and create beautiful collections.

CELEBRATING 24 YEARS OF CREATING AND SELLING FINE JEWELLERY IN OAKHAM, RUTLAND.

Standing out in one of Oakham’s most historic streets, Mill Street, the stylish orange, and silver signage of Heidi Kjeldsen Ltd.’s showroom heralds an exquisite jewellery collection contained within. A treasure trove of gorgeous jewellery awaits you, conceived from a deep-rooted passion and knowledge of gemmology and jewellery design. Heidi’s skills have been honed with over 28 years’ experience and her professional knowledge of Gemstones, Diamonds and Pearls is extensive. The pursuit of creative perfection with rare and beautiful gemstones, are displayed beautifully within the Mill Street showroom and are sure to be treasured forever.

Should you require an individual, bespoke piece then Heidi can design this especially for you and has made some pieces of serious note, including for some famous people and even three Bishops’ rings!

The website is the perfect place to view Heidi Kjeldsen’s jewellery or do visit and meet Heidi and her team in person and experience supreme service and customer care.

HOW DESIGNERS PAID TRIBUTE TO THE QUEEN AT LONDON FASHION WEEK

Catwalk shows featured moments honouring the late monarch. By Katie Wright.

London Fashion Week was swiftly scaled back following the announcement of the death of the Queen – a longstanding supporter of the UK’s largest creative industry – just a week before the biannual event was due to begin.

“As a business-to-business event London Fashion Week will continue while observing Royal Protocol and the event will be dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with our own moments of respect,” the British Fashion Council said in a statement.

“Having spoken to designers and industry members, we as an industry want to unite as a creative and business community to celebrate Her Majesty’s legacy and commitment to creativity and design.”

Parties were called off, some catwalk shows (including high profile designers such as Burberry and Raf Simons) were cancelled or postponed, and all presentations due to take place on the day of the funeral were rescheduled.

Designers who did go ahead as planned paid tribute to the late Queen on the catwalk in a variety of ways. Here’s how London Fashion Week’s big

names marked the occasion during a subdued spring/summer edition…

S.S. DALEY

Winner of the LVMH Prize for Young Designers, Steven Stokey-Daley’s third runway presentation was based around a dramatised reading of the love letters between Vita Sackville West and Violet Trefusis.

The show opened with bells tolling, before seven black-clad models carrying white candles processed down the catwalk – which many saw as a mournful tribute to the late Queen.

“I was the first to tell her [my grandmother] the Queen had died, and she burst into tears on the phone. And I don’t know why, I felt really emotional about that,” Stokey-Daley told Vogue, admitting he has mixed feelings about the royal family: “I grapple with my personal standpoint on the monarchy, as regards to class.”

NENSI DOJAKA

Attendees at up-and-coming designer Nensi Dojaka’s show walked over a white petal-strewn

“Designers who did go ahead as planned paid tribute to the late Queen on the catwalk in a variety of way”

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floor to reach their seats (white flowers are often used in memorial bouquets).

On the catwalk, models including Emily Ratajkowski carried delicate floral sprigs during the finale – thought to be lily of the valley, one of the Queen’s favourite flowers.

JW ANDERSON

Perhaps the most literal tribute of London Fashion Week came at the JW Anderson show, which was held in a casino arcade against a backdrop of neon-lit gambling machines.

The final look at the colourful collection was an oversized black T-shirt dress emblazoned with a simple ‘Thank you’ message to the late monarch.

CHRISTOPHER KANE

A minute’s silence was held in remembrance of the Queen before Christopher Kane’s show at London’s iconic Roundhouse venue.

The SS23 collection featured Kane’s signature blend of the weird (prints straight out of human anatomy textbooks and transparent latex straps that gave models fake six-packs) and the wonderful (pastel-hued blouses and lacy LBDs), as well as vibrant floral prints reminiscent of the kind the monarch used to wear.

In the show notes Kane said he was inspired by “the young Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret roaming the grounds of Balmoral”, and a cape detail jumper and skirt combo was inspired by the Queen in her last official photograph.

HALPERN

Michael Halpern honoured the memory of Queen Elizabeth II with the regal opening look of his show, which was presented in silence.

Inspired by a conversation Halpern had with the late monarch, in which he expressed his love of ostentation, the billowing blue cape was topped with a mint green headscarf similar to the kind worn off-duty by Her Majesty.

ERDEM

Erdem Moralioglu, a designer popular with royals including the Princess of Wales, dedicated his SS23 collection to the late Queen, citing one of her most famous quotes in his show notes: “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

A collection of largely pastel, white and chartreuse dresses in the designer’s typically ornate

style was bookended with a handful of black and white Fifties-style tailoring and full-skirted evening looks, topped with black mourning veils.

RICHARD QUINN

The late monarch famously sat front row at Richard Quinn in 2018 and presented the young designer (now a major fixture on the LFW schedule) with the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design.

Recalling that iconic moment, the Londonborn talent dedicated SS23 to the Queen, opening the show with a series of all-black looks featuring many of her sartorial signatures – from headscarves and crowns to belted coats and ballgowns – while archive footage from her youth played on a big screen.

Black confetti rained down on the catwalk during the finale, the dramatic show celebrating the life of Quinn’s most high profile and influential supporter.

“Kane said he was inspired by “the young Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret roaming the grounds of Balmoral”

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FROM ROMAN CEASARS PALACE TO INDUSTRIAL CHIC SCISSORS PALACE

One of the most known West London hair and beauty salons - Scissors Palace, based in Holland Park has recently gone through a massive makeover ! A change that it’s staff and customers have patiently waited for for 4 decades. This well known unique gem, based on Holland Park Avenue, has been known for its outstanding customer service and incredible family like vibe, noticeable during the first visit. Scissors Palace is a home from home , where customers call their visits - therapeutic.

Further plans for the beauty clinic within the

salon to also undergo a complete change “ this will take place when the time is right and when most customers are likely to be away” - says Dorothy Majcher - Owsiana , salon’s owner. “We have done what seemed impossible in just over a month. Hair salon was re-done from the scratch. We were under pressure to finalise works by September as all customers and the salon’s staff were coming back from their holidays . Our schedules were getting very busy, making beginning of September a crucial time for us to open our doors back to the public”.

The smart salon’s new and modernised look has seen passbyers stop and take pictures. There

“This well known unique gem, based on Holland Park Avenue, has been known for its outstanding customer service and incredible family like vibe”

are 9 smart tv screens for clients to enjoy movies, fashion shows or tutorials during their visits. There’s the latest sonos audio system all over the salon, playing music from all decades ,making this whole experience unique whether in the backwash area, a bathroom or one of our private rooms. Dog owners can bring their puppies too. There’s a designated area for them where, they can lay on their sofa playing with some toys. All clients can expect to be treated to teas, coffees, alcohol baverages, biscuits, candys unlimitedly, while a stylist chooses precisely the right treatment for them.

Scissors Palace has been home to many celebrities and high calibre individuals as well as local families.

We are known for always accommodating our customers even at the last minute and even at busiest times. We try to deliver our services above all standards. Our work is always shown on social media channels, has been in Vogue, GQ and other magazines. We welcome all ages and all expectations. There’s a loyalty scheme for our customers and we always surprise our loyal clients with treats. Students and local businesses have an incentive with us too.

We actively co-operate with local schools and support charities. Scissors Palace is a one stop shop , where hair and beauty treatments can be

customised to individual needs and provided, combined - in as little as an hour.

Not just an ordinary salon.. Scissors Palace turns into cinematic venue every Saturday from October. You can now have a pampering session at the venue, while enjoying a good movie, some prosecco and popcorn at no extra charge!

Spaces are limited and get filled very quickly. You need to book in advance if you want to fit all your hair and beauty treatments at once ( yes! at once!). We get to work around clients and sometimes you will have 3 people around working on your manicure, pedicure and hair, which is just perfect solution for those in a rush.

Scissors Palace is also known for providing “away from the crowd” space for those wanting some privacy. Simply ask for your own space when making a booking. We will also cater to more of your needs.. by grabbing your lunch or paying for your car park in case you run out of time before your appointment.

Scissors Palace is a home from home , where the crew tries to fulfill all clients’ needs to their best abilities.

Do you need a home visit? Do you need a quick lunchtime threading? or maybe you don’t have anyone to look after your baby while having a manicure?

THE DETAILS

For more information or to book an appointment, please visit: scissorspalacelondon.com

IG: scissorspalacehp

FB: scissorspalace or speak to the Front House: tel: 02072214004

mob: 07923 443086

Scissors Palace, 122 Holland Park Avenue, London W11 4UA

Launch of disruptive luxury silverware brand, Ware Collective

“H

ot young things flocked to Bond Street to celebrate the much anticipated first collection from jewellery’s new kid on the block”.

A balmy Thursday night in late July saw hoards of guests, vodka cocktails in hand, congregate on South Molton Street for Ware Collective’s solo pop-up and private party. A line that spoke elegance and individuality in the form of smoothlined jewellery and minimalist accessories was received with high praise from an effortlessly chic crowd. And chic, Ware is. An understated and playfully ironic approach to luxury designed for those who appreciate meaningful value presented in an individual form.

Sterling silver as a precious metal is at the core of the London-based brand. Whether as a dog tag sewn to a cap or spun into a luxuriously ludicrous straw, silver elevates the everyday essentials, exalting both relevancy and legacy and delivering a timely and timeless form of luxury.

Transcending trends and championing sustainable style, a Ware item is the ultimate investment piece. The brand is quietly materialistic; appreciative of exceptional quality and actual value, playfully critical of indulgence whilst still succumbing to it.

From upscale street wear like cashmere hats and cotton caps to contemporary and minimalist jewellery featuring clean lines and smooth surfaces, the signature collection is stripped back and stylistically pure.Alternatively there are heavy

metal, biker, rockstar pieces featuring iconic symbols like crucifix, chakras and skulls that are daring and high energy. Leather accessories from cardholders to toiletry bags are manufactured in beautiful heavy grain and smooth styles, making for lasting keepsakes for him and her. Stunning homeware objects handcrafted by British silversmiths include bottle openers, chopsticks and straws as well as traditional objet d’art bowls and picture frames.

Out with the candelabras and the frilly dinner sets, Ware delivers provocative and practical silverware.Silver spoons for ice cream only! warecollective.co.uk

“An understated and playfully ironic approach to luxury designed for those who appreciate meaningful value presented in an individual form”

Camilla’s royal style and how it might evolve, as she becomes Queen Consort

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Camilla has become Queen Consort – serving alongside her husband, King Charles III.

The former Duchess of Cornwall – born Camilla Rosemary Shand in 1947 – joined the royal family under a cloud of controversy. Some blamed her for the breakdown of Charles’ marriage to Diana, Princess of Wales, whom he divorced in 1996, and received intense criticism in the press after Charles admitted he had been unfaithful.

Charles and Camilla made their first public appearance together in 1999, marrying six years later. Since then, public opinion has turned in favour of the couple, and earlier this year the late Queen expressed her “sincere wish” that her daughter-in-law would assume the title Queen Consort when Charles became King.

Now, Camilla will be in the spotlight more than ever, and there’s no doubt her sartorial choices will be under scrutiny as she follows in the footsteps of a regal fashion icon.

Queen Elizabeth II was known for her brightly coloured ensembles, prim hats and classic handbags, so how does Camilla’s style for public appearances compare – and will it evolve as she takes on her new role?

We asked fashion experts for their thoughts on the Queen Consort’s royal style…

UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE

“Over the years, the Queen Consort has developed her very own unique style, and appears to be comfortable in it,” says Cliff Bashforth, managing director of Colour Me Beautiful (colourmebeautiful.co.uk), who believes Camilla’s aesthetic is well-suited to her new position and the many state occasions she will attend.

“She will slip effortlessly into this role, as her look is elegant, international, understated and doesn’t demand attention – a perfect choice for her supporting role.”

Caroline Young, fashion writer and author of The Colour Of Fashion, is also complimentary about the Queen Consort’s refined fashion choices.

As the wife of the King, Camilla will play an important role. By Katie Wright.

“Camilla has really come into her own in terms of fashion,” she says. “Like the Queen, she is very much a countrywoman at heart who seems more comfortable in her wellies and tweeds, and is never going to be too experimental with her sense of style.”

FORMAL FASHION

Significantly taller than the late Queen, Camilla (who’s thought to be around five foot eight) favours sleek silhouettes, particularly for formal occasions.

“Even in her eveningwear, the Queen Consort has always chosen simple styling – rather than sequins, frills, and fussy details,” Bashforth says. “Firstly because that fits in with her style personality, and also so her honours sash can sit elegantly across her body.”

Much like the late Queen, she’s fond of millinery, but is more experimental than Her Majesty was. Bashforth continues: “Her choice of hats, often with a wide, swept-up brim, balances her height, which she wears with a jaunty slant of elegance.”

Young notes Camilla’s passion for spotlighting homegrown fashion talent, as the late Queen did: “She champions British designers, such as Philip

Treacy, who created her hat for her 2005 marriage to Charles, and Bruce Oldfield, who she wore for the State Opening of Parliament [in 2013], and to the Bond premiere at London’s Royal Albert Hall last year.”

PASTEL PALETTE

Where Camilla and the late Queen’s style diverges the most is in colour palette.

“Pastels are her go-to hues and she is rarely pictured in strong primary colours such as red, unless the occasion dictates,” Bashforth

He points out that the Queen Consort is adept at dressing to suit her hair and skin tone: “She has learnt not to overpower her cooler, delicate colouring with strong, powerful colours, but instead enhances it with lighter neutral shades, similar to the one she wore on her wedding day.”

On occasion, Camilla does wear brighter colours, such as pink or royal blue. Will we soon see her in bright yellow, fuchsia or lime dresses, reportedly chosen by the late Queen to ensure she was visible to the public?

“I think she will continue the late Queen’s tradition as using fashion for diplomacy,” says Young, referring to outfits chosen to reflect national colours during a state visit, for example. “And perhaps even adopt some of the bold colours the Queen was known for.”

“She has learnt not to overpower her cooler, delicate colouring with strong, powerful colours, but instead enhances it with lighter neutral shades, similar to the one she wore on her wedding day”

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HEALTH & FITNESS

you need to keep fit, healthy, and happy

JANE FONDA PROVES SHE’S STILL A FITNESS ICON AT 84

The actor has partnered with H&M. By Katie Wright.

Long before Instagram was flooded with personal trainers and athleisure clothing dominated fashion, Jane Fonda sparked an at-home exercise revolution and became the original exercise icon.

Released in 1982, Jane Fonda’s Workout was a top-selling VHS video for years – with 17 million copies sold by the mid-nineties.

The series is credited with opening up the previously male-dominated world of fitness to women as a slew of copycat videos hit the market and aerobics classes boomed.

Then aged 44 and with two best actress Oscars under her belt, the lycra-clad Hollywood star popularised the phrase ‘Feel the burn!’ and sent legwarmer sales through the roof.

Now 84, the actor and activist is once more encouraging people to don their workout gear, having teamed up with high street giant H&M on global campaign.

Much like Fonda brought aerobics to the masses in the 1980s, H&M Move aims to offer a more inclusive vision of exercise, focusing on movement rather than sport, with the retailer launching ‘movewear’ collections for men, women and children.

“I’ve spent a lot of my own life getting people to move and was naturally drawn to the mission

of H&M Move to get the whole world moving,” Fonda says.

“I also really like their philopsophy of ‘movewear’ over ‘sportswear’. To me, it’s not about sports or being the most athletic. It’s about giving your body the kind of movement it needs to stay healthy so it can take care of you.”

The Grace and Frankie star features alongside American choreographer JaQuel Knight – the man behind Beyoncé’s Single Ladies dance routine – the pair appearing together in an exercise studio in a clip to launch the campaign.

Reprising the role of fitness instructor in a trendy black and grey mongrammed outfit, Fonda harks back to her home video heyday in the film, which highlights activities including swimming, rowing and basketball alongside everyday movement such as hoovering, carrying groceries and running up stairs.

It’s refreshing to see a brand acknowledging that being fit isn’t all about high octane exercise and that movement can be incorporated into your lifestyle no matter what your age or ability.

You don’t have to run an ultra marathon, lift weights in the gym or join a team to benefit your health and happiness – everyday activities can raise your heart rate and work your muscles too.

Whether you’re eight or 80, it’s about going at your own pace and, most importantly, having fun.

H&M Move is in stores and online.

Back care week

Back pain, particularly lower back pain, is very common. It usually gets better within a few weeks, but sometimes it can last longer or keep coming back. Although back pain can be very distressing, most of the time it doesn’t represent a serious problem and can be treated with some simple lifestyle changes and physiotherapy.

Sometimes however, back pain could be a sign of an underlying issue, such as a slipped disc, sciatica (a trapped nerve) or arthritic changes causing inflammation and pain. So, if your pain doesn’t go away or keeps recurring, it’s a good idea to get your back checked out by a medical professional.

We spoke to Susanne Selvadurai, Lead Spinal Practitioner for St John & St Elizabeth Hospital’s surgical spine clinic to find out more about the causes of back pain and how to take care of your back. Susanne specialises in spinal physiotherapy and manages the spinal clinic at John & Lizzie’s, where she also assesses all the patients in collaboration with the clinic’s lead orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Molloy, who specialises in complex spinal cases and revision surgeries.

The causes of back pain

Back pain can be very frightening. Understanding some of the common causes, knowing what to look out for and the steps you should take, can give great peace of mind.

Should a young person have pain in their lower back and down a leg, it could be a sign of a torn disc. As this is a soft-tissue injury, it will normally heal by itself within six weeks. The best thing to do in this situation is take it easy, be careful, and look after the problem at home.

Should the pain be severe and feel like it’s shooting down the back of a leg, stabbing in the buttock, or becoming strong pins and needles in the toes, this could suggest sciatica. This is most often due to a slipped disc compressing the nerve. In many cases, this will get better by itself in 4 to 6 weeks, but should the pain be really bad, a steroid injection may be needed to help relieve symptoms.

Typically, when an older person has back pain, this is due to stenosis in the spine, which is when the spinal canal narrows due to natural degenerative changes. When this happens, people may have buttock pain, heavy legs and tip a little forwards. Depending on the severity of the issue,

“Typically, when an older person has back pain, this is due to stenosis in the spine, which is when the spinal canal narrows”

• Use a heat pack to relieve stiffness or muscle spasms.

• Avoid not moving for long stretches of time.

Top tips for preventing a spinal injury

• Strengthen your core. A physiotherapist can teach you exercises for training your deep stabiliser muscles.

they may struggle to walk. This problem may need to be fixed surgically.

Stenosis can happen at any level of the spine. When it happens higher up, it will affect your hands and arms, meaning you might feel pins and needles, shooting pains and electric shocks down one or both your arms. In this situation, as your spinal cord is being compressed, surgery will be needed.

Back pain often improves by itself within a few weeks. However, there are things you can do to help speed up your recovery:

• Stay active and try to continue with your routine.

• Take paracetamol. If this doesn’t help, possibly take anti-inflammatories as well. Always check with a GP if in doubt.

• Take up Pilates or swimming, both of which are ideal for deep muscle re-activation.

• If you need to lift something heavy, kneel down, hold the object close to your centre of gravity, and then stand.

St John & St Elizabeth Hospital’s specialist spinal surgery clinic was set up by Mr Sean Molloy, Consultant Spinal Surgeon, with the view of providing the most comprehensive service possible.

Mr Molloy has an international reputation for treating complex cases, and as such, the clinic attracts people from all over the world.

The team has a unique multi-disciplinary approach, which consistently leads to outstanding outcomes.

THE DETAILS

Call the Spinal Clinic on 020 7856 0522

Find out more: hje.org.uk/specialist-spine-clinic

THE PRESSURES OF MODERN LIFE

When does Stress become an Illness?

In the second of our regular features from The London General Practice, DR RAI discusses the effects of stress on the body and how this can become a problematic condition.

We all know the feeling, be it at work or at home; there’s just not enough time, and too much to do. Demanding deadlines in an unforgiving world where we’re always contactable and everyone expects an immediate response.

Stress affects us all; a little pressure can be good, making us more alert and responsive, but too much leads to declining performance, fatigue and potentially an inability to function.

Dr Rai who specialises in Anxiety and Stress Management at The London General Practice presents regularly on the topic to individuals, corporations and businesses.

“In some respects stress and anxiety are subjective measures and the outcome is dependent on several factors including the subjects own personal resilience. However, what we do know is that there are strong physiological links between stress, anxiety, and an individual’s ability to function correctly.

It’s important to realise that there are direct links between stress (which can feel like an intangible concept) and our medical health and wellbeing, resulting in real discernible changes to how we perform.

We also know that there are several factors which may make a person more susceptible to becoming severely impacted by stress or anxiety. These include their lifestyle, sleep patterns, alcohol, workload, underlying physical health as well as genetic or hereditary pre-dispositions.

Through our work with patients and organisations we provide consultations including screens for underlying medical issues, as well as give practical advice on relaxation, exercise, nutrition and sleep. There are also medical interventions which can be appropriate in some instances.”

Dr Rai also advocates thinking of our personal ‘resilience’ as a fixed resource. We may feel that the best way to deal with a stressful day is to hit the gym, or go for a run – ‘burning off the tensions of the day’. However if our reserves are already depleted as a result of prolonged stress then moderate or light exercise may be more beneficial, aiding recovery and guarding against further illness

or injury.

Whilst this is a complex area there is a lot that can be done to help identify the issues and proactively implement changes in order to reduce the consequences of stress.

The London General Practice provides a wide range of Private Medical Services including helping individuals and organisations understand and deal with stress. If you would like to contact the Practice please telephone 020 7935 1000

THE DETAILS

The London General Practice

114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL

Tel: 0207 935 1000

Email: :info@ thelondongeneralpractice.com

OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

Private GP Services thelondongeneralpractice.com

Occupational Health and Corporate Health Services

The Kensington Wing

The Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women and birthing people with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – part of one of the UK’s top rated hospital Trusts – your baby’s and your safety and wellbeing are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times 24/7, dedicated to the needs of our patients.

To ensure the safety of women, birthing people and birth partners, The Kensington Wing has important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven, and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team and are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.

THE DETAILS

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the opportunity to discuss midwife-led care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women and birthing people who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.

The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of their experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They continue to support you through the postnatal period, including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.

The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.

THE FERTILITY CENTRE

Formerly the Assisted Conception Unit, The Fertility Centre is a longstanding centre of excellence for fertility treatment and care at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. In 2021 they enlarged the Centre with a new satellite service at West Middlesex University Hospital, extending patient care and convenient access across West London.

The Centre provides a broad and comprehensive range of fertility services to their patients –including IVF, ICSI and IUI – but their areas of particular expertise, include the management of women and couples over the age of 40, premature ovarian ageing or low ovarian reserve, and male or sperm-related infertility issues.

Notwithstanding their expertise in these complex fields, The Fertility Centre continues to perform very well in its success rates. They hold one of the highest clinical pregnancy rates amongst NHS hospitals in the UK (please visit hfea.gov.uk for further information) and welcome NHS-funded patients and those seeking to selffund their care and treatment.

As well as treatment for those trying to conceive now, The Fertility Centre offer services for those who are considering their ability to conceive in the future. Fertility preservation through egg or embryo freezing is becoming increasingly popular and they can provide these services through their dedicated Fertility Preservation programme.

•

•

There are a number of reasons why you may wish to preserve your fertility:

• For social reasons

Preparing to transition

•

Ahead of treatment for cancer such as chemoor radiotherapy

If you have been diagnosed with gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts

If you are thinking about your fertility health for future years, they also provide a range of fertility assessments - with packages for individuals as well as couples. Alongside tests and assessments, expert clinicians can explain your results and advise you accordingly.

In addition to their clinical expertise and range of treatment options, The Fertility Centre understands the inevitable stress and anxiety of fertility treatment. They are committed to supporting you every step of the way throughout your treatment. This includes sessions with their British Infertility Counselling Association and UK Council for Psychotherapy accredited counsellors.

THE DETAILS

The Fertility Centre team is always happy to support you and answer any questions. If you want to learn more or are ready to start your fertility journey, please contact them on 020 3315 8585 or email chelwest.acu@nhs.net. chelwestprivatecare.co.uk/ fertility-centre

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2022

This worldwide annual campaign every October involves thousands of organisations highlighting the importance of breast awareness, education and research. Breast Cancer Now wants as many people as possible raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research and support. Many women think that breast cancer won’t happen to them. Sadly the reality is, every 10 minutes a woman is diagnosed in the UK.

Know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer

Everyone’s breasts are different and can change with age and at different times of the month. It’s important to know how your breasts normally look and feel for you, so that it’s easier to spot any new or unusual changes. Check all parts of your breasts, your armpits and up to your collarbone for any unusual changes. While most breast changes won’t be cancer, women should get them checked by a GP, as the sooner breast cancer is found the more successful treatment is likely to be.

What should I be looking for?

Lumps are important and can be the first symptom of breast cancer for many women. But there are other signs and symptoms you should look out for too. On its own, pain in your breasts is not usually a sign of breast cancer. But look out for pain in your breast or armpit that’s there all or almost all the time.

Breast Cancer Now’s signs and symptoms list

• A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit

• A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling

• A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look red or inflamed

• A nipple change, for example it has become pulled in (inverted)

• Rash or crusting around the nipple

• Unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple

• Changes in size or shape of the breast

“Lumps are important and can be the first symptom of breast cancer for many women. But there are other signs and symptoms you should look out for too”

Wear it Pink! on Friday 21 October 2022

Breast Cancer Now’s wear it pink day is one of the biggest fundraising events in the UK. On 21 October, Wear it Pink! Why? Because breast cancer is still here. It’s still tearing apart the lives of families and it’s still taking the lives of the women we love on a heart breaking scale. You can raise money to help make world-class research and powered by life-changing support.

Hold a dress down day at work, a fun night in, a cake sale or an exclusive garden party! By holding a pink event in October you are helping the charity to be there for anyone affected by breast cancer. No matter how much you raise, you’ll be making a huge difference to people facing breast cancer today.

Because of lockdowns and restrictions in 2020, Breast Cancer Now researchers missed over 230,000 hours in their labs. Despite this setback, the charity is more determined than ever to be there for anyone affected by breast cancer the whole way through, providing support for today and hope for the future.

Every pound raised by wear it pink could help fund a potentially life-saving research breakthrough or give someone information they can rely on when they need it most. It could also help drive forward Breast Cancer Now’s vital campaigning, to make sure that everyone living with breast cancer receives the best possible treatment and support.

Together we can wear pink, raise money and help make life-changing breast cancer research and support happen. Sign up now at wearitpink.org

For information and support, speak to Breast Cancer Now’s expert nurses by calling the charity’s free Helpline on 0808 800 6000.

Reduce your risk of breast cancer

Around 55,000 women and 370 men in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Yet at least 30% of these cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes.

Breast Cancer UK is a charity focused on the prevention of breast cancer. They provide advice on how you can reduce your risk and support research into the environmental causes of breast cancer.

Everyone is born with a degree of susceptibility to breast cancer. But it is estimated that at least 30% of breast cancer cases in the UK can be prevented by making lifestyle changes.

How can you reduce your risk?

The choices you make in your daily life can influence your level of risk; from the things you eat to the harmful chemicals you are exposed to. The good news is you have a certain amount of control over these factors. Changes you can make to reduce your risk of breast cancer include:

1. Drink less alcohol

It’s best not to drink. If you drink, drink in moderation. Do not go beyond the UK government guidelines of 14 units of alcohol per week.

2. Get active

By being physically active you can reduce your risk of breast cancer by around 25%. Aim for a minimum of 150 mins of moderate to high

intensity exercise per week. The more you do the better.

3. Maintain a healthy weight Maintaining a healthy weight for your height is a key part of reducing your risk of breast cancer especially for post-menopausal women.

4. Eat more fruit and veg Good food choices can reduce your risk of breast cancer.

5. Reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals such as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), found in everyday products Many everyday products, such as cosmetics and cleaning products, contain EDCs which may affect your risk of breast cancer. Information on which chemicals to avoid are available on Breast Cancer UK’s website. breastcanceruk.org.uk

Where do I start?

It’s never too soon or too late to reduce your risk of breast cancer. Our Prevention Quiz is a great place to start. You’ll also find useful videos and iGuides and lots of simple ideas to help you reduce your risk of getting breast cancer.

Scan the QR code to get started:

Breast Cancer patients can be sure of award-winning care at The Royal Marsden

The Royal Marsden breast unit is one of the largest in the UK with around 9,000 new breast referrals a year. Our experienced, specialist teams use the latest assessment techniques to provide an accurate diagnosis.

The rapid one-stop breast cancer service at Cavendish Square ensures you have access to a consultant-led appointment, assessments, and imaging all on the same day for a quick diagnosis in a calm and modern environment. The centre, located in London’s Harley Street healthcare district, provides the highest level of patient focused care.

If you are looking for breast cancer private treatment in London, you can be sure of an award-winning service at The Royal Marsden. Our clinical expertise, facilities and technology ensure the best level of breast cancer private care.

Our private breast cancer clinic is part of one of Europe’s largest cancer centres. Receiving private breast cancer care in an NHS setting means you benefit from the highest quality standards. These are continually assessed under a strict NHS governance framework.

From private breast cancer screening to bespoke treatment plans, our multidisciplinary team will ensure your experience is unrivalled. We are one of the few private hospitals to have been rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC. While Cavendish Square offers diagnostic and some cancer treatments, in some instances you may be directed to our larger sites in Chelsea and Sutton for the full range of cancer services such as surgery and radiotherapy.

THE DETAILS

For any enquiries regarding private treatment at The Royal Marsden, including referrals, please contact our Private Care Contact Centre: Call us: +44 (0)20 7811 8111 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm) Email us: privatepatients@rmh.nhs.uk

Beth Goldsworthy and Paige Mitchell in the Medical Day Unit at Cavendish Square

Kirsty Fisher, Senior Diagnostic Radiographer with mammography machine

Cavendish Square main reception

Spotlight on… King Edward VII’s Hospital Breast Unit

The Breast Health Unit at King Edward VII’s Hospital has evolved to become a world-leading centre for breast cancer. The state-of-the-art facility offers rapid screening and one-stop assessment with access to specialist consultants who are leading the field in advanced surgical techniques and treatments. But something else that sets the Centre apart is its focus on highly personalised, integrated care.

Evidence demonstrates that a holistic approach to breast health has numerous benefits for patients, from reducing the stress of initial investigations right through to better adherence to treatment plans and improved emotional and physical wellbeing during their cancer journey and beyond.

Located in London’s Harley Street Medical District, King Edward VII’s Hospital’s Breast Health Centre has taken patient-centred care to a whole new level. Care is delivered by an expert multi-disciplinary team which not only includes cancer surgeons, microsurgeons, radiologists and clinical nurse specialists but extends to physiotherapists, pain management experts and clinical geneticists.

Breast Health Centre manager and clinical nurse specialist, Amelia Cook, explains that the team has raised the bar on personalised care. ‘Everything is tailor-made for each individual and our ethos is to work with the patient as a team,’ she says.

Opened in 1899, King Edward VII’s is one of

London’s oldest independent hospitals and with just 56 beds, also one of the smallest. Along with its royal patronage and charitable status, this has helped it create a discrete and highly personalised approach to patient care.

Lead consultant surgeon at the Breast Health Centre Mr Paul Thiruchelvam highlights that this focus on bespoke treatment, together with a tight knit group of physicians drawn from across London’s teaching hospitals who work alongside specialist nursing staff, has enabled the centre to develop a shared vision.

‘We put the patient very much at the centre of treatment,’ he explains. ‘That involves delivering world-class cancer care, but also looking more widely at the patient as a whole. We not only look at the patient’s cancer needs, but also their emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing through their cancer journey.’

That personalised journey begins right from first contact with the patient.

Screening and assessment

Anyone over the age of 40 who simply wants a breast check-up and is not experiencing any symptoms can access the Centre’s mammogram screening service provided they are registered with a GP in the UK. If they don’t have a UK GP, King Edward VII’s Hospital can connect them with one from its own team or a local practice.

‘That ensures that when the results go back to patients, they’ve got somebody overseeing their care. Even if they are absolutely fine, we always ensure the GP gets the results so they can be discussed properly with the patient,’ says Amelia. Results are usually available on the same day but if there are concerns, patients will be invited back for a consultation with one of the Centre’s team of top radiologists.

No two women are the same and additional assessments might include 3D mammography or ultrasound, which can be used to get different images of the breast, and/or MRI or stereotactic biopsy. Crucially, says Amelia, the results are relayed back quickly, and next steps discussed in detail with the consultant and clinical nurse specialist.

Speedy access and results can be even more important if patients are experiencing symptoms of breast cancer such as a lump or discolouration – and the accompanying anxiety this can cause.

Women - or indeed men - of any age who have worrying symptoms can self-refer to the Centre’s one stop shop ‘triple assessment’.

Regarded as the gold standard for diagnosis, triple assessment includes a physical examination, mammogram or ultrasound scan and, if needed, a biopsy. The whole procedure can be completed in as little as an hour. Most people can be reassured, but for those with a cancer diagnosis, the fact the service is consultant-led means they can begin discussing treatment options straight away.

‘Having a cancer diagnosis is extremely complex. There is a lot of information to take on board at a very difficult time, so it is really important we tailor the care and the information we provide,’ says Paul.

Advanced treatments

Ultimately, Paul explains, patients need to be empowered to make decisions about their personal treatment. ‘We have to make sure we talk about all treatment options, along with the particular advantages and disadvantages,’ he says. ‘This is extremely important because we know that patients who are involved actively in their decisionmaking process have a much better cancer experience.’

Treatment options discussed might include surgical and non-surgical management, but much cancer care is multi-modal and may include surgery alongside chemotherapy, radiotherapy and endocrine therapy.

King Edward VII’s Hospital is at the cutting edge of some of the most complex surgical procedures. Paul and his colleagues not only work closely as multi-disciplinary teams but are increasingly sharing the operating theatre to perform cancer surgery alongside advanced

“Having a cancer diagnosis is extremely complex. There is a lot of information to take on board at a very difficult time, so it is really important we tailor the care and the information we provide”

microsurgical techniques for breast reconstruction and lymphedema prevention. ‘Working with fellow consultants means you can undertake complex surgeries more expediently and safely,’ explains Paul.

The team has been at the forefront of deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction – a highly complex autologous breast reconstruction procedure which uses the patient’s own abdominal tissue to recreate the breast mound.

‘It is an extremely complex procedure, but we have highly skilled microsurgical colleagues who are able to deliver outstanding outcomes and with extremely low rates of complications,’ says Paul. However, he adds, undertaking an immediate breast reconstruction may not be right for all women at the same time as cancer surgery. ‘For some patients, reconstruction may not be at the forefront of their minds so they may opt to delay the procedure. It’s a very personal decision but the important thing is that patients are offered a choice.’

Alongside advanced reconstruction techniques, King Edward VII’s Hospital is at the forefront of an innovative procedure to reduce the risk of lymphoedema - a chronic condition which causes swelling in the body’s tissues following cancer

treatment. The technique, lymphatic microsurgical healing approach (LYMPHA), can again be performed alongside cancer surgery. Effectively, it reconnects the lymphatic drains in the arm to the area under the shoulder joint to allow lymphatic fluid to flow freely back into the circulation.

Paul, who is a member of the expert panel on breast cancer-related lymphoedema, and was involved in drafting best practice guidelines for the American Society of Breast Surgeons, highlights that the technique has been shown to greatly reduce lymphoedema in patients whose treatment requires the removal of a large number of lymph nodes.

‘Our team travelled to Genoa to visit Professor Francesco Boccardo, who first described the LYMPHA procedure. Our technique has evolved over the past four years, and I am proud to say that we are about to carry out our 40th procedure. We are extremely fortunate to be able to offer it to our patients and potentially reduce their risk of developing this extremely debilitating condition,’ he explains.

Complementary services

International links and Paul’s work with the American Society of Breast Surgeons has also

“Alongside advanced reconstruction techniques, King Edward VII’s Hospital is at the forefront of an innovative procedure to reduce the risk of lymphoedema”

helped the Breast Health Centre integrate a range of complementary services into its treatment pathways to provide patients with 360-degree care. Post-operative pain and discomfort can be an additional problem for women undergoing cancer treatment, particularly after a mastectomy.

‘There is a tailored protocol in the US around patients having pre-operative pain assessments to ensure that they don’t develop a chronic pain cycle,’ explains Paul. ‘And this is something I have integrated into my practice.’

The team now includes a dedicated consultant pain specialist, Dr Matthew Brown, who can assess women before their operation and design a bespoke post-operative pain management plan as well as deliver complementary therapies such as acupuncture.

The Centre has also developed a unique physiotherapy programme where patients are seen before, as well as after, surgery. This gives the specialist physiotherapists a deeper understanding of the patient’s normal function so they can produce a post-operative plan that will get them back to full mobility as quickly as possible.

And for those patients whose clinical history indicates a genetic link, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, King Edward VII’s Hospital is the only private hospital in London with a truly comprehensive genetics service. Lead by consultant clinical geneticists Professor Marc Tischkowitz and Dr Anjana Kulkarni, the service can also be extended to family members if a cancer-related gene mutation is identified.

Clinical nurse specialists

A multi-disciplinary approach has been shown to greatly improve governance and patient safety. However, to ensure it genuinely improves patient experience, it is vital that care is coordinated, which is where Amelia and fellow clinical nurse specialist Helen Froyd play a pivotal role.

‘We are very fortunate to have two outstanding and experienced breast care nurses,’ says Paul. ‘They are absolutely key in the patient journey. They are the first point of contact for the patient and facilitate their appointments with the various members of the cancer team.’

Indeed, Amelia and Helen are there to help patients navigate their care from that very first screening or assessment.

‘That means we are there for patients right

from diagnosis and often before,’ says Amelia. ‘It is really personalised care that we offer here. We’ll look at the whole person to see where we can target support. It’s very interactive and there are all sorts of touch points from face-to-face clinics to text messaging. The important thing is we are there when patients need us so even if it’s 10 o’clock at night, they can leave a message and we’ll call them back the next day.’

During treatment, Amelia and Helen carry out regular needs assessments to help identify any areas of concern for their patients - whether mental, physical, social or even financial. They can also perform micropigmentation – a tattoolike procedure to recreate the nipple and areola following reconstruction surgery – and provide long term support, in some cases years after treatment has finished.

‘Even if patients are completely cured without any problems – and most women are – we will see them in follow up a year later,’ says Amelia. ‘And they will always have our contact numbers, so even if it is months or years down the line and they have a question or feel anxious about something, we are there to support and advise.’

According to Paul, it is this very high-level support that can make a real difference for patients coming to terms with a diagnosis and what can be a long road to recovery.

‘What patients value most is being looked after by an experienced team guiding their care,’ he says. ‘Knowing that there is a group of people who want the very best outcome for them helps patients get through their cancer treatment and it’s an honour to be part of that team delivering a world-class level of care.’

More Information

To book an appointment or to speak to a specialist at King Edward VII Hospital Breast Health Centre call: 0203 930 1392 Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm kingedwardvii.co.uk or visit kingedwardvii.co.uk

Wellbeing Medical Group based in the heart of Tower Bridge

Pioneers of Complementary Cancer Care

National UK Service for Complementary Cancer Care available at Wellbeing Medical Group.

Patients are welcomed based nationally within the UK to receive complementary cancer care via their concierge programme.

Wellbeing Medical Group are proud to announce the opening of a new medical centre based in the heart of Tower Bridge London.

Using complementary therapies alongside conventional medicine Wellbeing Medical Group offer services to support the recovery journey for cancer patients. Wellbeing Medical Group work closely with pioneering institutes within Germany, offering UK patients access to the latest and most groundbreaking research. The therapies are supported by vast knowledge of academic literature and clinical studies. The complementary therapies work alongside conventional medicine to increase wellbeing and reduce side effects of conventional cancer drugs.

WMG CEO’s – “We have worked many years to design a true medical hub for the latest cuttingedge technology and advances in multidisciplinary cancer care”

Services that Wellbeing Medical Group proudly offer:

• Adult Integrated Oncology

• Children’s Integrated Oncology

• Intravenous infusion programmes

• Integrated Medicine

• Lymphatic Drainage

• Ozone Therapy

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber

• Diagnostic testing

WMG Dedicated Cancer Care Consultant - Dr Saskia Kloppenburg

Dr Saskia Kloppenburg, Consultant in General Internal Medicine, and Specialist in Complementary Cancer Care - Featured in what doctors don’t tell you magazine.

Dr Kloppenburg is passionate and focused on the importance of an individualised and holistic (whole person) approach, she believes that there is a clear link between the emotional state and health disturbance within a patient and that prescribing medication alone will not resolve the root cause. She is also a dedicated member of a highly qualified team of consultants based in the Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine (NHS).

Dr Kloppenburg says – “My approach involves understanding the root cause and not just addressing the symptoms, from my years of experience I have discovered that underlying root causes hold a strong impact in the creation of the symptoms”

THE DETAILS

To find out how Wellbeing Medical Group can help you on your journey to optimal

health, contact: Website: wellbeingmedicalgroup.com

Telephone – 020 4577 0314

Address – 1st Floor, 185 Tower Bridge Road, SE1 2UF Open – Mon to Fri 9am till 6pm

“Dr Kloppenburg is passionate and focused on the importance of an individualised and holistic (whole person) approach”

&

INTERIORS

MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS

Handcrafted on luxurious cream velvet, the gorgeous penguin cushion is exquisitely appliquéd in cream and black wool with the detail hand-embroidered in antique gold thread. The little penguin stands upon the melting ice surrounded by golden sequin stars. This lovely Penguin Cushion will make a wonderful gift for someone who loves the natural world.

RAISE A GLASS FOR FIZZ SUPREME

Known for their eccentric take on nature-inspired interiors, The Curious Department launches a fabulously new design this Autumn, ‘Fizz Supreme’. Inspired by the excess and glamour of the 1970’s party scene, from the sensory multicoloured disco lights to the most decadent Palm Springs champagne pool parties, this playful design has been created to evoke positive energy in a curiously reimagined style. thecuriousdepartment.com

SCANDI STYLE TABLESCAPE

Reflecting the fresh seasonal colours of Sweden, this luxury collection breathes life into dining. Alive with energy and light, showcasing the latest design ‘Gotland’ by Swedish Artist Nina D. nina-d.co.uk

NEW ADDITION

Luxury online retailer Naken.co.uk has expanded its offering by introducing a range of wallpaper, featuring designs from some of the most celebrated names in the industry. naken.co.uk

BEING BOLD

London design house Divine Savages has teamed up with the masters of luxury vinyl, Beija Flor, to create a unique collection of rugs & mats inspired by a shared obsession with brave colour and bold pattern.

The fitted furniture files

What the design world is coming to realise more than ever recently, is that what defines a home, is you. The people living in it. The modern home is focusing on expressing the personalities within it through decoration and design. This could be by displaying meaningful, memory-filled objects, by planning a room around a treasured work of art or by more actively placing the needs and preferences of a house’s occupants at the core of how it looks and functions. Houses are becoming as unique as the people within them, telling their stories and revealing their personalities.

That’s where fitted furniture comes in, pieces of practical storage created precisely for the space you need them in.

Think of fitted furniture and what first comes to mind may not be hugely inspiring. We’re here to prove you wrong. It’s an art form, not only designed to fit specifically into the space you need it in, but – yes – beautiful, creative, expressive as well as the very definition of useful.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bespoke piece that slides perfectly into place. Perhaps there’s an element of ASMR to it: look at how it lines up so perfectly with the ceiling. See how it fits so smoothly into that alcove. Watch how it skirts around the bumps in the wall. Feel how smoothly those doors glide open. Oooo.

Fitted furniture is about making the most of every centimetre. About stretching up high, adding an extra shelf, making room for more pairs of shoes or finally creating somewhere to house

that LP collection. It makes life easier and rooms smarter.

Chaplins’ range of beautiful, designer fitted furniture is ready and waiting to be crafted into shape around you, your home and those objects that you most care about, whatever they may be. The in-house fitted furniture expert Denis Barclay knows every trick in the fitted furniture book: here he talks through everything you need to know to ready your room for a bespoke storage piece.

How can Chaplins help with fitted furniture?

We offer a complete design and installation service. In the first instance, you are invited into our showroom to browse the options – during this initial meeting, we discuss the space you are considering and how you want to use the area, as well as any ideas you have and designs you like so we can make suggestions to better meet your brief. We then work from your plans or visit your home, depending on the stage of the project. It’s also important to establish the budget.

What falls under the category of ‘fitted furniture’? It’s more than wardrobes, right?

Over the 35 years, I have been involved with the furniture business, there are not many spaces that I have not planned fitted furniture for, inside or outside, be it under the stairs, boot rooms, TV rooms, studies, libraries, bedrooms, dressing rooms and craft workshops. Modular furniture is very

adaptable. It’s only limited by the imagination, and of course the budget.

Which designer brands offer fitted furniture?

We work with premium Italian brands Lema, Molteni&C and Porro, and heritage German company Interlübke. They are modern and sleek, with finishes ranging from matt and high gloss lacquers to glass, metals, ceramics and veneers. There’s a lot to choose from.

Our Lema wardrobe studio showcases different styles of wardrobe in a range of finishes. We also have a door bar showing a small format selection of doors options.

What do I need to know before my fitted furniture consultation? Do I need to get out the tape measure?

The more information you can bring, then the more meaningful the initial meeting will be. Generally, we ask customers to have photos of the space, or architect’s plans if it’s under construction. It’s also helpful to really consider your storage requirements so that we can make best use of the space available.

What’s the timeline between consultation to installation?

After the first discussion, we’ll produce an initial plan and costing, then the process develops from there. In some instances, it can be very quick, while larger projects can take months. Then of course it takes 10-12 weeks for the furniture to be made and

delivered from the factory. Installation is quick – it usually takes a day for a conventional room, to a week or more on a larger project.

WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP?

DO I NEED TO COME INTO THE SHOWROOM? WHO DO I TALK TO?

Call us or email us at sales@chaplins.co.uk and we’ll discuss the best way to get started.

For more ideas on bespoke designer storage, see chaplins.co.uk, or book an appointment to visit the 25,000 sq ft luxury lifestyle showroom in Hatch End where you’ll find the latest shelves, doors and finishes under one roof.

Chaplins Furniture, 407-577 Uxbridge Road, HA5

4JS Tel: 020 8421 1779

A Harvest Festival

Celebrating the start of autumn

shift from summer to autumn in your living room.

Pile on a plush selection of cosy cushions, throw a sheepskin over your favourite chair and opt for accents in tones of burnt orange, rusty reds and soothing oatmeals. It’s time to get your hygge on!

A TIME OF THANKSGIVING

Nothing spells the changing of the seasons like a festive feast and the dining table is a perfect place to conjure this unique atmosphere. Take a leaf out of the book of our American friends and host your own Thanksgiving supper. A relaxed linen tablecloth sets the scene, while tall tapered candles bring that all-important glimmer. Choose rustic earthenware, brass cutlery and raffia table mats for a rustic effect.

FLOWER POWER

Time to pick your posy? Go for seasonal blooms like dahlias, hydrangeas and maple leaves in fiery tones. A few sprigs of greenery will also add a little freshness.

Wayfair’s Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, shares how to get set for the new season

Crisp morning air and the crackling of russet leaves underfoot signals that autumn is upon us and it’s time to get our ‘cosy’ on! By truly embracing seasonal changes, you can offset any feelings of flatness as summer days come to an end, and surround yourself in everything uplifting that the colder months have to offer. Think warming hues and cocooning textiles.

AMBIENT ENTRYWAY

Your wardrobe isn’t the only place to ring the changes and signal that A/W‘22 is, at last, here. Why not make over your doorway, with a seasonal wreath in russet tones, or a basket of dried foliage? Trail your seasonal picks along your garden path, leading to your door with a difference for a welcoming look.

SWITCH IT UP

Just a few well-chosen picks will help you make the

For more seasonal inspiration and for homeware and decor to suit every style and budget, visit wayfair.co.uk.

FRESHLY PICKED BEDDING PRINTS FROM M.M LINEN’S NEW AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION

Zealand, the mystical Tui bird nestles amongst a dramatic backdrop of soothing blues and lilacs flowers that are delicately brushed with restful tones of teal. And, a dark charcoal ground provides the night time backdrop for this fairytale setting - A real bedtime story!

The IVY EBONY bedding set is the third new addition to the M.M Linen collection. Its intricate repeat pattern of entwining flowers and foliage, in saturated greens, burnished golden and soft white accents, sit sublimely upon a deep smokey blue background, whilst a pure white reverse gives a crisp clean contrast. And, if you look closely, throughout the design you’ll see thoughtfully placed song birds which add a playful highlight to this floral elaboration.All designs are printed on 220 thread count cotton sateen, which feels beautifully soft to the touch.

“I’ve always adored the idea of floral designs rendered in on-trend colours” comments M.M Linen Founder, Kerry Jackson. “It’s resulted in a signature botanical motif which gives the brand real stand out and distinct personality. Our array of fabulously talented artists create collections which help the brand’s personality to shine – and nowhere more so than across our new collection of beautiful bed linens.”

Arange of stunning new bedding designs that are a perfect choice for those looking to refresh or re-imagine their bedroom space with an inspired and unique floral focus.

Big, bold and beautiful, the FLOWERBED designed duvet set is such a fun way to add a pop of autumnal colour to a room’s decor scheme. Inspired by pressed flower art, which captures the timeless beauty of a bloom’s flowering splendour, this simple yet detailed print is so picture perfect.

Arranged on a soft sage background, the natural contrast of this green tone, subtly lifts this delicate floral pattern. Printed on 220 thread count cotton sateen with a wonderful soft hand feel.

A stunning fusion of flora with fauna, the TUI BLOSSOM duvet set is an enchanted take on the beauty of the natural world; Native to New

uk.mmlinen.com

“Big, bold and beautiful, the FLOWERBED designed duvet set is such a fun way to add a pop of autumnal colour to a room’s decor scheme”

Beautiful birds

North Yorkshire, UK - North & Nether’s newest wallpaper collection, Caged Bird, has been unveiled today. The sixth collection in the brand’s catalogue, Caged Bird features vintage bird illustrations with a trademark North & Nether twist.

According to Megan Slack at Homes & Gardens, bird motifs are trending because they represent freedom, optimism, and the ability to escape.

In addition to bird motifs, biophilic designs have featured on Real Homes roundup of wallpaper trends - and of course maximalist patterns are everywhere. The Caged Bird collection takes inspiration from these trends and reimagines them with birds in captivity, including elements both vintage and modern.

Four of the designs in the collection feature a different species of bird in a cage - either real or metaphorical. Magpie and Pigeon are more traditional patterns, while Rifle and Roller have more modern lines.

Magpie has the namesake bird flying amid irises, seemingly aware of the mesh cage which surrounds them. Look closely in Pigeon, and you will see leg bands on a few of the birds.

Rifle has a vibrant teal background with a modern gate illustration - with other flora and fauna around, the birds look to find freedom.

Roller is a linear barbed wire print with the bird guarding its eggs.

Feather, a supporting pattern, is a dense motif

of abstract feathers in the collection’s signature teal colour.

Teal is the focal point of the collection - a timeless colour which, according to colour psychology expert Karen Haller on The Design Sheppard, evokes feelings of tranquillity, calm, peace, and balance - a direct contrast to the feelings of being held captive.

Mara Nieuwsma, Managing Director, comments on her colour choices: “I was drawn to the vivid teal feathers of the rifle and roller, and wanted to carry this hue through the collection, balanced with black, greys and beiges to make the designs more versatile. The cages arrived naturally through the creative process, in a desire to add something unexpected to a familiar motif.” northandnether.com

HOUSE HERITAGE

HOUSE HERITAGE

HOUSE HERITAGE

Curious about your property’s history?

Curious about your property’s history?

We provide a unique in-depth service, professionally researching the history of your property from construction to present day, uncovering the lives of the previous occupants

We provide a unique in-depth service, professionally researching the history of your property from construction to present day, uncovering the lives of the previous occupants.

We provide a unique in-depth service, professionally researching the history of your property from construction to present day, uncovering the lives of the previous occupants

Contact Sarah for a free consultation - Email: house_heritage@outlook.com C

Contact Sarah for a free consultation - Email: house_heritage@outlook.com

Call: 01249 740257 / 07735 041826 Visit: w ww.house-heritage.com

Bremhill Newsletter June 2021 17/5/21 18:35 Page 24

Bremhill Newsletter June 2021 17/5/21 18:35 Page 24

Bremhill Newsletter June 2021 17/5/21 18:35 Page 24

Bremhill Newsletter June 2021 17/5/21 18:35 Page 24

HOUSE HERITAGE

HOUSE HERITAGE

HOUSE HERITAGE

HOUSE HERITAGE

Curious about your property’s history?

Curious about your property’s history?

Curious about your property’s history?

Curious about your property’s history?

We provide a unique in-depth service, professionally researching the history from construction to present day, uncovering the lives of the previous

We provide a unique in-depth service, professionally researching the history of your property from construction to present day, uncovering the lives of the previous occupants.

We provide a unique in-depth service, professionally researching the history from construction to present day, uncovering the lives of the previous

We provide a unique in-depth service, professionally researching the history of your property from construction to present day, uncovering the lives of the previous occupants

Contact Sarah for a free consultation - Email: house_heritage@outlook.com

POLES | KITCHEN | BATHROOM | GARDEN

Contact Sarah for a free consultation - Email: house_heritage@outlook.com

Made in Suffolk. Designed for Life. www.madebytheforge.co.uk

Contact Sarah for a free consultation - Email: house_heritage@outlook.com

Call: 01249 740257 / 07735 041826 Visit: w ww.house-heritage.com

Contact Sarah for a free consultation - Email: house_heritage@outlook.com

Call: 01249 740257 / 07735 041826 Visit: w ww.house-heritage.com

Call: 01249 740257 / 07735 04182 ww.house-heritage.com

01380 859987 / 07735 041826

Call: 01249 740257 / 07735 041826 Visit: w ww.house-heritage.com

TTA Business Card v2 CMYK 21/8/08 9:25 am Page 2

TTA Business Card v2 5th colour (Pantone 577) 21/8/08 9:24

TTA Business Card v2 5th colour (Pantone 577) 21/8/08 9:24

TTA Business Card v2 CMYK 21/8/08 9:25 am Page 2

TTA Business Card v2 5th colour (Pantone 577) 21/8/08 9:24 am Page 2

The Tree Agency

The Tree Agency darryl parkin

The Treehouse

The Treehouse

darryl parkin

The Treehouse

The Treehouse

TTA Business Card v2 5th colour (Pantone 577) 21/8/08 9:24 am Page 2 Mobile 07960 123580 info@thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

The Treehouse

25 King Edwards Grove, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 9LY Telephone 020 8274 0107

25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580

25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580

Fax 020 8274 0119 info@ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

Fax 020 8274 0119 info@ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580 Fax 020 8274 0119 @ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580 Fax 020 8274 0119 @ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

(iTree consultancy) (eTree planting) (iPlant landscape) (eTree surgery)

HOME LANDING

Home Landing is a relatively new online business focusing primarily on the sale of kitchen tea towels.

It was becoming increasingly difficult to find a nice assortment of attractive and good quality tea towels and the company was founded to simply fill that gap in the kitchen textile market.

Irish linen glass cloths are known the world over as are fine Italian printed linens and the French are renowned for their wonderful use of colour in their Jacquard cotton cloths.

The company offer a collection ranging from fun inexpensive cotton prints, woven French Jacquard designs, classic Irish Linen glass cloths, printed Italian and Lithuanian linens and rustic French country textiles. They have carefully selected first-class textiles from all over Europe. Recently added are new linen designs from Lithuania- these wonderful prints are striking works of art in their own right, perfect to add colour to any kitchen and they make wonderful gifts too.

Tea towels are so versatile and not simply for drying dishes or polishing glasses. Attractive linen ones can be used to decorate small tables and tea trays and of course over the festive season Christmas tea towels can be used as part of your

“Recently added are new linen designs from Lithuania- these wonderful prints are striking works of art”

seasonal decorations or for wrapping a special present.

Whilst Home Landing’s main emphasis is on the sale of tea towels they do offer a small collection of table linens and are more than happy to help with bespoke orders and the sourcing of any kitchen or table linen requirements.

We have a lovely collection of Christmas tea towels, perfect to add some seasonal decoration to your home over the festive period. Some of our customers use Christmas tea towels to wrap up presents or as part of their decorations.

Featured items, left: Walser linen table runner and matching linen tea towels, Walser Cervo and Walser Frisona. Below, Schiaccianoci, Nutcracker linen tea towels in pink and yellow.

THE DETAILS

Home Landing will be attending The Christmas Fair at Ascot Racecourse, Thursday 24th November 2022 – Sunday 27th November 2022. Check out their web site today: home-landing.co.uk or you can call them directly on 01635 48521

Home

woven

Christmas

Printed on Linen / Union

Linen

Cotton.

Days of Christmas”

Florals of Christmas”

OXLEY’S : A Totally Circular Business

Acircular economy demonstrates the process of using, consuming, restoring and reusing raw products or materials thus extending a products life cycle, or in Oxley’s case, ensuring their sustainable outdoor furniture has no end of life. Businesses have a duty to work in a truly sustainable and circular way, taking responsibility for their products. Moving away from a ‘take, make, waste’ economy benefitting the environment, customers and the business.

Oxley’s has always strived to be a truly sustainable business, making the decision to use 100% recycled aluminium for their products over 30 years ago when the business started. Aluminium is an unsung success story of the sustainable world and is one of the most recycled elements on the planet. Using 100% recycled aluminium saves 95% of the energy needed to create new aluminium, and due to it being infinitely recycled it can be used over and over again and won’t lose its quality. The perfect material for Oxley’s main aim, building luxury outdoor furniture to last generations in the most sustainable way possible.

Oxley’s have recently launched a unique buy back guarantee that allows them to run in a truly circular way. This sustainable buy back guarantee means

that once customers have owned their furniture for a year, Oxley’s will buy it back for half the original purchase price up to 10 years later. The furniture is taken back to the Oxley’s factory in the Cotswolds, repurposed and given a new home. Just because it is intended to last generations, doesn’t mean it has to stay in the same family.

Simon Hudson, managing director of Oxley’s Furniture states “We have always made luxury outdoor furniture in a sustainable way so it is logical that we should be the first in our industry to take this next important step of making Oxley’s a truly circular business. There will be new challenges ahead, but we are all excited to have made this decision and to see where it takes us. Just because we make furniture to last generations, doesn’t after all mean it has to stay in the same family”.

Oxley’s are a prime example of taking full responsibility for their products and ensuring there is no end of life. For customers, this means they can own the furniture they want risk free. For the business, it means highest quality materials can be sourced directly from customers. For the environment, it means less energy is used and less waste produced. oxleys.com

“Oxley’s are a prime example of taking full responsibility for their products and ensuring there is no end of life”

EDEN GARDEN ROOMS

For many of us, the past couple of years have seen our homes adapt, simultaneously becoming our offices, gyms, sanctuaries and entertainment spaces all in one, and in turn forcing us to revaluate how we use the precious space available to us to suit our changing needs.

However, it’s likely that there’s a shady, underused spot at the bottom of your garden, which may in fact provide the perfect opportunity to add practical space and value to your home, whilst breathing new life into your garden in the process. Forget sheds and summerhouses, 2022 is all about the aesthetically pleasing, individually crafted and wonderfully multi-functional bespoke garden room that can be enjoyed by all the family.

Having spent the past 10 years building tailormade garden rooms of all kinds, industry-leaders, eDEN Garden Rooms, report a huge surge in demand for multi-use garden studios that fulfil the various needs of their customers; combining home office, workout space, or an extra family room all in one.

Built to an exceptionally high specification and designed to feel like part of your home, eDEN’s stunning garden rooms are a stylish addition to gardens large or small, and come with a whole host of welcome inclusions as standard. From toasty underfloor heating and high-quality insulation to expertly plastered and painted walls, striking oak engineered wood flooring and even painted skirting boards; the attention to detail in these exquisitely-crafted, made-to-measure studios really does accomplish the wow-factor.

The exterior of eDEN Garden Rooms’ buildings doesn’t disappoint either, clad with stunning locally-sourced redwood cedar, and finished with modern aluminium doors and windows, eDEN Garden Rooms have honed the art of creating contemporary statement rooms

that their customers look forward to spending time in year-round. And with the option to tailor to your exact needs, from integrated shed storage to bathrooms, kitchenettes and even cinema rooms, there’s no idea too lofty for this talented team to tackle.

“Built to an exceptionally high specification and designed to feel like part of your home, eDEN’s stunning garden rooms are a stylish addition to gardens large or small, and come with a whole host of welcome inclusions as standard”

need the extra space, eDEN are sure to have a solution to match your requirements – and now, more than ever, a garden room can be a very cost-effective way to enhance and add value to your home.

If

Stunning new Kitchens for 2023

Founded over 10 years ago, West London Kitchens supply high quality German, Italian and traditional handmade English bespoke kitchens at family friendly prices. Real kitchens for real families. All their kitchens are designed bespoke for each client, offering great flexibility in style, finish and colour and delivered ready built which cuts down dramatically on the time and mess of installation.

West London Kitchens have a studio showroom with easy local parking, where you can view all the door ranges together with worktop, splashback and lighting samples.

The 2023 range offers dozens of colours and styles together with all the modern developments in kitchen design, including reduced plinth heights and the TIP-ON touch opening system. They can now also offer specialised utility room furniture providing a myriad of clever storage solutions.

Much of their business comes via word-ofmouth recommendations from happy clients, and their builders, architects and interior designers. West London Kitchens are proud of our reputation and their customer service is second to none.

Whether you are planning major building work or just looking to upgrade your old kitchen, get in touch for a free consultation.

New for 2023 - Schuller and Next Line Kitchens

• 845 and 875 high base units – more storage and less plinth

• The Colour Concept 14 different doors available in 27 different colours in a Matt or Satin finish

• Black interior carcase colours

• Walk in larder units

• Bespoke utility rooms

• Bedroom and living room furniture

• Anti-fingerprint finishes

Need Bedroom furniture visit West London Bedrooms, for all your bedroom storage requirements. They provide sumptuous Italian bespoke furniture in a variety of different styles with all the space saving and easy access extras you might require.

THE DETAILS

West London Kitchens

8741 1981

Real kitchens for real families

We supply high quality German, Italian and traditional handmade English bespoke kitchens at family-friendly prices.

Our 2023 range offers all the modern developments in kitchen design, including reduced plinth heights and the TIP-ON touch opening system, together with specialised utility room furniture providing a myriad of clever storage solutions.

Much of our business comes via word-of-mouth recommendations from happy clients. We’re proud of our reputation and our customer service is second to none, for which we were awarded the Best of Houzz Client Satisfaction Award.

our 875mm taller base units

The Modern British Collection

The Modern British kitchen collection is designed and manufactured in England. Their entire range is handmade from premium quality hardwoods, grown in Britain, and their designs include previously unseen (and unique to them) storage solutions.

Not surprising then that this company has achieved a Patent Award for its designs!

Designed by award-winning Architects, their range of kitchen styles are ’different by concept’ and offer truly unique details. Working closely with their clients and their advisors, ‘bespoke design’ can be taken to a new level creating furniture of distinction and individuality.

The collection includes the highly individual O’45 Kitchen that provides unique storage solutions by creating unique geometric solutions. The frame is available in a choice of hardwoods including an English Woodlands series. Their signature door and drawer frontals are available in either natural hardwood or a painted finish to a colour of your choice. Through clever design drawers are elevated to the status of ‘work centre’, making food preparation less of a stress and more pleasurable.

The Classic collection is the Modern British take on an in-frame ‘Modern Shaker’ style kitchen. It has the same uncompromising attention to detail and commitment to premium grade natural materials. They provide the same wide range of choices on wood types, colours and materials. At only 52mm, the cabinetry has the smallest plinth on the market, leaving more space inside for storage.

The Horizon collection combines contemporary handle less design and sleek lines with handcrafted construction, again in sustainably sourced hardwoods of the highest quality. The modernity of the design is softened by the inclusion of hardwood details that introduce a beautiful touch of nature to the design.

Modern British has recognised the desire to extend the kitchen’s influence across the home. They have designed a collection of loose furniture pieces to complement the kitchen including dining tables and chairs, media centres, display cabinets, console tables, credenzas and a host of other accessories to complement your interior design. This extends to bedroom furniture with the same uncompromising commitment to quality design and construction.

New London Showroom now open at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour. modern-british.com

“The collection includes the highly individual O’45 Kitchen that provides unique storage solutions by creating unique geometric solutions”

London showroom open at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour

MINOTTI LONDON

Minotti London is a modern Italian furniture company; leader in high quality, contemporary indoor and outdoor furniture suitable for both residential and hospitality environments. In the field of contemporary furniture design, Minotti London is an ambassador for a classic-modern lifestyle in the residential and commercial sector.

Minotti’s designs and philosophies are embraced by interior design and architecture professionals who collaborate with us on London’s luxury property and design scene, as well as private clients. Projects are unique and our client’s passion is evident in the diverse palette of projects completed in collaboration with Minotti London.

Central to the Minotti identity is an unwavering commitment to “100% Made in Italy” concept, which combines tradition and innovation. The skills of talented artisans are employed together with the latest modern technologies, balancing industrial precision with sensitivity and eye for detail. This high degree of know-how is constantly improving by exploring materials and technological solutions to enhance every impeccable detail. The commitment to excellence involves everyone within the company and continues in our dedication to client service.

Minotti London recognises the diverse needs of interior designers, architects and private clients. We recommend a personal meeting with our team to learn more about the many technical, design and logistical services additions alongside a selection of the pieces that make up the complete collection.

Following twenty years of successful collaboration between the Summerhill and Minotti families in London, the Minotti London showroom opened in February 2009 in the culturally rich West End of London. Recently extended in 2016 to include a second floor, the

elegantly designed Margaret Street space showcases Minotti’s most recent collections, alongside pivotal pieces from two decades of collections coordinated by Rodolfo Dordoni.

Minotti offer the same high level of service to all clients, whether purchasing a single piece or fitting out an entire property, private or commercial. Our aim is to form long lasting relationships that ensure we understand your requirements to the smallest detail. Minotti offer a complete bespoke service. Our team are all fully trained interior designers and understand the needs of private clients and architects alike.

Minotti Italy has an outstanding creative team, Minotti studio, who rely on highly diversified professional skills: product engineering, selection of new fabrics, photographic set, graphic design, communications and styling specialists. A creative department where ideas are conceived, developed and shaped to make projects, catering to a lifestyle philosophy synonymous with luxury, become reality. Each interior design project, residential project, hospitality and commercial furniture project is unique.

minottilondon.com

Summer has passed and Autumn is upon us so it’s a great time to hunker down and update your home. It’s important to find the right design, colour and material for your bathroom tiles and with this in mind, Senior Designer Jo Sangster from bathroom design specialists Ripples has provided her insight into the latest tiles trends for the upcoming season.

Tile trends in the bathroom this season

in your family bathroom. For a more subtle way of embracing the trend, choose a white or grey hexagon tile and add interest by positioning the tiles in an asymmetric layout.

MARVELLOUS MARBLE

THE DETAILS

26 England’s Lane, Belsize Park, London NW3 4TG. Tel: 020 7449 9594.

For more design inspiration, head to ripplesbathrooms.com and download their free Style Guide

THINK PINK

Pink is the perfect accent shade as it complements an array of other colours and adds a sense of fun to your scheme. Clay hues are a popular base colour for neutral bathrooms as its warming characteristics create a welcoming atmosphere, pairing well with black, grey and white. Blush pink tiles exploded onto the interiors scene a few years ago and continue to be a firm favourite amongst style lovers. Whatever shape you go for; metro, mosaic or hexagon, pink tiles will be a winning look for years to come.

SOFT WOOD

Imagine that slice of zen experienced in a relaxing bathroom in an exotic location, featuring natural textures and a relaxing spa bath. Recreate the same look in your own home with wood-effect tiles paired with muted lighting and earthy neutral tones. Wood effect tiles are so versatile when it comes to layout; horizontal, vertical, parquet - you can’t go wrong. Opting for a porcelain tile will make your life easier as they are highly resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture...perfect for creating your very own ‘spathroom!’

HEXAGON HAPPY

We’ve been in love with hexagon tiles for a while now but over the last few months we’ve noticed an array of exciting new colours appearing so you can have fun and be bold with this geometric tile choice. Why not impress your guests with a stand-out splashback in your cloakroom or mix and match patterns to create a striking colour clash

This timeless material is seeing a huge resurgence in bathroom design, being used to create a sleek hotel-inspired look within the home. Grey marble is a classic choice, whilst warmer-toned veining is growing in popularity as it helps balance this typically cool material. If you don’t opt for the real thing, you can achieve the look and feel of marble with stunning porcelain and ceramic alternatives. Pair with special finish brassware in brushed brass or gold to create a luxe look.

EMBRACING NATURE

We’re seeing a huge trend for tiles inspired by nature, from dainty ditsy prints to bold botanicals and everything in-between. Tropical prints work wonderfully in cloakrooms as they are a fun talking point for any visiting guests. Opt for larger formats for your nature-inspired tiles as they not only look beautiful but also reduce grout lines making for easier cleaning and maintenance.

HODKIN & JONES The Finest Quality

Founded in 1868, Hodkin & Jones have been the specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of high quality, fibrous plaster mouldings for over 150 years.

The Hodkin & Jones range of mouldings offers one of the most comprehensive selections of fibrous plaster covings available. With traditional elegant cornices from Georgian, Victorian, Gothic, Regency and Art Deco periods right through to popular modern day contemporary stepped cornices.

Popular in many of their residential, retail and commercial projects, Hodkin and Jones are able to produce cornices that can incorporate modern LED uplighting, creating a discreet glow and enhancing a room’s ambience.

“Involving a specialist supplier like Hodkin & Jones, from the very beginning of a project helps to ensure the smooth running of an operation”

Other plaster products in the range include decorative ceiling and wall panels, centre pieces, door surrounds, fire surrounds, arches and columns, all of which are delicately handmade by their dedicated and highly skilled craftsmen.

The Hodkin & Jones contemporary cornices range reflects current market trends with their minimalist, geometric, flat design and they are suitable for any size modern renovation. Although modern in design, the contemporary covings are still designed and manufactured in house with the same high quality finish as the traditional range.

Often Architects and Interior Designers create designs not available from standard ranges, which is where Hodkin & Jones can offer a bespoke service. From drawings they are able to manufacture mouldings to exact dimensions specified, whether it is a bespoke ceiling design to create a grand space or a cornice specific to the particular project they are working on.

Restoration of Listed buildings and historical properties is also a speciality of Hodkin & Jones with many buildings requiring surveys and needing existing mouldings to be exactly matched where they can’t be repaired. Hodkin & Jones can match any plaster moulding no matter how complicated the design is, mouldings are then reproduced and installed by their team of fixers, all of which is overseen by a dedicated contracts manager.

Hodkin & Jones have a broad project portfolio that includes 10 Downing Street, Harrods Knightsbridge, the Royal Armoury, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the o2 arena to name but a few. Involving a specialist supplier like Hodkin & Jones, from the very beginning of a project helps to ensure the smooth running of an operation while providing cost and time benefits.

Hodkin & Jones undertake projects both nationwide and overseas with installers working on a daily basis in London and the surrounding counties. By using their installation service you can be assured that products will be fitted correctly with an exquisite finish, maximising the plaster mouldings longevity. The company also have their own transport department to ensure all products are delivered safely and on time.

For clients looking for a fast turnaround Hodkin & Jones also have a large quantity of cornice and mouldings in stock, ready for delivery or collection. Their standard range of mouldings are available to view and purchase on their website.

Get in touch

For more information, visit the company’s website on hodkinandjones.co.uk

For a free hard copy of the brochure or to discuss your project requirements, call the technical sales team on 01246 290890 or email info@hodkin-jones.co.uk.

“Hodkin and Jones are able to produce cornices that can incorporate modern LED uplighting, creating a discreet glow and enhancing a room’s ambience”

Bespoke, British staircases designed and built in the UK

Stairs in many homes are nondescript and as long as they are functional, they attract little attention. But a staircase can be so much more, according to Richard McLane, Design Director at Bisca, who create bespoke staircases for residential and commercial properties across the UK.

“Commissioning a bespoke staircase enables you to create an original design to your brief. For a complicated project it is always best to consult a specialist in the field before building work begins. As well as offering expert knowledge on structural and building regulations a specialist will be involved in every process from design through build to installation. A unique staircase solution designed in empathy with the fabric of the building will always look better than a kit or modular staircase.”

Bisca designs and manufactures bespoke staircases, balustrades and other architectural features in timber, stone, metal, and glass. There is no standard, off-the-shelf option, each staircase

is a ‘one-off’, designed, built and installed by the in-house team. All components are individually specified for each project, and where possible, sourced locally.

Set up by time-served blacksmith Richard McLane over 25 years ago Bisca has progressed from one man and his paper sketches to a design studio with the latest design technology, a traditional forge and cutting-edge machinery, employing a team of 21 people.

One of the fundamentals of Bisca is the relationship between the workshop and the design studio. Respecting one another’s discipline allows each artisan to work to their full potential and achieve the highest quality of finish - their experience is an important element when it comes to executing the designs. All Bisca’s craftspeople are multi-skilled; competent in metalwork, cabinetmaking, blacksmithing, welding, and leather stitching, marrying century-old skills with modern technology in the creation of a commission. bisca.co.uk 01439 771702.

“A staircase should first and foremost get you from one floor to another in comfort - but with the right design and materials it can be a thing of real beauty”

A Deeper Dive on Design with Kendal Schutt; S C H U T T

a striking and strong chair, you feel very safe and comfortable the way it caresses you. The braided legs modelled after tree roots…It is the very chair

I sit in every morning to read, journal and meditate in. The turquoise colour is a reminder of my first job in design, the showroom I worked in, had this colour everywhere and it is a reminder to always be grateful and work hard. Chairs are my favourite piece of furniture, they convey such character in the room.

What is your work space like?

I work best from home, in a very simple space…I don’t like a maximal decorated room, it makes me feel like I can’t think. Not that I favour minimalism either but I think and create best on a plain (and beautifully done) wooden desk, a pencil and a blank sheet of paper.

Do you have any quotes or words to live by?

What made you first go into design?

I’ve always been into design. It is constantly evolving and is blended and aligned so well you don’t even realize it’s a part of your everyday life.

How do you get inspired?

Ideas come from everywhere, like my son Braden, his art for example I really love the colour palette he uses, I also find jewellery, nature, and fashion very inspiring.

Can you touch on the history and thought process behind your latest collection? Why Chairs?

Yes of course, first off these pieces will always hold a special spot in my heart as well as my design career. The Tulip for example comes from my multicultural background and love for the flower, the perfect symmetrical beauty and the journey itself. It was my very first design and that is why It is a limited edition piece. The Rose, of course modelled after the flower…you know they actually give off a vibration, a very positive high frequency (the flower with the highest vibration actually). So not only are they incredibly beautiful but also beautiful for the soul, they are a reminder that we are constantly growing, and evolving. The knot is

Yes quite a lot haha! A quick couple that really hit home for me were to “think outside of the box” and “take risks”… that “what if” throws me off balance so much I would rather try and fail then not try and have it in my mind forever just wondering — because you don’t know, what you don’t know… plus every time you “fail” you’re actually learning and making yourself better for the next time.

What is something you’re working on personally?

I can be shy especially when having to speak in front of an audience, I am working on overcoming that fear.

What is the best part of your job?

Watching everything come together, and learning from colleagues, clients, and the artisans and craftsman. When you see something all the way through the initial sketch to the finished product you learn so much, gain an even deeper respect for the craft and it sparks your creativity even more.

What is your dream project?

I would love to design a tea room, the interior all the way down to the table top. It incorporates all my favourite things! schuttdesigns.com

Intellicasa is a residential and commercial automation company based in London, UK. Operating since 2006, the company is specialized in the design, installation, integration, and maintenance of smart systems. Intelligent, and sophisticated electronics allow to control all the different devices and functionalities through a single interface, and ultimately making their customers’ lives easier. Smart systems are gaining traction as they represent a valuable solution for reducing buildings’ carbon emissions and eliminating energy waste. intellicasa.co.uk

WINDOWS & DOORS

A FRESH NEW LOOK

This stunning Victorian stained glass effect film for doors is based on an actual period stained glass design. To order, just enter the size of your glass pane(s) and our designers will resize the design to suit. The resulting film is very easy to apply in minutes. This Art Deco stained glass effect film is also fabulous for windows, to create a fresh new look. purlfrost.com

STYLISH SASH

Our windows are made from Scandinavian kiln-dried redwood, which is strong and robust. Sash windows are made of moveable panels, also known as sashes, that sit within a frame.

FEEL UNIQUE

Q Glass International prides itself on delivery carefully planned projects with outstanding results. The international glazing specialists work with clients from across the globe to create incredible residential and commercial buildings that have a luxurious feel.

iqglassinternational.com

BEE BEAUTIFUL

Brass bee’s unique door knockers are all cast from either solid Brass or iron and then polished to give the door knocker the perfect finish to suit any style of house. brassbee.co.uk

WE LOVE

These tall and handsome vintage double doors with old creamcoloured paint, recently salvaged and reclaimed from Rajasthan in North-East India. scaramangashop.co.uk

A BEAUTIFUL WOODEN FLOOR FOR LIFE

The surface you walk on provides the backbone of an interior scheme. Get it right and it will make a dramatic difference to the overall feel of a room. Wood flooring is a wonderful option as it introduces colour, texture, pattern and character. It’s easy to live with being practical, hardwearing and a cinch to maintain. There are endless design options too.

“Wood flooring is brilliant for bringing a scheme together,” says Peter Keane, Director of The Natural Wood Floor Company. “Dark floors create a luxurious look, while rustic floors with lots of knots enhance a casual, country scheme. Rich colours will add warmth, while pale colours will go with just about anything and introduce plenty of light into a room.”

The grade of wood will also create a different look. Prime grades have minimal knots and colour variation, so create a contemporary feel. Natural grades have more feature marks so lend themselves to more traditional looks. “Don’t be constrained by this though,” Peter advises. “A rustic board with plenty of knots, shakes and detailing can soften modern schemes.”

When it comes to the latest trends, darker hues are gaining in popularity. “Although there will always be a demand for light wooden floors, darker shades are about to step into the limelight and have their moment. The dark rich shades found in our Smoky Mountain and Baked Oak flooring introduce a glamorous, dramatic look and can’t fail

to get noticed.”

Parquet blocks have been back in fashion for a while, but couldn’t be hotter right now. The combination of colour, wood detailing and pattern makes for a real statement floor. For an up-todate look go large with 600 mm sized blocks. Alternatively, aged blocks are great for adding extra character as they look like reclaimed blocks but can be used with underfloor heating.

It always pays to buy a good quality floor from a reputable supplier, as the right wooden floor will improve your property, add to its value and last for years. The Natural Wood Floor Company manufacture most of the floors they sell and are also valued for their expertise. The full flooring collection can be viewed on large display boards at their Wandsworth showroom or on their new-look website.

THE DETAILS

The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG. 020 8871 9771. naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

LOVE THE HOUSE, BUT HATE THE WINDOWS?

Owner of Privett, Surrey & London based boutique timber window company, Andrius Valatka, thinks that the right solution can depend on more than just your budget:

“If you are being shown round a traditional property by an enterprising estate agent, they will often reel off a list of a period features that they think will help you fall in love with the house and help them get their commission. You will hear “original fireplace, cornice, original beams, banisters, authentic panelled doors”, each enunciated with vocal tones usually associated with TV adverts. But the agent’s piece de resistance “original timber windows”, is often delivered with a verbal flourish”

“Of course” Andrius smiles, “there are many Georgian properties with fine original windows intact, but more common are Victorian and Edwardian houses with ill-fitting casements and rattling sash windows well past their prime, and 20s and 30s steel windows with more rust than metal”.

“And it’s no wonder”, he explains, “why there seem to be ever growing numbers of companies promoting the maintenance and draught-free joys of timber alternative products. But they look out of place on original buildings, negatively impacting the character, look and feel of a period home, not to mention the loss of charm and faithful detailing

of the original timber windows”.

“In the last 15 years”, Andrius tells us, “We have closely worked with some of the country’s most renowned architects and our timber windows have contributed to the beautiful appearance of the finest homes in the capital and in the countryside”

“Therefore”, he says, “when you are looking to replace the windows to restore your home back to its former glory or commissioning a traditional new home – always consider not only the price, but the investment behind architectural integrity, aesthetics and home comfort”.

“Our continuous developments in product design and quality mean that new generation authentic timber windows need minimal maintenance and significantly longer life than cheaper counterparts. Although our timber window collections are made to look most authentic in their designs”, he says, “they are all improved with discrete and hidden technology to bring you not only the beauty of timber, but also warmth, comfort and security to your home”

“The devil is in the detail”, Andrius explains, “carefully designed & correctly fitted timber windows can significantly improve the value of your home”. “Hidden trickle vents, extra slim casements, elegant narrow double-glazed units will help preserve the sensitive character of your period home and add traditional feel to a new build home”.

THE DETAILS

To find our more information or to arrange a design visit with Andrius and the design team, please visit privett-windows.co.uk, call 0208 878 3254 / 01483 901 001 or simply pop in to our Cobham or Richmond showrooms.

At Carpets Clinic we have weavers who have had the skills and techniques passed down generations, imagine how good you would be at something if you had done it every day since the 1900’s.

Even a small repair can increase the life span of a rug by preventing further damage. Small damages will creep into larger damages as time goes on with use. This all happens before your eyes so have one of our experts assess your rugs and examine the condition.

Over the years, your Persian rug will naturally absorb dirt, dust, and allergens from the air that it breathes. This can cause discoloration, dullness, and a general decrease in the quality of your rug. Regular cleaning every 5-7 years is essential for maintaining the beauty of your rug and keeping it in good condition for years to come.

We use professional techniques for cleaning rugs that involve hand washing. Our experts are trained in all aspects of Oriental rug cleaning and repair, so you can be confident that your rug will be treated with the utmost care and attention by our experienced professionals.

Our drivers are available for daily collections in London and the surrounding areas. We also cater to the rest of England including Scotland and Wales with weekly collections.

A more energy-efficient period home with secondary glazing

Anyone who owns a period property will understand the challenges that it can present when it comes to energy efficiency. UK housing stock contains much older properties that have been in almost continual use for centuries. While this adds to the overall attractiveness of the built environment, it does mean that we need to think creatively to find solutions to modern challenges.

How do you improve the energy efficiency of an older property without damaging its aesthetic appeal?

Secondary glazing is a perfect solution for listed properties

If you live in a period property you will understand that many of the techniques often applied to non-listed properties are out of the question. Modern double glazing, which is often used in non-listed properties to reduce the energy loss from windows, cannot be used. However, there is an alternative. Secondary glazing is a sensitive and adaptable solution that can make a real difference.

Storm Windows is a secondary glazing company who specialize creating bespoke secondary glazing for heritage, older and listed buildings that dramatically improve energy efficiency without compromising the aesthetics of the building.

Secondary glazing can also help to reduce the impact of outside noise. By adding an internal layer in the form of secondary glazing to a primary

window, noise from traffic, building works or noisy neighbours will be radically reduced.

Improving the quality of life for the UK’s most famous pensioners

The Royal Chelsea Hospital is home to the UK’s most famous retirees, the Chelsea Pensioners.

Their residence is a centuries-old, listed building that presented considerable challenges when it comes to energy efficiency. Storm were called in to fit bespoke secondary glazing to the resident bedrooms which has made the rooms warmer, quieter and more comfortable for the residents while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of this old building.

Secondary glazing is a practical and attractive solution if you want to make your period property more energy efficient. Storm Windows are heritage property specialists and have extensive experience in enhancing historic buildings whilst maintaining their aesthetic appeal. To find out more about their unique approach and the benefits it can deliver, call 01384 636365 or email sales@stormwindows.co.uk

FABULOUS FLOORS

SUPER STRIPES

WALK ALONG THE BOULEVARD

Our Boulevard floor tiles are a popular choice, made from hardwearing ceramic with a matt finish and available in black and white & beige and grey. They are elegant replica Victorian tiles that are pride of place in many customer kitchens, hallways and bathrooms. And also one of our local bars! directtilewarehouse.com

QUIETLY DOES IT

A floor that doesn’t wake the little ones while you’re sneaking in. A worry-free foundation that survives your parties, family dinners and children chasing dogs (or the other way around?). berryalloc.com

GOING FOR GREY

These large format grey cement effect tiles can transform your home with their effortlessly cool look. When installed with a narrow grout joint they create the illusion of a poured concrete floor which gives an ultra-modern look. londontile.co.uk

Quick-Step is a quality flooring brand produced by UNILIN. On-going research and innovation along with a strong focus on quality have made Quick-Step one of the top players in the flooring industry. The brand, known for its patented glueless Uniclic® installation system, has evolved from being an affordable alternative to wood to a category in its own right, bringing a wide variety of design floors that are swift and easy to install and maintain in every situation. Today, Quick-Step is a global engineered wood, laminate and luxury vinyl flooring brand active in over 100 countries. A true leader in design, innovation and quality. We love this stripy look and the Brushed Oak Brown laminate. quick-step.co.uk

Diane

In her award-winning Mona Lisa

liberates the iconic 16th century Mona Lisa from

In

SHOP:

more

modern