IL Magazine (Issue 22)

I NDE P E ND ENT LIFE YO R K S H I R E

LEEDS YORK YORKSHIRE S u m m e r 2 0 22

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WELCOME TO SUMMER

As the summer shines upon us, there is a feeling of celebration in the blue skies. The cities of Leeds and York heat up with the warmth of the season, and their glorious Yorkshire surroundings become even more irresistible. In this issue we showcase it all, with the finest summer dining, scenic spots to drink in the sun, and a tour of Yorkshire’s stunning seafood. Discover the amazing array of events happening all over the county, plus insights from experts on the area’s cultural and lifestyle happenings. All topped off by trips south to Sheffield, west to Calderdale, and east to the coast in our super seaside special.

John Barran - Editor Sarah Laycock - Sales

john@independentlife.co.uk sarah@independentlife.co.uk

COVER

Staithes by Anne Marshall Instagram @annemarshall_prints ‘I live in Whitby and the local area is a constant source of inspiration for my prints and illustrations. This picture is the first of an ongoing series of colourful mixed media collages that began as a lockdown project. All of the papers were hand printed using a gelli plate and all kinds of textured objects such as rocks, fossils and beach debris found close to the scenes.’

With thanks to Janine Pemberton @readingroomgalleryart

Contents FOOD & DRINK

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SUMMER DINING A taste of summer dining at six of the best Yorkshire restaurants.

DRINK IN THE SUN Discover these amazing outdoor settings to drink in the sun.

TASTES LIKE HERE Enjoy the abundance of vegetables grown in the walled garden of Thirsk Hall.

YES CHEF The story of Sam Varley and his hot new Helmsley restaurant Bantam.

ROUNDS AROUND YORK A photographic tour around York’s terrific traditional pubs.

SEAFOOD COUNTY A celebration of Yorkshire’s fish industry and super seafood.

LEEDS OYSTER TOUR A shuck around the city eating the best oysters in Leeds.

ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURE 42 46 48 58 62

WHAT’S ON Our picks of this season’s best entertainment and culture.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON A look forward to musical highlights across Yorkshire this summer.

THE YORKSHIRE RIVIERA Visit the glorious resorts along the east coast in our seaside special.

LEEDS BREEDS GOOD SEEDS The importance of the underground music scene.

NIGHTS TO REMEMBER Memories of legendary Leeds nightclub The Cockpit.

SHOPPING & LIFESTYLE 66 69 70 74 80 86 90

SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY Interior and exterior design tips.

RETREAT TO HELMSLEY The place to stay to explore Helmsley.

LUXURY STAYS Treat yourself at these deluxe stays in the heart of Yorkshire.

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY A five generation family success story.

THE FABRIC OF A NATION Ethical fashion with local clothing manufacturer HebTroCo. LAYERS OF LEEDS Explore the rich history of Leeds tiles, here in the city and out in the world.

SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST Discover the delights of Sheffield and Calderdale.

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the original charcuterie & bar

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celebrating 10 years in leeds this july with a host of food & drink collaborations and events

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Summer Dining There are plenty of great restaurants in Leeds, York and across Yorkshire that provide a wonderful summer visit for a variety of culinary experiences.

From city stunners cooking summer menus to countryside settings serving seasonal produce, eateries everywhere are making the most of their outdoor spaces and sunny vibes. We picked six of the best places to taste the summer.

Iberica In one of Leeds’ finest old buildings, Iberica is an elevated experience all year round. The focus on authentic flavours from their homeland will transport you to a summer in Spain, where you’ll sit back with a wine selected from small Spanish boutiques and tapas that turns incredible regional ingredients into classic and contemporary small plates. A real summer treat.

The Box Tree Ilkley is a popular summer destination for its wonderful walks and vast views. Whether you’ve hiked the moors or simply strolled this lovely town, you’ll want to stay for a hearty Yorkshire dinner. The Box Tree offers this with added refinement and a French twist. This iconic restaurant celebrates its 60th year with a luxurious summer menu which takes in meat, fish, veg and desserts all done with classic skill and modern style. Tres bien.

The Star Inn The City In the heart of York, The Star Inn The City feels far away from the hustle and bustle of a city centre. It’s wonderful setting on the edge of the Museum Gardens is perfect for their large terrace, on which you can relax by the riverside under the York sun. The enviable location is not the only attraction here, as the food is a showcase of local produce cooked into excellent modern British dishes, to enjoy morning afternoon and evening.

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3 Robinsons The community spirit of Bishopthorpe Road is well known throughout York, but really comes to life in the summer months. One place that embodies the positive vibes and personal values is the independent cafe, Robinsons. For breakfast, brunch and lunch, they’ll serve you worldies with a Yorkshire smile, from British bacon butties and American pancake stacks to Turkish eggs and Indian kedgeree.

Terrific tea and cracking coffee too.

Devour at the Dyehouse Devour at the Dyehouse is a serious restaurant with a light touch, making it a marvellous summer visit. Out in the village of Thongsbridge, Holmfirth, this is a picturesque setting for a luxurious meal at the Dyehouse or a laid back bite by the Riverside. Devour offer both, with a stunning Italian menu of Yorkshire produce at the former and delicious wood fired pizzas at the latter. Whichever you fancy, this is food that brings people together.

Three’s a Crowd The spa town of Harrogate is as attractive as it is affluent, with a choice of eateries which reflect this handsomely. Opposite the open outdoor space of The Stray sits Three’s a Crowd, a pub which provides traditional comfort and modern gastronomy. Local produce is elevated in classic favourites, which can be enjoyed in the plush interior or if you can get a seat out on the summer terrace.

Photos: 1. @ibericarestaurants 2. @robinsonsyork 3. @devourdyehouse

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Drink in the Sun

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Summer is the season to take a step back, enjoy yourself and enjoy a good tipple or two. When the good weather and summer sun decides to pay us Brits a visit, it’s the perfect opportunity to head outside and enjoy a refreshing drink. From a quick pint in a beer garden, to a day of drinking on some amazing roof terraces, it is important to find the best location to keep the summer vibes going.

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Roland’s Hidden away in the heart of Leeds city centre, Roland’s roof terrace is one of the best locations to enjoy drinks in the sunshine this season. The small, intimate sun terrace is ideal for catching up with friends and the strings of fairy lights make it the perfect drinking spot in the day and well into the night. Spoilt for choice, Roland’s serves up craft beers from all over the world, yummy cocktails and much more to keep you feeling refreshed. Of the wide variety of cocktails, try the Summer Highball with flavours of raspberry, hibiscus, rose, elderflower, or a marvellous Mediterranean tonic.

You can also try the big boss’ favourite drink of all time, the Michelada, which is made of their secret house spice and tomato mix served with a Pacifico Lager.

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Kirkstall Bridge Inn Enjoy a beer in the sunshine next to the stunning River Aire at Kirkstall Bridge Inn, with an outdoor seating area perfect to take in the summer scene. This community-focused pub welcomes everyone with a menu of pub classics, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options available, so everyone can indulge in some delicious food alongside their pint. They are also proud to serve locally brewed beer from Kirkstall Brewery. Spokane is a summery beer of choice with crisp flavours and a dry finish. Flavours of grapefruit zest, pine and a hint of mandarin burst onto your tongue with your first sip. The perfectly balanced taste makes this beer great for a riverside drink in the sun. If 6% is too tempting for a sunny all-dayer, delicious cask ales such as Kirkstall Pale are also served here. And better yet, they’re dog friendly so make sure to bring your furry friends and enjoy a relaxing evening outside by the river.

Los Moros Find summer vibes in the centre of York on Grape Lane, home to the delicious North African eatery Los Moros. Serving flavoursome authentic cuisine without the song and dance, as well as locally brewed beer, Los Moros’ hidden Moroccan courtyard will become your new favourite summer drinking spot. It’s the ultimate place to soak up some rays, meet with friends, taste the flavours of Africa and enjoy a refreshing glass of wine, cider or beer. Los Moros’ Pale Ale is an easy drinking American Pale, which is also vegan and said to pair lovely with their lamb merguez. The refreshing Los Moros Lager also pairs perfectly with the North African cuisine on the menu. Or treat yourself to a glass of Pimms, Whitley Neil Blood Orange Vodka or Havana Rum to get into the summer spirit (literally).

The Phoenix Inn If a traditional pub atmosphere without the disruption of technology and loud music is what you are looking for, then head over to The Phoenix Inn in York. The relaxed atmosphere of their outdoor seating area is ideal for those quiet summer drinks that everyone craves after a busy working day. Their stunning paved beer garden is the best location for a peaceful drink with a view of the impressive city walls. Serving good northern beer is something they are committed to always do, with five real ales on tap. The current resident beers are Golden Pippin, Landlord and Wold Top Bitter which are served alongside two regularly changing guest ales. Golden Pippin in particular has great flavours for summer with a refreshing citrusy lemon taste.

Shibden Mill Inn Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Shibden Valley in Halifax is Shibden Mill Inn. This cosy but luxurious pub is a great location for a pint, but also has a variety of other drinks on offer with a range of spirits and wines. You can sit outdoors in their picturesque patio garden during the summer months and enjoy your drink whilst soaking up the sunny weather. Delicious wines make for the perfect summer beverage, and their award winning list includes the fruity and aromatic Riesling Trocken with flavours of peach and floral spice, and the fruity, easy drinking Valpolicella with bright cherry aromas and a bite of freshness in the finish.

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Photos: 1. @losmorosyork 2. @rolandsleeds 3. Facebook @winterburnpub 4. @shibdenmillinn 5. @thephoenixinnyork

The Winterburn The Winterburn, is an award-winning country pub and a beautiful location for a cold drink outdoors this season in their outdoor seating area overlooking the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. The Winterburn has recently reopened under new management but still proudly serves locally sourced food, a selection of seasonal Thwaites beer, and is dog friendly. Thwaites beer served at The Winterburn is a bitter, dry-tasting, clean and refreshing beer which is perfect to refresh yourself with. Enjoy your summer with the fun, friendly vibes of the pub at one of their quiz nights or just pop in for a quick drink and stay for a relaxing evening with a view.

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INDIAN INDIAN STREET STREET FOOD FOOD

CRAFT CRAFT BEER BEER LEEDS - 6 MILL HILL

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Tastes Like Here In the North Yorkshire market town of Thirsk, there is a grade II listed country house which inspires creativity. This home of the arts welcomes visitors to its private gardens in which sculptures are uniquely exhibited, and that is not the only garden here. Recently, a kitchen garden project has begun to become vegetable sufficient and donate excess produce to local food banks. Grania Howard tells us more about the growing plans of Thirsk Hall…

The walled garden has previously been a garden centre and a cut flower garden. We started to take it on as an overgrown weed mess in the winter of 2021.

The plan is to make it a beautiful vegetable and cut flower garden.

There are soooo many beds, we’ve split them in two. I’m growing for the house and local restaurants and the other half has been taken on by community service lads who are growing tonnes for the local food banks.

It’s come a long way already but I think this year will be a bit of trial and error. We’re pretty much growing everything edible you can imagine!

Peas, lots of peas, carrots, parsnips, lettuces, courgettes, cucumbers, tomatoes, all edible flowers you can find, strawberries, chard, endive, beans, onions, elephant garlic, sweetcorn, allll the brassicas. The list goes on!

We’re constantly battling weeds but if we keep at em then the next few years they’ll disappear…

We’re also wanting to team up with some local chefs to do some supper clubs in the garden - using all the produce grown!

Words: Grania Howard Photos: Grania Howard

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YES CHEF In July 2021, when the world was engulfed in uncertainty, few people were making brave steps into the future. As many in hospitality strived to survive, even fewer were deciding that now was the time to open their first restaurant. Now, less than one year on, Sam Varley is showing Yorkshire why he had the confidence and talent to do such a thing. Bantam in Helmsley has quickly gained a strong reputation as a stunning local bistro worth travelling neighbourhoods for. Sam told us all about how he got here.

“I’ve been cooking all my life and have always enjoyed it, but it was when I was in Melbourne that I started to think that I might make career out of it. I was on a working holiday there after university, saving up to travel around South East Asia, but the place that I was working was actually pretty good, and I started to become interested in the logistics of cooking food at a high level for lots of people.”

Following this almost accidental beginning in a professional kitchen, the same passion reignited in Sam upon his return to the UK. “I moved to London and was settling into a job which was not particularly inspiring, I was more focused on London nightlife! But then I ate at Ducksoup and loved it so much that I applied to work there. I stayed and progressed in the company, then moved to Naughty Piglets in Brixton, which was amazing, working mostly with a wood fired grill.”

Sam then gained further experience outside of London at The Kinneuchar Inn in Fife, where he worked under another Yorkshireman James Ferguson. Following these years learning his trade in Australia, England and Scotland, there was now a desire to open a restaurant.

“Once the pandemic hit, I had a lot of time to plan. I was ready to have my own place so I just gambled on the end of lockdown and went for it. The style of food comes from an accumulation of where I’ve worked, but with creative freedom and using the produce that’s available to me locally, as well as more specialist ingredients from overseas.”

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Now that those ideas have come to fruition, we can all experience what Sam was envisioning. The food is imaginative and elegant whilst retaining a familiar comfort. The atmosphere is confident and stylish whilst feeling casually relaxed.

“The plan for Bantam was to create a place for everyone. I am equally pleased if a solo diner comes in for lunch as I am a big group on a Friday night. I just want people to have a good time - for the food to support that by being delicious - but more importantly to enjoy the time spent with the people they're with.”

Still in his first year of running a successful restaurant, time isn’t something that Sam currently has much of himself. As intended, he spends most of his time in the Bantam kitchen to ensure the food is of a consistent high quality, and he has also chosen this hectic period to start a family.

“I am actually writing this on paternity leave, which is one of the first times I have been away from the kitchen for a long time - but by the time this publishes I’m sure I’ll be back at it! It can be scary, if like me you have a young family and have ploughed your life savings in to the business! You have to make it work financially.”

From the outside, Bantam appears to be an immediate success, gaining wholly positive reviews and loyal local custom. From the inside, a new restaurant after a pandemic can never be entirely smooth, although Sam is satisfied with the ride so far.

“We had a pretty unpredictable run up to Christmas with loads of cancellations, but thankfully since the new year things have been going pretty well. I would actually say the quality of food has exceeded my expectations, and that is down to having a fantastic sous chef - shout out to Shane! And from my limited experience as a business owner I’ve found that looking after staff well has led to a lot less turnover and a much happier workplace.”

Bantam is proof that a positive shared ethos to do these simple things right can reward everyone: the staff, the customers, the restaurant, Helmsley, and Sam. And Sam Varley is an example to follow your passion and your instinct to realise your dream. Even in a pandemic.

Photos: @lucysaggers

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Rounds Around York

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The pubs of York date back over several centuries and have many historic stories to tell. Happily, a lot of these ancient buildings remain occupied as traditional pubs in the 21st century. To learn more about the past and present of the city’s public houses, we went for some rounds around York.

1 & 2. The Golden Ball • Dates back between the late-18th century and early-19th century. First mention of the pub appeared in newspapers in 1773. The pub expanded in 1883.

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6 3. The Old White Swan • Built in the early-17th century, 3rd oldest pub in the city. Renamed the ‘Old White Swan’ in 1885. Became Grade II listed in 1971.

4. The Golden Slipper • Dates back to the 14th century, and renamed The Golden Slipper in the 20th century.

5. Golden Fleece • mentioned as far back as 1503. The Inn was rebuilt in the 19th century, and was Grade II listed in 1983.

6. The Black Horse • Flemish-style pub dating back from 1897, which has now reverted to its original name.

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7. Shambles Tavern • Once was a butcher’s shop amongst 25 others on the Shambles up to the 1870s.

Photos: @maxjcurran

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@mcmillansofmalton

McMillans of Malton 16 Market Street Malton North Yorkshire YO17 7LY

@mcmillansmalton 07903548233

www.mcmillansofmalton.co.uk 31

SEAFOOD COUNTY A celebration of Yorkshire’s fish industry and the super seafood it brings ashore.

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Sometimes it’s easy to forget just how diverse our county is, and Yorkshire’s vibrant coastal region remains the beating heart of a historic fishing industry.

For hundreds of years, our seaside towns have seen local fishermen bringing in catches full of delicious, fresh produce, including brown crab, scallops, and even the mighty lobster.

Throughout the county, fishermen, market traders, chefs, and more are all doing their bit to keep this crucial industry alive.

At every stage, from ocean to table, local people are doing their utmost to bring the very best the sea has to offer to Yorkshire and the wider world.

Historically, the North Sea and Holderness have been rich waters for fishing ever since the end of the first ice age. Since then, countless generations have made a living off of the generous fruits of the Yorkshire coastline, before the arrival of railway lines and bigger fleets in the 1900s saw Yorkshire’s fisheries thrive.

Nowadays, the traditional oar-powered coble boats used by local fishermen have become an iconic symbol of the Yorkshire coast, while engine-powered craft are now much more common. But while the

the boats begin to land, signalling factories such as L&W Shellfish to begin working through the night to pick, prep, and package the crab that comes in from the local boats.

Here you’ll find owner Louise Boocock making sure that the process runs smoothly.

Once the crab arrives, the factory checks the quality before washing, stunning and boiling in salted water, then the team gets to work on the tricky task of hand-picking the crabs. By 5am, the crab is all dressed and packaged, ready to send off to local restaurants and the merchants who ship further afield.

The crab doesn’t have to travel far to reach the next stop, with the local fish merchants located just down the road from L&W’s factory, including Dennis Crooks and Lockers Trawlers. Will Crooks joined his dad’s merchant business at just 18 years old, and since then he’s expanded the reach of their customer base right across the country: “I’ve spent the last however long trying to get these retail outlet customers like restaurants and shops. We supply as far down as London, but our core market is Yorkshire, including around 300 places now, all with our own drivers.”

fisheries have faced many challenges in the last fifty years, the region remains home to the second-largest fishing industry in the UK, with only Scotland coming in above.

The challenge facing merchants such as Dennis Crooks is that fish is no longer coming in from local boats, due to fishing quotas and a focus on sustainability across the industry. Instead, the fish that the merchants supply comes from further afield, including Scotland, Norway, and Iceland, after which it is filleted and distributed alongside the local catch.

While the fishermen work tirelessly throughout the day to bring in their catch, this is only the beginning of the seafood journey. Towards late afternoon in Whitby,

Lockers, another traditional Yorkshire fish merchant with their own trawlers, explain the overnight process which ensures their fish remains at its freshest. Setting off from

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Peterhead, each individual catch is labelled with where and when, then processed and supplied fresh to Whitby within 20 hours. Their focus on sustainability is especially evident, with a discard rate of 0.03% the best in Europe.

In Whitby, some of the fish and shellfish coming through Lockers ends up at the Magpie Café, a renowned family-run seafood restaurant that often sees queues building up on a sunny evening. But the supply chain also travels much further inland to local fish and chip shops throughout Yorkshire, such as Westmoreland Fisheries in Skipton, who receive two deliveries a week from Dennis Crooks.

Throughout Whitby, you’ll also find plenty of smaller businesses that continue to champion the traditional coastal industry. One of these is Cod Roe Fishmongers, a family-run business that operates around the clock to bring the freshest produce from the ocean to the table. Dad Adrian is out fishing for shellfish through the night, bringing his crab and lobsters back to the shop at 4am, ready to be prepped, while Mum and Daughter duo, Amanda and Natasha, take charge of the day-to-day running of the shop.

With such dedication to the trade and a real-love for seafood, it’s no surprise that Yorkshire has its fair share of seafood restaurants. These traders continue to champion the local produce, such as the Seaview Restaurant in Saltburnby-the Sea, famous for its seafood platters and crab brioche, which are best enjoyed sitting out on the sun-drenched seafront terrace. Meanwhile, just down the coast, the Cod & Lobster Pub in Staithes serves up hearty seafood dishes from its waterfront home, echoing the traditional heritage of the thriving fishing communities.

In fact, most seaside towns and villages will boast seafood restaurants at the very top of their game, including the fresh, cooked-to-order fish and shellfish served up by Cafe Fish in Scarborough, and the stylish takes on traditional seafood fare offered up by Fish Cottage in Sandsend, a beachfront restaurant that oozes with seaside charm.

Yorkshire’s love of seafood doesn’t just stop at the coast, something proven by the team at the Crab and Lobster in Thirsk, a beautiful pub that plates up incredible seafood in their sun-trapped beer garden and cosy restaurant. Even as far inland as Sheffield, you’ll still find specialist fishmongers, such as JH Mann, championing delicious fresh produce to local shoppers, diners, and kitchens, helping to sustain this traditional industry that continues to write the history of our incredible seafood county.

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LEEDS OYSTER TOUR Local foodie aficionado Morgan Cope and Andy Castle of Samson’s in Harrogate shucked their way round the city centre, eating the best oysters Leeds had to offer.

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Starting off at the incredible Hayes Seafood in Leeds Kirkgate Market - they specialise in amazing fresh seafood but they’ll also knock you out a cracking breakfast sandwich if you ask nicely enough. Pictured is a perfect Carlingford Oyster sourced from Ireland - dressed with classic mignonette, lemon and a healthy kick of Tabasco - at £1.50 a pop it’s pound for pound the best value mouthful of food in Leeds.

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Next up we headed to The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar down by the station for some excellent Lindisfarne Oysters, expertly paired by General Manager Alex Morton with a perfect pint of Guinness.

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We moved to Crafthouse next to sniff out Simon Jewitt’s genius offering - Lindisfarne Oysters again (a Leeds staple) with a truly excellent verdita garnish (think pineapple, lime, coriander & chilli) which is another Leeds staple if you’ve ever been to North Bar’s tequila Tuesdays...

We finished the tour at Ox Club on The Headrow for a half dozen garnished with their own in house fermented chilli sauce and chive oil.

Also, a special mention to the Owl, who’d been eaten out of mollusc & home in their second weekend at their new canal side spot.

Words: @tmorgancope Photos: 1-4. @thewhitehallleeds 5. hayesseafoods 6. @thewhitehallleeds 7-8. @crafthouse_leeds 9-10. @oxclubleeds 9

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WHAT’S ON When the sun comes out, don’t we all want to go out?

It certainly seems that way judging by the abundance of outdoor events going on all over Yorkshire this summer. We’ve picked eight of our favourite reasons to get outside and enjoy the entertainment in Leeds, York and across Yorkshire this season.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds – 2-3 July Shakespeare in the park has become an annual summer favourite for those looking for a bit of culture whilst enjoying a picnic and a drink.

The open air theatre experience makes the stunning Kirkstall Abbey even more magical, where on the first Saturday and Sunday afternoons of July you can witness the great bard’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream set to a 1980s theme. A uniquely entertaining way to spend a weekend.

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Great Yorkshire Show Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate - 12-15 July

Food Lovers Festival Market Place, Malton - 27-29 August

Since the 19th century, Yorkshire has been celebrating all that’s great about the county with a major show. The 163rd edition of this agricultural event is hosted at its regular Harrogate home from Tuesday 12th to Friday 15th July. Grab a ticket for a wonderful wander round the fields of the finest animals, farming celebrities, interesting talks and intriguing demonstrations; top it all off with some local food and a pint of Yorkshire ale.

‘The food fest of the north’ in ‘Yorkshire’s food capital’ is clearly an event for foodies not to miss. Malton Food Lovers Festival has a reputation as the best around, and for good reason. This huge event takes over the streets of this lovely market town over the August bank holiday weekend with Yorkshire’s finest produce, live cooking, artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, bars and purely positive vibes.

Maize Maze York Maze - 16 July - 5 September

West Indian Carnival Potternewton Park, Leeds – 29 August

This unique place is always a fun visit for all ages, and reopens for 2022 on 16th July until 5th September. York Maze is a giant maze made of maize to get lost in and find your way out. And as if that’s not enough, there are more mazes with puzzles to solve and fun activities at which to climb and bound and slide. It’s a whole lot of excitement right here in York.

There is much anticipation for the return of Leeds Carnival after it was forced to go virtual last year. Organisers have announced it is ‘alive for 55’, as communities come together for a joyous parade celebrating culture and emancipation of the enslaved. Thousands line the streets to witness the parade dance colourfully to and from Chapeltown, and enjoy the festivities throughout the day and night.

Seafest West Pier, Scarborough - 22-24 July

National Book Fair York Racecourse 9-10 September

A trip to the east coast is always a tempting summer journey, and to lure you here on the weekend of 22nd to 24th July is Scarborough Seafest. This annual maritime festival on the west pier is a suitably evocative setting for an eclectic programme of live music, local craft stalls, street entertainment, cooking demonstrations, children’s activities and even more. Fun for all the family.

The York Book Fair is a huge literary event which pops up at York Racecourse biannually. Britain’s largest antiquarian book fair is a must visit for collectors and enthusiasts, and equally interesting for all readers. There is something for everyone amongst the myriad of stalls here, from expensive rarities to reading discoveries, and it’s a pleasurable way to while away an end of summer day.

Pride Freedom Quarter, Leeds - 7 August

Photos: 1. Kirkstall Abbey 2. Leeds Pride 3. West Indian Carnival 4. Food Lovers Festival @visitmalton

After two years away due to the pandemic, Leeds Pride returns on 7th August this year for a party that promises to be even more spectacular than before. The LGBT+ celebration will be marching out together at this inclusive parade which proudly shows Leeds’ diversity through the city. Join in the positive messages and the vibrant parties that will no doubt break out on Lower Briggate’s Freedom Quarter.

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Sounds of the Season

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Goth City Festival • 7-10 July Leeds is an important city in the foundations of goth music, with pioneers such as Sisters of Mercy and The Mission founded here. The genre is showcased at the aptly named Goth City Festival, a musical and cultural celebration of Yorkshire gothic, all for charity. At [BOOM], Wharf Chambers, Left Bank and The Old Red Bus Station, bring out your inner goth to the dark arts and roaring noise.

York Early Music Festival • 8-16 July

Café Mambo, Proms & ABBA Symphonic Spectacular Concerts • 19-21 August Castle Howard is a stunning stately home in North Yorkshire which creates a beautiful atmosphere for its summer programme of entertainment. Which is a varied affair, as proved by this weekend of spectacular concerts in August, when Ibiza house classics from Cafe Mambo get the party started, before classical concert at The Proms, finished in style by the fun of an ABBA symphony.

Whitby Folk Week • 20-26 August

This week long festival has been playing for decades, and continues to be a unique delight. Hosted by The National Centre For Early Music, who put on performances at historic York venues such as York Minster, the Merchant Adventurers Hall, and of course NCEM itself. At these you can listen to classical music concerts from musicians of the highest quality, including the International Young Artists Competition,

This long running festival is a fabulous excuse for folkies to get a week away in the evocative seaside town of Whitby. A beautiful visit all summer, Whitby provides even more to enjoy this August week with concerts, ceilidhs, talks and workshops at various venues throughout the days and nights for the visiting throngs to dip in and out of as they

for a wonderfully atmospheric experience.

please. Book a B&B and embrace traditional music in a historic town.

York Proms • 10 July

Leeds Festival • 26-28 August

The gorgeous setting of Museum Gardens is elevated further by the sounds of the proms this July. Pack a picnic and spend the Sunday laying back with the orchestra as they play classical, musical and opera. It’s all rather splendid.

The big one, as 75,000 revellers descend upon Bramham Park for some August bank holiday hedonism. This year sees Rage Against The Machine, Dave and Arctic Monkeys headline the main stage, plus a line up of crowd pleasers throughout three days of what will no doubt be a weekend to remember that many won’t.

Deer Shed • 29-31 July Deer Shed is a fabulously friendly festival in North Yorkshire which somehow brings together family fun and festival vibes without diluting one another. Seriously good music comes from northern heroes Nadine Shah, Yard Act and Self Esteem, plus a long line up of impressive music, comedy and cinema that all ages can enjoy.

The List Festival • 29-31 July The List Festival is a small boutique and cultural music and arts festival based at The Yorkshire Scare grounds in Wakefield. Over three days and three stages, this dance event promises a laid back and inclusive atmosphere, in which revellers can rise to Balearic, House and Disco or get darker and deeper through the night. Plus drag acts, live performances and local artists make it a cabaret of good times.

Mint Festival • 10 September 2022 represents ten years of Mint Festival, and the milestone promises an even more full-on dance spectacular at Newsam Green Farm. The enviable line up DJs spin house, techno and a variety of EDM to a vibrant crowd of clubbers throughout day and night. The best party on a farm in Leeds this summer.

Photos: 1. @bingleyweekend 2. @yorkproms 3. @whitbyfolkweek 4. @mintfestival

Bingley Weekender • 5-7 August Bands have been rocking the market town of Bingley since a festival began there in 2007. Bingley Music Live is no more, but the mantra has been continued by Bingley Weekender, who bring rock & roll to their stages across three fun-filled days, when headliners swing from Rag ‘n’ Bone Man to The Libertines to Pixies.

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The Yorkshire Riviera The Yorkshire Coast is home to some of England’s most natural wonders, a rugged coastline and some small coastal towns in between. The glorious East Coast boasts some popular tourist attractions, amazing dining destinations, wonderful independent businesses, and of course, some of the best views in Yorkshire.

WHITBY One of the Yorkshire Coasts’ most scenic and wondrous towns is Whitby, a place of ancient history and lots of life. Whether you’re paying a visit here for the day, on a romantic getaway or enjoying the day out as a family, there are an array of wonderful experiences in this not-so-little seaside town.

Amongst the breathtaking coastal views are several attractions full of rich history and culture. Whitby Abbey, a 7th-century Christian monastery, stands proud overlooking the North Sea since it was first founded in 657 AD. And better yet, you can roam the gothic ruins with their interactive guides and visit the museum where there’s more history to uncover.

And what’s a trip to the seaside without paying a visit to the beach?

You can have a quick swim in the North Sea, catch some sun rays and watch the world go by on a nice summer weekend. If you’re wanting to visit for a special event, you can catch the Whitby Folk Week at Whitby Pavillion from August 20th-26th, The Great Seaside Vintage Fair on July 16th-17th or the Whitby Beer Festival on July 28th-31st.

Not only is Whitby a wonderful place to rest and relax, there are also some truly amazing independent businesses dotted around the streets. Beginning on Baxtergate is Cod Roe, a family-run fishmongers who catch and supply fresh seafood, and Bothams, a craft bakery, shop and beautiful tearoom who were established in 1865. Down the cobbled street you come to The Whitby Cobbler, a traditional business with a modern twist who are traders and repairers of fine British handmade footwear.

Being so much more than just your average seaside town, here you can also discover the Whalebone Arch which is a reminder of the town’s whaling history. The structure was first set up around 1853, a replica was then presented by Norway to Whitby in 1963, and the current replacement was donated from Alaska in 2003.

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Into Angel Yard on Baxtergate is Angel Fisheries, a family-run fish and chip shop serving up everyone’s favourite seaside food. Also tucked away in Angel Yard is The Singing Kettle Cafe, a friendly place to grab a good coffee and tasty lunch. Onto St Ann’s Staith you can find

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Hopes & Beans, a proper coffee shop serving you great quality coffee and locally-made cakes to satisfy that sweet tooth. Then on your stroll down Pier Road you’ll not miss the Magpie Cafe, with queues often sprawling outside. It’s not a real trip to Whitby if you didn’t visit here for some of the finest fish dishes in Yorkshire.

Back around to the street of Flowergate is the Reading Rooms & Gallery, a lovely space for diverse and contemporary Northern art and photography. The Whitby Deli is a shop of all delightful things including freshly baked goods, a deli, hampers and gifts to take as a picnic to the beach or enjoy back home! And The Whitby Hampers combine the area’s finest produce, perfect for when you’re back to reality and missing the tastes and smells of Whitby.

Across the Iron Bridge is Grape Lane, the ideal place for a spot of shopping on your way towards the Abbey. Home goods store The Sandy Seahorse stocks an array of decor and interior pieces inspired by the coast and the countryside. And The Coffee Shop is perfect for those who need to grab a quick coffee and a snack before or after climbing the 199 steps to Whitby Abbey. For those who like something a little bit stronger, Whitby Brewery is located beautifully on the cliff tops, and The Green Dragon sells some of the best beers and ciders that are both local and international; you can even pop into their tap rooms to taste one or two.

Onto the iconic Church Street you can explore and discover some more of the town’s best independents. Pop in to Totally Natural Skincare for some luxurious and natural products including serums, soaps, bath salts, moisturisers and aromatherapy gifts. Mr Cooper’s Coffee House is an inviting coffee shop serving you fresh espresso, speciality teas, sandwiches and pastries for you to enjoy inside or out.

If you’re looking to leave Whitby with the perfect treat for someone, The Ebor Jetworks produces stunning and original jewellery pieces that are sure to catch your eye. And The Whitby Bookshop is filled with an exciting selection of books and gifts to treat yourself to.

Back onto Sandgate you can find Venus Trading, a quirky little gift shop that was born in 1982 as a small stall selling crafts and jewellery.

40 years on they now sell a diverse selection of furniture, clothing, homeware, toys and jewellery. And men, if you’re on the hunt for a new outfit or trim, Furbellow & Co is a gentlemen’s lifestyle store selling clothing and accessories as well as being a friendly barbershop.

So, with Summer on the horizon it seems like the perfect time to plan your trip over to Whitby and make the most of the British sun in one of England’s most charming towns.

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SCARBOROUGH Perhaps Yorkshire’s most famous coastal town, Scarborough spans an incredible coastline of natural beauty with fun and entertainment that make for a perfect trip to the Yorkshire Coast.

Like Whitby, the town of Scarborough is also full of history and attractions if you’re wanting to add a sprinkle of culture to your visit.

Scarborough Castle is a former medieval Royal fortress that overlooks the North Sea and Scarborough town and has a 3000 year history for which you can explore. Over the centuries several other structures were added and it was defended throughout various civil wars. The castle has been a ruin since the sieges of the English Civil War and is now run by English Heritage. Elsewhere, on Vernon Road you can also find the Rotunda Museum, one of the oldest purpose-built museums still in use in the UK, built in 1829. Inside this Grade II listed building you can see 11,000 year old artefacts, fascinating collections of fossils and explore the stories of the 19th Century Scarborough Philosophical Society.

For when you’re looking for something to keep the kids entertained, you can see a variety of sea creatures at SEA LIFE, go down the water slides at Alpamare UK, or catch a show at Scarborough Spa or Open Air Theatre. Throughout the summer you can visit events like the Yellow Dot Festival on July 1st-3rd, the DMAs on July 9th, or Jurassic Earth on August 12th.

You’ll then be spoilt for choice in Embers as their food is bursting with flavour and has a seasonal menu using the best local Yorkshire produce. On Victoria Road, Mojos Music Cafe is a great place to enjoy some tasty food and listen to some great tunes. And if you’re vegan in Scarborough, Love Brew is the place for you as this cosy cafe is plant-based, friendly and delicious.

Greensmith is also a great pit-stop for some hand crafted coffee, sweet treats or a light lunch. Then down onto one of Scarborough’s oldest streets, Bar Street, is The Green Room, a charming and intimate restaurant with an impressive menu to sample. Along from there is Walkers of Bar Street, a welcoming and friendly cafe serving home cooked comfort food. Around the corner on Waterhouse Lane, Relish Kitchen is an exciting cafe offering hearty food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Then onto Queen Street, where refined British restaurant Clark’s turn local ingredients into fine plates of food.

If you’re looking for somewhere lovely to stay on your visit to Scarborough, try the Bike and Boot Inn, an eccentric hotel that is dog-friendly and the perfect escapism. Nearby is award-winning coffee house Espresso Yourself on Falconers Road, and down onto York Place you’ll find Sha-Ka, a family run cafe that serves Hawaiian inspired food, roasted coffee and homemade cakes.

Scarborough is also filled with a range of independent businesses who bring a sense of community to the town. Starting on Northway, you can pop into Koda for a coffee to start the day or to grab a bite from their plant-based menu. Also found here is Nabs at Northway, a cosy friendly cafe serving appetising brunch dishes such as stuffed croissants, pancakes, sandwiches and more.

Or why not try Eat Me Cafe, a restaurant known for their eclectic British and Asian inspired food. Across onto Hanover Road is Andrea Willis Designs, a beautiful hidden gift shop stocked with handmade cards and keepsake gifts to remember your trip to the seaside.

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For those who love browsing around the gift shops on holiday, pop into Homebird House in St Helen’s Square for some home accessories or bath and body products. Opposite is Scarborough Market Hall and Vaults, which is filled with three floors of exciting independent traders. Little lifestyle shop Wooley Edge specialises in pre-loved treasures, vintage pieces and personalised gifts. Here you can also find Preen, a small beauty salon and gift shop offering treatments in nails, eyebrows, makeup and facials. And if you love discovering local artists, Martine Gwynne specialises in abstract paintings and portraits. Solange Bakery, also in the market, provides delightful artisan baked treats using local and organic ingredients for fresh bread, sweets and pastries.

Heading down towards the Scarborough sea front, on Huntriss Row is Troost, the town’s newest coffee shop. Further on, discover small cafe Francesca’s Street Eat, a family run business that serves up vegan fusion food. Then on Sandside, GEO is a new cocktail bar and kitchen serving up an array of drinks and small plates. And towards the other beach in Scarborough and near the unique Peasholm Park, The Hideout is a unique cafe, kitchen and bar that’s the perfect venue to meet up with friends, family or enjoy a coffee on your own.

And after travelling round all of these great cafes, shops, restaurants, bars and attractions that Scarborough has to offer, you might now find time to experience the beaches, the sea, the fish & chips, the amusement arcades, and all the seaside fun of Scarborough.

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55 Photo: @anetelusina

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SURROUNDING COASTAL TOWNS Dotted around these two popular towns along the coast are a variety of smaller villages and towns that help make the Yorkshire Coast into one of the best places to visit in the UK. Starting up the North East coast for a visit to Saltburn by the Sea, a fishing village in Redcar and Cleveland. Amongst the golden sands and pier, and waves which brings surfers flocking here, you can discover several independent businesses, including The Sea View Restaurant. This destination venue offers you the finest seafood experience looking out over the best view in the town. Down Milton Street you will come across The Vintage Vault, a treasure trove of home goods, interior pieces and unusual items. Also on this street is Twenty Three, a laid back neighbourhood bar which serves up craft beer and Neapolitan style pizza.

Nestled in between Whitby and Scarborough, Robin Hood’s Bay is another idyllic fishing village found in the North York Moors National Park. Wandering through the narrow cobbled streets, up and down the hills and through the alleyways you’ll discover just how evocative this town truly is. Just metres away from the sea is Tea, Toast and Post, a small music oriented cafe that serves up homemade food, fresh coffee and lots of other drinks to keep you hydrated on your strolls. What’s a trip to the coast without grabbing some fish and chips? Located at the top of Bay Bank is Fish Box, the perfect place to stop for some food and take in the panoramic views. You can also find Berties of Bay, a heritage menswear clothing brand that revives traditional styles inspired by past times along the Yorkshire Coast.

After a longer drive along the coast and past Scarborough you’ll find yourself in Filey. This quiet seaside town is perfect for families looking for a little break, known for its large beach and popularity amongst tourists. Whilst here, why not pop in to Lily’s Bar on John Street for a quick refreshment, where they offer a wide variety of specialist beers, wine and gin for those who like a tipple or two. The Boat Shed on Murray Street is another of Filey’s best spots for both food and drinks, you can spend the night here socialising with friends or visit with the family for some amazing pizza. Also on Murray Street is Filey Bistro & Coffee Bar, ideal for those who want to make a quick pit-stop in between shopping and walking around the streets of Filey.

Our journey ends in Bridlington, another popular coastal town that boasts seaside entertainment, attractions, independents and culture.

Starting on High Street, pay a visit to The Nut & Nettle, a family run eatery that is plant-based, handmade and dog-friendly. Further along this street is Morten Gallery which exhibits contemporary paintings and sculptural ceramics from Jenny Morten and her late husband Geoff.

Another independent to make a quick visit to is Gray’s Emporium, a vintage lover’s haven which is filled with antiques, collectibles and quirky interior pieces. And if you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, Tiffin & Co on Market Place is a chocolate cafe that produces traditional desserts that are sure to make you go back for more.

Just a 20 minute drive away from Saltburn you’ll arrive at Staithes, one of the largest fishing ports in the North East and one of Yorkshire’s most picturesque villages. This gem is home to the Cod and Lobster, a seafront restaurant that’s perfect to visit during any season. Indulging in some incredible and fresh seafood and looking out at the scenic view is truly one of Yorkshire’s best qualities. Here you can also find Betsy and Bo, a traditional sweet shop, deli and coffee shop, and Ringers Cafe Bar, which is a vibrant space in Staithes selling delicious coffee and cakes.

After another 15 minutes drive down South along the Yorkshire Coast you’ll come across the small fishing village near Whitby, Sandsend.

This unique coastal retreat is perfect for those looking for somewhere to escape, relax and unwind from reality. A popular destination in Sandsend is Fish Cottage, a seafood restaurant that’s located just 20 yards from the beach. They pride themselves on serving the finest, locally sourced sustainable fish and seafood, so a meal at Fish Cottage is a must. And whilst you’re here, Wild Hart is a lovely little gift shop on East Row which stocks a variety of gifts, vintage pieces and candles.

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LEEDS BREEDS GOOD SEEDS There seems to be an air of inspiration around the underground music scene in Leeds at the moment.

The duality of being situated within a rapidly growing city that still retains a village like sense of locality fills those who are involved with the belief that they might be able to make a worthwhile contribution to its culture.

For several generations the inner city terraces of areas like Chapeltown and Hyde Park have incubated talent that have contributed to seminal music movements such as Dub, Punk, Bleep and more. That being said, Leeds has never really relished in the recognition of being a music city and its not difficult to see why. Without our own Beatles or Oasis there is no figurehead that unites the city behind a singular style. The result of this is a melting pot of sounds, philosophies and aesthetics the sum of which is far greater than it ever gets the credit for.

A few weeks ago I took a walk through Leeds from Sheaf Street, itself a club and creative studio, and spotted signs for LIFI and Leeds City of Culture 2023 amongst those of creative independent enterprises and it filled me with hope for a bright future for the city. Through the introduction of new festivals, shops, bars, restaurants and studios alongside the solid range of pre existing institutions, Leeds is evolving into an exciting hotbed for culture.

A crucial element to the matrix of a culturally vibrant city is a soundtrack to match and thanks to a new wave of exciting musicians, lyricists and curators Leeds is well on its way to having one. All movements need their hubs and currently community radio stations are playing a huge part in giving artists spaces to make and play with sound. The city’s friendly nature permeates through the identity of Sable, Alto and Narr, the three stations platforming the underground.

Sable’s curation focuses on inclusivity, creating a space for communities that can often feel marginalised by mainstream DJ culture. They represent a wider movement to install better values in an industry that has a tainted past with the treatment of artists and DJs from a minority background, making their presence in a forward thinking city extremely important.

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Alongside radio stations, small independent venues like Wharf Chambers, Eiger Studios and Distrikt provide a space for new promoters to make a name for themselves and solidify a community around their nights. Out of these venues promoters such as Fifty, Pick and Mix, Fortynine, Ost and Rat Party join stalwarts of the scene like Love Muscle, Brudenell Groove and Mugpie in creating weekends packed with excellent electronic music. The mix of touring DJs and local talent creates a breadth of experiences for partygoers in the city.

Whilst there are plenty of aspirational examples of electronic labels and parties coming out of Leeds, On Rotation are particularly notable. The foundations for the label were laid by the powerful mind of Alex T, a local DJ whose immense talent was beginning to receive the recognition it deserved. His untimely death was felt dearly by his global network of musical friends and especially in Leeds where he resided. Alex’s exemplary philosophy for music rubbed off on those whose taste he propagated with incredible music from behind the counter at Tribe Records. Now in the hands of his label mates Adam Pits, Lisene and Chris I’anson, On Rotation’s output has shifted towards releasing music. They’re in the midst of rolling out their third release which connects the dots between four artists, Phazma, Jamie Leather, Anderson and Ed Hodge, who manufacture a trancey groovy future facing sound.

Forgoing the bleeps and bloops, there is also a burgeoning hip hop scene in Leeds with serious credibility. Artists like Nuno Lopes, Northaze and Pertrelli take an innovative approach to matching bars with beats; the talent of their cohort cannot be overstated. Their rhymes make sense of navigating through the now over a choice of beats that are left of field, pushing the genre of rap into a more interesting territory than is currently reflected in the mainstream. Also keeping things fresh are labels Acorn Tapes and White Brick who each offer their own refined interpretations of the hip hop sound.

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Out of everything on offer there are two stand out parties for me.

Hold the Relish are a crew which keep the true essence of rave alive.

They forgo the choice of using clubs as venues, instead opting for interesting outdoor spots around the city. The party is served with an excellent standard of music and a diverse crowd which creates an atmosphere of love and freedom seldom found on dance floors. One of the other places you will find this rare magic is at Cosmic Slop at Hope House. The regular party is a fundraiser for the charity Music and Arts Production which provides creative education for kids who struggle to fit into mainstream education from the same building. The music policy is all encompassing and the DJs are never announced, creating an exciting element of the unknown.

Following years of bubbling, some key parties have been evolving their operation into labels. Cosmic Slop are releasing Four Tet’s album ‘871’ on cassette for the first time. On Bandcamp you can find five iterations of the compilation series by Brudenell Groove’s label Reel Long Overdub featuring tracks curated from their talented network of producers. Wicked unreleased tracks from Hold the Relish have reached my ears and are set to reach dancefloors soon, and the label I co-curate Curbside is about to release our first record on vinyl.

All of these are helping to project the culture of Leeds outwards and bestow it on fresh ears.

Though the route from Leeds to mainstream isn’t so defined, the roots of how to do it for yourself are. This DIY attitude creates an output of amazing music that can be heard at gigs and dancefloors across the city. With the support of its people, Leeds will continue to grow, and help to solidify its music scene as great.

Words: Ryan Kimberley @still__ryan Photos: 1. @leedsteppa 2. @altoradio 3. @c0smicsl0p 4. @leedsteppa

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NIGHTS TO REMEMBER The Cockpit was a Leeds institution. This legendary nightclub located underneath Leeds’ railway bridge was a unique venue for its suitably sparse and dark interior that brought to it many years of memorable gigs and club nights to remember. Richard Todd, co-owner during The Cockpit’s glory years, now runs The Woods in Chapel Allerton, and told us all about the thrills of Leeds’ most vital alternative venue.

How did you end up owning The Cockpit?

The Cockpit opened in September 1994 and I hired it on Friday nights for my club night Brighton Beach. In 1997, the owner told me he wanted to sell it. By this time, I had teamed up with Colin Oliver, who had started promoting gigs and club nights there. There were lots of ups and downs for two young lads who had no experience of buying a nightclub before, but by late 1997, it was ours!

What type of venue did you want to create?

We just wanted to do something different - a truly alternative and diverse venue - and, most importantly, it had to be good! A big thing for us at the time, which nobody else was doing in Leeds, was to use the combined power of gigs and clubs together - putting on a gig where the audience would like the club night afterwards. We also wanted to use the club nights’ popularity to get bands to play there.

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Tell us about the nights there through the years.

I started Brighton Beach there, which then also went to Sheffield, Leicester, Newcastle, London and Birmingham. In 1995, The Garage started, which is still going at The Key Club now. Poptastic, a very popular gay night, ran from the late 1990s. Slam Dunk, which has gone on to greater things, and The Session, which was massive for years, started in the early 2000s. Gigs, well where do you start? Here are some of the biggies: Supergrass, The Offspring, The Pharcyde,

Amy Winehouse, The Killers, Coldplay, My Chemical Romance, Rancid, Ellie Golding, Ed Sheeran, Blue (!), The White Stripes, At The Drive In, Fall Out Boy, LCD Soundsystem, Peaches, Vampire Weekend, The Libertines, Franz Ferdinand and Queens Of The Stone Age… to name but a few!

What are your favourite memories of the place?

There are too many to go into over all those years - you will have to wait for the book! Although one sticks out: it was the opening night of Brighton Beach. I opened the door and there was a queue. I had to shut it quickly. I was embarrassed - people were queuing to go to something I was putting on!

What have you done since The Cockpit closed?

When The Cockpit closed, I was still working with Colin Oliver in our company Futuresound, and by that time also Ben Ray from Slam Dunk. We were operating The Wardrobe, and The Key Club opened shortly after The Cockpit’s closure. I wanted to do something different and in 2015, with my new business partner Paul Logan, I set up The Woods in Chapel Allerton, which I enjoy immensely.

Photos: 1. Richard Todd 2. @rosemarycrowther 3. @inconsequential_ nonsense 4. @rosemarycrowther 5-6. Tony Leighton 7. @stillintoyoupod 8. Matthew Watson 9. popartmediagroup.co.uk 10. @music.live.music

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IDYLLIC CITY CENTRE YORK HOTEL PERFECT FOR ALL THE FAMILY The Grand, York, stands proudly in the heart of York, inside the city’s historic walls, it is in an idyllic location and delivers picturesque views. As one of the UK's top five-star hotels, The Grand, prides itself on providing impeccable service, true Yorkshire hospitality, and a memorable stay. This ethos runs through every element of the hotel, from the state-ofthe-art Cookery School and its award-winning gastronomy offerings, to its serene spa facilities, exquisite bedrooms and experiential programme filled with unique, outdoor activities.

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Summertime and the Living is Easy Local interior and exterior design experts tell us their tips and trends for the summer.

Lucy Seddon, Helston Street Summer is the perfect time to bring together interior and exterior design. Throwing open your patio doors, decorating your garden table with a beautiful floral table cloth, chairs covered with bright cushions, drinking from vintage glassware, and hosting a BBQ has got to be the best summer activity.

Equally, bringing freshly cut flowers that you’ve hand grown inside the house and filling your kitchen windowsill is another easy way to bring the outside in. Perhaps painting a small wall in your kitchen bright sunshine yellow or an olive green is another way to incorporate the two.

Louise Miller, Moss & Moor

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With everything that has been going on in the world, at Moss & Moor we are seeing our customers viewing their gardens, whether big or small, as a place of sanctuary. The link between green spaces and wellbeing has long been acknowledged. In the words of our 1800’s Yorkshire born Poet Laureate, Alfred Austin, “The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul.”

Gardens as a sanctuary was a strong theme at the Chelsea Flower Show this year. We were particularly interested to see Lilly Gomm’s Swiss Sanctuary and Andy Sturgeon’s Mind Garden. As sanctuaries, our gardens continue to become an external extension of our indoor living space. People are investing in beautiful pergolas, pagodas and cocooning themselves in outdoor room sets. Hanging egg chairs, gazing globes and water features help create a serene space. Horticulturally, impressive specimens such as large tree ferns, Japanese Acers and Phyllostachys (bamboo) are an instant way to achieve large scale impact, all available and on show in the sanctuary garden at Moss & Moor. Even for those without a traditional garden, the houseplant trend and explosion in demand for unusual and specialist varieties, also reflects the focus on nurturing, and creating mindful spaces.

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In creating these cosy spaces, our outdoor space becomes more connected to our indoor living, lifestyle products such as firepits, rugs, lanterns, throws are all easy ways to bring comfort outdoors.

Outdoor cooking is becoming a year-round experience and at Moss & Moor we’re clearly seeing a trend developing towards pizza ovens, as well as the new generation of BBQ’s, from specialist smokers right up to seriously impressive outdoor kitchens.

trend towards greener gardening is one of the easiest ways we can all have a positive impact on our planet. At the heart of Moss & Moor’s business is a mission to ‘Live Well, Eat Well, Grow’.

Photos: 1-2. @helstonstreet 3. @mossandmoor

We are passionate about sharing the benefits of gardening for the positive impact it has on both mental and physical health as well as general wellbeing. Another of our fundamental beliefs is that the

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Retreat to Helmsley Sponsored by

Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa For over a decade, the North Yorkshire market town of Helmsley has attracted more than its fair share of visitors. There are a surprising amount of attractions here, but the main reason for the influx of people is not the historic castle and abbey or the pretty gardens and square; it is perhaps Yorkshire’s most luxurious spa hotel.

Feversham Arms Hotel and Verbena Spa has won various awards over the years, including ‘World Luxury Spa’ and ‘Best Hotel Spa’, and now holds four red stars. Rather than accepting these recognitions of excellence as achieving their optimum, the 33 room hotel and blissful spa has just got even better.

Utilising their retreat style setting and resort style ambience, Feversham Arms Hotel and Verbena Spa have accentuated their unique offerings with recent renovations and exciting improvements.

In rooms and in restaurant, these changes are celebrating local whilst taking us to a faraway paradise.

Bringing the spa and stay experience closer together, poolside suites have been transformed into tranquil Mediterranean inspired spaces.

Using splashes of colour and interior expertise, these beautifully located suites are elevated into holiday relaxations, perfect for their views out to one of the spa’s best features: the inviting outdoor swimming pool.

With an emphasis on local, sustainable, seasonal and quality ingredients, the evening menu makes for mouthwatering reading: Salt-aged Loin of Yorkshire Beef, served with buttered King Oyster mushrooms and a shallot and red wine sauce? North Sea Monkfish tail, served with a lightly curried fish velouté? All dishes are priced as part of a two or three-course menu option (£49/£59).

If you can drag yourself away from the poolside, the hotel’s Weathervane Restaurant is undoubtedly worth it. New Head Chef Jon Appleby has created irresistible menus of Yorkshire produce cooked into stunning modern British dishes. Having honed his culinary skills at some of the area’s finest dining establishments, Jon’s passion, experience, creativity and skill is immediately evident.

And if you want to taste foodie delights back by the poolside, the ‘al fresco’ lunch menu offers just that. From healthy superfood salads for revitalising spa-goers, to delicious dishes such as the crayfish and chorizo risotto, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. The same as which can be said for the whole of the hotel, spa and dining experience at Feversham Arms Hotel and Verbena Spa.

Photos: @fevershamarmshotel

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LUXURY STAYS Summer is upon us, gracing us with sunnier weather, longer days, and more time to do the things we love the most. After two years worth of stress, we all deserve some much needed time away from our daily lives to relax, energise and feel that little bit fancy.

You don’t need to travel far from home to experience luxury, as there are many extravagant staycation locations you can visit in Yorkshire. Make yourself feel like a whole new person with deluxe spa treatments, facials and therapies. Only a short journey away from the city and the nearby countryside, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the stunning Yorkshire landscape and melt all your stresses away.

MY LITTLE FARM SPA Found in Liversedge, surrounded by the beautiful Yorkshire valley, My Little Farm Spa delivers those special moments where you can relax and enjoy the stunning landscapes that the county has to offer. The summertime season provides lush green fields, blue skies and lovely weather which can be taken in all around their facilities.

Embrace nature for even longer by staying overnight in one of their cosy shepherd’s huts or larger luxurious glamping tents that can accommodate up to 12 people a booking. Each booking is given a personal experience with the feeling of exclusivity and privacy to add to the splendour of your stay. All packages include the option to enjoy a brunch, lunch, afternoon tea or evening tapas during the stay, all of which are freshly made. And why not relish in their wide variety of signature spa experiences, including aromatherapy massages, hot stone therapy, facials or reiki therapy. These treatments are the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate.

MIDDLETHORPE HALL If you are wanting to treat yourself to a luxury night away, look no further than Middlethorpe Hall. Only two miles from the city centre of York, you’ll be able to enjoy the bustling city life and an escape to the countryside all in one. Help yourself unwind in their renowned boutique spa or a stroll through their 20 acres of magnificent gardens and parklands. The secluded spa has its own private garden and offers aromatherapy, holistic treatments, waxing, pedicures and manicures. Health conditions are also taken into consideration with massages available specifically suited for cancer patients. You can also indulge in some flavoursome food with a fine dining experience in their award winning restaurant. With 2 AA Rosettes and having won ‘Restaurant of the Year’ twice, the restaurant provides an amazing dining experience like no other.

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THE DEVONSHIRE ARMS The beauty of the The Devonshire Arms has attracted visitors for centuries and continues to offer a luxurious escape to the countryside for guests today. Located in Skipton, the hotel is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales. Elegant interiors can be found in the Old Wing of the bedrooms with period features keeping the history of the building alive, and in the more modern New Wing with interior design having been overseen by the Duchess of Devonshire. Wine and dine at one of their divine dining options with dishes made from locally sourced and home grown ingredients. And of course, de-stress with one of their many adult-only spa treatments with everything from full body massages to facials. For an extra feeling of luxury, exclusive spa days available in The Secret Spa with secluded sanctuaries to give you a truly private experience.

TITANIC SPA Focusing on not only the well-being of their guests, but also looking after the environment, Titanic Spa is a luxury destination like no other.

Surrounded by the striking hills of the Pennines in Huddersfield and found in an architecturally stunning restored textiles mill, this spa is a wonderfully unique destination to help you relax. Being the UK’s first Eco-Spa, you can spoil yourself to treatments on offer including detoxes, exfoliating, massages, body therapies and a treatment specifically for those who are pregnant. You can book these treatments as a part of your day, evening or overnight packages. Titanic Spa offers an experience to suit everyone’s needs with luxury apartment-style accommodation, state of the art spa facilities and locally sourced food to treat your tastebuds.

SESSIONS HOUSE If you are looking for a luxury location where you can pamper yourself with hair, body and facial treatments, why not take a trip over to Beverley where you will find the luxurious Sessions House. With an experienced specialist team, you will be provided with the best care possible to help make your stay even more perfect. They offer advanced beauty and aesthetics treatments such as laser hair removal, microneedling, dermaplaning and much more. Other treatments also available are revitalising facials, spa packages, treatments tailored for men and high quality products to get you feeling your absolute best. Professional hair care and advice provided by renowned Jimi Parkinson and his team will find a style that fits you perfectly with hair cuts, colours and styling available. So if you’re looking for a staycation destination where you can truly pamper yourself from your nails, to your hair, to your skin... this is the place to be.

Photos: 1. @titanic_spa 2. @mylittlefarmspa 3. @devarmsboltonabbey 4. @ntmiddlethorpe_hall 5. @sessionsspaandbeauty

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Keeping it in the Family

The appearance of Berry’s is one of glitz and glamour, but as the jeweller’s celebrate their 125th year, they remain proudly rooted in family tradition. This success story travels from Eastern Europe to Leeds, taking in other English cities and towns in its past, present and future, and as the business has continuously evolved, it has never been for sale; Berry’s are keeping it in the family.

Berry’s was started by Mr Abe Berens, who arrived in the UK with his brother and father in the 19th century. In Eastern Europe, Abe’s father had been a jeweller of some prestige, with customers including royalty and riches. Despite this, their Jewish heritage caused the family to leave, and soon they set up home in the north of England.

From here, the origins of Berry’s were formed. Abe and his brother took over a jeweller’s shop in Scarborough, from where they sold the old store’s stock at discounted prices. This was such a success that they were able to sell the shop and venture elsewhere, to Brighouse, where a shop called Berry’s was for sale. Having initially continued their discount idea here, the brothers knew they had to evolve. That evolution began in Leeds and continues today. Rather than changing the name to Beren’s, it was decided to keep the name of the business as it was so established in the region. And so, on Land’s Lane in Leeds, Berry’s opened.

The business was elevated further when Abe opened up on Leeds’ Bond Street, and after the second world war, Berry’s was transformed from a market shop to a top end jeweller. The catalyst for this was Maurice Wolff, a gentleman from Hull who had married Abe’s daughter Jeanne, having been introduced by the soldier husband of his other daughter Hester. Maurice had style and ambition, and with the idea to turn it into a London shop, made Berry’s the recognisable jewellers it is today. After Abe passed away, Maurice grew the business before falling ill himself, at which point Jeanne helped to continue Berry’s rise as a thriving diamond business. Notably, they added high-fashion watches to Berry’s, which alongside their stunning diamonds, remain a main attraction.

Jeffrey Walton, who is telling us this personal Berry’s backstory, was a hosiery business owner who married into the family in 1966. Maurice and Jeanne had two daughters, Monica and Gillian, and after Jeffrey and Monica wed, he was soon invited into Berry’s. “When my motherin-law approached me, I thought ‘I don’t know anything about diamonds!’ But after 3 weeks I came home and said I’d found my calling; it was an adventure.” Jeanne had already moved the shop to a less expensive rental location on Albion Street, and after Maurice’s passing, the business continued to succeed. Jeffrey explains. “The shop next door came up for sale as well as the one at the other side of the property so we bought them both.” To date, 56-62 Albion Street remains the flagship Berry’s store in Leeds.

From there, there was no stopping Berry’s. A simple gold chain, inspired by the women at Wimbledon, was a pivotal item which helped elevate the brand into public awareness. As similar gold necklaces and bracelets came in fashion, Jeffrey gained a deal with an Italian manufacturer, and alongside Monica they sold these amazing items wholesale as Jeffrey Walton Jewellery. When the fashion declined, the opportunities for Berry’s only increased.

Contacts made from shops he supplied presented Jeffrey with options of expanding Berry’s into different cities. First to York, following the retirement of a shop owner he supplied. Then to Hull, having employed a manager from a shop he would visit. Now, with Nottingham, Newcastle and Windsor added to that list, Berry’s have ten UK stores. Even their more recent openings have happened organically from personal interactions: “I used to go to a hairdresser who was next door to the Victoria Quarter shop. One day I was having a haircut and the girl said, ‘the jewellery shop across the road is closing down, it’s for sale’. Within 2 weeks we owned the business.”

Despite the increasingly large operation, Berry’s continues to pass through the family generations. “After finishing university, my son Simon joined us in the business. He can see opportunities and he’s very hardworking and forward thinking. Oliver, my grandson, has

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been the surprise package; I knew he would be good in the business but never realised how a boy of that age can bring in these ideas.”

In their 125th year, Berry’s plan to expand futher with shop extensions in Leeds and Nottingham and a new shop in York which will take Berry’s up to 12 stores and there are more exciting plans for 2023. And to celebrate the anniversary, Berry’s launch the special OPEIA collection. Designer Emily Rose has created ten pieces - the showstopping OPEIA necklace, a small and large pendant, a pair of drop and stud earrings, three rings, a bangle and a bracelet - which represent the essence of Berry’s: contemporary and timeless, adorned with diamonds and wearable style; and, vitally, signifying the value of family, as Emily Rose explains: “OPEIA takes its name from Cassiopeia, a five-point constellation in the shape of a W, which is a nod to the Walton family who have run Berry’s for five generations.” The design also took inspiration from an original brooch from Berry’s, and Emily Rose’s description of the collection is equally fitting for the five generations of family members who have evolved Berry’s over their 125 years: “They’re all unique but they all connect.”

From Abe to Maurice to Jeanne to Jeffrey to Simon to Oliver, the secret to the success and longevity of Berry’s is in the blood. As Jeffrey puts it: “We’re all close, and we’ve all got the same drive. The ethos hasn’t changed in 125 years.”

Here’s to keeping it in the family.

Photos: 1. Abe and Sarah Berens 2. Albion Street 1897 3.

Wedding of Jeffrey and Monica Walton 4. 56-62 Albion Street, Leeds 5. 52-54 Stonegate, York 6. 19-21 Victoria Quarter, Leeds 7. 44-47 Commercial Street, Leeds 8. 1 Stonegate, York

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Celebrating 125 Years of Berry's Jewellers

To mark our 125th anniversary, we commemorate five generations of authentic British design with our new OPEIA jewellery collection – a celestial-inspired range of elegant diamond jewellery craaed from 18ct white gold and platinum.

Running throughout this celebratory collection is a strong focus on family, depicted by the shape of the classic circle, infused with bursts of light inspired by shooting stars and formed by the timeless round brilliant-cut diamond acting as a comet in motion across the night sky.

WINDSOR | NOTTINGHAM | HULL | LEEDS | YORK | NEWCASTLE

www.berrysjewellers.co.uk

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THE FABRIC OF A NATION In the modern world, the role of traditional trades has changed in many ways. As technology has evolved, there has been a movement away from skilled human craft, and as global communication has become easier, there has been a loss of local connection.

Whilst that may be true as a generalisation, there are many examples of people and businesses retaining the qualities of old and embracing the benefits of new, and as a result, thriving in their respective industries.

One such company has been doing just that in the glamourous world of fashion from the quaint town of Hebden Bridge. HebTroCo is the brainchild of brant and Ed, two friends who had an idea in the pub one night. Far from a throwaway drunken thought, a support system for small UK manufacturers was born, and seven years later Hebtroco is a local success which has spawned a network of others.

Ed explains: “HebTroCo was genuinely a daft idea in the pub. Luckily it worked because brant, whose idea it was, needed a change to working locally and I was a washed up mountain bike bum who needed a new job!”

After a successful Kickstarter campaign to produce a first run of trousers (a traditional Hebden Bridge trade which caused it to be known as ‘trousertown’), HebTroCo sold out within 5 hours. These beginnings have organically expanded into what Ed describes they do now: “We dream up and market men’s clothing, which is all made in the UK. We work with a skilled pattern cutter, Amelia, and then factories all over England, Scotland and Wales.”

Indeed, HebTroCo’s eco model means that they work with a collection of skilled craftspeople and local businesses, all with the same ethos which revive traditional practices and simple connections; “Basically if you can do stuff locally why wouldn’t you do it that way?” asks Ed. So, how does this admirable approach take on the giant fast fashion industry? HebTroCo’s answer is to not join in with it but to follow your convictions: “There is a lot of bullshit out there and people lie about their products being from here when they’re not. It’s always best just to crack on with doing things your own way. Manufacturing and fashion are as old as anything so there will always be people able to adapt to any situation and make it work.”

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Hebtroco’s more personal way of working provides not only unselfish benefits, but also makes perfect business sense: “It reduces travel miles for the products and allows us to sell directly to market so we can be really quick to get stuff on sale. We like to look a supplier in the eye before we commit to them making for us. It makes everything easier and supports other local businesses.” Plus, he continues, surely the most significant thing it provides: “a nice happy feeling.”

Perhaps even more importantly, if you still need convincing that a local collective ecosystem is as effective as it is ethical, or you want inspiration to follow Hebtroco’s advice to go your own way, there’s another vital perk, which takes brant and Ed back to where it all began: “when we’ve done what we need to do, we can knock off early and go to the pub.”

Photos: @hebtroco

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Layers of Leeds Leeds is a well known city for many great things.

Classic nights out, dining out experiences, a cultural variety and a vibrant shopping scene. However, many people are ignorant of the colourful and rich history behind the city we all love today. Leeds has been home to some big achievements that deserve recognition, including playing a huge part in the pottery movement of the 1880’s. The amazing pottery and tile industry that thrived in Leeds spread throughout the country and even explored beyond our borders. So, it’s something we really should celebrate...

Burmantofts Pottery set up in 1859 after the discovery of fire clay in a coal mine, which allowed the business to expand further. However, they only saw success for a short period of time between 1880 and 1904. From 1879 they began producing glazed bricks, glazed terracotta and decorative bricks, with the beginning of their pottery production following only a year later. More than 2000 types of models were produced by Burmantofts between 1880 and 1904, including vases, bottles and even swans. These delicate products were sold in London, Paris and Montreal in 1885 until pottery production ceased after it became non-profitable in 1904. The company later closed down in 1957.

Tiles produced by Burmantofts were categorised into either dustpressed tiles or press-moulded tiles. The difference between the two being that dust-pressed tiles are bulk produced to cover large sections of wall in glazed tiles, whereas press-moulded tiles are moulded by hand and created with raised designs in low relief for a émaux ombrants, also known as shadow enamel effect. Both types of tiles are usually only covered in a single layer of translucent glazing.

Burmantofts art tiles and pottery were popular amongst middle-class customers, especially products using the barbotine method which uses a ceramic slip to decorate.

These historic tiles have been used in magnificent buildings across the country to create stunning interiors and exteriors. Alfred Waterhouse (1830 - 1905) was a successful architect who used Burmantofts tiles in a number of the buildings he has designed. The buildings designed

by Alfred that incorporate these tiles include the National Liberal Club in London, and the Great Hall of the University of Leeds.

at other clubs. The impact of the arrangement of the Burmantofts tiles used in various rooms of the National Liberal Club were described as ‘neither gorgeous in colour nor complex in its forms’.

The gothic style Great Hall of the University of Leeds was built on the grounds of the demolished Beech Grove Hall Estate and was opened in 1894 by the Duke and Duchess of York. Its staircase is lined with Burmantofts tiles, with the balustrade, columns, floors and walls of the staircase decorated in different elegant shades of brown.

Atlas House and County Arcade are two more stunning locations home to Burmantofts tiles that you can find in the heart of the city.

Found on the corner of King Street, Atlas House was constructed in 1910 for the Atlas Insurance Company to be used as offices. The striking building was faced with Burmantofts beautiful white marmo faience with hints of pale gold and green hidden amongst the tiles.

Positioned above the door is the symbol of the original company residing in the building, a sculpture of Atlas struggling underneath the weight of the world.

County Arcade dates back to 1898 and can be found in the Victoria Quarter alongside the Cross Arcade. The exterior walls of the arcade were built using Burmantofts faience terracotta in the colour butterscotch and red bricks. If you look up inside the arcade you will find the brightly-coloured, eye-catching vitreous mosaics made with Burmantofts tiles.

If you find yourself outside of Leeds and down in the capital, one building you will definitely want to visit is the Michelin House. The breathtaking building is made up of Burmantofts white marmo faience with the similar hints of colour found in the tiles of Atlas House.

Other faience tiles can be spotted with various images related to tyres and the company. These tiles add to the beauty of the building and complement the impressive stained glass windows picturing the ‘Michelin Man’ raising a goblet.

Burmantofts tiles have added elegance and beauty to these buildings and their unique pottery has made them a company to remember. It is amazing to think that these artistic tiles and pottery pieces produced right here in Leeds have travelled throughout the country and even beyond. The short but very sweet success of Burmantofts pottery is a part of Leeds history that should always be celebrated and never forgotten.

The National Liberal Club was completed in 1887 in a renaissance revival style. It became a home for democracy and a place of ease for its members to socialise and unwind without the class distinction found

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South x Southwest

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Abbeydale Road where we find Bragazzis - this is a real deal Italian coffee shop. Unpretentious and authentic. The sandwiches are always 10/10, mega coffee and an atmosphere that no amount of money or plants in baskets could ever buy. Next door they have a provisions store filled with the best Italian pasta, preserves, fruit and veg.

Bragazzis is the real OG, and the amount of time it’s been operating is a testament to that.

Next up we are blending onto Ecclesall Road and starting off our S11 tour with a Turkish Grill called Ciro. Owned and operated by one of the hardest working blokes I’ve ever met, he’s worked since he was 7 years old selling tea in the markets of Istanbul. Expect great rice plates, falafel and grilled chicken shish, reasonably priced and very satisfying service and grub!

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SHEFFIELD As you step off the train into Sheffield, you’ve probably not even realised that you’ve walked past one of the best boozers in the country; if I was going to write a novel then I think a few chapters would be scribbled down in The Sheffield Tap. Anyhow, I’ll let you discover that one yourselves on your way back home later.

We skip down the road to 553 and hit the Rag Parade. Head along Hickmott Road where first we get to Gilt Patisserie. What this guy doesn’t know about baking and confectionery isn’t worth knowing; both complicated and simplistic works of art sit in harmony in the military precision prepared window. In terms of quality, taste and execution, this is impossible to beat.

Hop down the road a few yards to Sharrowvale Road and we meet with the famous JH Mann Fishmongers (note the signwriting by the late Steve Millington - same as Rag Parade & Porter Pizza), which is a wonderful business that started over 100 years ago. Here, you can choose fresh seafood to take away or to be cooked on the spot.

The chefs will always have a base made up, such as lentil curry or

As you approach the lights, cross over past where the Showroom Cinema is and you hit a spot on Brown Street called Kitchen Kollective; great salads, breakfast and coffee. I’ve been about a hundred times so it must be decent! Now cut across over some oddly painted floors, down a narrow road and take a left onto Arundel Street, this brings you to Mow’s Coffee - a small independent coffee shop that serves sandwiches, cakes and more killer coffee. One thing I particularly like about this spot is that they are clearly knowledgeable and passionate about what they do but they’re not going to lecture you about it… just like Bourdain said: “I like beer and wine but I don’t want to talk about it!”

As you navigate yourself up into Sheffield city centre, you have a host of amazing independent shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. One spot to check out is Vulgar - this shop on Devonshire Street sells a cross section of unisex vintage clothing and always hosts an amazing selection of old designer pieces.

Yes, you’ve guessed it - we’re on the road to Rag Parade! But first we must call off down London Road for a shawarma. The place we are using today is called Middle Eastern Shawarma, although we could have hit up Narooz or Kurdistan. The price is competitive and I can walk in here and see people from all walks of life; for how young this business is it’s become a heavyweight in Sheff eating culture.

Keep heading straight down London Road and you come to

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spiced aubergine stew, which can be served with some pan fried tuna, scallops or any combination of your choice. Go a couple doors down to the well renowned Starmore Boss for a bottle or some beers and sip them in the window whilst your food is being prepared; you won’t be disappointed.

Next stop on Sharrowvale is a quick coffee at Cornerstone, perhaps an espresso to lift us up after a fulfilling meal. If you’re fancying something slightly more formal then try the wonderful Tonco, where the food is seasonal and the menus change regularly using the best local and foraged ingredients. You’ll leave having tried something new and having learned something too. Iberico a couple doors down is also great for a casual plate of cured Spanish meats, cheeses and some authentic beers and wines.

As we meander up Sharrowvale Road in search of dessert we pass Gilbert’s, Alberts and The Yard. Three fantastic places where your next antique find could be uncovered for a fair price. We pass Barra Organics, Porter Brook Deli, Porter Pets and The Hardware Store - all institutions of the area - and head straight to Eve Kitchen, a small bakery serving great quality coffee and donuts. The flavours change regularly and the bakers also produce wonderful homemade ice creams. It’s a real Sharrowvale classic!

As we walk down towards the roundabout back to Ecclesall Road and past Woody's Sandwich Shop, an old skool haunt for a takeaway sandwich and a cup of tea, we pass The Beer House and an old abandoned church - and low and behold, we’re back at Rag Parade HQ to hunt through some garments!

Words: Jojo Elgarice @ragparadesheffield Photos: 1. @ragparadesheffield 2. @toncosheffield

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HEBDEN BRIDGE & SOWERBY BRIDGE What binds the two strongly independent Yorkshire towns of Sowerby Bridge and Hebden Bridge? They are both located in the South Pennines valley, built along the river Calder, mill towns bound by woven woollen threads. The main railway line runs through the scenic valley bottom, flanked by steep hillsides, woodlands, farms and pastureland, with a host of quaint and ancient villages and hamlets.

There is a rich history in the Calder Valley, some recently popularised in the TV series Gentleman Jack and Happy Valley. Soon the exploits of the Cragg Vale Coiners will be known by many in a film, being produced by Shane Meadows, inspired by the novel The Gallows Pole written by Benjamin Myers, now resident in the Calder Valley.

There is a lot of folklore here, tales told and many yet to be told.

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Museums in the area display a lot of the history. In Halifax there is the Calderdale Industrial Museum, Shibden Hall Folk Museum, and Bankfield Museum, where you can see exhibits and artefacts, plus a special exhibition until September of the fashions from the time when Anne Lister & Anne Walker lived and loved in Halifax.

What was and remains the best asset is the beautiful scenery and location of the area. Within the towns are Crow Wood Park and The Peoples Park. Take a walk through the National Trust managed woods and riverside from Hardcastle Craggs to Gibson Mill for coffee and cake. Many walks through wooded valleys go up top onto the moors. Try using Christopher Goddard’s beautifully illustrated walking guides and routes of the Calder valley, available from the independents at The Book Corner in the Piece Hall or The Book Case in Hebden Bridge.

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Alternatively, take a boat trip out for a few hours from Hebden Bridge Cruises or for longer trips try Bronte Boat Hire in Hebden Bridge or Shire Cruisers from Sowerby Bridge. Wherever you decide to go in the Calder Valley you will find lots of small independent shops, pubs and eateries.

Drink delicious beers from microbreweries such as the Hogs Head in Sowerby Bridge and Vocation Brewery in Hebden, there is also a rather tasty gin from the Hebden Bridge Gin Company. Another thing the two towns have in common is taking up an idea to save a local hostelry and running it as a community-based pub; both the Fox & Goose in Hebden and the Puzzle Hall Inn in Sowerby serve an amazing range of local beers and a chunk of local hospitality and wit.

Local makers and bakers abound; you can pick up some amazing squeaky cheese from Dama or some Hebden Goat cheese; choose from an amazing range of vegan food at Artichoke or a great choice of eats at The Larder or Gimbals. Eat out and go Indian at Kiplings, Syhiba or The Village, or perhaps your tastes are more Mediterranean at The Olive Branch or Engine Social, Mustard and Kuja. Go vegan at The Engine, Mexi Bean and Willow Tree at Café No.5.

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In Hebden, Leila’s Kitchen has amazing vegan Persian food, and try the Blue Teapot, Tibetan Kitchen or Muse Music & Love Café. A variety of vegetarian options at Mooch, Cardamon, Nelson’s Wine Bar, Rim Nam Thai, The Town Hall and Towngate tea rooms. If you spot Woody’s Pizza’s, they are amazing, as are the Masala Dosas from street vendor The Dosa. For drinks, visit The Albert, Hebden Social, The Railway, Stubbing Wharf, Moyles, Nelson’s Wine Bar, Shoulder of Mutton, Calan’s, Crown Inn, The Old Gate or White Lion, all within easy walking distance in the town centre.

On a weekend, visitors crawl the pubs of Sowerby Bridge, trying to get round The Loose Goose, The Hollins, The Puz, Kuja, Bull on the Bridge, The Blind Pig, Bar Francesca, Turks Head, The William, The Moorings, Shepard’s Rest and Navigation Inn. Go healthier in Hebden at The Health Store, Valley Organics Workers Co-op and Weighsted. There is a delicious choice of edibles at Pennine Wine & Cheese, and artisan breads at Pennine Provisions, Saker Wholefoods and Blue Sky Bakery. Back in Sowerby, try some lovely tasty treats at Cork & Rind and from Fresh Fields butchers and green grocers.

There is a plethora of independent shops, selling antiques, books, clothes, plants, colourful pottery, and paintings, lamps, soaps and candles, gifts and crafts, flowers and foods and other goodies. Both towns offer lots of independently run arts and craft events, with local artists and makers offering a wide range of training opportunities and workshops, from fused glass and basket making to pottery and beekeeping, or learn all about foraging for local edibles.

The area is very creative, with lots of opportunities to join in. Various gigs and events are held at the wonderful Hebden Bridge Trades Club. The local cloggers, dancers and mummers will be out if force for the annual Rush Bearing festival held in Sowerby Bridge over the first weekend in September. Both towns host a regular outdoor market on Fridays & Saturdays and special events, such as Christmas markets and lantern festivals to bring some winter cheer.

Follow the Poets trail from Mytholmroyd railway station, childhood home of former poet Laureate Ted Hughes or find his wife, Sylvia Plath in the beautiful churchyard at St Thomas’s in the ancient village of Heptonstall. And in Sowerby Bridge, the funding of Highstreet Action Zone is going to restore and convert the former swimming pool & fire service building into a venue for artists and creatives and for larger music gigs and community activities.

I am a proud daughter of Yorkshire born and bred in Sowerby Bridge, and I still think it is one the most amazingly unique and beautiful places to live. After all, it is known as God’s own country around here.

Words: Linda Devereux Photos: 1. @vocationandcohebden 2. @shibdenhall 3. @yorkshiredamacheese 4. @naosmi 5. @michaelstewartwriter 6. @nelsonswinebar 7. @valleyorganicshebdenbridge 8. Heart Gallery 9. @theruralsociety

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Our students benefit from award winning specialist facilities, expert staff and an inspiring environment where anything feels possible.

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BA (Hons) Animation BA (Hons) Comic and Concept Art BA (Hons) Creative Advertising BA (Hons) Creative Writing BA (Hons) Fashion Branding with Communication BA (Hons) Fashion Design BA (Hons) Fashion Photography BA (Hons) Filmmaking BA (Hons) Fine Art BA (Hons) Graphic Design BA (Hons) Illustration BA (Hons) Photography BMus (Hons) Popular Music Performance BA (Hons) Textile Design BA (Hons) Visual Communication

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Find out more: www.leeds-art.ac.uk

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