Sandbanks Life September 2025

SANDBANKS LIFE

From September, Brownsea Island transitions gracefully from the high-paced buzz of summer into an enchanting early autumn rhythm. On 14 September, visitors can partake in the serene forest bathing experience, a guided immersion in the island’s woodlands that runs until 28 September, offering a deeply restorative encounter with nature’s stillness.

Seafood & Sounds returns to Poole Quay and the Old Town on Saturday 13th September, promising a vibrant weekend that combines live music, fresh seafood, local crafts, and community spirit. Visitors can enjoy a bustling atmosphere featuring an Oyster Trail, seafood parade, artisan markets, and dozens of musical performances across multiple stages.

The Southampton International Boat Show is the largest event of its kind in the UK, bringing together the very best in boating and watersports in a vibrant, festival-style atmosphere. Taking place on 19-28th September, this year’s packed programme features exciting new attractions, celebrity and special guests, an extended line-up of on- and off-water experiences and live entertainment.

Each Autumn, Bournemouth’s seafront and town centre are transformed into a vibrant playground of creativity, and this year’s Arts by the Sea Festival is set to be one of the most dynamic yet.

From 26th – 28th September, the South West’s largest free celebration of art and culture returns with an ambitious programme of performances, installations, and community events.

LINDA MARGARET, EDITOR

EDITOR LINDA MARGARET

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER

SUB EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER

FASHION

EDITOR LARA ACCISON

DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA WADE

DIGITAL & PROJECT MANAGER CHAMINDA JONES

SOCIAL MEDIA JESSICA PIKE

SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER LOUISA CLOVER

ACCOUNT MANAGERS NICOLA DREW, LISA WESTERMAN, ANITA HILL

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER EMILY SMITH

ACCOUNTS TRACEY HALLS, ANDREE GEORGIOU

DIRECTORS RORY SMITH, PATRICK SMITH

PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

0844 800 8439

{ EVENTS }

The Calendar

26-28 SEPTEMBER

ABOVE

THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER

HALF DAY OLD HARRY ROCKS KAYAK TOUR

A beautiful and iconic kayaking destination, the best way to explore this iconic landmark is from a Kayak. Our location on Middle beach is the ideal location to set off on your adventure to explore Old Harry Rocks which is just a short paddle away. Our paddlesports instructors are highly qualified to look after you on the water and provide you with tales of pirates and smuggling history aswell as sharing their knowledge of wild plants and marine life in the bay. The Hutquarters Middle Beach Car Park Studland Dorset BH19 3AP

Bournemouth Arts by the Sea Festival We’re delighted to welcome you to this year’s Festival, the South West’s biggest free celebration of arts, culture, people and place. This year’s theme is WE ARE HERE – a bold declaration of belonging and identity, celebrating the vibrant diversity and creativity of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. Come and join us for our 15th edition of the festival, where all are welcome and self-expression is encouraged. artsbythesea.co.uk

12-14 SEPTEMBER

Autumn steam gala

We are delighted to announce that our Autumn Steam Gala makes a welcome return this month! Our Steam Galas are the best chance to see our exclusive selection of steam locomotives operating alongside each other on both passenger and freight services, and we are delighted to announce the return of services over the branch extension to the SR/Network Rail Boundary! Station House, Swanage, BH19 1HB

11 OCTOBER

Autumn Market

We have invited a host of Dorset producers, growers and makers to sell their produce on Athelhampton’s West lawn. The market is free to attend and is open to all to allow everyone the chance to purchase the finest products Dorset has to offer. Athelhampton House & Gardens will be open as well (normal admission charges apply). It’s the perfect opportunity to shop for a wide selection of delicious products and artisan crafts. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy a tipple as you shop with local stallholders, producers, and makers - offering tasty food and drink, handmade gifts, and beautiful crafts. There’s plenty to choose from, and the icing on the cake is when you shop at events like this, you get to meet the amazing people who make, bake, brew, farm, grow, cook, milk, preserve, pickle, and serve you with all this local loveliness- many of them award-winning!

Athelhampton House & Gardens, Dorchester DT2 7LG

13-14 SEPTEMBER

Langham & The Sea

From the team behind the award-winning Dorset Seafood Festival comes a brand new, intimate event designed for those who savour the finer things in life. Set in the stunning surrounds of Langham Wine Estate, Langham & The Sea is a weekend of relaxed luxury where exceptional seafood meets world-class English sparkling wine. The Tasting Room, Crawthorne Farm, Crawthorne, Dorchester DT2 7NG

20 SEPTEMBER

KAYAK FISH FORAGE AND FEAST

We’ll be hopping onto our kayaks and paddling out to Old Harry Rocks, a famous spot along the Jurassic coast. We’ll be doing some kayak fishing by towing our hand lines behind us. We’ll explore the majestic stacks and arches of Old Harry’s from the water and even forage for sea vegetables and seaweeds along the shores. Then it’s back to base to share our cooking skills with you. Then, we’ll make our way to a secret feasting spot overlooking the sea for a wild food demo and a delicious 3-course meal made with the ingredients we found. The Hutquarters, Middle Beach Car Park, Studland, Dorset BH19 3AP

13-14 SEPTEMBER

STURMINSTER NEWTON CHEESE FESTIVAL

Enjoy a fun-packed weekend in the heart of the Blackmore Vale where you’ll find delicious goods from local producers, demonstrations, art, craft and children’s activities.

Sturminster Newton Recreation Ground, Sturminster Newton DT10 1BY

16 SEPTEMBER JAWS - 50TH ANNIVERSARY RELEASE

Steven Spielberg’s iconic thriller returns to the big screen, 50 years after it first terrified audiences. Weymouth Pavilion, The Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8ED

20-21 SEPTEMBER

INSIDE OUT ARTS FESTIVAL AT CORFE CASTLE

As part of the Inside Out Dorset arts festival, visit the castle for free. Experience Idiòfona, a large-scale sound installation by Joan Català inviting audiences to find harmony in shared vibration. Discover Consequences, a monumental new giant inspired by the mystery of the Cerne Abbas Giant, and part of the Nature Calling arts project, encouraging everyone to better understand and connect with their local natural landscapes. Corfe Castle, The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ

10 UNMISSABLE REASONS TO VISIT THE SOUTHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

The Southampton International Boat Show is the largest event of its kind in the UK, bringing together the very best in boating and watersports in a vibrant, festival-style atmosphere.

Taking place on 19-28 September, this year’s packed programme features exciting new attractions, celebrity and special guests, an extended line-up of on- and off-water experiences and live entertainment. Here are ten of the very best – all included in the price of your ticket.

1. BOATS, BOATS, BOATS

Europe’s largest purpose-built show marina will host more than 300 exceptional craft, from worldrenowned sailing yachts and powerful motorboats to high-end tenders and chase boats. Don’t miss Thunder Child II – the 22-metre (72ft) high-speed golden craft, named after the fictional torpedo

ram in H.G. Wells’ novel The War of the Worlds. Also, on display is Landing Craft F8, transformed to mark 25 years since the lifting of the ban on gay people serving in the UK Armed Forces – the first time in British history a war vessel has been wrapped in Pride colours.

2. NEW STAGES FOR 2025

This year, The Powerhub, presented by Powerboat & RIB Magazine, will showcase the latest in powerboats, engines, and personal watercraft. It will also host The Cockpit, a brand-new stage, also presented by Powerboat & RIB Magazine, celebrating the very best in speed, innovation, and marine engineering, with performance boating taking centre stage.

For the first time, the Wooden Boat Stage unites the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association, the Boat Building Academy, and Women in Boatbuilding,

showcasing the craft through inspiring talks, live demonstrations, and hands-on workshops.

The Boating Academy is ideal for both newcomers and seasoned boaters, offering expert advice, skill-building sessions, and insider tips from marine professionals.

3. THE SOUNDTRACK TO THE SHOW

Enjoy daily performances from an incredible mix of musicians and entertainers. Highlights on the show’s Shipyard stage, open until 9pm on Saturdays, include BBC Radio 2 presenter Scott Mills, bringing his DJ set to the show on Saturday 20 September, and a sensational Elton John Tribute by Charles Michael Duke, alongside Flash – A Queen Tribute Band performing all the hits on Saturday 27 September.

4. TALKS AND DEMONSTRATIONS FROM INSPIRATIONAL SAILORS AND CELEBRITY SPECIAL GUESTS

Opportunities to hear from the voices shaping the marine world, including record-breaking sailors, ocean conservationists and boating experts, live in The Cockpit, presented by Powerboat & RIB Magazine, The Boating Academy and The Wooden Boat Stage. Hear from sailing legend and Clipper Ventures co-founder Sir Robin Knox-Johnston as he shares his iconic story of adventure, resilience, and survival at sea, Conrad Humphreys, triple round-the-world yachtsman, record breaker Aldo Kane, Nicky Vaux – The Boat Princess, and many more.

5. GET ON/IN THE WATER

Get afloat with paddleboarding, kayaking, and dinghy sailing brought to you by Rockley Watersports. Dive into the Andark Dive Tank to experience scuba diving for the first time or test cutting-edge gear, all under expert supervision. One of the show’s most popular attractions, the Try-a-Boat experience offers the chance to get on the water aboard everything from sleek cruisers to high-performance RIBs, courtesy of FlexiSail, Rockley Watersports, Clipper Ventures, Team Endeavour Racing, and Wetwheels.

6. CALLING ALL FOODIES

The Rustic Chef, Martin Dawkins, will be serving up delicious daily demonstrations on the Chefs Ahoy stage, showing clever ways to cook onboard – no matter your galley setup.

For hungry foodies, the event features a vibrant mini food festival offering a diverse range of cuisines, including Three Cuts Burgers, Baozi, Duck Shed, Chicken and Blues, and more. And to wash it all down, the Guinness Bar, sponsored by

HSB Technical Ltd, will keep your drinks topped up and spirits high throughout the day.

7. LOOK TO THE SKIES!

Don’t miss the thrilling flypast by two Spitfires during the opening weekend on Saturday 20 September, to mark both the 80th anniversary of VE Day and the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

8. ADRENALINE-FUELLED WATERSIDE ENTERTAINMENT

Located in the show’s marina, the On-The-Water Stage serves up high-octane entertainment, from jaw-dropping jet ski stunts to fastpaced water displays. Expect adrenaline-fuelled action from Jack Moule, Jetsurf, and Team Endeavour Racing, guaranteed to thrill.

9. YOUR ONE-STOP MARINE SHOP

The show features 600+ marine brands, from sleek yachts to cutting edge powerboats on the water and landside exhibitors showcasing the height of maritime technology, chandlery, performance clothing, and accessories.

10. KIDS GO FREE

Make it a family day out – children aged 15 and under get complimentary entry with a paying adult. With plenty of interactive zones, watersports, and child-friendly demonstrations, the show offers a fantastic way to ignite a love of boating and the sea in visitors of all ages.

Book your tickets to the Southampton International Boat Show now and secure your spot at the UK’s biggest celebration of boating and watersports: southamptonboatshow.com

SEAFOOD & SOUNDS

POOLE QUAY AND THE OLD TOWN, 13-14 SEPTEMBER 2025

Seafood & Sounds returns to Poole Quay and the Old Town on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September 2025, promising a vibrant weekend that combines live music, fresh seafood, local crafts, and community spirit. From 11am to 5pm each day, visitors can enjoy a bustling atmosphere featuring an Oyster Trail, seafood parade, artisan markets, and dozens of musical performances across multiple stages.

The festivities begin with a colourful seafood-themed parade led by children dressed in costume, starting at the Slug & Lettuce and winding down to Poole Quay at around 11am on Saturday. Local kids participate enthusiastically, and there’s a fun fancy dress competition with prizes, drawing applause from families and onlookers.

Once the parade wraps up, the heart of the event sets in: 24 live acts performing across five daytime stages – Fish Shambles, The Poole Arms, Sea Sculpture, Customs House, and outside Poole Museum, with music ranging from folk, shanties, instrumental sets, jazz, and local artists. These performances run continuously from 11:30 am to afternoon, offering something for all musical tastes.

For visitors seeking evening entertainment, participating pubs and restaurants such as The Angel, Hotel Du Vin, The Customs House, Harry Paye, The Lord Nelson, and The Blue Boar offer live music into the night, extending the atmosphere and allowing patrons to sample specialty seafood dishes crafted just for the festival.

Seafood lovers will enjoy more than performances. There’s a dedicated Fisherman’s Market on Poole Quay selling daily fresh catches, plus an expanded Artisan & Craft Market relocated to Scaplen’s Court, showcasing local produce and handmade goods. Demonstrations and stalls will offer insight into regional fishing and cooking

traditions.

Families can take part in the playful Oyster Trail, an oyster shell treasure hunt. By collecting decorated shells bearing letters from various venues (pubs, shops, and along the quay), participants piece together a fishy phrase to enter a prize draw, with winners announced on Monday.

The weekend also enhances the sense of community by supporting Forest Holme Hospice through a grand raffle, where 20% of the proceeds go to charity and the remainder fuels future events. This charitable element alongside sponsorship from The Dolphin Centre and Poole BID adds a meaningful layer to the festival’s atmosphere.

Seafood & Sounds 2025 is a celebration of Poole’s maritime heritage and community vitality, offering music, seafood, family entertainment, local trades, and charitable support in a two-day festival that highlights the best of Dorset’s coastal town. seafoodandsounds.co.uk

THE BOAT CLUB

Welcome to The Boat Club, an exclusive private members club offering a full- service boating experience. Specialising in Membership Boating, Yacht Charter and New Boat Sales in one of the most exclusive waterside playgrounds in the UK, Poole Harbour

The Boat Club is based at the prestigious Parkstone Bay Marina and as a member of the club you can relax and indulge in of all the amenities on offer. Enjoy the splendour and all the pleasure that comes with a luxurious waterside lifestyle, by day explore by boat the idyllic anchorages in the worlds second largest natural harbour, paddleboard at sunrise, cruise to the beautiful bays and golden sandy beaches of Sandbanks and travel beyond to the Jurassic Coast where you will find some of the finest anchorages and clear waters in the U.K. As the sun sets attend glamorous gatherings, glorious events and more with The Boat Clubs luxury lifestyle partners: Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, Savills Canford Cliffs, Poole Audi, Midas Prosecco and Bang and Olufsen to name but a few.

THE BOAT CLUB MEMBERSHIP

Over the past decade The Boat Club has been at the helm as the leader in membership boating.

The Boat Club’s exclusive membership gives you access to the largest and most luxurious range of privately owned, premium boats in the UK & Europe. Enjoy endless possibilities and all the benefits of accessing an exciting selection of 30 of the finest day boats and motor cruisers. Benefit from a variety of different lengths and models with a shared spirit for performance safety and exclusive style all expressing the soul of The Boat Club.

Designed to take membership boating to the next level in luxury, choose from carefully curated membership options, designed with every level of boater in mind, catering for individuals, couples, families and businesses of all boating skill levels.

The Boat Clubs dedicated and specialist team maintain the boats to the highest standard, all available to book at the touch of a button through The Clubs tailor made members booking app.

Skilled crew and staff are always on-hand to provide you with expert guidance and to ensure your safety as you enjoy the open waters. All you have to do is simply step aboard and enjoy your time on the water, The Boat Club will take care of the rest

Membership grants you access to the exclusive club house, private members deck, marina facilities and gated marina car park. As well as a complimentary induction day, full insurance, maintenance,

servicing and washdown service.

Get underway for a one off joining fee of £7,500 and fixed monthly fee of £395 (2025 pricing).

TRAINING

There is nothing quite like a day out on the water and The Boat Club’s aim is to make your experience as safe and as enjoyable as possible.

All members are trained to RYA Powerboat Level II with the clubs RYA training centre, Harbour Sea School.

Whether taking your first step aboard or progressing to a larger more capable boat, The Boat Club is there to guide you towards safe and responsible boating, making sure you feel confident and ready to enjoy your time on the water

NEW BOAT SALES

Buying a boat is the ultimate adventure and with the support, guidance and knowledge of The Boat Club’s specialist team they will be by you side every step of the way.

The Boat Club are the proud exclusive distributer for award winning yacht brands, De Antonio Yachts and Invitus Yachts for the UK and Channel Islands

CHARTER

The most luxurious times begin when you step on board a yacht and whatever the occasion, celebrate it in style with The Boat Club’s exclusive Charter Division. The clubs knowledgeable charter team will tailor your charter experience to meet your requirements, working with you to create the ultimate day.

Membership isn’t compulsory to enjoy The Boat Club’s charter fleet but members do enjoy exclusive discounts on charter rates throughout the season.

LOCATION

Based at Parkstone Bay Marina The Boat Club is a haven for social

activities. Beyond The Club’s premier boating services, enjoy the members-only clubhouse, complimentary members bar and private deck with its Mediterranean beach club vibe: outdoor lounging spaces adorned with olive trees and large rattan sofas with nautical blue and white striped cushions.

Additionally, The Boat Club hosts a variety of events throughout the year with their luxury lifestyle partners, enjoy private parties on The Club’s private deck, long lunches at The Hut on the Isle of White, pamper days in the New Forest at Chewton Glen Spa, personal chauffeur service with Poole Audi and more.

With exclusive access to a busy year round social calendar there is something for everyone.

With a timeless combination of comfort and style the club continually strives to create an atmosphere that is unforgettable. For further information contact The Boat Club.

E:info@theboatclub.com T: 01202 724 912 W: theboatclub.com

Christmas at the restaurant 2 COURSES £50 • 3 COURSES £65

MAIN COURSE ONLY £35

Lunch & dinner from Tuesday 18th Nov-24th December

ON ARRIVAL:

Amuse Bouche Maison -Selection of homemade canapes

STARTERS

Tarte fine, Crab and scallops tartlet watercress cream sauce

Duet of monkfish ceviche and Brownsea Island oyster, lime and ginger salsa GF DF

Perigord Venison and Juniper Terrine, spiced chutney GF Tartiflette, Potatoes, onion marmalade and mushrooms glazed with Reblochon GF V

Homemade lightly spicy Crab bisque, with rouille & croutons DF

MAIN COURSES

Turbot goujons in Tempura, pineapple, mango, plum and sweet chili dip GF DF

Half Poole Bay lobster grilled with Normandy butter

Roasted rolled New Forest Turkey breast and Leg

Foie gras and Black truffle sauce, roasted cranberries GF Halibut supreme in a creamy lobster, crayfish & garlic butter sauce GF

Butternut squash, asparagus, mushroom and spinach Pie topped with homemade mash potatoes, Stilton glaze V

Dry Aged Beef Fillet with peppercorn sauce

Or As a Surf and Turf - Add half lobster (Supp £30)

DESSERTS

ST Trop’ Signature Christmas chocolate Moelleux, Clotted cream ice cream

Traditional Christmas Pudding flambéed with Calvados, Vanilla sauce

Tarte Tatin with Salted caramel ice cream

Matured French Cheeses with celery, grapes & biscuits

-or £8 per portion as an extra course

Crepe Suzette flambeed with Grand Marnier

Selection of Barista coffees and Bellevue London Teas

The menu includes canapes, bread, butter and olives, side orders and coffees

Pre order required for 8 guests or more

Christmas parties at the St Tropez Club FESTIVE BUFFETS

3 high street Poole BH151AB

From 18th November-24th December

Lunch and dinner Tuesday-Sunday

SAMPLE MENU

Charcuterie board, gherkins and French Baguette

Homemade quiche Lorraine

Tempura lemon sole goujons, tartar Sauce, French fries GF DF Pork, turkey and cranberry Pie

Mature French Cheeses, chutney, celery, grapes and biscuits GF Mini Camembert Burgers

Chocolate and praline mousse

Christmas pudding and custard

More gluten free and dairy free options are available from our website: www.st-tropez-lounge.uk/ buffets-platters-canapes-hampers-menu £30pp for 8 items, minimum 8 guests

PRIVATE PARTIES

The Club can be booked privately at no extra cost for a minimum of 12 guests And a maximum of 28 guests

You are welcome to bring in your own music or entertainment, Christmas decorations, crackers and poppers.

DRINKS PACKAGE:

3 DRINKS PER PERSON £25.00

5 DRINKS PER PERSON £40.00

Choose from: Draft beer: Premium lager Birra Murano, IPA Grand Central. Wine selection: 250ml of Sauvignon Blanc, Provence rose or Merlot. Cocktails: Aperol Spritz, Mojito and Espresso Martini

Happy hour EVERY Friday from 5pm

Selection of cocktails £10, Gourmet Burgers £12

Bottomless Midas Prosecco £30pp

We can organise playlists, DJ’s, magic shows and much more

ANTHONY LAWRENCE: A RETROSPECTIVE

The first major UK retrospective of prominent post-modern artist Anthony Lawrence (1951-2022) will open at The Palais des Vaches Art Gallery in Exbury this October. Featuring over 150 works of art, the exhibition includes many unseen works created by Lawrence at his family home in Tiptoe, and meticulously catalogued by his family. The work spans over five decades of the artist’s prolific career, showcasing the full spectrum of Lawrence’s diverse oeuvre, which includes still life, portraiture, landscape, and religious iconography.

A renowned portrait painter, notable sitters included Yehudi Menuhin, Sir Ian McKellen and Seamus Heaney, a friend who also titled a number of Lawrence’s paintings. Lawrence’s 1992 portrait of Nigel Mansell is in the permanent collection at the National Motor Museum.

A significant part of Lawrence’s work was his landscape painting, particularly his Desert series, inspired by his time in Saudi Arabia. These expressionistic depictions of dunes and floodlit palm trees, so different from his home in the New Forest, are a testament to his versatility. Art historian Susan Gray highlighted parallels between Lawrence’s work and Van Gogh, noting the “expressionistic, deeply outlined rendering” of the landscape.

Lawrence’s work often drew on classical antiquity, religion, and literary themes. His long-standing fascination with Dante’s Inferno resulted in over forty paintings, while his series on Wagner’s Tannhäuser saw him return to etching, a medium he hadn’t used since his student days.

The exhibition also features monumental religious works like The Last Supper and The Stations of the Cross. In the latter, Lawrence’s commitment to technique shines through, with careful, post-modern framing of the cross in each dramatic and colourful image.

The stunning exhibition will be mounted at The Palais des Vaches, a beautifully renovated gallery situated close to the world-famous Exbury Gardens. The gallery hosts local and award-winning national artists with exhibitions running throughout the year.

The show, jointly mounted by gallery owners Nicholas and Caroline de Rothschild and the Lawrence family, will be at The Palais des Vaches from 4th to 31st October.

Admission is free. Open Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4pm. Visit palaisdesvaches.co.uk or follow us on social media @palaisdesvaches

Fine Dining with Purpose and Celebration at RICK STEIN SANDBANKS

Perched on the golden edge of Poole Harbour, Rick Stein Sandbanks is a jewel in Dorset’s dining scene, bringing the acclaimed chef’s signature seafood to one of the South Coast’s most exclusive locations. With sweeping views of the water and an interior designed for relaxed elegance, the restaurant has become a go-to destination for those seeking both exceptional food and a refined atmosphere. It is here, this autumn, that two very special events will unfold.

On Friday 26 September 2025, the elegant seaside ambience of Rick Stein Sandbanks transforms into the setting for a heartwarming Charity Supper in support of the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation. Guests are invited to enjoy a beautifully curated three-course meal, paired with a welcome drink and a sense of purpose. Priced at £45 per person, including a generous donation to the Foundation, this evening promises a blend of gourmet fare and compassionate giving, all against the backdrop of Poole Harbour’s serene waters.

Then, as the calendar turns to Thursday 9 October, the restaurant shifts from benevolent indulgence to celebratory elegance with Jack and Charlie’s Wine Dinner. This special £120 per person event marks the 50th anniversary of The Seafood Restaurant, channeling five decades of culinary heritage into a memorable evening

“These two events, separated by just a few days yet distinct in tone, offer something special for every type of guest”

of food, wine, and storytelling. Guests will be welcomed with a glass of Rick Stein’s Blanc de Blancs – poured from the newly designed 50th-anniversary bottle by Kate Stein, and seated in communal style. Over the course of five courses, diners will savour Jack Stein’s most beloved seafood classics paired with handpicked wines from Charlie’s list, featuring highlights like Sancerre, Soave Classico, Planeta Chardonnay, and Quinta de la Rosa Port – each representing a taste of the restaurant’s evolution since 1975.

These two events, separated by just a few days yet distinct in tone, offer something special for every type of guest. The Charity Supper invites diners to share in culinary excellence with a philanthropic heart, while the Wine Dinner mixes nostalgia, theatricality, and gastronomic artistry in a festive celebration of a family legacy.

Together, they reflect what Rick Stein Sandbanks does best: serving food that brings people together, whether in the spirit of generosity or celebration. For lovers of fine dining, this corner of Dorset offers not only exquisite seafood but also meaningful experiences that linger long after the last glass is raised.

Find more details and booking information at: rickstein.com

Canford Cliffs for sale with Hearnes

Canford Cliffs is well known for being one of the premier locations on the South Coast. It is well served by schooling in both the private and public sectors and is close by to the fabulous sandy beaches that the area is famous for, fantastic golf courses and various marinas. The gardens of Compton Acres are a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a tranquil wander. The BCP area has an array of leisure facilities as well as many superb restaurants, bars, coffee shops and churches of all denominations. This spacious home in Lawrence Drive offers a splendid private setting on approximately half an acre plot, and has only had two owners since new. It has been well maintained yet offers potential for personalisation and extension if so desired. It is currently vacant and available for immediate occupation. The accommodation currently includes a spectacular staircase leading to the principal landing and the luxurious master suite with two walk-in dressing rooms and a generous en suite five piece bathroom, while a second staircase connects the three further bedrooms, and three further bathrooms. There are three reception rooms an impressive entrance hall, a large fully fitted kitchen/day room plus a utility area. The plot features landscaped gardens on all sides, a long driveway with roundabout turning, and extensive parking leading to the detached triple garage. The rear garden includes a large, flagstone split-level sun terrace with attractive brick detailing, a level lawn, and a variety

of flowering plants, shrubs, and trees. Must be seen to be fully appreciated. Keys. Vacant. Freehold Price £2,350,000. Ring Hearnes in Poole on (01202) 377377 or email poole@hearnes.com for brochure or to arrange a viewing.

CANFORD CLIFFS | £1,650,000

NEW INSTRUCTON. SOLE AGENTS. A truly special 3 double bedroom ground floor apartment of 2178 square feet (plus double garage) with breathtaking panoramic sea views and beautiful gardens; less than a 400 metre walk to the promenade of Branksome Chine Beach. The versatile accommodation includes a generous lounge with sliding doors to the balcony, stylish fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, and sunroom leading to the balcony. All bedrooms are doubles with 2 luxurious ensuite bath/shower rooms plus an additional refitted shower room. The master has a dressing room area and once again enjoys the delightful views over the gardens and out to sea.

CANFORD CLIFFS | £2,350,000

Set in one of the premier roads in Canford Cliffs, this exquisite 4,454 sq. ft. family home was designed and built approximately 38 years ago by a reputable local development firm for their own occupation. The property has been lovingly maintained and thoughtfully updated over the years, ensuring it remains a showcase of quality craftsmanship and timeless design. The property is situated on a secluded plot exceeding half an acre, accessed via a long driveway with electronic gates. It offers privacy, elegance, and stunning architectural features, including the use of ogival arch designs in various doors and the double-height vaulted bay surrounding the main staircase. This spectacular staircase leads to the principal landing and the luxurious master suite, while a second stairway connects the other bedrooms, offering convenience and functionality.

LOWER PARKSTONE | £1,175,000

A delightful and immaculately presented 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom detached family home, built in 2015 and offering a well planned layout with accommodation approaching 2000 sqft, set over 3 floors. This attractive home has an open plan kitchen/dining/day room with doors out to the garden, snug, reception room 2 and utility room. Master bedroom and 2 further bedrooms with a bathroom on the 1st floor and guest suite on the floor. Decorated in neutral tones throughout and modern fittings the home benefits from a fully equipped kitchen with integrated Siemens appliances, luxury bathroom 2nd, fitted plantation shutters and blinds, underfloor heating and set behind electric gates and a low maintenance south and westerly facing garden.

Early Autumn on Brownsea Island

From mid-September, Brownsea Island transitions gracefully from the high-paced buzz of summer into an enchanting early autumn rhythm. On 14 September, visitors can partake in the serene forest bathing experience, a guided immersion in the island’s woodlands that runs until 28 September, offering a deeply restorative encounter with nature’s stillness each morning from 10am-1.30pm.

As the calendar shifts toward late September, a shift in focus emerges from inner calm to outer discovery: beginning 20 September and stretching through to 18 October, the wild wetland bird walk takes flight. Led by Dorset Wildlife Trust experts, these birdwatching sessions at the Brownsea Lagoon, one of England’s top birdwatching spots, happen at 10am, finishing up at 12.30pm and offer a chance to observe cranes of feathers and wings amid migrating flocks.

The island’s late-September scene sweeps you further downward into its dampened soil to explore the intriguing world of fungi.

“Fabulous fungi on Brownsea Island”, held from 27 September to 11 October introduces visitors to the

eclectic ecosystem of mushrooms, toadstools, and fungal wonders growing in the island’s cool undergrowth. 10am - 1pm.

Meanwhile, throughout this entire period, another timeless offering continues: the historical guided walk with cream tea in Brownsea Castle, which runs until 18 November. Visitors wander the castle’s storied corridors and scenic grounds, then pause to sip tea and nibble sweet cream in a stately combination of heritage and hospitality, from early September all the way into mid-autumn. Together, these experiences offer a tapestry of relaxation, wildlife exploration, and heritage immersion. Visitors might begin their day with the meditative breath of forest bathing amid russet leaves, spend mid-morning tracing the graceful arcs of wetland birds, and close with a fungi foray or tea in a castle cloaked by history. Interwoven with the hush of forests and the chatter of birds, these weeks on Brownsea Island invite exploration at a quieter pace, a gentle descent into autumn’s embrace. Whether you’re seeking mindful mornings, family fun, or reflective evenings, it’s an ideal month for a nature-immersed escape. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ brownsea-island

Blandford Fashion Museum

Situated in a historic Georgian townhouse,

The Blandford Fashion Museum offers an overview of three hundred years of fashion history, including the exhibitions:

Changing Times: The 1920s Power Dressing: 1770-1990

Our Sporting Heritage

The Textile Collection of Elisabeth Frink Laura Ashley: From Kitchen Table to Catwalk

We have a traditional Tearoom that offers hot and cold drinks, cream teas and home-made cakes. You can also enjoy refreshments in our courtyard garden. There is a small shop that offers a choice of fashion-related gifts.

OPENING HOURS

Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10am-4pm.

Lime Tree House 11 The Plocks

Blandford Forum DT11 7AA 01258 453006

ARTS BY THE SEA FESTIVAL

26-28 September 2025

Each autumn, Bournemouth’s seafront and town centre are transformed into a vibrant playground of creativity, and this year’s Arts by the Sea Festival is set to be one of the most dynamic yet. From Friday 26 to Sunday 28 September 2025, the South West’s largest free celebration of art and culture returns with an ambitious programme of performances, installations, and community events.

The 2025 theme, “We Are Here,” is a bold proclamation of identity and belonging. It reflects the voices, experiences, and creative energy of the communities across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, reminding audiences that this region is more than a holiday destination – it is a thriving hub of artistic expression and cultural diversity.

Festival-goers can expect to encounter a rich mix of street theatre, live music, immersive installations, and participatory art. Among the standout highlights is Parade by Autin Dance Theatre, a striking twelve-foot moving sculpture carried by five performers, exploring themes of unity and collective journeys. Audiences will also

be treated to the high-energy hip-hop and beatboxing of The Scribes, who bring an interactive edge to the Bandstand, while the playful puppetry of The Vortexes’ Spring-a-lings – two flamboyant floral characters named Buddy and Rustle –promise to surprise and delight crowds throughout the weekend. In total, more than a hundred artists will fill the town with creativity, ensuring that every corner offers a new discovery.

For the first time, the festival extends beyond its central weekend with a Fringe Festival running from 19 September to 5 October. Independent venues including pubs, galleries, theatres, and cafés will host an eclectic mix of theatre, workshops, exhibitions, and performances, providing a platform for grassroots talent and widening the festival’s cultural footprint across the conurbation.

This year also continues the Artist in Residence programme, which offers a unique opportunity for a selected artist to design the festival brochure cover, deliver a commissioned artwork, and lead community workshops, all under the mentorship of celebrated illustrator Rebecca Strickson, last year’s resident artist.

Festival Director Andrea Francis has described Arts by the Sea as an opportunity to “fill Bournemouth with an incredible mix of performances, music, and interactive art, amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.” With its daring theme and expanded scope, the 2025 edition promises to do exactly that – transforming the town into a kaleidoscope of creativity and reaffirming the festival’s role as a beacon for culture on the South Coast. artsbythesea.co.uk

MANOR LIFE BRANKSOME PARK

Enjoy a Warm Welcome This Autumn at Park Manor Care Home.

As the nights draw in, discover the comfort and peace of mind that comes with exceptional care. At Park Manor, you’ll enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, engaging activities, cosy lounges, and good company, all in a beautifully refurbished Victorian home. Every detail is designed with your comfort and well-being in mind.

Whether you’re looking to recharge with a short stay or considering longer-term support, please contact our General Manager, Kim Harding, or pop in at any time to see what makes Park Manor so special.

25% off for the first two months, and prices fixed until March 2027 25% off all respite and short-term stays

Offer valid until 31 October 25. Subject to availability 01202 055134 | parkmanor@manorlife.com | www.manorlife.com

KEW GARDENS TO HOST FLEURS DE VILLES DOWNTON ABBEY EXHIBITION IN CELEBRATION OF NEW FILM

From 22 September 2025 - 1 October 2025

Fleurs de Villes is delighted to announce that Kew Gardens will host the Fleurs de Villes Downton Abbey exhibition, debuting in the UK.

“For the first time ever, global floral sensation Fleurs de Villes brings its world-renowned floral storytelling to Kew Gardens”

The internationally acclaimed fresh floral exhibition celebrates the much-anticipated release of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale which arrives in cinemas 12 September. On display for a limited time, this spectacular floral showcase will take place in a grand indoor marquee set on the lawns next to Kew Palace.

For the first time ever, global floral sensation Fleurs de Villes brings its world-renowned floral storytelling to Kew Gardens. Visitors will be transported into the world of Downton Abbey through an enchanting collection of Fleurs de Villes’ famous fresh floral mannequins inspired by the unforgettable characters and iconic period fashion, including glamorous gowns featured in the highly anticipated film.

Created by London’s talented floral designers, each fresh floral masterpiece will bring Downton Abbey’s timeless style and compelling narratives to life. Whether you’re a devoted Downton fan, a flower enthusiast, or simply in search of a truly memorable day out, Fleurs de Villes Downton Abbey promises a floral experience like no other with beauty, artistry, and storytelling in full bloom.

Beyond the stunning floral mannequins on display, Fleurs de Villes Downton Abbey will feature:

• Live botanical demonstrations and talks from local florists and experts in the JARDIN area, presented by Mastercard

• Afternoon tea in the Orangery at Kew Gardens

• The chance to vote for your favourite mannequin in the popular ‘Fan Favourite’ contest, supporting incredible local floral artists. For further details and to purchase tickets search Downton Abbey on Kew.org

Personalised elegance for the dining table

As the light lowers in the sky and evenings draw in, there’s comfort in gathering around the table – with good food, good wine, and easy conversation. At Farrar & Tanner, we believe the ritual of dining is as much about the atmosphere you create as the dishes you serve.

Our curated collection of wine and dining accessories bring style, substance, and a sense of occasion to your table. From finely cut glassware by Dartington, and Wedgwood Vera Wang, to hand-crafted decanters and corkscrews forged in Italy and France, every piece has been selected for its blend of function and understated elegance.

For wine enthusiasts, the right

accessories make all the difference.

”Our curated collection of wine and dining accessories bring style, substance, and a sense of occasion to your table”

Among our carefully chosen pieces, you can find distinguished brands such as L’Atelier du Vin and Farfalli, whose corkscrews are celebrated by sommeliers worldwide. Their designs honour tradition while meeting your needs as a modern host, essential companions to help you serve with confidence and share with style.

But entertaining involves more than just good wine. To compliment, our selection of cheese boards, carving sets, and presentation pieces are designed to take pride of place. Each is chosen with durability and timeless design in mind, ensuring they become part of your dining tradition year after year.

At Farrar & Tanner, we curate gifts and homeware unique to you. With a focus on UK and European artisans valuing craft and authenticity, every piece can be finished with a bespoke personalisation, creating something truly special to be treasured for years to come. Enjoy the last of the summer light in style. Find pieces made to enrich your table, your conversations, and the memories created around them.

farrar-tanner.co.uk

TWHERE DREAMS TAKE SHAPE: A LAKE, A LEGACY, AND THE RETURN OF BELLINI YACHT

he afternoon sun catches the varnished mahogany hull as it cuts through the crystalline waters of Lake Iseo, leaving barely a ripple in its wake. For a young boy watching from the shore, pressed against the railings of the Bellini Nautica yard, such moments felt like glimpses into another world entirely. Those vintage Rivas, moored like floating sculptures at the pontoons, weren’t just boats—they were promises of adventure, freedom, and an indefinable elegance that would shape a lifetime.

That boy was Oliver Lanza, and those summer afternoons in northern Italy, visiting his family home by the lake, planted the seeds of what would become Sebino Yachts, the UK dealership for the

relaunched Bellini Yacht brand.

Having an Italian father meant summers were spent by Lake Iseo, where being on the water wasn’t just recreation—it was the very essence of summer itself. Whether floating on a lilo, paddling a canoe, or aboard a boat, the water offered something irreplaceable: liberty from the heat, peace from the world, and a front-row seat to some of the most dramatically beautiful scenery in Italy.

The Bellini yard was always a special pilgrimage. Oliver would linger there as long as possible, mesmerised by those jaw-droppingly beautiful vintage Rivas tied to the pontoons, dreaming of what it might be like to set foot on such masterpieces. Bellini Nautica,

having built exquisite mahogany boats in the 1960s, had moved towards sales, restoration, and service after founder Battista Bellini’s passing. His son Romano was incredibly passionate about wooden boats and deeply uncomfortable with the fibreglass material beginning to dominate the industry. Rather than compromise, Romano ceased new boat production, focusing instead on maintaining the many timber boats still gracing the waters.

This meant their yard was always full of the most beautiful craft imaginable—a young boy’s dream, though Oliver didn’t realise he was observing the quiet preservation of a dying art.

In his teenage years, fortune introduced Oliver to Romano’s son, Battista. He spent time in the UK studying, staying with the Lanza family whilst travelling to and from London. What began as hospitality grew into genuine friendship over the years. Battista understood both worlds—the Italian passion for beautiful boats and the British approach to business and seamanship.

By 2024, when Oliver heard that Battista had decided to begin building boats again, he called him immediately. “Do you have a UK dealer?” he asked. The pause that followed was filled with possibility. It was clear that Battista was thrilled to have Oliver on board as the UK dealer for his relaunched Bellini Yacht. The circle was complete—the boy who once pressed his face against the railings of their yard would now be bringing their boats to British waters.

Oliver’s background in marine equipment, working for the family business supplying UK yacht builders and end users, had given him a critical understanding of the yacht market. But beyond the technical knowledge, there was something deeper driving this venture: a deeply ingrained passion and desire to see Bellini Yacht succeed.

Much like the factory itself, Sebino Yachts is a family endeavour. Oliver’s wife Sophie has been instrumental in turning visions into reality, supporting him whilst taking direct involvement in the presentation of the business. Even their two young children have played their part, helping with content and filming! They’re striving to make the process of purchasing and owning a Bellini a very special one. It’s an exclusive club, and every client matters.

Establishing a new dealer with a new product brings inevitable challenges. They’re introducing British boaters to a brand that’s both

historic and entirely fresh. Their marketing budget isn’t infinite, so they invest tremendous energy into every exhibition, display, and event. They also needed to demonstrate that UK buyers could be serviced globally. The network of dealers works exceptionally well together, meaning Oliver can sell to UK clients planning to keep their boat anywhere in the world.

Yachting in the UK is evolving. People want more space onboard rather than outright performance, and the Bellini Yacht range positions itself perfectly for this shift. Generous deck space for entertaining family and friends, class-leading features like large folding balconies that connect owners and guests to the water in unprecedented ways—these boats are designed for making memories.

To Oliver, Bellini Yacht represents an iconic name in the making. It’s rare for a company with their level of pedigree and history to make a comeback. Calling on Brunello Acampora and his team for design, and Norberto Ferretti for his product knowledge, was inspired. The result is the confident and beautifully considered Astor 36—their first boat in this new chapter. Her timeless lines and spacious interior volume create something truly special. A Bellini yacht has presence in any marina. It may not be the biggest or most expensive, but it possesses charm and effortless style by the bucket load.

Standing on the dock at Casa Bellini in Christchurch, watching potential clients experience their first Bellini, Oliver is transported back to those summer afternoons on Lake Iseo. The same sense of wonder, the same recognition of something special, the same understanding that these aren’t just boats—they’re invitations to a different way of being on the water.

In a world increasingly dominated by the mass-produced and the mundane, Bellini Yacht represents something precious: the continuation of craftsmanship, the celebration of heritage, and the promise that some things are worth preserving, no matter how long the journey home.

Casa Bellini is located in Christchurch, Dorset. For more information about Bellini Yacht and Sebino Yachts, visit sebinoyachts.co.uk

AGRIA BLENHEIM

PALACE INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS

From 18 - 21 September 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable experience this year at Blenheim Palace!

Excitement is building for the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship and annual Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials this September. The event is shaping up to be an unmissable standout in the sporting calendar, as nations have begun to release longlists packed with championship talent, with one rider’s historic qualification set to inspire a generation.

Great Britain, reigning European and Olympic team champions, have announced a longlist of 18 exceptional combinations, including Paris 2024 medallists Ros Canter, Tom McEwen and Laura Collett, world champion Yasmin Ingham and current world number one Harry Meade. Germany’s longlist is equally impressive, including multi-time European and Olympic gold medallist Michael Jung, alongside Olympic champion Julia Krajewski, former world champion Sandra Auffarth, Christoph Wahler and rising star Anna Siemer. With France chasing redemption after last year’s team bronze, the stage is set for one of the most fiercely contested Championships in recent history.

Adding to the historic atmosphere at Blenheim, Turkey will be represented for the very first time at a senior European Eventing Championship, with 25-year-old Kumru “Kuki” Say having qualified following her recent result at Baborówko Equestrian Festival CCI4*-L. Based in Germany, Kuki’s qualification marks a major milestone for Turkish equestrian sport and the ever-expanding global reach of eventing.

This year’s Championship at Blenheim offers more than just elite sport, with the Horse Trials acting as a festival for eventing, heritage and entertainment. Alongside the main competition, spectators can enjoy the return of the GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old Class, a proven launchpad for future stars, and the beloved evoke™ Eventer Challenge, offering grassroots riders from Pony Clubs and Riding Clubs the chance to shine on a major stage.

Families can make a weekend of it with camping and glamping options, enjoy children’s entertainment and have the chance to meet YouTube star and author ThisEsme, with eventer and influencer Meg Elphick also confirmed to attend.

Hospitality options are once again proving popular, you can choose one of the luxury picnic spots at the Lakeside Parking area - complete with Fortnum & Mason hampers. Pre-order your picnic and choose from the four Fortnum’s picnics – they will be ready for collection from the Fortnum’s Giant Hamper at The Horse Trials. Or you can indulge in their Exclusive Lodges - experience like never before from your private hospitality pod, perfectly positioned overlooking the iconic Bladon Bridge and famous water crossing. These exclusive lodges provide a front-row seat at one of the year’s most prestigious equestrian events, ideal for corporate gatherings or cherished moments with family and friends. With only eight lodges

available, secure your place now to enjoy the action in exceptional style.

Whether you’re a fan of the sport or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend in the Oxfordshire countryside, Blenheim Palace will deliver something for everyone.

With longlist announcements being made and final team selections due in September, the countdown has begun for one of the biggest events in the countryside and eventing calendar.

About Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is the home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. This National Treasure houses some of the finest antique collections in Europe and boasts over 300 years of history, just waiting to be discovered.

The Palace is a World Heritage Site set in more than 2,000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland. Visitors may tour the array of formal gardens or take the miniature train to the Walled Garden. The estate is not only an iconic part of history, but also a living experience with a wealth of events, themed tours and exhibitions throughout the year.

blenheimpalace.com

For tickets, hospitality and the latest updates, visit bpiht.co.uk

CLARIDGE’S ANNOUNCES NEW CHEF NAMES FOR ‘KITCHEN SUPPER SERIES’ IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE

Agastronomic programme in the heart of Claridge’s kitchen July 2025: Claridge’s, the legendary Mayfair hotel, has announced new chef names for ongoing dining experience in partnership with renowned restaurant bible The Good Food Guide. The Kitchen Supper Series offers diners front row seats and extraordinary culinary theatre at the chef’s table, whilst top chefs featured in The Good Food Guide take over the hallowed Claridge’s kitchen for one night only. The exclusive dinners introduce notable names from the guide, from Scotland to Devon, Cumbria to Wales, celebrating the very best of British dining. This season, new names announced include Merlin Labron-Johnson from Osip in Somerset, which was awarded a Michelin Star in 2021, followed by a Michelin Green Star in 2023, and Paul Ainsworth from Paul Ainsworth at No6 in Cornwall, also awarded a Michelin star in 2013. Both celebrated chefs proudly feature in The Good Food Guide and look forward to taking over Claridge’s pots and pans with their very own menu. The L’Epicerie, the chef’s table overlooking the kitchens, offers up to 14 guests a convivial supper for a culinary night to remember. Commenting on the launch Simon Attridge, Culinary Director at Claridge’s, said, “The L’Epicerie is at the beating heart of the kitchen here at Claridge’s and we are proud to introduce these suppers to showcase the best of culinary talent across the UK. Working alongside the distinguished network of The Good Food Guide, we look forward to exploring alternative

and innovative menus and produce, whilst of course celebrating the timeless tradition of the hotel”.

Adam Hyman, Publisher of the Good Food Guide, said, “Since it launched in 1951, The Good Food Guide has always been about showcasing the best cooking around Britain. After taking ownership of the Guide in 2021, we have hosted a number of events for our readers. We are incredibly excited to collaborate with Claridge’s for the Kitchen Supper Series and bring some of Britain’s best chefs to the heart of Mayfair to cook their food with Simon and his team.” The Kitchen Supper Series allows Londoners and hotel guests alike access to creative menus not usually accessible in London, with top names travelling from across the UK. Tickets are available to book via the Claridge’s website for individual guests or group bookings. Pricing per dinner will vary.

The Kitchen Supper Series Confirmed Line Up:

• Monday 29th September: Merlin Labron-Johnson, Osip (Bruton, Somerset)

• Monday 10th November: Paul Ainsworth, Paul Ainsworth at No6 (Padstow, Cornwall) claridges.co.uk

Focus On… WEDDINGS

Everything you need to create your perfect day

IMAGE: HOUSE OF SAVIN

JOSEPHINE SCOTT LONDON BELLE EPOQUE 2026

Josephine Scott is situated within the iconic Luton Hoo Estate, offering an unparalleled bridal experience. Here, brides can explore the full range of collections alongside perfectly paired accessories, in a setting designed for complete privacy and focus. Every visit is tailored to the individual, creating a truly elevated journey into the world of Josephine Scott. For those unable to visit the atelier, exclusive stockists across the UK provide access to signature designs, ensuring brides nationwide can encounter the same exceptional standard of elegance. When a Josephine Scott bride enters a room, she does more than arrive, she commands it. The Belle Époque 2026 Collection invites the modern bride into a realm where timeless elegance meets daring edge, and glamour is inherent. Inspired by the opulence and optimism of the Belle Époque era, the collection delivers exactly what today’s brides desire, gowns of refinement that refuse to be

ordinary.

Sweeping silks and satins cut with architectural precision. Delicate lace layered over rich fabrics, creating subtle dimension and tactile elegance. Sculptural necklines, audacious trains, and unexpected details that transform each gown into an unforgettable statement. The Josephine Scott bride does not simply wear a gown, she inhabits it, embracing aspiration without intimidation, elegance with impact.

Every design is developed by Josephine herself in the UK, honouring couture artistry while embracing contemporary boldness. The result is beautiful gowns that balance grace with attitude, tradition with modernity. Whether walking an aisle beneath Tuscan skies or sweeping into a grand London ballroom, the Belle Époque 2026 bride is confident, unforgettable, and entirely herself. With Belle Époque 2026, Josephine Scott London presents more than gowns, offering a curated, immersive bridal experience, where every detail is refined, every moment considered, and every bride celebrated.

Showroom Address: Josephine Scott Flagship Showroom, Luton Hoo Estate, The Breach, LU1 3TQ

Email: enquiries@josephinescott.co.uk

Phone: +44 1582 841095

IThe perfect romantic setting in the heart of Essex

magine choosing a venue for your wedding day with a team that knows exactly how to make the magic happen. From your very first enquiry to the special day itself, Hylands Estate in Essex, will be with you every step of the way to turn your dream into a reality.

The award-winning Grade II* listed mansion, Hylands House, is set in 574 acres of landscaped parkland, and is the vision of luxury and opulence. The Banqueting Room provides a stunning backdrop to your wedding ceremony for up to 100 guests, with its 24 carat gold leaf decorations and silk lined walls. The Drawing Room is a remarkable space with its gilded ceiling and stunning marble fireplace and can also hold up to 100 guests. Their beautifully refurbished wedding suites, designed by onsite interior designer Liz Perry, create a unique link to the estate’s historic gardens design by Sir Humphry Repton. The light and airy open space of the Grand Pavilion with its sparkling chandeliers and ivory drapes can welcome up to 300 guests and is perfect for you to decorate in your own unique way.

The grounds and formal gardens within Hylands Estate offer the dream setting for your wedding photos. Enjoy exclusive use of the East Terrace Garden for your confetti photo following your ceremony. Take a stroll into the Pleasure Gardens filled with seasonal flowers, including their famous wisteria, roses and

lily pond.

A new outdoor wedding ceremony garden gives couples the chance to say their vows under the graceful tree canopy of the estate’s woodland.

Hylands Estate is a popular wedding setting for many cultures, and Hylands Estate’s award-winning team is on hand to make sure everything is place for all types of celebration. There are endless opportunities to make your dream reception a reality, accommodating large structures such as Mandaps with sacred fires, Nikkah staging and Chuppahs in the Grand Pavilion.

All this, and only 30 minutes from London! Hylands Estate’s experienced, wedding expert team are there to help with planning your day so visit their website to enquire today.

hylandsestateweddings.co.uk

Romantic Florals

JOSEPHINE STEVENS SPEAKS TO ALANA WATTS, OWNER AND FLORAL DESIGNER OF PETAL AND WILD. THE COMPANY SPECIALISES IN WILD, PRETTY AND ROMANTIC WEDDING FLORAL DESIGN COVERING, LONDON, ESSEX AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Tell me a bit about yourself and your company.

I’ve always been creative and loved the outdoors. As a child I’d spend hours outside in the garden helping my parents prune the roses and plant tulip bulbs. I trained at Italia Conti Academy of theatrical arts and performed in West End shows as a singer/dancer for a number of years. I was frequently sent the most beautiful bouquets during the run from a florist stand outside the theatre on Seven Dials. Once I left the theatre world I struggled to find something that gave me the same passion. By chance a leaflet was popped through my door advertising a floristry course at my local university which caught my attention. I enrolled and am delighted to say it reignited my creative fire and reminded me how much I love working with natural materials. It was totally fate looking out for me and I’ve never looked back.

I created Petal and Wild flowers to appeal to the bride who wants something completely unique and elegant on their wedding day. My style is romantic and natural, like flowers just picked from a country garden. I enjoy working with a loose brief so I can really be creative and design something stunning and enchanting for the big day.

Where do you get inspiration from?

TOP TIPS FOR BRIDES

Let your florist know your budget from the very start. It’s much easier to advise on designs and flowers to achieve the look you are after if we have this information. If you love expensive flowers such as peonies, ask your florist to use them in your bouquet and find a more economical substitute for the table flowers if your budget will not stretch.

Ask your florist to choose flowers that are in season, it doesn’t mean they are necessarily cheaper but means they are better quality and at their best. It will also help to encompass the time year you have chosen to get married in.

Choose a few larger arrangements, rather than lots of smaller vases or jars if you really want to make an impact on your wedding day. Pedestal arrangements and pew ends can be re-used from the ceremony and repositioned in the reception area afterwards to help make the most of your flowers.

SUPPLIERS:

PHOTOGRAPHER:TERRI & LORI

PLANNER:HAYLEY JAYNE WEDDINGS & EVENTS

VENUE:THE RAILWAY BARN

CATERER:GATHER & FEAST EVENTS

CUTLERY/TABLEWARE

HIRE:CMA

I get inspiration from so many sources, including the natural beauty

of the English countryside. Pinterest and Instagram are great online tools too as they give you access to amazing floral designs from around the world.

What is your favourite part of being a wedding florist?

FLORIST:PETAL & WILD

FURNITURE HIRE:ANTHOLOGY VINTAGE HIRE

SILKS:SILK & PURL

MAKEUP:BELLE’S BEAUTY

HAIRPIECE:PS WITH LOVE

DRESS SUPPLIER:TURNER & PENNELL BRIDAL GALLERY

MODEL:JESS BRADSHAW

I love the early morning trips to Covent Garden Flower market shopping for my blooms and the excitement to see what’s new in and what is in season. I also love seeing the bride’s reaction to her flowers on the wedding morning. It’s such a wonderful feeling after months of planning to know you’ve been a part of making someone’s special day look beautiful.

What plans do you have in the future?

More weddings and more beautiful flowers! I’ve got some gorgeous weddings booked for next year at amazing venues, it’s a privilege and I’m very grateful to work with such lovely brides. petalandwild.co.uk; 07976 881505

ICONIC WEDDINGS AT HEDINGHAM CASTLE The Ultimate Fairytale Venue

Nestled amidst the Essex countryside, Hedingham Castle stands as an iconic testament to British history, with a heritage spanning almost 900 years. The 160-acre estate is privately owned and has remained in the same family since it was built in the 12th century by the Earls of Oxford.

Comprising the best preserved Norman Keep in the country; a grand 18th century Georgian House with adjoining Ballroom Marquee; two charming accommodation cottages and magnificent grounds, Hedingham Castle is a stunning and unique venue for wedding celebrations all year round.

Couples choosing to marry on the estate enjoy exclusive use of the venue for the duration of their wedding, and their guests are treated to many spectacular settings throughout the day. “From the minute we arrived on our first visit, we knew it was the right venue for us, not only because it’s absolutely gorgeous, but because the package is so comprehensive, the staff are so thorough, and it’s excellent value for money”, says Gemma and Chris who married at the venue last month.

Ceremonies take place in either the breathtaking Banqueting Hall of the Castle, with its wide double height arch and romantic, candle lit atmosphere, or within the beautiful grounds with views over the tree-lined lake. Drinks receptions, dinner and dancing can then be hosted in the Georgian House and Ballroom Marquee,

for up to 150 guests, or in the Castle itself, for more intimate celebrations of up to 70. Choose from a selection of expert caterers who work closely with couples to create their dream wedding menu and can also offer halal, kosher and fusion cuisine.

For those looking for something a bit different, Hedingham Castle can also provide multi-day celebrations and twilight packages, as well as elopements for those seeking a more intimate start to their marriage. Flexibility is key at Hedingham and the team fully understands the need for weddings to be completely bespoke and personal to each and every couple.

Onsite accommodation includes the one-of-a-kind Royal Chamber honeymoon retreat, situated at the very top of the Castle; the Garden Cottage for 4 guests; and the Medieval Lodge for up to 17.

Wedding Showcase - Sunday 5th October - free tickets available online.

For more information, visit hedinghamcastle.co.uk

Celebrate at St Julians Club

Tucked away in the heart of Kent, just outside Sevenoaks, St Julians Club is a wedding venue that blends timeless elegance with a warm, personal touch. Set within a Georgian country house and surrounded by 70 acres of woodland and gardens, this familyowned private club feels like a hidden gem, offering breathtaking views across the Weald with an idyllic backdrop.

Licensed for civil ceremonies, St Julians offers two beautiful rooms, each with its own character. The intimate Gallery, with its bay window overlooking the valley, is perfect for smaller gatherings, while the Lounge provides a sophisticated setting that flows seamlessly into the Victorian Conservatory. Draped in wisteria in spring and early summer, the Conservatory brings light, romance, and a natural charm to the occasion. The house accommodates up to 80 guests for a ceremony and wedding breakfast, with space for up to 150 for evening celebrations.

What makes St Julians truly distinctive is its commitment to creating a wedding that feels uniquely yours. There are no rigid packages or formulas’ instead, couples are invited to collaborate on every detail, from the menu to the flow of the day. Menus are designed with locally sourced ingredients, and complimentary menu and wine tastings ensure every dish reflects your tastes and style.

As an established country club, St Julians is open to its members, but weddings are always hosted in private, dedicated spaces, giving couples and their guests an atmosphere of exclusivity and intimacy throughout the day.

Whether it’s an intimate ceremony surrounded by close family or a larger celebration that fills the house and gardens with laughter and music, St Julians combines flexibility with heartfelt service. Every wedding here is crafted with care, ensuring it is as individual, memorable, and full of character as the couple at its heart.

For couples seeking charm, individuality, and romance in a setting of natural beauty, St Julians is the perfect place to celebrate.

Contact Nell on info@stjulians.co.uk

WELLNESS RETREATS DESIGNED WITH YOUR WEDDING IN MIND

Set in the peaceful Northamptonshire countryside, Homefield Grange has spent the past two decades welcoming guests in search of rest, renewal and better health. Founded in 2005 by naturopath and wellness coach Suzanne Peck, the retreat has become a trusted destination for those wanting to restore their wellbeing, reset their routines and reconnect with themselves. Over the years, Homefield has supported thousands of guests with its caring ethos, nutritious food and gentle yet effective approach to wellness.

Among its residential programmes is the Bridal Beautiful Retreat, designed with brides-to-be in mind. In the lead-up to a wedding, when planning and preparations can feel overwhelming, this retreat offers the chance to step away and take time for yourself. Days are shaped around gentle movement, nourishing

plant-based meals, spa therapies and reflective time, helping to create balance and restore energy. The focus is not only on looking your best, but also on feeling calm, centred and ready for the celebrations ahead.

To mark its 20th anniversary, Homefield has also introduced One Day Wellness Retreats. These experiences capture the heart of Homefield in a single day, with yoga, meditation, sound bowl healing, food demonstrations and a wholesome plant-based two-course lunch. While the spa remains exclusively reserved for residential guests, the one-day programme is carefully designed to give visitors a true sense of Homefield’s nurturing ethos. Sessions are unhurried, with time to pause and reflect, so the day feels both restorative and uplifting.

For couples and wedding parties, both retreats provide a meaningful way to create calm before the big day. The Bridal Beautiful Retreat offers a deeper focus on personal wellbeing, while the One Day Wellness Retreats provide a gentle reset that can be enjoyed alone or shared with bridesmaids, groomsmen or loved ones.

“Good health and balance bring out the best in us, and that radiance shines through on a wedding day. Our retreats give people the space to feel supported, nurtured and ready for life’s important moments.”

Founder & Owner, Suzanne Peck

With 20 years of experience, Homefield Grange continues to be a place of care and restoration, guiding guests towards balance and renewed health that supports them long after they leave.

homefieldgrangeretreat.co.uk

FFuller’s Hill Cottages

books and toys, all included in the price.

uller’s Hill Cottages are seven, luxury, self-catering cottages situated in a charming farm setting and private airfield only 20 minutes away from Cambridge city center; a magical and delightful balance between city and country. We can accommodate up to 40 guests which is perfect for families and groups of friends attending local weddings and to enjoy your very own wedding reception and/or hen party on site.

Enjoy a tee-pee on the wedding square, beautiful gardens with hot tubs and BBQ’s, unforgettable sunsets, and a sky full of stars. Families of all generations, couples, children and pets are all welcome to celebrate. We have cottages suitable for less mobile guests, including wheelchair accessible accommodation.

Breakfast hampers and supper boxes are available, along with a luxury, visiting spa service and other luxury products and services to help make your stay truly comfortable and memorable. Taxi bookings and a concierge service are also available as are bed linen, towels, white fluffy robes, board games, toiletries, tea, coffee, biscuits, cots, highchairs, age-appropriate children’s

Please download from our website our ‘little white book’ for all things to do with weddings and our ‘little pink book’ which is our hen party bible. We have done all the leg work for you. We have collaborated with other local independent businesses to bring you exclusive offers and discounts from our suppliers which is 100% passed onto you. We are absolutely passionate about communication, collaboration and celebration.

We also have our GOLD award from the Green Tourism Business Scheme which highlights and champions our green credentials and dedication to supporting and improving our immediate environment.

Please contact us at Fuller’s Hill Cottages on 07544 208959 and email bookings@ fullershillcottages.co.uk for further information and/or to arrange a prebooking, no obligation, visit to the site.

Arrive by aeroplane, helicopter, horse or car, and we shall very much look forward to welcoming you here at Fuller’s Hill Cottages.

cambridgeholidaycottages.com

The Art of Modern Couture:

House of Savin’s Revolutionary Approach to Luxury Bridal

In an era where fast fashion dominates headlines, House of Savin stands as a beacon of authentic craftsmanship and bespoke luxury. The British fashion house, helmed by designer and managing director Andrey, has carved a distinctive niche in the competitive world of bridal couture and eveningwear through an unwavering commitment to artisanal excellence.

What sets House of Savin apart is its founder’s remarkable journey through fashion’s most prestigious and diverse houses. Andrey’s formative years working across Paris and London at legendary establishments including Lanvin, Stuart Weitzman, Vivienne Westwood, and Jitrois provided invaluable exposure to both haute couture heritage and rebellious creative innovation.

The brand’s philosophy centers on true savoir-faire – the ability to create any garment without limitations on craftsmanship or creativity. This commitment extends beyond bridal into breathtaking eveningwear, allowing the house to explore bolder colours and experimental techniques while maintaining their signature artistry. Each piece showcases an extraordinary blend of international craftsmanship: hand-painted in Como, Italy, and meticulously crafted in their London atelier.

This dedication to artisanal excellence was dramatically showcased earlier this year when House of Savin presented their “Gilded Whisper” collection at Kensington Palace’s state apartments,

transforming historic royal chambers into a runway that celebrated both British heritage and contemporary couture innovation.

Operating from their flagship atelier at 170 Walton Street in London’s prestigious Chelsea district, House of Savin offers two distinct bridal collections: Savin London, which spans from voluminous ballgowns to sleek modern silhouettes with hand-painted florals and rich textures, and Savin Privé, focusing on sculptural ballgowns

that merge timeless elegance with bold contemporary design.

The House of Savin bride represents modern luxury’s evolution – educated, confident, and collaborative. She appreciates the difference between mass-produced and truly bespoke, understanding that exceptional craftsmanship requires both vision and trust in the creative process.

As the fashion industry grapples with sustainability and authenticity, House of Savin’s commitment to internal production and international artisanal partnerships offers a compelling alternative to disposable fashion culture.

In a world of endless choice, House of Savin proves that true luxury lies in the marriage of exceptional skill, authentic vision, and unwavering dedication to craft. houseofsavin.com

170, Walton Street, London, SW3 2JL

LUXURY TRAVEL

Heading away to explore the rest of the world

IMAGE: TRAILFINDERS

TWO SLICES OF PARADISE: THE MALDIVES WITH SUN SIYAM

In the Maldives, no two islands are ever quite the same, and Sun Siyam’s collection proves it best. Among its jewels are two standouts: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Noonu Atoll and Sun Siyam Olhuveli in the South Malé Atoll, each offering a distinct take on the ultimate island escape. Together, they showcase the Maldives in all its contrasts: the meditative hush of untouched lagoons and the spirited rhythm of water sports and beachside gatherings. Whether you dream of mornings spent barefoot on deserted sandbanks or afternoons kitesurfing across glittering waters, these two resorts invite you to write your own Maldivian story. Let’s explore each resort for what it does best.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Nestled in the heart of the Maldives’ Noonu Atoll, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers a sophisticated blend of barefoot luxury and Maldivian charm. The island is a lush, 21-hectare expanse where white-sand beaches meet crystalline waters, and every path seems to lead to a postcard view. Its villas are ranging from romantic overwater sanctuaries to spacious beachfront retreats. The resort’s 8 dining options ensure culinary exploration is as much a part of the journey as the scenery, with highlights including Japanese teppanyaki under the stars and fine dining beside the lagoon.

Iru Fushi is a haven for travellers seeking an immersive yet tranquil escape. Couples can indulge in the award-winning Spa by Thalgo and private dinners on the sandbank, while families will find the Kids’ Club and shallow lagoons ideal for younger explorers. For the active, there’s world-class diving at nearby reef sites and guided snorkelling to discover vibrant marine life. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, making it equally

appealing for honeymooners, multi-generational trips, and travellers who appreciate a slower, more considered pace in paradise.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli

Spread across multiple islands in the South Malé Atoll, Sun Siyam Olhuveli is a vivid, more energetic counterpart to Iru Fushi’s calm. Here, overwater villas stretch elegantly into turquoise waters, while beachside suites open onto stretches of sand that invite both relaxation and play. With 13 bars and restaurants, guests can sample everything from fresh Maldivian seafood to Mediterranean-inspired plates, all framed by uninterrupted ocean views.

Olhuveli thrives on variety and activity. It’s particularly wellsuited to travellers who enjoy a balance of relaxation and adventure: activities such as sunrise yoga followed by kitesurfing, or dip in the pool (longest in the Maldives) then take a dolphin spotting cruise. The lagoon is a natural playground for paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkelling, while two spas offer serene treatments to unwind after the day’s excitement. Families are wellcatered for with connecting pavillions and dedicated children’s activities, yet couples will find private dining spots and quiet beaches that feel worlds away. Whether you’re chasing serene seclusion or vibrant island energy, these sister resorts promise the quintessential Maldivian escape, each with its own distinctive rhythm. trailfinders.com

CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON IN STYLE WITH POWDER BYRNE

Powder Byrne designs festive ski holidays that combine Alpine magic with seamless service, creating celebrations that families and friends will treasure. Christmas and New Year are ideal times for multi-generational escapes. Each resort is carefully chosen by the Powder Byrne team for its high altitude, festive atmosphere, and exceptional accommodation, ensuring every stay is snow-sure and unforgettable. With a team dedicated to anticipating individual needs, holidays are infused with luxury, ease, and festive cheer.

Festive Resorts

in Switzerland with Powder Byrne

In every resort, Powder Byrne provides its full in-resort service. A private shuttle service ensures smooth transfers to and from ski lifts and evening restaurants, while complimentary adult ski

guiding introduces guests to the best runs at their own pace. Younger skiers thrive in Powder Byrne’s exclusive children’s programmes, while non-skiing activities, such as guided snow-shoe safaris with glühwein, add extra festive magic.

Arosa remains a favourite for festive skiing, with twinkling lights, reliable early-season snow, and access to extensive terrain via its link to Lenzerheide. The village offers slopes for all levels, excellent dining, and a collection of handpicked hotels. For larger family celebrations, the exclusive Powder Byrne’s private apartments, Chesa Forma, provide roaring log fires, spacious living areas, and all the comforts needed for a truly memorable holiday.

Flims, famed for its dramatic alpine scenery and expansive Weisse Arena ski area, offers a particularly enchanting setting at Christmas. Guests can stay at the newly refurbished

Hotel Adula, part of the Michel Reybier Hospitality group. With its convenient location close to both slopes and village life, it combines Alpine charm with a focus on exceptional cuisine.

Andermatt is a perfect destination to ring in the New Year. Guests may choose the renowned Chedi Hotel, celebrated for its Michelin-starred dining, award-winning spa, and striking floor-to-ceiling cheese room, or the newly built Andermatt Alpine Apartments, offering privacy and flexibility in beautifully designed residences. The Gemsstock offers expectational skiing for strong skiers, while the Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis area is great for all level skiers.

“This tailor-made journey combines three of Switzerland’s most iconic destinations: St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Arosa”

the slopes. Powder Byrne’s signature touches in Arosa, including in-resort shuttles, ski butler services, in-resort management and adult ski guiding, ensure every detail is seamless.

A Magical Season in the Alps

Whether it is a multi-generational gathering in Arosa, a New Year’s celebration in Andermatt, or an intimate pre-Christmas escape on the Grand Hotel Ski Tour, Powder Byrne delivers festive holidays with exceptional care. By combining luxury accommodation, curated experiences, and dedicated in-resort service, they create celebrations in the Alps that guests will remember for years to come.

The Grand Hotel Ski Tour: A Pre-Christmas Escape

For couples and friends looking for a luxurious pre-Christmas getaway, Powder Byrne recommends the exclusive Grand Hotel Ski Tour. This tailor-made journey combines three of Switzerland’s most iconic destinations: St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Arosa.

The experience begins with a stay at the five-star Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina, an architectural treasure with over 175 years of history. Its unique underground wine vault, which sustained the property during the World Wars, now hosts atmospheric tastings and private events. Explore the extensive ski area of St Moritz and Pontresina, whether by yourself or with an expert local ski guide

From there, guests travel by scenic train through the UNESCO heritage mountain railways to Arosa, where the elegant Tschuggen Grand Hotel awaits. Its awardwinning spa and wellness facilities are ideal for relaxation, with treatments such as the Moving Mountains deep tissue massage designed to restore balance after days on

Visit powderbyrne.com

5 OF THE FINEST SKI CHALETS IN MORZINE

Seeking inspiration for your next family ski holiday? Take a look at these luxurious chalets in the French Alps.

When it comes to family-friendly skiing, Morzine in the French Alps is up there with the best ski resorts in Europe. While this chocolate-box style village might not be the highest resort in the Alps, it has a few tricks up its sleeve. Stay in Morzine and you can easily catch one of the lifts up to snow-sure Avoriaz or ski between Morzine and neighbouring Les Gets, allowing you to ski three resorts in one holiday.

Morzine is geared-up for kids of all ages, from teens to tots. There’s an indoor ice-skating rink, swimming pool, a cinema, bars, friendly restaurants and live music most nights of the week. It’s also a hub for events, including Morzine’s Enchanted Village in the last two weeks of December. The main square comes to life with parades, light shows, brass bands, firework displays and a visit from Mr Claus himself.

Here are our top chalet picks for a family ski holiday in Morzine:

Chalet Mont Des Anges

Chalet Mont Des Anges is great for entertaining, thanks to a swish bar that looks straight out of a London hotel. Chalet hosts will pour cocktails while you enjoy music on the expansive deck, taking in uninterrupted mountain views. The infinity pool adds to the wow factor.

Chalet Xanadu

Looking for cosy sofas, a roaring fireplace and a homely feel? Chalet Xanadu is a great choice. Stay in winter and you can tuck into food prepared by the chalet’s fine dining chef and head to the ski lifts by sending the 24-hour driver service team a WhatsApp. Easy!

Chalet Ecliptique

Brand new and boasting one of the biggest gardens in Morzine, this mighty chalet has plenty of space for everyone. Spend evenings in the bar playing pool, set up the games table, or soak in the hot tub after a Hammam session. Toasting marshmallows over the firepit, surrounded by snowy mountains, will be a memory that lasts.

The Old Macaroni

The Old Macaroni has bags of charm. Each bedroom is themed around a book, and we love the bi-fold doors in the lounge that slide right back to reveal one of the best views over this traditional village. A self-playing grand piano sets the mood in the background for relaxed evenings, and a cinema is the perfect excuse for a movie night.

The Bungo

The Bungo is a winner if the kids love swimming. The pool is heated year-round, and there is a garden with a climbing wall and an in-ground trampoline. You may just have to dust off the snow to find it!

The sleek bar is a place to socialise in the evenings, and it is fully catered in winter – so sit back and let the chef, hosts and 24hour driver service take care of you. Want to know more?

Visit hunterchalets.com for full details.

DISCOVER THE PERFECT BREAK

AT

CAP ST GEORGES HOTEL & RESORT

Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort invites guests to discover a distinctive Mediterranean getaway. Situated along a private stretch of coastline on the southwest edge of Cyprus, the resort combines modern luxury with the island’s warm, authentic character. Located just a short drive from Paphos and close to the natural beauty of the Akamas Peninsula, it offers a setting that is both inspiring and serene.

The property features 202 individually designed rooms and suites, complemented by three outdoor pools and a 130-meter private beach. Every element of the resort is designed with comfort and style in mind, ensuring that each guest—whether traveling as a couple, with family, or solo—can enjoy an experience tailored to their needs.

Guests can spend their days sampling exceptional dining, indulging in the Spa by Valmont & Cinq Mondes, or exploring the cultural and natural attractions of Cyprus. Honeymoon packages include thoughtful touches such as personalized welcome amenities and private seaside experiences, while families and solo travelers benefit from a variety of leisure activities and flexible services.

Dining at Cap St Georges showcases both local and international influences, from fresh Mediterranean seafood to refined Asian flavors. Signature dishes, such as Kohili’s seafood linguine made with locally sourced ingredients, highlight the resort’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Evenings are best enjoyed with a cocktail on the Chroma Lounge Bar Terrace, where guests can take in panoramic views of the sunset and the calming sound of the sea.

Beyond the resort, visitors can explore the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon, hike the scenic

“Evenings are best enjoyed with a cocktail on the Chroma Lounge Bar Terrace”

Avakas Gorge, or immerse themselves in the cultural treasures of Paphos Old Town. Wine enthusiasts can also enjoy tours of the nearby vineyards in Kathikas, enhancing their Cypriot experience.

Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort blends elevated hospitality, modern amenities, and authentic local culture. It’s a destination that offers something new with every visit— whether through innovative dining, wellness programs, or simply an unexpected moment by the Mediterranean that becomes a lasting memory.

For more information and reservations, please visit capstgeorges.com or contact our concierge at +357 26 000 000.

More Than Just a Ski Holiday…

Curated Luxury Ski Experiences

For those in the know, Scandinavia is quickly emerging as the ultimate destination where luxury and adventure seamlessly converge. It offers ski enthusiasts and novices alike the combination of a long-guaranteed season, pristine snow conditions and world-class slopes - all set against a backdrop of some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world!

Beyond the slopes, Scandinavia beckons with traditional dining experiences, authentic winter activities, a vibrant wellness culture, and a level of service paired with opulent abodes that elevates every moment of your stay.

Here, an ordinary winter getaway transforms into an extraordinary, unforgettable escape - one where every detail is meticulously crafted to exceed even the highest expectations.

For over 20 years, skiScandinavia - the UK’s premier specialist tour operator for skiing in Norway and Sweden - has been crafting bespoke itineraries that offer discerning travellers unparalleled access to Scandinavia’s most exclusive ski resorts. Their expertise has earned them a status as the leading operator in the region, and in a world where exclusivity defines luxury, a skiScandinavia holiday seamlessly blends high-end adventure, relaxation, and indulgenceensuring an exceptional experience at every turn.

The concierge service provided by their dedicated team of experts offers travellers the confidence to book with ease and enjoy a seamless, personalised experience from start to finish. Thanks to years of cultivating close relationships with local suppliers, skiScandinavia has built a distinguished reputation for excellence, ensuring an elevated experience for all who travel with them. From exclusive perks to unparalleled insider access, their strong network guarantees that every client enjoys VIP treatment while in resort.

Skiing in Scandinavia - with the unrivalled support and exclusive services of skiScandinavia at your fingertips - offers more than just a trip to the mountains. It provides a one-of-a-kind experience in one of the world’s most unique, effortlessly chic, and captivating winter cultures…

“The slick organisation and personal touch is what sets skiScandinavia apart from other ski holiday operators. The team know every customer by name, and they were incredibly responsive and understanding of any requests. It’s this level of service that keeps us coming back year after year.”

ski-scandinavia.co.uk

BOOKING 2.0: THE NEW BLUEPRINT FOR CHARTERING A YACHT

Chartering a yacht has always symbolized exclusivity, privacy, and tailored luxury. But as luxury travel evolves, so too has the charter journey. What was once a slow, consultant-led process is now faster, more transparent, and increasingly digital, without losing its bespoke essence.

Leading this shift is IYC – The International Yacht Company – one of the world’s foremost yachting firms. With a digital-first platform, IYC simplifies the first steps of chartering while preserving the expertise and personal touch that define the experience.

IYC’s website gives clients autonomy and confidence from the outset. Intuitive search tools, detailed yacht comparisons, and transparent pricing (including taxes and APA) make browsing seamless. Features such as saved searches, instant alerts, and enquiry lists allow first-time clients to explore at their own pace, while returners enjoy a streamlined path to rebooking.

A standout innovation is IYC Reserve, a one-click function that secures yacht availability in real time. With over 140 charters annually booked through this tool, clients value its speed and certainty before being connected with an IYC consultant who perfects every detail.

Crucially, technology enhances rather than replaces the human

element. Consultants remain central, applying their unmatched knowledge to pair guests with the right crew, refine itineraries, and ensure every charter feels tailor-made.

Looking ahead, booking will become even more personalized, with AI-driven recommendations, VR yacht previews, and ecoconscious filters. Yet at its core, yachting is about more than efficiency: it is about trust, expertise, and creating lifelong memories.

With IYC, Booking 2.0 means the best of both worlds: smarter digital tools combined with the luxury of personal service.

ABOUT IYC

IYC is one of the world’s largest international yachting companies, with over 165 yachts in its charter fleet and offices across key yachting hubs worldwide. Offering expert brokerage, charter, management, and new build services, IYC is dedicated to delivering seamless client experiences, powered by innovation and backed by a passionate team of industry experts.

More information on iyc.com

Experience two of our top luxury brands, from the pristine sands of Ikos to the sophistication of Silversea. Enjoy a peaceful pre-cruise stay at Ikos Oceania before embarking on a 8- night Silversea cruise...

IKOS OCEANIA HALKIDIKI

5- Star • All Inclusive | 27th October - 1st November 2025 ATHENS (PIRAEUS) TO CIVITAVECCHIA (ROME) SILVER MUSE

8- Nights | 1st November - 9th November 2025 Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Heraklion, Day at Sea, Siracusa (Sicily), Palermo (Sicily), Salerno (Overnight), Civitavecchia (Rome)

All flights and private transfers included ALL ONBOARD LUXURY INCLUSIONS: Food and beverages • Butler service • Shore Excursions Call for the best prices

St. Johns

Ikos Oceania Beach

Ouzo Restaurant Ikos Oceania

Santorini

Silver Muse

FREE 2-CATEGORY SUITE UPGRADE

Plus UP TO 30% OFF SELECT SAILINGS IN 2026*

TRIESTE TO ATHENS

SEVEN SEAS SPLENDOR®

8 Nights | 20th July 2026

Trieste, Rijeka, Zadar, Dubrovnik, Bari, Igoumenitsa, Kotor, Cruising the Mediterranean Sea, Athens (Piraeus)

Veranda fares from £4,639 per person upgraded to G1 Deluxe Veranda Suite.

25% Savings.

2- Category upgrade.

ATHENS TO ATHENS

SEVEN SEAS SPLENDOR®

7 Nights | 4th August 2026

Athens (Piraeus), Nafplion, Santorini, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Patmos, Aghios Nikolaos (Crete), Cruising the Sea of Crete, Athens (Piraeus)

Veranda fares from £3,922 per person upgraded to G1 Deluxe Veranda Suite. 25% Savings.

2- Category upgrade.

THE EUROPE EDITION

Explore gorgeous coastal towns and stunning beaches with this unmissable offer!

VENICE (FUSINA) TO ATHENS (PIRAEUS)

SEVEN SEAS VOYAGER®

7 Nights | 17th October 2026

Venice (Fusina), Rijeka, Split, Kotor, Cruising the Ionian Seas, Gythion, Mykonos, Athens (Piraeus)

H Deluxe Veranda fares from £4,619 per person upgraded to F Deluxe Veranda Suite. 25% Savings.

2- Category upgrade.

Athens

Mykonos

Dubrovnik

Grand Jersey Hotel & Spa

Indulge in island living at the 5-star Grand Jersey Hotel & Spa, perfectly situated on the Esplanade and just one minute from the golden sands of St Aubin’s Bay. This acclaimed Jersey hotel boasts breath taking ocean views, upscale accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, and an award-winning spa. Whether you are seeking an idyllic beachside wedding venue, planning a romantic getaway or looking for stylish comfort during your working week, a warm welcome and exceptional hospitality await. The Grand Hotel is a short walk away from the bustling town centre of St Helier with its many shops, bars and restaurants to enjoy.

The hotel’s 108 well-appointed bedrooms, many with ocean vistas, offer complimentary Wi-Fi and thoughtful amenities. Savour relaxed dining at Victoria’s, experience the 4 AA Rosette fine dining of Tassili, or enjoy al fresco meals with ocean views at The Terrace during summer. The glamorous Champagne Lounge is perfect for morning coffee, afternoon tea, or evening drinks. Unwind at

the renowned spa, offering an indoor pool, spa pool, experience showers, sauna, steam room, treatment rooms, and a fitness centre, dedicated to rejuvenating the mind and body. The on-site spa has 6 treatment rooms including couples treatment rooms. The property’s spa offers deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, and prenatal massages. Types of treatments available include aromatherapy and Ayurvedic treatments. Complimentary on-site parking is available, and the hotel is just a 10-minute walk from St Helier town centre. Ideally located near Jersey’s main attractions, Grand Jersey Hotel & Spa is the ultimate retreat for leisure escapes and business stays, as well as a sought-after wedding venue with its Grand Suite and private event spaces overlooking the bay. This dog-friendly hotel ensures a memorable island experience. Grand Jersey Hotel & Spa is part of the Hand Picked Hotels collection featuring country house and coastal resorts across the UK and Channel Isles. handpickedhotels.co.uk/grandjersey

GRAND JERSEY HOTEL & SPA IN ST HELIER, JERSEY

Nestled on the edge of beautiful St Aubin’s Bay in St Helier, Grand Jersey Hotel & Spa is a sophisticated 5 Star resort sitting at the island’s bustling heart. Whether you are seeking an idyllic beachside wedding venue, planning a romantic getaway or looking for stylish comfort during your working week, a warm welcome and exceptional hospitality await.

THE KNOX AT SLOANE SQUARE HOTEL

In March 2025, Sloane Square Hotel launched The Knox, a new speakeasy-style bar tucked beneath Sloane Square Hotel, in the very space once occupied by the notorious Tonteria nightclub.

The venue channels the decadent glamour of late1970s and early-1980s Miami, a period defined by bold colour, lush textures, and heady nightlife. Working with a design team, the hotel reimagined the subterranean space with rich fabrics, neon accents, and an inviting, sultry warmth. Every detail was designed to transport guests into an era of excess and allure.

The food and drink programme mirrors the aesthetic. A collaboration with the hotel’s dining partner, Côte Brasserie produced a bespoke menu that nods to Miami’s Cuban influence, with small plates like Pastelitos to share, as well as bigger plates like Arepas and traditional Cuban ‘Sanguich’. The cocktails lean playful and referential: “Sonny’s Last Sip” tips its hat to Scarface, while “Disco Inferno” evokes the pastelsoaked drama of Miami Vice.

Even the journey into The Knox is part of the story. Hotel guests enter via the lift, emerging through a discreet service entrance to an unmarked door that opens with their room key. Non-residents enter more theatrically, descending a plush red velvet staircase under the shimmer of a disco ball.

Weekends come alive with rotating vinyl DJs spinning tracks from the very era that inspired the space, giving the room a heady authenticity. And while Tonteria may be gone, its spirit lingers: the infamous “shot train” has survived the transition, albeit with more glitter. With its immersive design, nostalgic soundtrack, and grown-up but playful menu, The Knox offers its guests a place to linger past midnight, sip a cocktail, and lose yourself in the decadence of another time.

sloanesquarehotel.co.uk

WAKE UP IN THE LAKES:

A LUXURY STAY AT LODORE FALLS HOTEL & SPA

For those seeking a change of pace and a taste of nature at its finest, the Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa offers an unforgettable escape in the northern Lake District. Set beside the shimmering waters of Derwentwater, with dramatic fells rising all around, this striking hotel blends five-star comforts with one of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes.

At the heart of the hotel lies The Falls Spa, an award-winning retreat where relaxation meets breathtaking views. From the outdoor infinity pool you can gaze across to Catbells, while the thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool and tranquil spaces provide hours of indulgence. Treatments using Elemis and ishga products ensure you leave refreshed and renewed – the perfect way to experience the Lake District in comfort.

For those who prefer a more active stay, walking boots are a must. From the hotel’s doorstep, miles of trails wind through the Borrowdale Valley, along the lakeshore and up into the hills, making it easy to explore

Cumbria’s dramatic scenery at your own pace.

Dining is another highlight. Mizu Pan-Asian Restaurant, a multiple award-winner, serves Japanese, Thai and Korean-inspired dishes in a sleek, contemporary setting overlooking the waterfall and river. For a different atmosphere, The Falls Brasserie offers Scandinavian-inspired interiors and a menu of modern British classics, with desserts worth saving room for.

Each bedroom and suite is thoughtfully designed to be as stylish as it is relaxing. Many feature private balconies where you can wake to unrivalled views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells – an outlook that can’t be replicated anywhere else.

Whether you come for the spa, the dining, the walking, or simply to breathe in the beauty of the Lakes, the Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa promises a truly memorable escape, where luxury and nature come together yearround.

Discover more at lakedistricthotels.net/lodorefalls

SEASTAY SETS THE STANDARD FOR DOG-FRIENDLY COASTAL HOLIDAYS

For many pet owners, a holiday doesn’t feel complete without their four-legged friends. That’s why Seastay has become a go-to choice for dog-friendly breaks, offering beautiful coastal escapes where dogs are not only welcome but celebrated.

With almost half of its property portfolio welcoming dogs, Seastay has created the perfect balance between stylish seaside accommodation and pet-friendly practicality. Each home has been carefully selected to make travelling with dogs simple and stressfree. Think enclosed gardens for safe play, easy-clean interiors for sandy paws, and thoughtful touches such as treats included in the welcome hamper.

But it’s the location that makes us so truly special. Nestled along one of the UK’s most breathtaking stretches of coast, East Kent is a paradise for dogs and their owners. Miles of sandy beaches—many of which are dog-friendly all year round—offer the perfect backdrop for games of fetch, splashing in the surf, and windswept seaside strolls. Beyond the beach, rolling countryside, woodland trails, and clifftop walks promise endless adventures for every kind of canine explorer.

The local community is just as welcoming, with pubs, cafés, and shops that go out of their way to make dogs feel at home. From water bowls and biscuits at

the bar to dog-friendly attractions and walking routes, visitors never need to leave their companions behind.

“Dogs are such an important part of family life, you would not leave a child behind for a family holiday so why your dog?” says Alistair, founder of Seastay “We wanted to create holidays that celebrate that bond, where every member of the family—two or four-legged—feels at home. Guests love the freedom and peace of mind that comes with knowing their pets are truly welcome.”

With demand for pet-friendly holidays on the rise, Seastay’s commitment to offering stylish yet practical dog-friendly stays sets it apart. Whether it’s sandy paws, salty air, or simply time spent together, Seastay ensures every holiday is unforgettable—for both dogs and their humans.

To discover your pawfect escape, Visit: seastay.co.uk Call:01843 629 629

Email: info@seastay.co.uk WhatsApp: 07581 376663

Explore Alberta Canada’s Wild Side

Waterton Lakes National Park

LUXURY AFRICAN TRAVEL GUIDE

Your guide to Africa’s wild beauty in ultimate luxury

IMAGE: ONGUMI IN NAMIBIA

Take a walk on the wild side with

ONGUMA IN NAMIBIA

Onguma Nature Reserve, situated on the eastern fringe of the iconic Etosha National Park, bordering Fisher’s Pan, is one of Namibia’s best kept secrets. Onguma offers all the benefits of staying in a private reserve, but with easy access via expertly guided game drives into Etosha National Park.

One of the most exciting developments recently has been the introduction of walking trails in the reserve in April 2025, with the launch of Onguma Trails Camp. This intimate new glamp-camp offers adventure seekers the opportunity to reconnect with nature over 2 nights and 3 days of winter walking trails, with just the right mix of thrills over frills. It is highly recommended to extend the trail to 3 nights for those who love walking in the wild.

Onguma Trails Camp redefines the outdoor experience with its blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. Accommodating a maximum of eight guests, the camp features just four meticulously designed glamping bell tents, each equipped with extra-length beds, sumptuous bedding and throws to ensure a restful night’s sleep. There is also a private ensuite outdoor bathroom with a hot bucket shower and flushing loo. Guests can unwind in front of their tent or in their private wood-fired hot tub, soaking in the sights and sounds of the wilderness.

The Trails Camp experience begins with a light lunch, followed by a sundowner game drive or an afternoon walk before dinner at Trails Camp. Days are filled with expertly guided 6-8 km walking safaris in the morning and another 2 - 4+ kilometres in the afternoon, depending on guests (10 - 12km in the day), offering up-close encounters with Namibia’s flora and fauna, complemented by delicious bush brunches, and intimate campfire dinners. Onguma is renowned for taking these experiences to the next level!

Evenings are both magical and memorable, with interactive boma dinners under the stars and presentations by reserve researchers or conservation managers, adding depth to the experience with insights into the reserve’s ecology and conservation efforts. Board games and a cosy fire pit create a relaxing atmosphere for unwinding after a day of adventure.

In line with Onguma’s conservation ethos, Onguma Trails Camp integrates eco-friendly practices, from bio-friendly toiletries to solarpowered lighting, ensuring minimal environmental impact whilst delivering an unforgettable guest experience. The walking trails run during Namibia’s winter months when it is cool and dry (April to end September).

Guest quotes:

“We loved Onguma Trails Camp... the understated luxury, the wild open spaces, delicious meals, early morning coffee & fireside chats. The bush walks with our wonderful guides who delight in sharing their knowledge - animal tracks, birdlife, wildlife, and fascinating traditions. Lions on game drives, G&Ts at sunset, and close encounters with a boomslang... and that was just day 1!” - T Buhrmann

“Trails Camp is one of those evocative places that immerses you completely in nature, and in the rhythm of the wild. It’s a

place where details matter – both out on the trail and in the camp, where impeccable service and attention to detail makes for a truly memorable stay”. - N Exelby

The Onguma Trails Camp trails experience combines beautifully with a few nights pre or post at one of the other Onguma Camps in the reserve. With five lodges, two luxury campsites and over 35 000 hectares of private wilderness to explore, Onguma has an option to suit all tastes and budgets and invites guests to linger longer. The name actually means “the place you don’t want to leave” in the local Herero language, and it’s certainly a place that calls guests back repeatedly.

Lodge wise, Camp Kala is Onguma’s flagship luxury camp with just four stunning suites raised on stilts overlooking a busy waterhole, each with its own outside sala with day bed, and both a plunge pool and hot tub to enjoy on the deck. Onguma The Fort offers dramatic North African vibes with very Instagrammable, panoramic sunset views over Fishers Pan in the distance. Tented Camp is very popular with guests who enjoy their luxury under canvas, complete with romantic outdoor showers and wood-fired hot tubs. Both Forest Camp and Bush Camp are geared for families, fenced for extra peace of mind, and catering to youngsters with fun activities such as their Young Explorers Walk.

In addition to the twice daily guided game safaris into Etosha National Park, Onguma offers a wide range of activities on Onguma Nature Reserve itself which is home to four of the Big 5 (no buffalo). These include expertly guided game drives, interpretive bush walks, the Onkolo photographic hide, and spa treatments either in-room or at one of Onguma’s beautiful spas. Intrepid adventurers won’t want to miss the Dream Cruiser sleep-out in the bush – a one-of-a-kind Land Cruiser which has been converted into a two-level sleep out with full bathroom below deck and sleep out platform with lush four poster bed and lounge and dining area overlooking a watering hole.

So, whether you want to walk on the wild side at Trails Camp or just soak up the warm Namibian hospitality and enjoy an unforgettable safari, Onguma is certainly a place you will never want to leave!

For more information, please visit Onguma.com or email reservations@onguma.com.

Lemala Properties

Lemala properties are an authentic collection of luxurious lodges, intimate villas and classic tented camps. Locations include Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire regions, and Uganda’s River Nile. Each property located in the heart of the wilderness where superior comfort and service, first-class cuisine, year round game viewing are hallmarks of a classic Lemala Stay. Their latest lodge offering opened just a few weeks ago, Lemala Osonjoi Lodge and is already delivering an outstanding guests experience.

Altitude and Intuition: A New Safari Benchmark in Ngorongoro

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge sits in quiet confidence on the remote eastern rim of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater. At nearly 2,500 metres above sea level, its altitude is impressive – but it’s the lodge’s instinctive connection to place, people, and purpose that elevates it far beyond the ordinary safari experience.

Where Stillness Meets Scale

Ngorongoro’s Crater floor is one of Africa’s great wildlife arenas,

and from Osonjoi, guests can reach the least-used descent road in just 20 minutes, avoiding queues and arriving in time for dawn’s quiet drama. Yet the lodge itself is built for lingering, not rushing: a space where mist, moss, and mountain air replace speed and spectacle.

Design for the High Country

The architectural language of Osonjoi is East African alpine: think hand-rendered plaster, charred wood cladding, and vast glass panes opening out to rolling cloud and ancient forest. Each of the 20 suites is curated with warm, tactile materials – timbers, woven textiles, volcanic glass, and features a wood-burning stove, freestanding tub, and a daybed tucked discreetly beside the hearth.

Regenerative by Design

Osonjoi is fully solar-powered, off-grid, and constructed with recycled and sustainably sourced materials. No single-use plastics are found on-site, and all drinking water is purified using reverseosmosis systems. But the sustainability here isn’t just infrastructure. It’s cultural.

The Final Thread in a Thoughtful Circuit

Osonjoi completes Lemala’s carefully curated safari circuit across northern Tanzania, connecting effortlessly with Mpingo Ridge in Tarangire, Nanyukie and Kuria Hills in the Serengeti, and Hamerkop House in Arusha. It offers cohesion without repetition – a seamless journey of contrast and continuity for those who want their African adventure to feel crafted, not stitched together.

For London travellers seeking depth over dazzle, and design that doesn’t shout, Lemala Osonjoi offers a new kind of safari luxury –one that puts purpose, place, and peace of mind at the centre of the experience. lemalacamps.com

LEMALA OSONJOI LODGE

Here, safari slows down. Guests can enjoy fully catered private lunches on the Crater floor, guided rim walks with Maasai naturalists, massages in the forest inspired spa, and quiet afternoons beside the fire. The lodge’s positioning outside the NCAA exclusion zone also plays a meaningful role in dispersing tourism pressure, encouraging guests to explore the Greater Ngorongoro Area - a sensitive intervention in a landscape under increasing strain. At its heart, the lodge hosts a relaxing and airy library, a wide communal deck with roaring fire, and the Crater’s only indoor heated pool — a quiet luxury in a remote setting.

This is the latest — and most considered — addition to the portfolio of Lemala Camps & Lodges, a company known across East Africa for its commitment to conservation, community, and understated luxury. Osonjoi is not simply a new opening; it’s a carefully calibrated rethinking of what it means to travel well in one of the most iconic landscapes on the continent.

Menus reflect the seasonality of the highlands, and décor throughout is crafted by Tanzanian women’s cooperatives and artisan collectives — a tactile, intentional thread of regional identity. From the outset, Lemala embedded local knowledge, labour, and leadership into the project — with a significant percentage of staff having grown into management from entry-level roles. Women are prominent in guest-facing and operational teams, and the lodge actively invests in long-term community programmes, from school support to femaleled enterprise.

This isn’t eco-marketing. It’s an ecosystem.

2026 SAFARI TRENDS: WHERE TO WILDLIFE WATCH IN STYLE

LUXURY SAFARIS ARE EVOLVING. AN AFRICAN ADVENTURE IS NO LONGER SOLELY ABOUT TICKING THE BIG FIVE OFF YOUR WISH LIST. WE CHAT TO ALEX MCFARLAND FROM THE SAFARI EDIT TO SEE WHAT’S TRENDING IN 2026.

When it comes to a safari holiday, most of the travellers I’ve been speaking to are looking for a rewarding and authentic experience. One that can immerse you in the local culture and give you a deeper connection to nature. We try to create safaris that go beyond the conventional game drive, and have spotted a few trends in 2026…

1. Meaningful, purpose-driven experiences

We’re often asked about sustainable, conservationled safaris. Many of the camps we work with use electric vehicles, have their own anti-poaching patrols, and support community projects that help safeguard Africa’s wilderness. You can also help with conservation projects in the field. Few & Far Luvhondo, an eco-lodge in South Africa’s Soutpansberg Mountains, has committed to protecting 100,000 hectares of critical biodiversity, and guests can play their part. Roll up your sleeves and spend a day with the conservation team, either planting trees or shadowing a vet. Pioneering sustainable luxury, its biophilic lodges run entirely on renewable energy.

2. Immersive safaris

You can enjoy a sleep-out experience under the stars in a comfy double bed, discover the landscape on a horseback safari, or take a bushwalk with an expert guide. Without the rumble of a vehicle, the bush comes alive. You also notice the small details: fresh tracks, a roar in the distance, birdsong in the trees. For me, few experiences rival floating along the Okavango Delta’s waterways in a

traditional mokoro canoe. In this blue-green mosaic, every detail gives you goosebumps, from wallowing elephants in the reeds ahead to tiny frogs no bigger than a fingernail.

3. Privacy & exclusivity

We specialise in luxury safaris, and exclusivity is playing a key factor in deciding on a camp or reserve. Private reserves and sole-use villas ensure limited visitor numbers, meaning a less-crowded, more authentic experience. One stand-out property is Lengishu, an exclusive-use family home in Kenya’s Borana Conservancy. Surrounded by 32,000 acres of private wilderness, it hosts up to 12 guests and allows you to set the rhythm of each day. Spend the afternoon by the infinity pool or join the rangers on rhinotracking excursions. Borana’s black rhino reintroduction programme is a remarkable success story, and today more than 100 black rhinos roam freely across the conservancy. As the sun sets behind Mount Kenya, enjoy your evenings with a sundowner on the terrace and dinners crafted from fresh produce grown in Borana’s garden.

4. A wellness (and wildlife) holiday

retreat where wildlife encounters and wellbeing go hand in hand. Spend the morning tracking elephants with a field guide, then return to the wellness centre where expert therapists are tasked with restoring your sense of balance. Here, you’ll not only encounter the Big Five, but you’ll leave feeling re-energised!

5. Multi-gen safaris for the whole family

“In this blue-green mosaic, every detail gives you goosebumps, from wallowing elephants in the reeds ahead to tiny frogs no bigger than a fingernail”

Multi-generational safaris are on the rise. Families are turning to Africa to disconnect kids from tech and reconnect them to nature. Watching lions prowling the savannah together is an unforgettable shared moment. South Africa is especially popular for families, with malaria-free reserves meaning you can avoid the faff of malaria medication. I can recommend Madikwe, Tswalu, and the Eastern Cape. At Madikwe Lelapa Lodge, children aged six and above are welcome on private game drives specially tailored for kids and led by FGASA-accredited guides. They’ll head back to school with tales of the bush –from bug CSI to dung tracking! Considering a safari in 2026? Contact Alex at The Safari Edit to find out more: thesafariedit.com

– Alex, The Safari Edit

Interest-based safaris are gaining momentum for 2026, from birding and astrophotography to wellness retreats. Kateka, in South Africa’s Klaserie Private Reserve, prides itself on being a holistic wellness

ABOVE: LENGISHU - CREDIT JACK SWYNNERTON BELOW: LENGISHU POOL CREDIT STEVIE MANN

BABANANGO GAME RESERVE

Madwaleni River Lodge:

Nestled along the White Umfolozi River, Madwaleni River Lodge offers an exclusive retreat with 12 luxurious safari tents. The lodge features seven Luxury Tents, each with a private heated plunge pool, indoor and outdoor lounges, and copper bathroom fixtures, all with stunning wilderness views. For families or groups, Luxury Family Tents are available on request, with interconnected tents and a shared lounge and dining area. The Romance Luxury Tent offers an intimate escape with an outdoor shower and bath, perfect for couples seeking privacy. Accommodating a total of 24 guests, Madwaleni River Lodge provides a peaceful and luxurious sanctuary in the heart of nature.

Zulu Rock Lodge:

Perched on a cliff edge, Zulu Rock Lodge accommodates up to 16 guests across six luxurious suites. The lodge features two Deluxe Suites with intimate patios and outdoor fire pits, perfect for guests seeking proximity to the main lodge and pool. Three Luxury Suites offer panoramic views of Babanango Game Reserve with private decks for a more secluded stay. The Romance Suite includes a pool, sun loungers, and a swing bed overlooking the valley, offering a serene retreat for couples. For families, the Family Villa provides a secluded two-bedroom suite with a pool, boma, and kitchenette. It’s a secure, spacious haven for up to four guests, ensuring privacy and comfort for families seeking a tranquil bush getaway.

Valley Lodge:

“Perched on a cliff edge, Zulu Rock Lodge accommodates up to 16 guests across six luxurious suites”

Located in the southern part of Babanango Game Reserve, Valley Lodge is a fully fenced, homestead-style retreat offering a safe and serene atmosphere for familes. Surrounded by trees and an indigenous garden, the lodge features nine adjoining luxury rooms, accommodating up to 18 guests. With a rim-flow pool and a kids’ jungle gym, it’s the perfect place for families. Guests can also easily explore a day trip to the nearby iconic battle sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Hill Top House, located close to Valley Lodge, is an incredable three-bedroom family retreat for up to six guests. It includes a kitchen, three bathrooms, a lounge with a fireplace, and an outdoor entertainment area with a pool. Guests can choose between self-catering or private chef service, with daily servicing for added comfort and privacy. babanango.com reservations@babanango.com +27 (031) 100 0362

MADWALENI RIVER LODGE

ZULU ROCK LODGE

VALLEY LODGE

OL LENTILLE, KENYA

Perched atop one of the highest points in Kenya’s northern Laikipia, Ol Lentille is an ultra- exclusive, communityowned, professionally run luxury retreat with just four spacious villas, each with its own staff, promising absolute privacy for guests.

Owned by the local Maasai and Samburu communities, the property sits within a 40,000-acre private conservation area, offering sweeping views across the plains, hills and valleys.

Each villa is beautifully positioned along the rocky ridge, individually interior designed with incredible attention to detail.

Villas include Carissa (sleeps 2), the double-storey 2-bedroomed Aloe (sleeps 4), Acacia (sleeps 4), and 3-bedroomed Boscia (sleeps 6) - all of which have beautiful terraces (some with outdoor bathtubs and/or plunge pools!) to enjoy the panoramic views over the conservancy, all the way to the Matthews range and Mount Kenya in the distance.

The setting is rugged and remote, with a network of sandy paths and steps, leading up to a beautiful hilltop gallery and roof bar. The infinity swimming pool overlooks two watering holes that are popular with elephants, and the spa offers a wide range of treatments.

Sustainability is woven into every aspect, from solar power to rainwater harvesting and a commitment to minimizing plastic use. Service is highly personalised, with generous, delicious meals tailored to your own tastes and served in your own villa, or any other venue of your choice.

Ol Lentille distinguishes itself by its deep commitment to the wellbeing and upliftment of its local communities. Since its opening, the lodge and its guests have contributed millions of dollars to

local projects, building schools, a hospital, and critical water infrastructure, supporting both the Maasai and Samburu people through responsible tourism. Guests are encouraged to fully immerse themselves, visiting the local villages and markets, and participating in the life events of its local communities, for a moving and very authentic insight into Maasai and Samburu life and culture.

Ol Lentille also offers bespoke safari activities including guided game drives, walking safaris and even camel safaris, and combines beautifully with a safari in the Masai Mara.

The best way to arrive at this remote lodge is by charter flight from Nairobi. Rates per night start from $1,100 per adult and $750 per child. Under 5’s stay complimentary.

For more information, please visit ol-lentille.com

SALA BEACH HOUSE:

Beach Bliss on KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast

Perched on a cliff overlooking Thompson’s Bay, Sala Beach House is a stylish retreat that redefines coastal luxury. With just seven suites in the main hotel and an exclusive-use, freestanding three-bedroom villa, this intimate hideaway offers a tranquil space to start or end a KwaZulu-Natal adventure.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, Sala has private access down a few stairs to a beautiful golden sandy beach, rock pools and Charlie’s tidal pool which is great for snorkelling. But it’s the keen attention to detail that elevate a stay here: beach baskets with sun block, yoga mats and resistance bands for impromptu workouts, and spa-quality amenities.

The sweeping ocean views take centre stage at Sala (meaning “stay” in Zulu, as guests never want to leave!) be it from your suite, the infinity pool, firepit or the lush sub- tropical gardens. Rooms are elegantly appointed with views over the ocean, pool, courtyard or gardens from their balconies or patios. Small groups or families of up to six will love Sala Beach Villa, with its own plunge pool, terrace and kitchen where you can self-cater or request a private chef and butler.

The restaurant serves seasonal fare celebrating local ingredients with international flair. Evenings begin with a sundowner cocktail and canapés by the fire pit and end under a canopy of stars. Sala

Beyond the gates, there’s plenty to explore. Ocean lovers can snorkel, surf, or spot dolphins and migrating whales between June and November. There are also scenic coastal trails and a variety of golf courses nearby and shopping districts in Ballito.

Rates range from R5,400 per person per night for a pool-view room to R13,050 per person for an Ocean Suite, including breakfast and sundowner cocktail and canapes. Villa stays are from R43,450 per night (up to six guests) sole use with private pool. There are a number of packages on the website. Located just 20 minutes from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, Sala combines beautifully with a Zululand safari. salabeach.co.za

Beach Spa offers massages, facials, reiki and sound therapy. Sunrise yoga runs daily beside the pool.

“Superb boutique hotel with incredible service”

“The ultimate beach hotel, oozing luxury and tranquility”

“Best experience in Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa” “Exceptional experience”

FEATURED IN ‘TOP 25 PLACES TO VISIT IN 2025’ BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

Just a 20-minute drive from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, Sala Beach House is a five-star boutique retreat perched above the golden sands of Thompson’s Bay. With only seven ocean-view suites and a private villa, this intimate hideaway offers the perfect antidote to large, impersonal hotels.

Awaken to panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, enjoy private beach access, rejuvenate at the serene Sala Spa, or tee off at world-class golf courses nearby. From sunrise yoga to seasonal whale watching, every day promises discovery and tranquillity.

For the ultimate South African adventure, pair your coastal escape with a safari in KwaZulu-Natal’s renowned wildlife reserve.

Sala Beach House — where oceanfront elegance meets safari adventure.

www.salabeach.co.za

LANZERAC: A LEGACY OF LUXURY

Few destinations in the Cape Winelands capture the perfect balance of heritage and modern elegance quite like Lanzerac. Nestled in the verdant Jonkershoek Valley, and only minutes from the historic heart of Stellenbosch, this over 330-year-old estate remains one of South Africa’s most celebrated addresses.

First established in the late 1600s and lovingly restored over the centuries, Lanzerac has never stood still. While steeped in history, it continues to evolve with contemporary sophistication, offering guests not only a sense of grandeur but also an intimate connection to the beauty and tranquility of the surrounding vineyards.

The hotel’s fifty-four rooms and suites are individually designed, with plush furnishings, expansive bathrooms, and views across manicured gardens shaded by centuries-old oaks. Each offers the perfect retreat after a day exploring the valley, where time slows and tranquility reigns.

Lanzerac’s story is inseparable from South Africa’s wine heritage. The very name of Pinotage was printed for the first time on a wine

label to go into bottle under the Lanzerac label of SFW in 1961. It was a moment in time that sparked the future trade in Pinotage across the globe. The 1959 Lanzerac Pinotage was the start of it all. Guests can taste this legacy in the atmospheric Tasting Room and Deli, alongside a portfolio that includes the celebrated Mrs English Chardonnay. For something different, Lanzerac also offers a Water Tasting experience housed in an elegantly appointed space, The Library, revealing the unique mineral profiles of its natural sources.

Beyond the vines, indulgence continues at the Lanzerac Spa, a serene haven with a heated indoor pool, vitality pools, and therapies designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Culinary delights abound across several restaurants, where seasonal menus celebrate local flavours paired with estate wines. From leisurely breakfasts on the terrace to refined dinners in elegant dining rooms, every meal is a celebration of Stellenbosch’s bounty.

What makes Lanzerac truly special is its ability to offer both grandeur and intimacy. Whether wandering quiet garden paths, sinking into a treatment at the spa, or enjoying a private tasting, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of understated sophistication.

Just minutes from the historic town of Stellenbosch yet a world apart, Lanzerac remains a destination where space, privacy, and indulgence converge – a timeless escape in the heart of the winelands.

lanzerac.co.za

CHA CHA METSI

TTransporting you to a bygone era

he Niven Family have a long pioneering and explorative history with Botswana.

While the three boys were still just a twinkle in the couples eyes, they spent as much time as possible in Botswana.

Clyde, the great grandson of Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, Author of Jock of The Bushveld and pioneer, has always had his great grandfather’s pioneering spirit. While most of their circle of friends headed for the beaches of South Africa during school holidays, the Niven’s packed their Land rover and Jerry cans and would head north to explore yet another part of Botswana.

After many years of planning, Clyde have finally realised his dream, the ability to share with others and their family one of the most beautiful and well looked after natural areas of the world, the Okavango Delta.

Styled around the 1930’s Safaris Experience they wanted to create an authentic experience with all the necessary comforts, but still close to nature.

Think Great Gatsby meet Out of Africa.

The camp is intimate, stylishly colonial and authentic. .

Bread is baked fresh daily, the paths are lit with paraffin lanterns and a Gin is never far away as the sun sets.

Clyde has managed to gently and considerately create a beautiful

camp amongst the knob thorn forest on a permanent waterway so as to feel that it is all rather incidental. It is unpretentious, but delivers on all the comforts required for the climate and most importantly, the game experience.

The staff are all from a local village that has thrived in this Delta for years and the superior knowledge of fauna and flora is evident in discussions on the vehicle.

Water at the Heart of It All

Metsi means “water, truly,” and there couldn’t be a more fitting name. The camp spills out onto a private lagoon fed by the meandering veins of the Okavango – a delta unlike any other in the world. It is a living, breathing oasis where animals appear from behind a curtain of reeds. At any given moment, a kudu might walk into view, pausing with poetic stillness at the water’s edge. Elephants pass slowly through the shallows, sometimes with a calf in tow, dusting their backs in the early sun.

Mornings unfold slowly.

It begins with birdsong – that gentle, golden hour chorus that rises with the mist off the water as the sun rises. Each morning arrives not with urgency but with grace, stretching out across the floodplains and slipping beneath the canvas of your tent. Here, in the heart of

the Okavango Delta, the wild and the refined meet in quiet harmony

This watery stage is ever-changing minute by minute as the first cup of tea or coffee is poured while hippos grunt in the expanse of water in front of camp. At night, it reflects the firelight from lanterns hanging in ancient trees.

The lake is the heartbeat of the camp, and everything – every meal, every story, every pause – seems to circle back to it.

The rhythm of camp life

A typical day at Cha Cha Metsi is anything but typical. There’s a structure, of course – a gentle rhythm, like the delta itself. But it never feels scripted.

Just before sunrise, a soft knock on the door and a gentle “KoKo”wake up is followed by a slow gentle nudge towards the spoils in the main area, there, waiting, simple indulgences, like homemade rusks and coffee just before game drives.

Wrapped in blankets, one is piled in a classic Land Rover and the game drive begins The Okavango reveals itself in slow, dramatic scenes – lions still lounging after a night’s hunt, Lechwe bounding through reeds, a leopard draped across a Jackalberry branch. Sometimes the delta is still; other times, it teems with life so abundant one can hardly take it all in.

Back at camp, brunch is a spread beneath the shade – freshly baked bread with an assortment of dishes. Everything is thoughtful, but never fussy.

Afternoons are slow by design. Some nap. Some read on the veranda while warblers chirp in the reeds. Some enjoy the swimming

pool, occasionally glancing up to see a pair of giraffes moving like sentinels across the floodplain. The camp is deliberately peaceful –the kind of place where your senses sharpen and your mind softens. In the evening, you might find yourself whisked away to a bush dinner – a long table set in a clearing, hung with antique lanterns and draped in linen. The sound of hyenas in the distance, the laughter of strangers who feel like old friends by now. It’s these moments –dinner beneath stars undimmed by anything but time – that stay with you long after you’ve gone.

A camp from another time

Cha Cha Metsi wasn’t built in a hurry. It doesn’t look like anywhere else because it’s not trying to. There’s a romance here, a sense of

timelessness that’s deliberate and deeply felt. The camp has the soul of the 1930s golden era of safari – campaign furniture and chairs with arms worn smooth by stories told late into the night.

Every detail has a tale. Family heirlooms and photos grace the structures. The antique drinks cabinet that holds your sundowner gin and tonic. The weathered binoculars left out for spotting fish eagles, the art deco sconces casting warm pools of light onto leather-bound books and faded maps all make up the story of Cha Cha Metsi. A camp that makes you feel you have stepped back in time to those old hunting safari days of Dennis Fintch Hutten and Karen Blixen This is not nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake – it’s memory made tactile. And it’s rare.

Fine Dining, Fireside Stories

Despite the wild setting, the cuisine at Cha Cha Metsi rivals that of any city bistro – and surpasses it in spirit. Brunch is fresh and light. Dinners are layered and indulgent. Slow-roasted lamb with wild rosemary and pomegranate glaze, followed by a chocolate tart so delicate it shimmers under candlelight.

Meals are never rushed. They’re occasions. Sometimes shared around a long communal table.

Other times in private, under a canvas canopy with just the sound

of cicadas and cutlery.

Evening drinks are paired with stories – of animals spotted that day, of ancestors who once crossed this same terrain with tents and typewriters, of flood patterns and bird migrations. Here, storytelling is part of the menu.

The Delta’s Spell

The Okavango Delta is a World Heritage Site, yes. A miracle of seasonal floodwaters, absolutely. But more than that, it is a living artwork, constantly redrawn by water, light, and instinct.

From mokoro rides through river channels, to golden evenings watching elephants cross like pilgrims, the delta offers luxury in its purest form: space, silence, and soul.

At Cha Cha Metsi, you feel that magic in every corner. In the way the staff know your name and your favorite tea. In the scent of wild sage as you are guided back to your room. In the lion tracks on the path in the morning – fresh and full of possibility.

Why this is ultimate luxury

Luxury is a word often overused. But here, it regains its meaning. It’s not marble bathtubs or WiFi in the bush. It’s the sound of a honeyguide calling. It’s the warmth of a hand-written note left on your pillow. It’s the absence of noise, the abundance of detail, and the feeling of being completely – exquisitely – present.

chachametsi.com

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

The finest independent schools

IMAGE: ROSEMEAD PREPARATORY SCHOOL

ROSEMEAD PREPARATORY SCHOOL AND NURSERY

Celebrates Independent Prep School of the Year award at Tes Schools Awards

This summer, Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery was delighted to be named as Independent Prep School of the Year at the Tes Schools Awards 2025.

The prestigious awards, often referred to as the Oscars of education, celebrate the most outstanding schools and teachers across the UK’s state and independent sectors, recognising excellence from early years through to secondary education.

The glittering awards ceremony

took place on Friday 20 June at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, London, where Rosemead was honoured alongside other exceptional schools and educators.

The judging panel, made up of leading figures from across the education sector, praised Rosemead for its personalised approach, vibrant community and holistic educational offering.

In February 2023, Rosemead joined the St Dunstan’s Education Group, a move that has helped strengthen the

school’s vision and strategic development.

Speaking about the Tes Award, Nick Hewlett, CEO of the Group, said: ‘This is a phenomenal achievement for Rosemead and richly deserved. The school has been on an extraordinary journey, and I pay huge tribute to the entire leadership team who have transformed this school. It has been a joy to welcome Rosemead into the Group.

‘The Good Schools Guide was absolutely right to call Rosemead the “one to watch” in south London – and now the Tes Schools Awards have confirmed it.’

This latest recognition builds on a series of recent successes. In the last academic year, Rosemead won two prestigious awards – for Excellence and Innovation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the Independent Schools Association (ISA) Awards, and Best EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) at the Education Choices Awards 2024. Following the Tes win, Rosemead

has also been shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) at Independent Schools of the Year Awards which take place in October. Rosemead was also one of the first prep schools

in the country to receive a significant strength in its most recent ISI inspection.

‘A highly customised approach to every pupil’s academic progress is a significant strength of the school,’ the report explained. ‘A customised learning programme in mathematics, English and reasoning caters for pupils in Year 4 and above. This, supported by an extensive enrichment programme and much support for individuals, impacts on all groups of pupils, enabling them to make good and often rapid progress over time.’ Prospective families will have the opportunity to meet the leadership team, current staff and students, and learn more about the award-winning education at Rosemead at their upcoming open morning on Saturday 4 October 2025.

Book at rosemeadprep.org.uk

ST DUNSTAN’S COLLEGE

CELEBRATES RECORD-BREAKING

A LEVEL RESULTS

St Dunstan’s College, Catford, south London, is delighted to reveal Year 13 students have achieved the best A Level results in the school’s 137-year history.

This year, 89% of all grades achieved were A*- B with an outstanding 62% being A - A*. It is expected that these grades will position St Dunstan’s once again within the best performing independent schools in the country.

Speaking about the record-breaking results, Jade McLellan, Head of Senior School at St Dunstan’s College, said: ‘We are immensely proud of our Year 13 students for achieving our best ever A Level results for a third consecutive year. These outstanding grades are a

“Following these historic results, 96% of students will progress to their preferred universities, with more than two-thirds securing places at institutions ranked in the Complete University Guide’s Top 25”

testament to their hard work, intellectual curiosity and determination, as well as the dedication and expertise of our teaching staff.

‘We were particularly delighted to see boys and girls performing equally strongly, a clear demonstration of how co-education thrives at St Dunstan’s. Our students leave us ready to make a meaningful difference in the world, and we could not be prouder of all they have achieved.’

Following these historic results, 96% of students will progress to their preferred universities, with more than two-thirds securing places at institutions ranked

in the Complete University Guide’s Top 25. This year’s destinations reflect our commitment to supporting students’ individual journeys at St Dunstan’s, with eight students reading engineering, four entering drama schools, two reading Medicine and two taking up places to study Law. Three students have also received offers from prestigious music conservatoires.

Alex Brewer, Head of Sixth Form, added: ‘This year’s leavers have been an exceptional group to work with - driven, supportive and eager to make the most of every opportunity. Their record-breaking results are richly deserved and reflect the dedication they have shown both in and beyond the classroom. The success across such a wide range of subjects - from medicine and engineering to music and the arts - highlights the breadth and balance of a St Dunstan’s education. I am especially proud of the way they have supported one another and embraced all that our co-educational community offers. As they take their next steps, I have no doubt they will continue to live out the values of St Dunstan’s and make a positive impact

in whatever paths they choose.”

Speaking about her results Mei Lin, who will be reading medicine at Manchester, said: ‘I’m really pleased with my results and very excited to be starting university next month. I will really miss the community spirit and my friends at St Dunstan’s. The teachers here have also been so helpful preparing me for this next step.’

Outgoing Head of School, Yasmin, who will be taking up a place reading Modern Languages and Arabic at the University of Edinburgh after a year abroad in Paris, also said: ‘I’m so happy with my results, and so proud of our year group. Everyone has worked so hard and all deserve this moment. I will miss the Sixth Form and seeing everyone every day.’

Prospective families can find out more about St Dunstan’s College at their upcoming Open Day on Saturday 20 September or Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 2 October 2025. Book at stdunstans.org.uk

AThe Bancroft’s Balance

t Bancroft’s, statistics only tell part of the story. This summer’s A-level results were outstanding: 40% of grades were A*, 74% were A*–A, and 93% reached A*–B. One in five students achieved three or more A*s. The Times placed Bancroft’s in the UK’s top 10 co-educational independent schools, ranked sixth nationally.

Among the Class of 2025 leavers, ten are heading to Oxford or Cambridge and eight are embarking on Medicine. Almost 80% secured their first-choice university, with courses spanning Computer Science, Law and Economics to Fine Art, History and Classics. Some will take up competitive degree apprenticeships in Finance and Engineering, a reminder that the school values multiple routes to achievement.

But results are never the whole picture. As one Upper Sixth student put it, “We all work hard, but everyone in our year has something else

they’re really good at too.” It is a remark that captures the balance Bancroft’s seeks to foster.

This year has offered proof in abundance. Caren sang in the Children’s Chorus of Carmen at the Royal Opera House. Aryan won silver in the British Biology Olympiad, placing among the country’s top young scientists. Mary was crowned triple national chess champion. And three pupils – Esha, Anjali and Luke – made Bancroft’s history by each securing the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship in the same year.

Sport has been just as rewarding. The U13 girls’ cricketers lifted the Essex County Cup. The 1st XI footballers claimed the Frances Howarth Cup with a commanding 5–1 win over St Mark’s. In the pool, Prep 1 pupil James shone at the IAPS Swimming Finals, taking on the 50m breaststroke at the London Aquatic Centre and earning his place among the nation’s top young swimmers. Together, these moments show Bancroft’s spirit thriving on stage, on the pitch and

in the water. Every bit as much as in the classroom.

“Just as important is belonging. Bancroft’s has worked to ensure every pupil feels known, valued and supported”

Together, these accomplishments explain why the school was shortlisted for London Independent School of the Year. It is a recognition of a community that blends academic achievement with the wider qualities that help young people thrive.

If exam results capture headlines, it is the ‘BeingBancroft’s’ educational framework that shows how pupils achieve so widely. It is everything outside the classroom: the invitation to read beyond the syllabus, question ideas, and develop interests that last well beyond school.

The reach is broad. Pupils are encouraged to create as well as perform, writing and staging their own plays that have been highly commended by the National Theatre. Others test themselves on sports tours to Argentina, South Africa and Canada, or take on the challenge of Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. The CCF and Sea Scouts develop resilience and teamwork, while concerts, debating and theatre visits provide opportunities to share ideas and talents. Together, these experiences show that life at Bancroft’s is about discovery as much as achievement, with pupils finding passions that last well beyond school.

In the Sixth Form, recent investment in a refurbished Common Room has created a space where study, social life and reflection mix naturally. Coffee areas and library corners provide flexibility for independent or collaborative work. Pastoral care remains central, with tutor groups and Houses offering close guidance. Leadership opportunities, from House Prefects to student

Congress roles, help young people find their voice.

Just as important is belonging. Bancroft’s has worked to ensure every pupil feels known, valued and supported. A recent focus on “building a community of belonging” highlighted how excellence is nurtured in a culture of care.

Prospective families can see this for themselves at Open Events. These give an honest glimpse into school life – classrooms in action, pupils performing or competing, conversations with teachers and students. It is often here that families see what makes Bancroft’s special: an education that is both stretching and supportive.

For the Class of 2025, the destinations speak volumes: Oxbridge, Medicine, Russell Group universities, apprenticeships. Yet the greater story lies in what they carry forward - academic strength, yes, but also the creativity, humour and determination that come from a full education. It is this balance, of excellence with breadth, that defines ‘BeingBancroft’s’.

VISIT US THIS AUTUMN

Sixth Form Open Evening

Thursday 25 September 2025

7+ and 11+ Open Morning

Saturday 4 October 2025

Contact admissions for more information

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS: Unlocking Student Potential

With options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child. Here are some of the reasons why parents are choosing to give their children the unique experience of private school and why it’s worth the financial investment.

Enriched academic opportunities

One of the accepted benefits of private schools is that they provide exceptional and challenging educational experiences through extracurricular activities, Advanced Placement courses, and the International Baccalaureate programme, just to name a few. The IB programme focuses on school work and on developing you as a whole person. Private school students constantly score top marks on standardized tests and college entrance exams, and many schools have a 100 per cent rate of students attending their university of choice.

Controlled class sizes

A comprehensive study on class size made by educational researchers Bruce Biddler and David Berliner in 2002 showed that the smaller the class size, the better the average

student performs on academic achievement tests. The gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child is exposed to them. Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on their teaching style, almost all focus on the importance of small class sizes to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.

Dedicated teachers

In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field. Within the tight-knit school community, students have close relationships with their teachers who commonly act as role models. In addition, small class sizes make staff members more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.

Parental involvement

Private schools are built around open communication between parents and administration, and they make it a priority to involve parents in the community. From frequent parent-

teacher meetings, social events such as parent breakfasts and family camping weekends, and the participation of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families become an integral part of the child’s education. This common ground also helps strengthen parentchild relationships.

A safe environment

education when they are in control of their class attendance and achievement.

Ample resources

At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond. Quality resources provide students with the opportunity to fully explore their interests and talents.

Extracurricular activities

While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts or clubs. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found that students involved in the arts are more motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award. Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.

“At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond”

Private schools have reputations for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds. The strong sense of community found in private schools also discourages dangerous behaviour. In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 per cent of parents surveyed with children in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe, which greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement. The discipline they learn also improves their rates for success in post-secondary

Development for today’s and tomorrow’s world

Private schools go beyond offering the mandatory subjects required by provincial curriculum; they can offer students a wide range of specializations including arts programs, athletics, maths and science. Private schools are responsible for producing many leaders in politics, business and society, with a history of adapting quickly to changes in technology and culture. And today, they are also sought by parents of children with special needs such as behaviour problems or learning disabilities.

JUNIOR KING’S AND THE KING’S SCHOOL CANTERBURY

A Seamless Pathway

At King’s, we are committed to ensuring every pupil’s school journey is well-supported, engaging, and tailored to their individual strengths and interests. The 11+ provision at Junior King’s (for pupils aged 3-13) plays a key role in this, offering a smooth and carefully structured transition into Senior King’s while preserving the many advantages of a prep school education.

Joining Junior King’s in Year 7 gives children the chance to benefit from two more years of prep school learning, where curiosity remains central, creativity is celebrated, and the freedom to explore is preserved. Year 7 and 8 pupils enjoy a broad and exciting curriculum supported by small class sizes, excellent facilities, and a strong pastoral system. Each pupil is known as an individual and guided in a way that helps them thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

Through places offered at 11+ allow families to plan with confidence. Pupils benefit from regular contact with the senior school through visits, shared events, and lessons delivered by Senior King’s staff. This familiarity helps build a sense of continuity and belonging, so that by the time they move on to Year 9, the transition feels natural and positive.

The curriculum, too, is aligned across both schools. Our Global Perspectives programme begins in Year 7 and continues through to Year 9, encouraging pupils to think critically, ask questions, and explore global themes - valuable preparation for the challenges of GCSEs, A Levels, and life beyond school.

While the 11+ pathway offers a strong and connected route through King’s, we are equally proud of our large and vibrant 13+ intake. New joiners at this stage bring fresh ideas, new friendships, and help ensure our community remains dynamic and diverse.

We would be delighted to welcome you to join us for one of our Open Mornings, held throughout the year at both Junior King’s and The King’s School Canterbury. Individual tours are also available by appointment.

kings-school.co.uk

BELONG. THRIVE. ACHIEVE.

Inside the award-winning school that is capturing the hearts of families.

In the leafy surroundings of the New Forest, just a short drive from the Hampshire–Dorset border, Ballard School is quietly making waves. Crowned Co-Educational School of the Year 2024, this independent day school for pupils aged two to sixteen is fast becoming the school of choice for families who want more than just strong results, they want their children to feel seen, supported, and inspired.

Ballard offers a rare blend: academic rigour with record-breaking GCSE results, paired with over 150 weekly co-curricular activities, and a proactive approach to wellbeing. But what truly sets Ballard apart is the atmosphere. There is a warmth here that is hard to

describe but easy to feel.

“As a family, we feel very fortunate to be part of such a bright and inspiring school environment,” say new parents. Others speak of the transformation they have seen in their children: “My child is much happier at Ballard,” says one Year 7 parent. “She’s come on leaps and bounds,” adds a Year 2 parent. One Reception parent puts it simply: “It’s just the best school, every day.”

Ballard’s philosophy is clear: to encourage every child to be the best version of themselves, now and in the future. The school inspires and challenges pupils, nurturing a lifelong love of learning and helping them grow into confident, balanced, kind and resilient

individuals. Its holistic, values-led education and inclusive community allow children to be themselves, think of others and positively contribute to the world.

This ethos is reflected in the school’s outstanding academic record. Ballard continues to buck the national trend, with half of all GCSEs passed at the highest grades (9-7), more than double the national average and 14.3% at Grade 9, nearly three times the national average. Almost 42% of pupils gained a Grade 9 in one or more of their examinations. On average, each pupil achieved 0.88 of a grade higher than expected (based on their baseline assessment) in every subject, with 48% of pupils gaining on average, at least a whole grade higher for every subject. More importantly, it is full of happy, busy children who love coming to school, leaving Ballard full of a confident humility, ready to make a difference.

With a huge array of opportunities including trips and GCSE “Raising Attainment” sessions a week, Ballard’s co-curricular programme is designed to give pupils of all ages a breadth of opportunities, from Mandarin to special effects. Whatever their individual strengths or curiosities, there is something for everyone.

The school’s proactive pastoral care ensures that every child is known and supported. “At Ballard, every child is a priority,” says a parent. It’s a sentiment echoed by pupils too. “The teachers go the extra mile to help shape you into the best version of yourself,” says a Year 9 pupil. Another (Year 11) reflects, “The experiences I’ve gained at this school have truly shaped who I am as a person.”

Ballard is proudly phone-free, a decision that fosters focus, connection and presence, qualities that are increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world. Pupils are encouraged to engage fully with their learning and with each other, building confidence and

friendships that last.

The sense of belonging is tangible. “We’re incredibly proud to be part of the Ballard family and grateful for the positive changes it has brought to our children’s lives,” says one parent. Another, with children in Years 9 & 11, adds, “It’s hard to express in a few words all the amazing opportunities they’ve had.”

The school’s achievements speak volumes: finalists for national awards in Sport, Performing Arts, Design and Musical Theatre; Ballard’s Eco Ambassadors also retained their Eco-Schools Green Flag status, this time with Distinction. As well as team success, Ballard’s alumni include four Paris Olympians, three Olympic medallists, world champions, successful authors, actors, an international opera star, and a pop band.

Perhaps the most telling endorsement comes from a Year 9 pupil: “If you’re thinking about going to Ballard, trust me, it’s the best decision you’ll make.”

For families seeking a school where children are not only educated but truly belong, Ballard may be exactly what they’ve been looking for. Contact their friendly Registrar on 01425 626900 or via email –registrar@ballardschool.co.uk to find out how Ballard can help your family thrive.

THE PERFECT FIRST STEP: RECEPTION AT PARK SCHOOL

As your child approaches the significant milestone of starting school, it is vital to choose the right environment for their growth and development.

Park School in Bournemouth is an independent preparatory school that provides high-quality education for children aged 3 months to 11 years, and is rated ‘Excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

More than a school, Park is a community

Park School provides a nurturing environment where each child is valued as an individual and becomes an integral part of the close-knit school community. From the moment you step through the doors, you will be greeted by friendly faces and a welcoming atmosphere. Park School believes that a strong home and school partnership is paramount and encourages families to participate in the events and activities that bring the school community together.

To strengthen this sense of belonging, each child in Reception is thoughtfully paired with a Year 6 buddy. This special relationship helps to develop a ‘family culture’. The older buddies take on a supportive role, spending time together during breaks and reading together. This system provides the younger children with a friendly face and a mentor and promotes responsibility and empathy in Park’s older pupils.

A cornerstone of Park School’s successful Reception year is their commitment to small class sizes. This ensures that each child receives the individual attention and guidance they need to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. The dedicated Early Years team creates a joyful, engaging environment tailored to young learners.

A Curriculum to Develop the Whole Child

Park School believes that learning should be an exciting adventure, and the immersive learning approach in Reception reflects this philosophy. In Phonics lessons, staff employ imaginative techniques such as dressing up and utilising props to bring letters and sounds to life. This multi-sensory approach makes learning both enjoyable and effective.

Recognising the importance of a well-rounded education, a broad and varied curriculum is brought to life at Park. Core subjects are

supplemented with a variety of opportunities for learning outside of the classroom.

The school values outdoor learning and offers Beach and Forest School sessions led by qualified teachers. Children take part in activities ranging from investigating the wonders of the seashore at Hengistbury Head to discovering the secrets of the woodlands opposite the school gates. Park also has access to a private, enclosed area at Little Crickets Forest School, where campfire activities and other experiences support practical skill development and a deeper connection with the natural world.

Physical Education (PE) is taught by specialised teachers who bring expertise and passion. The school is proud to offer outstanding sports opportunities including regular competitive fixtures through their dedicated facility at Dean Park, which is just a short drive from the main school site.

What’s more, dedicated music teachers introduce children to rhythm, melody, and musical expression, sparking creativity and a love of music from the start.

Leadership expertise

The school’s Head, Mrs. Ward brings a wealth of experience from London Prep schools and a clear vision for the continued success and growth of the school. Her warm and approachable manner has made a positive impact on the school community, and she is deeply committed to upholding Park School’s nurturing ethos and strong partnerships with families.

Choosing the right school is an important decision. Park School warmly invites families to visit the school’s next Open Afternoon on Wednesday 24th September, from 2pm to 3pm. It offers the perfect opportunity to meet Mrs Ward, learn about independent education, and how Park School can prepare your child for the 11+ and senior school destinations.

Park School is also holding a Discovery Morning specifically for families of children looking for a place in Reception in September 2026, on Wednesday 15th October from 1:30 to 2:30pm.

Visit parkschool.co.uk/sandbankslife to learn more about Park School and to book onto an event, or contact the school at admissions@parkschool.co.uk.

AN EDUCATION DESIGNED AROUND THE INDIVIDUAL

Success

doesn’t look the same for every child… and at Clayesmore, that’s the point.

Set in the heart of Dorset, Clayesmore has spent over 130 years helping young people uncover what success means to them.

Academic excellence is just one part of a wider educational journey that supports personal growth, confidence, and self-belief. This is a school where every person is known – not just by name, but for who they are. Teachers take time to understand each child’s strengths, challenges and aspirations, creating an environment where individuals are seen, supported and encouraged to thrive.

The journey begins in the Prep School, where a structured and nurturing setting gives younger individuals a strong foundation. Early access to specialist teaching in subjects like art, music, languages and sport sets the tone for a rich and balanced education.

As they move into the Senior School, they encounter a curriculum that challenges and inspires. From the creative arts and sciences to sport and outdoor education, there’s space for every individual to shine.

The LEX enrichment programme and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award offer meaningful opportunities to stretch beyond the classroom, helping young people build resilience, leadership and independence.

In the Sixth Form, students choose from a broad selection of A-levels and BTECs, taught in small groups with expert guidance. The end result?

Strong exam outcomes, alongside confident, grounded young adults ready to take their next step. Individual success starts with individual attention, and at Clayesmore, exceptional pastoral care sits at the heart of everything we do.

As one parent shared: “Our daughter arrived reserved and unsure. Two years later, she left with top results, her first-choice university place, a renewed self-confidence, and friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Set on an expansive and picturesque campus, Clayesmore provides pupils with access to outstanding facilities – including a 25m swimming pool, astro pitches, a state-of-the-art gym, and purpose-built laboratories and creative studios. This is a school designed to inspire exploration, giving every individual the space, support and encouragement to discover who they are and all they can become.

If you’re looking for more than results –for a school that recognises your child’s unique potential – Clayesmore is where they thrive.

Join them for their Open Day on Saturday 20 September and discover what makes Clayesmore unique Register now via the QR code.

Learn more about this happy school: clayesmore.com

Embracing Innovation and Sustainability at Talbot Heath School

BY TRACY HARRIS, HEADTEACHER, AND JO BROWN, HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

As we look forward to the new academic year, there’s a palpable buzz of excitement at Talbot Heath. Our commitment to nurturing “Generous Hearts, Curious Minds, and Adventurous Spirits” underpins every exciting development, as we continue to provide an education that is both deeply rooted in our values and forward-thinking in its approach. This year, we’re particularly thrilled to welcome Jo Brown as our new Head of the Junior School. A former Talbot Heath student, teacher, and parent, Jo brings a unique passion and deep understanding of our school’s ethos to her new role.

Sustainability is at the forefront of our vision. Following our inaugural Green Planet Week, which saw pupils engaging with vital environmental issues from food sources to fast fashion, we are embedding ecological awareness throughout our curriculum. In the Junior School, our much-loved Forest School programme continues to thrive, offering hands-on experiences that foster a deep connection with nature. For Key Stage 3, outdoor learning will expand significantly, encompassing ecology, heathland, and habitat management, making our beautiful woodland campus an extended classroom. Adding to this commitment, we are thrilled to announce the construction of an innovative eco roundhouse in the autumn term, providing a unique, sustainable space for learning and community engagement.

Beyond environmental initiatives, we are continually refining our educational pathways. This coming year will see the introduction of a new middle school approach for Year 6, designed to provide a tailored transition, bridging the gap between junior and senior school and ensuring a seamless progression for our pupils. This initiative reflects our dedication to individualised learning, allowing each child to flourish at their own pace.

At Talbot Heath, we believe in providing a holistic education that prepares pupils not just for exams, but for life. Our focus on intellectual curiosity, compassionate leadership, and a spirit of adventure ensures that our pupils leave us as confident, well-rounded individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world. We look forward to another year of growth, discovery, and innovation, and warmly invite prospective families to discover the unique Talbot Heath experience. talbotheath.org

PRIVATELY EDUCATED PEOPLE DOMINATE TOP BRITISH JOBS

The study, by the Sutton Trust education charity, shows that virtually every key profession is dominated by privately educated pupils grabbing the senior management/director positions

Their grip on power is most noticeable in the judiciary, where 74 per cent of leading judges (those in the High Court or Court of Appeal) were privately educated.

Figures in the report also show that one in three MPs (32 per cent) was privately educated – as were half the members of the Conservative Cabinet. Even in Jeremy Corbyn’s Shadow Cabinet, 13 per cent of members went to private school. Nationally, the figure is just 7 per cent.

The report, carried out by Dr Philip Kirby, goes on to show that 71 per cent of senior Army officers – two-star generals and above –went to private schools. Only 12 per cent attended comprehensives.

In medicine, 61 per cent of doctors were privately educated while 22 per cent went to selective state grammar schools and just 16 per cent to comprehensives. The list goes on – 48 per cent of civil servants were educated privately, 29 per cent went to selective grammar schools and 23 per cent to comprehensives.

The higher echelons of journalism are also dominated by the private sector, with 51 per cent educated in independent schools. And of those chief executives of FTSE 100 companies who were educated in the UK, 34 per cent were privately educated.

Nearly half the top actors – 42 per cent of Bafta Award winners – went to private schools, fuelling criticism that the profession is becoming more elitist.

“Our research shows that your chances of reaching the top in so many areas of British life are so much better if you went to an independent school,” said Sir Peter Lampl, the chairman of the Sutton Trust.

“As well as academic achievement, an independent education tends to develop the essential skills such as confidence, articulacy and teamwork, which are vital to career success.

BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE

The Modern Face of Independent Education is epitomised by Bishop’s Stortford College, a dynamic, forwardthinking, vibrant all-through school from 3 to 18 years, that drives global educational development and prepares pupils for the future in an ever-evolving world.

We promote academic excellence, equipping pupils with the skills and character necessary for future success, whilst emphasising value-added education, scholarship, strong character-forming values, and community, ensuring that every pupil develops confidence and a sense of belonging.

Qualifications and Qualities

Academic qualifications are important however qualities and values are also key to success. We offer a world-class education through which pupils also develop our core values. Together, qualifications and qualities are what an education for today and tomorrow must deliver.

Breadth and Balance

When joining us, children quickly find things they enjoy and become good at. When they leave us, they are well prepared for life beyond school, with a combination of abilities; some social, some academic, and with choices as to where to direct their efforts and enthusiasm.

Community Spirit

We recognise the world children will be entering and the skills they need. The diversity of backgrounds and nationalities ensures horizons are expanded as everyone collaborates and learns together, and from each other.

Sixth at the College

Delivering an innovative, dynamic curriculum, Sixth at the College prepares students for their future lives and careers. Students in the Sixth are part of a vibrant and unique community, where opportunities for intellectual growth and skills development will be central to everything they do.

Finding the right school for your child gives them a chance to develop and thrive. Join us for our Whole College Open Event on 20 September, or our Sixth Open Event on 8 October, and find out what the College can offer you. Register at bishopsstortfordcollege.org.

Saint Nicholas School, Old Harlow

Where Bright Futures Begin

At Saint Nicholas School, we believe education should spark curiosity, ignite ambition and unlock every child’s potential. Set in 14 acres of beautiful countryside in Old Harlow, Saint Nicholas offers a vibrant, nurturing environment for children aged 3 months to 16 years – a place where they’re encouraged to thrive, explore and excel.

With small class sizes and a personalised approach, every pupil is inspired and encouraged to flourish both in and out of the classroom. We are proud of our dynamic curriculum, which blends high academic standards with creativity, critical thinking and resilience –skills that last a lifetime.

From their very first steps in the Nursery and Early Years to preparing for GCSEs, our pupils benefit from a broad and balanced education that builds confidence, curiosity and a genuine and lifelong love of learning.

Our facilities are designed to inspire with well-equipped

classrooms and sports facilities, and beautiful outdoor learning spaces. Programmes like Forest School, Eco Club and the Duke of Edinburgh Award ensure pupils connect with nature, develop leadership skills and embrace new challenges beyond the classroom. A great education is about more than lessons and grades and life at Saint Nicholas is rich with opportunities. With a wide array of extra-curricular clubs— including music, drama, sport, coding, art and more—there’s something for every child to enjoy.

Our strong pastoral care system ensures that every pupil feels part of our welcoming school community. Guided by our values of kindness, respect and responsibility, our pupils grow into confident, compassionate individuals who are ready to make a difference.

Our pupils consistently go on to top sixth forms and colleges in the local area, equipped not just with excellent academic results, but with the character and confidence to shine.

Saint Nicholas School is more than just a school— it’s a place to grow, to achieve and to feel truly at home. Come and see for yourself. Book your place at our Open Morning on Saturday 11th October, or a private tour on a school day, and discover what makes Saint Nicholas the perfect choice for your child’s future.

saintnicholasschool.net

BRIGHT MINDS, BOLD BLOOMS

Earlier this summer, Francis Holland Prep proudly presented our floral interpretation of ‘Flowers in Fashion’ for Chelsea in Bloom 2025. Showcasing the creative and collaborative talents of our pupils, staff and parent body, our display brought the ‘Fearless Girl’, a proud symbol of both Francis Holland Prep and our sister senior school, Francis Holland, Sloane Square, to life in glorious horticultural form.

Inspired by Kristen Visbal’s statue which stands in New York, bravely facing down a charging bull, the Fearless Girl represents how our pupils, through engaging in our 8 Cs of collaboration, craftsmanship, curiosity, compassion, commitment, confidence, communication and creativity, grow into courageous and passionate learners. They are inspired and empowered to debate with gusto, reflect on the world around them with empathy, solve problems creatively and appreciate the bigger picture.

Our floral ‘Fearless Girl’ was covered entirely in moss and blooms, a book held firmly in her hand, dressed in our bespoke

tartan skirt and navy jumper - a piece of our school’s identity and community. As well as a celebration of uniform as fashion, it embodied the values we cherish: pride in who we are, a blossoming curiosity and a lifelong love of learning – all nurtured within our walls at 15 Manresa Road, which was fittingly home to the former Chelsea Public Library. Our design thoughtfully incorporated dried, fresh, and handmade flowers – the latter carefully curated by our pupils aged 4-11.

We were delighted when we discovered that the ‘Fearless Girl’ had not only won a prestigious Gold Award – an incredible achievement with only 14 out of 130 participants being awarded Golds –but also got a special mention for the Innovation award. The Chelsea in Bloom judges were extremely impressed with the creativity and the sustainability of the installation; particularly our pupils’ handmade flowers from upcycled school uniform, underlining the vital importance of sustainable fashion and our commitment to the future of our Earth. This builds upon a long-held emphasis on creativity which has recently seen Francis Holland Prep be crowned winner of the national Muddy Stilettos Best Schools Dynamic Performing Arts Award 2025.

We could not be more grateful to the parents, staff and pupils who spent many hours planning, designing and installing our ‘Fearless Girl’: a real signifier of the strength and unity of our Francis Holland Prep community within the amazing local community we are lucky to call home.

francishollandprep.org.uk

FASHION & BEAUTY

Looking and feeling your best

IMAGE: RAFFLES LONDON’S GUERLAIN SPA

Fashion & Beauty

READY FOR AUTUMN

Our most iconic style at Freya Lillie, the Florence dungarees. New for Autumn and Winter is the stunning vintage floral baby cord. Softer and lighter than a heavy cord, it is a beautiful organic material. A mixture of browns, greys and reds. The perfect Autumnal colour pallet. There’s nothing quite like it out there, we know you’ll love our Florence vintage style dungarees. freya-lillie.com

BEACH BUDDY

Your towel, your dress, and your bust support, all in one. This quickdry towel dress is soft, strapless, and effortlessly flattering. drydolly.com

ART DECO DECADENCE

A beautifully crafted antique bracelet from the 1930s, featuring an impressive 33.25 carat diamond, a 0.30 carat emerald, and made of platinum in the stunning Art Deco style. Part of an exquisite collection of antique diamond bracelets. acsilver.co.uk

ANIMAL INSTINCT

This leopard print fold over card holder is super cute! oliverbonas.com

Crafted with care from the softest Peruvian baby alpaca wool, and available in the most exquisite colour, this wool accessory will add a touch of sophistication to everyday outfits and occasion wear. socosy.co.uk

LOVE This V&A Poppy Brooch by Sarah Cavender £150. vam.ac.uk/shop COSY UP

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES: A DEDICATED PATEK PHILIPPE AREA AT FRANSES

In a bold yet elegant step forward, Franses is proud to announce the new chapter in their journey, their new store opening featuring a brand-new Patek Philippe space next door to their flagship boutique. Franses will be unveiling an exclusive area dedicated to Patek Philippe, a heritage brand that shares the same values with Franses. This expansion not only marks a milestone in Franses history but also reflects the commitment to creating an exceptional shopping experience which we are famous for.

Seamlessly blending tradition with innovation, this new space is not only aimed at accommodating the loyal

clientele but also to providing a welcoming, relaxed ambiance. Situated on Westover Road, long regarded as one of Bournemouth’s most well known shopping destinations, the new showroom represents a positive investment to the local community. The new showroom has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the effortless elegance of Patek Philippe, offering a welcoming luxurious space where Franses team will be providing personalized experience to the visitor. With expert knowledge and a passion for fine watchmaking, the team is there to ensure an exceptional tailored experience from start to finish.

At the heart of this new chapter lies a partnership with Patek Philippe built on shared values. A deep respect for tradition, commitment to craftsmanship, and a dedication to continue to be passed down through generations, is what unites Franses and Patek Philippe. This is a big step for Franses, as they move closer to the opening date, which is why they wanted to share the development of their story with you.

To mark the opening of this new dedicated Patek Philippe area, the team is excited to offer a rare opportunity to view the 2025 Patek Philippe Exhibition Collection, a curated selection of exceptional pieces including the new releases alongside models from the current collection that beautifully illustrate the brand’s versatility and timeless legacy. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply captivated by fine watchmaking, Franses warmly invite you to join us in-store this autumn for the 2025 exhibition. More details will be shared soon – but for now, save the dates from the 7th to the 11th of October and prepare to be inspired.

To make an appointment to view the Exhibition Collection with one of Franses Patek Philippe specialists, please contact the showroom via email at patek@franses.co.uk.

“This year’s event will once again embrace a hybrid format, with live shows complemented by digital presentations and livestreams”

ever. Burberry, Simone Rocha and Erdem anchor the week with collections that combine heritage craftsmanship with modern relevance. Alongside them, rising stars supported by NEWGEN and Fashion East will debut bold new visions. Designers such as Standing Ground, Pauline Dujancourt, Yaku Stapleton and Conner Ives are tipped to deliver some of the most talked-about shows of the season.

London continues to push accessibility and reach. This year’s event will once again embrace a hybrid format, with live shows complemented by digital presentations and livestreams. Meanwhile, the City-Wide Celebrations initiative opens up fashion to the public through pop-ups, installations and activations across districts such as Shoreditch, Soho and Covent Garden.

Importantly, London maintains its position at the forefront of sustainable practice. By becoming the first of the ‘Big Four’ fashion weeks to ban exotic animal skins, LFW underscores its commitment to progressive values and environmental responsibility.

This September’s edition promises more than catwalk spectacle. It is a statement of London’s identity: creative, inclusive and forward-

looking, yet deeply rooted in its heritage.

fashion.

London Fashion Week 2025 will not simply showcase clothes—it will showcase the future of

NEUTRAL TAILORING & QUIET LUXURY

As the seasons will soon shift in the UK from late summer to crisp autumn breezes, this year’s standout trend is neutral-toned, elevated tailoring – a stylish marriage of laid-back sophistication and polished structure. Dubbed “quiet luxury,” it blends camel, beige, olive, cream, and taupe with timeless pieces like blazers, waistcoats, trench coats, and luxe knitwear. It’s the essence of understated elegance, perfect for late-summer warmth and early-autumn layers.

TOTEMEDRAPED FRINGED WOOLBLEND BOUCLÉ COAT, £1,030

“Neutral tailoring in rich tones suits the unpredictable UK climate – it layers, adapts, and always looks polished”

BELTED TWEED JACKET PRICE REDUCED FROM 197,5€, MAJE

DEVON, LINEN-BLEND BERMUDA SHORTS IN WHITE, £150, REISS

GUINEA LONDON CAMEL MELTON WOOL TRENCH COAT, £695

101801 ICON

DOUBLE-BREASTED

WOOL AND CASHMERE-BLEND COAT, £2700

in linen or crepe—tailored yet relaxed—perfect with sneakers or loafers.

Knit Under Tailoring: Thin roll-necks or knit tops under blazers add warmth and polish. Stick to tonal palettes for a cohesive look.

Neutral tailoring in rich tones suits the unpredictable UK climate – it layers, adapts, and always looks polished. From celebrity-inspired tailored suits to waistcoats and trenches, it’s the season’s quiet luxury statement. Build with investment pieces and style them across seasons for a wardrobe that’s effortlessly elegant.

Styling Examples

Weekend Brunch: Pair a blazer with white straight-leg jeans, tan ankle boots, and a lightweight cream roll-neck.

BY RALPH LAUREN

DOUBLE-BREASTED TRENCH COAT, £225

Why It Works for the UK Season

Weather-aware styling: Light fabrics (linen, cotton blends) layered with structured pieces blend comfort and adaptability.

Transitional palette: Earthy neutrals reflect autumn without the heaviness. Timeless investment: Well-cut blazers and waistcoats transcend seasonal whims. Celebrity impact: Royals and influencers have embraced high-waistibt trousers and tailored sets in olive, camel, and cream.

How

to Wear It

Blazer + White Jeans: Classic straightleg white jeans (lined for autumn) paired with an oversized blazer in camel or olive create a chic, fresh transition look .

Waistcoat Layers: Channeling a country-luxe vibe—tweed or wool waistcoats over tees or shirts, paired with bootcut denim or wide-leg trousers

Trench Coat Staples: Lightweight trenches in beige, cream, or olive work as sleek outerwear over tailored trousers or a midaxi dress.

Tailored Co-ords: Monochrome suit sets

Work-to-Dinner: Wear a trench over a waistcoat and tailored trousers; add a silk scarf.

Country Stroll: Trench layered over tweed wideleg trousers and loafers, hands-free with a tonal crossbody.

Evening Out: Double-breasted blazer with fauxleather culottes, chunky heels, and gold hoops.

Suit Up: Match a custom blazer and trouser set; offset with cream tank top and loafers.

Trend Takeaways

• Neutrals rule: camel, olive, cream offer cohesive styling options.

• Relaxed tailoring: looser fits and lighter fabrics make tailoring summer-transitional.

• Quiet luxury prevails: focus on cut, fabric, and craftsmanship—not logos

• Mixing textures: linen, wool, tweed, and gabardine create depth within neutrals.

REISS DEVON

LINEN-BLEND

DOUBLE-BREASTED BLAZER, £280

MAX MARA MADAME

LAUREN

GABI SINGLE BREASTED BLAZER, MINK NEUTRAL, £198, REISS

Consultant Plastic Sur geon

Professional

| Approachable |

Bespoke

Body confidence through Abdominoplasty surgery

Abdominoplasty refers to a range of surgical procedures focused on improving C-section scars, the removal of excess skin and fat around the abdomen following weight loss and tightening any separation of the abdominal muscles. Often, abdominal surgical options are explored due to abdominal protrusion or because excess skin is significantly impacting self esteem. A patient recently reported:

“The

surgery was life transforming -

I can

now wear what I want and

I

have healed really well. I had such a positive experience, I would recommend it to anyone. It felt like restoration.”

Who is it for?

Women who have finished their family and reached their ideal weight, as well as men and women after significant weight loss.

What are the types of surgery?

A mini abdominoplasty is a short scar lower abdominal tightening. A floating abdominoplasty tightens the muscles to give a flat abdomen with a hidden scar. A full abdominoplasty removes all abdominal skin laxity, excess fat and corrects the separation of the abdominal muscles.

Chris Abela is an experienced reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon. He 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, Chelsea and at Wimbledon Parkside.

A FRESH FRAGRANCE WAVE: NEW WOMEN’S FRAGRANCES

The UK’s fragrance scene in 2025 is filled with fresh, captivating scents across luxury and mainstream tiers. Here are several standout launches gaining attention:

Miu Miu – Miutine

A bold debut from Miu Miu, Miutine launches August 21, 2025, marked by actor Emma Corrin as its face. Crafted by Dominique Ropion, it blends juicy strawberry, gardenia, brown sugar, and patchouli for a playful yet sophisticated gourmand. Its bottle echoes Miu Miu’s iconic matelassé leather design, embodying youthful elegance and creative freedom.

Gucci – Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Intense

1

Part of the iconic Flora collection, this 2025 release embodies radiant femininity. Mandarin, gardenia, and sandalwood form a sensorial sunrise in fragrance form; joyful and grounding, it showcases Gucci’s mastery of expressive, elevated perfumery.

2

Lancôme – La Vie est Belle Vanille Nude

4 5

Ex Nihilo – Scarlet Sands (Exclusive at Harrods)

Harrods’ beauty team recommends Scarlet Sands for its instant allure. A warm, addictive composition, it opens with jasmine, amber, and raspberry, grounding into a cocooning base of akigalawood. Inspired by Dubai sunsets, it’s both bright and enveloping.

Parfums de Marly – Castley

The latest addition to Lancôme’s popular La Vie est Belle line introduces a refined gourmand twist. Combining notes of vanilla, jasmine, musk, and sandalwood, this fragrance offers a sensual yet understated profile praised for its longevity and complimentinducing effect—Martha Stewart even lauded it as “exquisite.”

3

Launched mid-2025 and making waves in the UK, Castley delivers a fresh yet complex scent profile. Its blend includes bergamot and ginger top notes, a spicy Timut pepper–neroli heart, and a warm, woody base of akigalawood and labdanum. It’s versatile and confident—ideal for both daytime elegance and evening depth.

The latest fragrance launches offer something for every mood—from playful gourmand sweetness and radiant florals to warm woods and evocative exclusives. These are great for feature spreads in print publications, offering both narrative depth and striking visual appeal.

RAFFLES LONDON’S GUERLAIN SPA

UNVEILS LUXURY DAY EXPERIENCES

In the heart of Whitehall, the Guerlain Spa at Raffles London continues to set the tone for high luxury wellness with a series of indulgent new spa-day experiences designed for 2025. Two years after its launch, the subterranean sanctuary—spread across four levels of the historic Old War Office – has introduced exclusive packages that blend bespoke Guerlain treatments, refined gastronomy and the kind of experiential touches that make a spa day feel truly extraordinary.

The Tailor-Made Spa Day for One (£1,095) is a meticulously choreographed escape. Guests begin with access to the serene thermal areas and 20-metre swimming pool before a personal consultation and two-hour Guerlain treatment. A fresh juice sets the tone; a two-course lunch provides balance. The day then continues with fragrance engraving at L’Atelier Guerlain, before culminating in a glamorous blow-dry or haircut paired with a glass of champagne. It is London spa culture at its most polished.

For couples or close friends, the Spa Escape for Two (£1,050 per person) turns the Guerlain Spa into a shared haven. Time in

the relaxation spaces flows into a joint 75-minute facial delivered in a private suite complete with hot tub. Champagne is poured; conversation lingers; and the ritual concludes with an elegant afternoon tea in Raffles’ Drawing Room – a nod to British tradition with a French-inflected twist.

Adding to the allure, Raffles London has welcomed Andrea Hurst, reflexologist to the stars, to the spa’s treatment roster in 2025. Her exclusive sessions bring a new dimension of precision wellness and enhance the spa’s reputation as a destination for discerning clients who expect more than surface-level indulgence.

What makes the Guerlain Spa at Raffles singular is not only its treatment menu but also its architectural setting: an immersive, design-led cocoon that houses vitality pools, movement studios, private treatment suites and L’Atelier Guerlain itself. The atmosphere is hushed, enveloping, and a striking contrast to the bustle of Whitehall just above.

As London prepares for autumn, these new offerings place the Guerlain Spa firmly in the spotlight –timely, lavish, and entirely in tune with the expectations of a capital city that thrives on reinvention.

raffles.com

Mr Sadri The Revision Rhinoplasty expert

Revision

Rhinoplasty’s are inherently complex because of the preexisting scar tissue, already altered nasal anatomy and potential breathing problems caused by the initial surgery. Therefore this revision surgery requires an experienced surgeon who is highly skilled due to it’s intricate nature. It often involves tissue grafts from the patients own body to reconstruct the nasal framework. This is the reason some surgeons shy away from revisions. They are complex, and the surgeon revising the nose needs to work with the scar tissue left by the initial rhinoplasty which can distort the nose, thus making the surgery a more challenging one.

“Once he understands exactly what his patient wants to achieve then he plans every one of his surgeries meticulously”

Mr Sadri understands that revision rhinoplasty’s are complex operations for patients, there is a longer recovery period, and there may be patient anxiety due to the primary rhinoplasty not delivering the required results. Mr Sadri believes that it is just as important to understand his patient’s journey thus far as it is to understand what changes they would like made to their nose, and the reasons behind these changes. Surgery is not only the operation itself, the emotional impact of the surgery on the patient needs to be considered prior to operating. However it is not just the surgery itself that is important. Mr Sadri and his team take a personalised approach to the aftercare they offer his patients. Mr Sadri believes that the patients journey starts from the

time the patient enquires about their surgery, through to their consultations, the surgery, and the aftercare. The whole package needs to be a seamless one so that patients can focus on their consultations and their recovery. Mr Sadri enjoys performing Revision Rhinoplasty’s. He states that once he understands exactly what his patient wants to achieve then he plans every one of his surgeries meticulously. He believes that he will always be learning as every nose is different, and embraces

this journey. He also believes that due to the high number of Cleft rhinoplasty’s he performs at Great Ormond Street Hospital as part of his NHS work, he has a better understanding and a lot of experience of complex nasal surgery. amirsadri.com

DR AMIR SADRI

WEBSITE: WWW.AMIRSADRI.COM

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 self-fund 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 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

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 ensuite 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 Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the

concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.

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

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.

If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit thekensingtonwing.co.uk

HOME & GARDEN

A collection of the finest house and garden companies

IMAGE: CA’PIETRA

Interiors { NEWS }

TABLE MANNERS

Perfect for open-plan kitchen-diners as well as large dining rooms, kitchen extensions and sun rooms, our Reeves Dining Table is right on trend with its natural mango wood finish and brassplated legs. The trestle-style design creates plenty of space for seating, whether formal chairs, stools or benches that can easily and quickly be slotted underneath. A matching Reeves bench is also available and makes the perfect addition to this large dining table. atkinandthyme.co.uk

GOING FOR GREEN

Introducing our fully revamped Henley range, featuring scalloped edge for a stylish and joyful touch. The wide chest offers 6 drawers on runner for plenty of storage. Crafted from durable solid wood and MDF, the table is painted with matte PU paint for ease of cleaning. daals.co.uk

NATURE’S WONDER

This set includes three 30-hour burn candles, each crafted to evoke the essence of the great outdoors and the cosy magic of countryside living. It’s a perfect gift for nature lovers, daydreamers, and wanderers at heart. wildrace.co.uk

VICTORIAN VINTAGE

This magnificent and rare pair of antique Victorian Scottish sterling silver candlesticks is a remarkable addition to any ornamental silverware collection. Expertly crafted, these candlesticks are modeled in the form of slithering cobra snakes, capturing the essence of Victorian-era artistry and craftsmanship. acsilver.co.uk

CUSHION COMFORT

Say hello to cosy comfort with the Ella Amber Green Cushion, your new go-to for relaxing in style. This 40 x 40 cm cushion is all about softness and support, wrapped in a gorgeous amber-green check that instantly warms up any space. socosy.co.uk

GREENWICH JOINERY

TIMBER WINDOWS & DOORS

Manufacturers and Installers of purpose made Timber Sash Windows, Casement Windows and Doors.

For private householders and trade.

Double Glazed, Slimline Double Glazed and Single Glazed where specified.

Modern, Period, Conservation and listed properties.

All installation work comes with a 10 year guarantee and thermal efficiency compliance certificate.

WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND CUSTOMER SERVICE

PLEASE CONTACT US FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

6 DINING ICONS THAT EVERY DESIGN

ENTHUSIAST SHOULD KNOW

Food is the universal language of the world, and the table we gather around is its place of translation. A dining space that allows for expression and carries its own story transforms a room from being simply a place to eat into the beating heart of the home. Memories are both made and recalled here, where plates, and passions, are shared. It embodies all the defining characteristics of what we call home.

TAKE YOUR SEAT AND EXPLORE THE VERY TOP OF TABLETOPS IN OUR DINING GUIDE:

Saarinen Dining Table, Knoll (above)

Like a great many things in that magical period of mid-century design, the Saarinen table was masterminded by the Finnish virtuoso Eero Saarinen. Why is it recognisable? Well, because the likelihood is, no matter your level of furniture knowledge, you have seen it before. It has appeared on both the big and small screen, in media old and new, making it a symbol that represents an entire era of design to millions. The piece has been under the stewardship of Knoll since its inception, founded by his longtime collaborator Florence.

Epic Dining Table:

Epic by name, epic by nature. A monumental mass of marble that wouldn’t be out of place in ancient Greek myth, Gubi’s monolithic masterpiece combines a stylish Scandi palette with geometric angles embodied in soulful Italian stone. Designed by GamFratesi, the dining table has proven so popular that it recently gained a debonair dark green outdoor iteration.

BM1160 Dining Table, Carl Hansen & Søn:

As you’re no doubt aware the 1950s were revolutionary for dining and design in general. Nowhere is this more evident than on the shores of Scandinavia. Danish designer Børge Mogensen’s Hunting Table emerged as one of the standout creations of this Northern European creative explosion. His masterful carpentry, paired with his ethos of making design accessible to all, gave rise to one of Carl Hansen & Søn’s most beloved dining tables: the BM1160 Hunting table.

Clay Dining Table, Desalto:

Harmony and balance are hard to achieve, especially in the home. Yet in our eyes the embodiment of a Feng Shui space can be found in the structural marvel that is the Clay table by Desalto, with a connecting point so finely poised it feels as though it defies the very laws of physics. Topped with a natural surface and true-to-name clay texturing, it is one of those rare visual dining delights. We aren’t the only ones that took a particular shine to this piece, upon its release it immediately became an awardwinning design at multiple shows including ‘Iconic Design’ and the ‘Red Dot Awards.’

EM Dining Table, Vitra:

Another in a long line of mid-century masterpieces, Jean Prouvé’s EM Table is a versatile design that elevates any setting it graces. Subtle yet strong. Stylish yet striking. Just as at home in a contemporary Italian interior as it is in a Scandinavian one, it embodies the timeless adaptability found in so many of Vitra’s creations – the ultimate in multi-faceted design.

Infinity Dining Table:

The Infinity table by Porada achieves something many find difficult: it takes materials synonymous with sturdiness and strength and sculpts them into sweeping lines and supple shapes, executed with such precision that they appear almost like a natural occurrence within the timber. It’s little wonder that this design has become Porada’s flagship dining solution and one of Stefano Bigi’s finest works. chaplins.co.uk

BM1160 DINING TABLE, CARL HANSEN & SØN

CLAY DINING TABLE, DESALTO

CLAY DINING TABLE, DESALTO

EM DINING TABLE, VITRA

LUXURY // DELIVERED:

Caterbitz Opens the South of England’s Largest Appliance Showroom in Dorset

Caterbitz, a name synonymous with luxury kitchens and highend appliances, is proud to announce the grand opening of its flagship showroom near Ringwood, Dorset –now the largest appliance showroom in the South of England

Spanning an expansive space, the new Caterbitz showroom showcases over 150 premium appliances from the world’s most prestigious brands—including Miele, Sub-Zero & Wolf, Gaggenau, Lacanche, and AGA, to name just a few. Each brand is carefully curated for its innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless design, offering visitors a firsthand look at the finest in kitchen technology.

But it’s not just appliances that make this space special. The showroom also features six fully fitted luxury kitchen environments, created in creative alignment with our partner brand Sterlingdale. Each setting is meticulously designed to demonstrate the perfect harmony between aesthetics and function—allowing guests to explore how beauty and performance can co-exist effortlessly.

Join us for our exclusive showroom opening party on Saturday 22nd November from 11am - 4pm, and experience the Caterbitz difference firsthand. Enjoy live talks, chef-led demonstrations, and an indulgent selection of food and drink as we celebrate the next chapter in luxury kitchen innovation.

“We wanted to create more than just a showroom—we’ve built a destination,” says Richard Moreton, Managing Director of Caterbitz. “It’s a place where design meets technology, where clients can explore possibilities and receive expert guidance every step of the way.”

Whether you’re planning a full kitchen renovation, upgrading your appliances, or simply seeking inspiration, the new Caterbitz showroom offers a hands-on experience like no other. Our expert team is on hand to provide personalised advice and in-depth knowledge, helping you make the best choices for your home.

Visit the Caterbitz showroom today at Unit 20, Axis 31, Oakfield Road, Woolsbridge Industrial Estate, Dorset, BH21 6FE. Call 01202 028371 or explore more at caterbitz.co.uk and discover what true luxury looks like.

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CREATING A COSY RETREAT FOR THE NEW SEASON

With a Ripples bathroom design specialist

As the days grow shorter and the nights draw in, our homes naturally become sanctuaries. Autumn is the perfect time to re-think your bathroom – transforming it from a purely functional space into a haven of warmth, comfort and wellbeing. From design updates to heating solutions, here Jo, Senior Designer from Ripples London, talks through some ideas to help you embrace the new season in style.

Lighting is the first step. Autumn calls for a softer, layered approach rather than the bright, clinical feel of summer. Dimmable spotlights let you adjust brightness as needed, while wall sconces or pendant lighting create warmth and atmosphere, perfect for an evening soak. Pair this with candles or a diffuser for an extra layer of calm.

When it comes to colour, earthy tones set the mood. Think deep terracottas, mossy greens and rich chocolate hues, colours that feel grounding and timeless. Even small touches, like swapping towels or bathmats for those in autumnal shades, can shift the whole atmosphere. Combined with natural textures such as timber cabinetry, stone basins and woven baskets, these tones create a bathroom that feels instantly more inviting. Practical comfort is key at this time of year. Underfloor heating is the ultimate luxury, taking the sting out of chilly tiles first thing in the morning. Heated towel rails or ladder-style warmers are an easier update that still make every shower feel like a hotel experience. Add in soft, oversized towels in thicker fabrics and you’ll never dread stepping out of the bath.

Autumn also lends itself to wellness rituals. Transform your bathroom into a sanctuary with small additions: an aromatherapy diffuser, a shelf of soothing bath oils, or wellness technology such as a Sunshower that delivers gentle infrared warmth and vitamin D light when natural sunshine is scarce.

Finally, keep everyday life in mind. Autumn often means busier routines, so practical storage is essential. Mirrored cabinets, vanity units with drawers, or hidden

“Dimmable spotlights let you adjust brightness as needed, while wall sconces or pendant lighting create warmth and atmosphere, perfect for an evening soak”

shelving keep everything organised without cluttering the space. With the right blend of warmth, texture and thoughtful details, your bathroom can evolve into a true autumn retreat, a place to refresh in the morning and unwind at night, no matter how chilly it gets outside.

Visit Ripples London at 26 England’s Lane, Belsize Park, London NW3 4TG, ripplesbathrooms.com or call 020 7449 9594.

INNOVATIVE DESIGNS FOR LUXURY LIVING

When it comes to redefining luxury living, few names resonate with the same authority as Iconic.

Synonymous with elegance and innovation, Iconic has established itself as a benchmark in bespoke residential architecture—seamlessly balancing timeless tradition with cutting-edge modernity.

Unlike larger firms, Iconic operates as a boutique design studio, offering a uniquely personal approach to every commission. Faceto-face design meetings are at the heart of this process: concepts are sketched live in front of clients, ensuring they feel fully immersed and invested in the creative journey. This collaborative, hands-on approach transforms the architectural process into an experience—one where ideas evolve in real time and every detail reflects the client’s vision.

Celebrated with numerous industry accolades, Iconic’s work speaks to a refined clientele who demand more than just a house—they seek a legacy. From Surrey’s most coveted estates

to internationally admired addresses, the practice has built an enviable portfolio of residences that command both attention and admiration.

What sets Iconic apart is the rare ability to blend technical mastery with narrative. A modernist masterpiece bathed in glass and light; a Georgian-inspired residence reimagined for today—each design emerges as an architectural story told through space, proportion, and materiality. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every Iconic home is more than a dwelling; it is an experience of beauty, functionality, and soul.

In an era where high-end design often slips into the predictable, Iconic charts a different course: creating deeply personal spaces where luxury is not a label but a lived reality. Their boutique ethos, collaborative method, and relentless pursuit of quality redefine what it means to live beautifully.

If you are considering a new project, contact: andrew@iconicad.com 07720 263223

Bold, timeless, unforgettable — iconic architecture isn’t just seen, it’s felt. At our Surrey-based studio, our talented team of architects specialise in both contemporary and classical design, creating homes that make a statement and stand the test of time. From private clients to luxury developers, our dynamic practice delivers bespoke residential projects that blend vision, craftsmanship and character. Explore a portfolio that celebrates elegance, innovation and the art of truly great design.

NARRATIVES IN PRINT: Fiona Howard’s World of Wallpaper

In an age where interiors are too often dictated by fleeting Instagram trends, Fiona Howard’s wallpapers remind us of the enduring power of craftsmanship.

Fiona’s wallpapers are not merely backdrops, they are narratives carved into lino blocks that breathe life into rooms,. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, her patterns capture the fluidity of hand-drawn botanicals, sea-scapes, and the lyrical movement of birds in flight. Each repeat is carefully considered, revealing the meticulous work of an artist who began her career in textile design and has honed her practice over decades. The results are wallpapers that strike a delicate balance between decorative exuberance and quiet restraint, pieces that transform interiors without overwhelming them. What sets Howard apart is her commitment to handcraft in an industry increasingly dominated by digital shortcuts. Her designs begin as drawings which are then translated to lino blocks and carved carefully by hand, giving her work a tactile quality

that resists the flatness of computergenerated imagery. This emphasis on process resonates with today’s growing desire for authenticity in the home. When one hangs a Fiona Howard wallpaper, one is not just choosing a pattern but participating in a lineage of artistry rooted in patience and skill.

Her collaborations with leading interior brands, as well as her own collections, have established her as a leading voice in contemporary surface design, whether gracing the walls of a coastal cottage or a sleek urban flat, her wallpapers become storytellers in their own right. In a culture hungry for the “new,” Fiona Howard champions the timeless.

To celebrate 100 years of The Shipping Forecast, Fiona Howard ‘s newest wallpaper captures the magic of this treasured British broadcast. In two gentle colourways, ‘Shipping Forecast’ drifts across the wall like the tides themselves, each sea area adorned with swifts, sailing ships, shells, puffins, lobsters, and watchful lighthouses. A poetic homage to the rhythm of the waves and the voices that have guided seafarers for a century. fionahoward.com

To celebrate 100 years of The Shipping Forecast, Fiona Howard has created a wallpaper that captures the magic of this treasured British broadcast. ‘Shipping Forecast’ drifts across the wall like the tides themselves, each sea area adorned with swifts, sailing ships, shells, puffins, lobsters, and watchful lighthouses. A poetic homage to the rhythm of the waves and the voices that have guided seafarers for a century.

EVERY PROJECT IS UNIQUE, BECAUSE EVERY CLIENT IS

Design shapes the way we live. The spaces we inhabit influence how we feel, how we connect with others, and how we experience daily life. At Schneider Designers, our mission is to transform architectural ambition into environments that not only function beautifully but also carry meaning and spirit.

inside and out, and a thoughtful celebration of light and material. These elements ensure that our projects feel timeless rather than tied to passing trends.

We believe the best spaces grow with the people who inhabit them. Sometimes this means weaving old and new together – blending architectural detail with contemporary interiors or placing a client’s most personal treasures in dialogue with modern design. No two projects look the same because no two clients are alike.

What our clients value most isn’t only the outcome, but the journey itself. They trust us for clear communication, transparency, and a process that feels inspiring rather than overwhelming.

At Schneider Designers, we see design as an act of trust and collaboration. When vision is shared, architecture becomes more than structure – it becomes a lived experience, one that enriches everyday life and endures over time.

The practice was founded in London by Jack Schneider, whose roots in Brazil and training across South America and Europe gave him a unique perspective. His background combines the clarity of modernist thinking with a refined European sensibility, resulting in a cosmopolitan approach that defines our work.

For us, design is never a solo act. Every project begins as a conversation and evolves into a true partnership. We take time to listen – really listen – to our clients: their needs, their aspirations, their lifestyle, and even their stories. From these conversations, and from the careful reading of each site, a vision emerges that feels authentic to them.

Our portfolio stretches across continents, from elegant homes in London to vibrant residences in Madrid and bold commissions throughout South America. While the settings may differ, our principles remain constant: clean lines, fluid transitions between

schneiderdesigners.co.uk

REFINED PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Elevated Care. Quiet Presence. Thoughtfully Tailored Service.

In London, the most beautiful homes often stand quietly behind their doors. Elegant, understated, and filled with character, they are more than just properties—they are part of a family’s story. Yet many of these homes spend long stretches of time unoccupied, waiting for their owners to return. That’s when true care makes all the difference.

Refined Property Management was created for precisely these moments. Founded by Andor Farkas, alongside his wife, combining backgrounds in hospitality, private construction site management, and household organisation, the company was built on one simple belief: exceptional homes deserve exceptional attention.

Our clients are often international homeowners, busy professionals, or families with more than one residence. For them, “checking in” isn’t enough. Their homes need to be managed with foresight—anticipating seasonal changes, overseeing contractors with discretion, and making sure that when the front door opens, everything feels exactly as it should.

Sometimes that means coordinating a refurbishment project and making sure every tradesperson meets the highest standard. Other times it’s about having the car serviced, the wardrobes arranged, or a much-loved pet cared for as though it were our own. It could be a deep clean before the family arrives, or simply ensuring that the heating, lighting, and security are perfectly in order.

What we offer isn’t loud or showy. In fact, the best compliment we hear is that our work often goes unnoticed—because everything simply works. The house is ready, calm, and welcoming. Behind the scenes, however, every detail has been thoughtfully handled.

That is what we mean by elevated care, a quiet presence, and a service tailored not just to a property, but to the people who call it home. refinedpm.co.uk

“RefinedPM look after every detail for us — from maintenance and housekeeping to lifestyle requests — and our home is always ready when we arrive. Their discretion and calm professionalism give us real peace of mind, even while we’re abroad.”

—

Private Client, Victoria

Private Estate Management info@refinedpm.co.uk www.refinedpm.co.uk

Step into the world of Culinary Concepts, where dining, barware, and home decor bring style, practicality, and innovation to daily life. For over 25 years, we have been creating beautiful, functional, and affordable pieces for the home, and that remains at the heart of everything we do.

From statement serving boards and elegant glassware to contemporary cutlery and stylish champagne baths, each piece is thoughtfully created to bring style and enjoyment to your home, whether for yourself or when entertaining friends and family. Handcrafted by skilled artisans using premium materials, our collections offer lasting quality and distinctive character.

Our new Autumn/Winter collection has just arrived, featuring fresh colourways and new materials with brand new designs, as well as additions to popular ranges such as Stag and Seashore. Each piece carries innovative touches that make a welcome addition to the home and a memorable gift for any occasion.

Save the Date

Join us for The Ultimate Showroom Weekender, taking place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September, 10am–4pm, at our Hook, Hampshire showroom. Come along and shop new collections in person and save on samples and ex-display treasures.

Find us at: Lodge Farm, Hook Road, North Warnborough, Hampshire, RG29 1HA.We are located just 2 minutes from Junction 5 of the M3.

Discover our latest collection and find out more at: culinaryconcepts.co.uk

CULINARY CONCEPTS

Artisan hand-crafted designs that bring a touch of luxury to the everyday

EXCLUSIVE READER OFFER

Shop online and enjoy 15% off all full-priced lines using code House15. Visit culinaryconcepts.co.uk to redeem.

Craftsmanship That Endures

At Longden Doors, attention to detail is more than just a guiding principle it is the foundation of everything we do. With a proud heritage that spans generations, we have built a reputation as specialists in crafting bespoke doors that combine timeless elegance with uncompromising quality. Every Longden door is meticulously hand-made in the UK by skilled artisans who are deeply passionate about their craft. We work exclusively with the finest sustainably sourced solid timber to ensure that each door is as durable and environmentally responsible as it is beautiful.

What sets a Longden door apart is not only its functionality but also its ability to make a lasting impression. More than just a practical necessity, our doors have distinctive design features that bring a unique sense of character and sophistication to any interior. Whether you live in a traditional country home, a period property, or a sleek modern apartment, a Longden door adds warmth, texture and authenticity to the space it inhabits. Each design is created with purpose and

individuality, reflecting the desired purpose. Our extensive range includes both classic and custom styles, each tailored with precision to meet the individual requirements of your project.

We understand that no two spaces are the same, which is why we offer a fully bespoke service. Whether you’re looking to replicate an historic design with defined accuracy or wish to create something entirely new, our team will work closely with you to bring your vision to life exactly the way that you want it. Every door we produce represents a perfect balance between time-honoured craftsmanship, enduring materials and contemporary design sensibilities.

Our commitment to quality and longevity ensures that a Longden door is more than just a beautiful addition to your property it’s an investment that will stand the test of time. Doors are among the most frequently used elements in any interior, and we take great care to ensure that each one we make is not only visually stunning but also robust, reliable and built to withstand daily use for generations. This attention to structural integrity ensures peace of mind and lasting value for people who demand the very best.

We are proud to uphold traditional British joinery techniques, while also incorporating modern finishing methods to guarantee a flawless result. From the natural grain of the wood to the rich tones of our hand-applied finishes, every detail is thoughtfully considered. The outcome is a door that feels as good to the touch as it looks to the eye.

For those who value authentic British craftsmanship, exceptional personal service and timeless design, Longden remains the natural choice.

For more information, call Longden on 01325582583 or visit us at longdendoors.co.uk

GREGORY PHILLIPS

ARCHITECTS AND INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Gregory Phillips is a London based architecture and design practice that designs exquisitely crafted contemporary luxury homes for clients in the UK and Internationally.

We are a professional, experienced team whose work is inspired by the unique needs of our clients; for over 25 years we’ve designed beautiful houses that people are proud to call home.

From contemporary interiors to new-build architecture, renovation and landscape design, our firm specialises in award-winning residential schemes that are timeless, considered and of the highest quality.

Residential Architects London

From period conversions to contemporary new builds and extensions, we’re known for open, light-filled spaces, rich materiality, precise detailing and a strong connection between inside and outside living.

Our multi-faceted team manages each stage of a project in-house with the support of a network of skilled craftsmen and specialists.

We were among the first London architecture practices to offer a holistic residential service, making interior design and landscaping an integral part of our offer.

As members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), our integrated approach means clients are presented with a cohesive scheme that sensitively translates their lifestyle while ensuring a seamless experience from design concept to completion on site.

Award-Winning Design

Our portfolio has been recognised internationally for both architecture and interior design, with accolades including Best House in Europe from the International Design and Architecture Awards, Sunday Times British Homes Awards, a RIBA Award, a Grand Designs Award and a Homes and Garden Award, among others.

We strive for excellence and are pleased to be honoured alongside our peers, but the real measure of our success is consistently exceeding the expectations of our clients.

“Gregory Phillips took us through all the stages of design, planning and build. Our new home is the envy of all our friends because it’s contemporary and light without feeling like a museum – the perfect balance.”

“The prospect of remodelling and adding an extension was a bit overwhelming but when Gregory’s team showed us their proposals, we knew it was going to be stunning. We absolutely love what they’ve done and it works so well for our family.”

“On past projects we’ve used a separate interior designer, but this time around Gregory Phillips did both the interiors and the architecture. Opting to have the same practice do the whole job made it really easy, and the attention to detail is superb.”

gregoryphillips.com

Take the palava out of cleaning your AGA

We are a family business dedicated to only cleaning range cookers. That’s why we know everything about bringing them back to life – both inside and out. By applying plenty of tender loving care, our team of experienced professionals will restore your lacklustre range to its shiny, sparkling former glory. With our nationwide operation, we guarantee a fast, friendly and thorough service. Why not put the sparkle back in your range? Call 07815 475856 for an instant quotation, email stuart4snc@aol.com or visit our website www.specialistrangecleaners.com

Style Isn’t Just Worn – It’s Lived

You’ve spent years curating your personal style, from dopamine dressing to mastering quiet luxury, from vintage finds to that jacket everyone asks about. So why stop at your wardrobe? Your home deserves the same energy.

In a world where your space says as much about you as your outfit, interiors are your next style signature. Whether it’s that velvet accent chair that turns heads (even on Zoom), or a sculptural lamp that feels like a piece of wearable art, interiors are no longer just about function, they’re about self-expression.

Think of your home as your extended lookbook. The colour palette that calms you, the materials that ground you, the statement pieces that bring joy to your every day, it all tells your story. Maybe you’re all about feng shui with fun little moments. Maybe you lean into bold silhouettes and earthy textures that match your confident, creative energy. Or perhaps quiet luxury is your thing, think soft tones, clean

lines, and pieces that whisper ‘I get it’ without trying too hard.

Whatever your vibe, Cult Furniture is here to help you live it.

We believe interiors should be personal, stylish, and totally unapologetic. Our collections balance boldness with softness, trend with timelessness, and statement-making design with everyday comfort. From eyecatching accent chairs and curved coffee tables to sculptural lighting and playful accessories, Cult gives you the tools to make your space feel truly you.

Born in London and shaped by global influences, Cult is for those who know that a good chair can spark a conversation, a well-placed mirror can elevate a whole room, and a great sofa can become your Binge Buddy.

So whether you’re styling your first flat or levelling up your forever home, this is your sign to decorate with as much identity and intention as you dress. Because who says your best outfit can’t be your living room?

Get ready to discover designs that don’t just sit in a room – they make the room. Cult is a trend-focused furniture brand with a big personality; that offers iconic, affordable design . We design our products to last, as well as being kinder to the environment.

020 8185 6960 cultfurniture.com

MOULD MATTERS, HERE’S WHY

Mould is not just an eyesore — it is officially recognised as a Category 1 Hazard, placing it in the same risk category as asbestos. This might surprise many homeowners, especially as mould often grows unseen. Spores can linger in the air long before patches appear on walls or ceilings, meaning families may be exposed without even realising it.

The good news is that mould can be managed and prevented with the right approach. Understanding the problem is the first step. Mould develops where excess moisture and poor ventilation create the ideal environment for growth. Once established, it can release microscopic spores into the air, which may irritate the lungs, aggravate asthma, or trigger allergies.

Recently awareness of the issue has increased with the introduction of Awaab’s Law, named after a young child whose death was linked to mould exposure. This law requires that reports of damp and mould are dealt with promptly in social housing, highlighting how the issue is being treated as a

priority at a national level. Modern technology gives us the tools to deal with mould effectively. Air sampling and laboratory surface testing allow hidden problems to be identified quickly and accurately. Once confirmed, non-toxic remediation methods such as fogging can be used to cleanse the air throughout a property, making it healthier to breathe in just a matter of hours. These treatments are safe for children and pets, while still tough on contamination.

At Mould Matters Ltd, we specialise exclusively in mould and damp. From laboratory testing and assessments to HVAC sanitisation, flood drying, and preventative coatings; our focus is on protecting both homes and the people who live in them. Our processes are stringent, our technicians fully qualified, and our aftercare designed to provide lasting peace of mind. mouldmatters.com

OUR SERVICES

• Air & Surface Testing

• Mould & Damp Assessments

• Air Purification

OUR UNIQUE ADVANTAGES

• Non-Toxic Solutions

• Fully Insured & Warranty Backed

• Price Match Guarantee

MOULD REMOVAL AND AIR SANITISATION

Mould is a Hazard, not just an eyesore

Mould Matters Ltd — London’s dedicated mould and damp specialists. We provide discreet, scienceled remediation: lab testing, non-toxic purification, HVAC sanitisation, flood restoration, and full landlord compliance support. Our Dewpoint-trained, City & Guilds and CSTDB-qualified technicians deliver trusted solutions with guaranteed aftercare and extended warranties, protecting prestigious homes across London and the Home Counties.

CA’ PIETRA PAVING COLLECTION RECEIVES RHS ENDORSEMENT

Ca’ Pietra is pleased to announce that its paving collection has been officially endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the UK’s gardening charity and a trusted authority in garden and landscape design.

This endorsement applies to Ca’ Pietra’s comprehensive range of natural stone and porcelain paving, which has been carefully developed to meet the aesthetic and practical demands of outdoor spaces, from private gardens and courtyards to commercial landscaping projects.

With over 35 years’ experience, Ca’ Pietra has built a reputation for high-quality stone craftsmanship and design-focused surfaces. The RHS endorsement reflects the brand’s longstanding commitment to producing paving that performs reliably in the British climate, while offering designers, landscapers and homeowners a wide choice of materials, formats and finishes.

The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow. Their mission is to make gardening a way of life that is accessible to everyone – nurturing health, happiness, stronger communities and a more resilient world. Guided by 220 years of experience, they support gardeners of all ages with expert advice, community and schools projects, scientific research, professional qualifications, their five RHS Gardens, and events including the iconic RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

ish Smith, Creative Director at Ca’ Pietra, says: “This endorsement represents a shared belief in the value of well-designed outdoor spaces, and the materials that help shape them. Our paving is not only built to withstand seasonal weathering and everyday use, but also to complement and elevate a wide range of landscape settings.”

Cathy Snow Licensing Manager RHS adds: “Ca’ Pietra prides itself on a passion for colour, pattern and texture that inspires its customers to create joyful, transformative designs – and has applied this passion brilliantly to a collection that is highly relevant to the core RHS focus of gardens and outdoor living. This is a perfect collaboration based on our shared belief that great outdoor spaces deserve materials that are thoughtfully chosen, expertly made and designed to stand the test of time.”

capietra.com

“Ca’ Pietra prides itself on a passion for colour, pattern and texture”

GROUTGLEAM LONDON & WEST

Brings a Fresh Shine to Local Homes & Businesses

Asparkling new opportunity has taken the local area by storm, bringing with it a much-needed solution for tired, stained, or discoloured grout lines. GroutGleam London & West have proved a game-changer for homeowners, landlords, and businesses looking to rejuvenate their spaces without the cost and mess of full renovations.

GroutGleam London & West is part of the acclaimed, fast-growing nationwide GroutGleam brand with a strong reputation across the UK, specialising in grout recolouring and restoration—a clever and cost-effective way to give bathrooms, kitchens, and tiled areas a brand-new look. Local residents and businesses now have access to the same premium service that has transformed over 50,000 homes and businesses nationwide.

Leading the charge locally are Andy and Paul, local entrepreneurs with a passion for detail, customer satisfaction, and creating clean,

healthy living spaces. Backed by the trusted GroutGleam system and specialist training, Andy and Paul are ready to help the community rediscover the pride in their tiled areas—whether it’s a small splashback, a full floor refresh or indeed an entire bathroom.

GroutGleam’s innovative approach doesn’t just improve appearance. Their anti-mould, anti-bacterial sealants help prolong grout life and improve hygiene—an ideal solution for busy family homes and high-traffic commercial spaces alike.

“We’re so excited to offer this unique service locally, and it seems word and our reputation is spreading fast with so many local homes and businesses already befitting from the GroutGleam service” says Andy. “Many people think the only solution to grimy grout is to retile, but that’s expensive and unnecessary. GroutGleam gives people a clean, fresh look for a fraction of the cost—and it’s usually all done in just a few hours!”

With a free quote service and a strong commitment to satisfaction, GroutGleam London & West is set to become the go-to for anyone wanting to revive their tired tiles.

For enquiries, quotes, or to see stunning before-and-after transformations, contact Andy on 07741 399 998 or visit groutgleam.co.uk/londonwest.