Live the Dales Issue 10 Summer 2026

HELD IN TRUST CHARITY WORKING FOR NATURE RECOVERY

GOING UNDERGROUND BRITAIN’S LONGEST SHOW CAVE

A GREAT DAY OUT! A SUMMER OF AGRICULTURAL SHOWS

CLASSIC ROUTE TO SUCCESS TOP HORSE TRAINER WILLIAM HAGGAS

Sunlit Elegance: A Kitchen Designed To Inspire

From the very first conversation, it was clear this project would be something special. The clients approached their new kitchen with a clear desire for a space that felt considered, beautifully balanced and effortless to use. What followed was a journey defined by collaboration, attention to detail and a shared commitment to achieving something truly exceptional.

Having been introduced to Kitchen Design Centre through a friend, the clients already had a strong sense of trust in the process. Seeing the quality of a completed kitchen first hand, along with hearing how smoothly everything had gone, gave them the confidence to move forward. That initial impression proved entirely accurate, as the experience exceeded expectations at every stage.

Working alongside designer Lou Roberts, the clients found the perfect balance between guidance and creative freedom. Lou’s approachable nature and expertise ensured they felt at ease throughout, while her ability to listen and refine ideas helped unlock design solutions they hadn’t previously considered.

The finished kitchen is a complete package, combining aesthetic appeal with exceptional functionality. The layout has been carefully planned to support both everyday living and special moments, while clever storage solutions, including deep drawers, have transformed organisation within the space. Features such as the Quooker tap, initially an unexpected addition, have quickly become indispensable.

Installation was carried out with precision and professionalism, with great care taken to ensure every detail was just right. The result is a kitchen that not only looks stunning but works beautifully in practice.

To read more about how we designed this kitchen and to view the video tour of it visit: www.kitchendesigncentre.com

“This project was a real pleasure to work on from start to finish. The space had fantastic potential and introducing the skylights completely transformed the natural light. I loved collaborating with Jason and Jo to refine the layout and details, creating a kitchen that feels both striking and practical. The result is a beautifully balanced kitchen for effortlessly everyday living.”

Designer Lou Roberts says:

HELD IN TRUST

A small charity with big ambitions is putting people at the heart of its work to deliver nature recovery across the Yorkshire Dales.

GOING UNDERGROUND

Visitors to Britain’s longest show cave can enjoy a spectacular tour through tunnels and caverns that unravel history and stir the imagination. 88

Get ready for a great summer of agricultural shows. Discover more about events in and around the Dales and find out what’s on and when.

110

What makes a perfect scone? Mike Dixon takes a trip down memory lane to reveal a few tips from his own extensive research.

120

CLASSIC ROUTE TO SUCCESS

William Haggas is a proud Yorkshireman and one of the most successful thoroughbred horse trainers in the UK. He tells us about his successful career.

LIVE MAGAZINES

Chairman: Simon Smith

Publisher: Tedd Walmsley

Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley

Editor: Annette McIntyre

Operations Manager: Kate Hyde

Production Manager: James Britton

Sales Account Manager: Jo Dixon (jo.dixon@live-magazines.co.uk)

Business Development & Sport: Mark Dixon

Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich, Gill Prosser and Rob Walmsley

Photography: Samantha Brown, Anthony P Driver, Robin Lyndon and Kirsten Platt

Editorial Contributors: Gail Bailey, Victoria Benn, Samantha Brown, Kate Bowyer, Mike Dixon, Max Gardner, Ali Gudgeon, Katie Hammond, Rebecca Hay, Ben Hopkins, Kate Hyde, Charles Jenkins, Joe Varley, Andrew Vaux, Tedd Walmsley and Jan Woolley

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KITCHENS & PANTRIES | INTERIOR DESIGN | UTILITY & BOOT ROOMS

BEDROOMS & DRESSING ROOMS | BATHROOMS | STUDIES | HOME CINEMA

Editor

As we go into summer we can (hopefully) look forward to hot sunny days and the chance to leave our everyday cares behind for a week or two.

Of course it’s not quite so easy for parents for whom summer brings with it the challenge of keeping children entertained through the long school holidays.

But whether you’re simply relaxing or trying to relax against all the odds the Yorkshire Dales is the perfect place to be - with an abundance of beautiful scenery and no end of things to see and do.

A case in point is Ingleton’s White Scar Cave, which has been offering a day out with a difference for more than 100 years. Whether you’ve got bored youngsters to entertain or not, the cave complex is a fascinating place to visit.

First discovered by a Cambridge undergraduate, the longest show cave in Britain offers a spectacular tour through tunnels and caverns that unravel history and stir the imagination.

If you prefer your exercise above ground Samantha Brown, from The Reluctant Explorers, outlines a family friendly waterfall hunt perfect for any age.

There’s truly no shortage of fantastic walks, beautiful scenery and outdoor swimming spots in the Yorkshire Dales - and it’s easy to see why the area is so loved by visitors and locals alike. This love can also be seen in the organisations set up to protect and support the area and its people.

One of those, the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The small charity works to deliver nature recovery across the Dales. And its vision for the National Park is crystallizing to focus on three key strands - people, landscape and wildlife.

Invaluable work is also being carried out by independent charity Friends of the Dales. In this edition we find out about its petition to clamp down on the illegal persecution of birds of prey. The charity is advocating three key reforms to help drive down the frequency of such crimes.

Last but not least, we shouldn’t overlook the bustling centres on the edge of the Dales - and in this edition Harrogate Theatre Chief Executive David Bown talks about some of the things he loves about the town.

Wherever you are and whatever you plan to do this summer have a great time!

Annette McIntyre Editor

HELD IN TRUST

A

small charity with big ambitions is putting people at the heart of its work to deliver nature recovery across the Yorkshire Dales

As the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust enters its third decade, its vision for the National Park is crystallising to focus on three key strands – people, landscape and wildlife.

“The communities of the Dales are at the heart of our mission,” said YDMT chief executive Michael Devlin. “The scale of the challenge facing us is huge – we have a climate emergency and a biodiversity crisis and it’s all too easy to get lost in the science and the numbers and forget that, actually, the key to fixing these problems comes down to people.

“Whether its landowners adopting more nature-friendly farming practices, corporate sponsors funding our nature recovery

projects, volunteers helping us plant trees or monitor wildlife or apprentices taking their first steps in a career in conservation, people taking action is the solution to the challenges we face.”

THE SCALE OF THE CHALLENGE FACING US IS HUGE – WE HAVE A CLIMATE EMERGENCY AND A BIODIVERSITY CRISIS

For the remainder of this decade, the Trust is focused on building on its existing network of partnerships to scale its capacity to deliver landscape restoration and nature recovery across the Dales and beyond.

“In the last five years, we’ve gained a deep understanding of just how interconnected and interdependent people, landscape and nature are – not just in the rural communities of the Dales – but in the cities on the fringes of the National Park.

There are significant inequalities in access to nature and addressing these imbalances is central to gaining wider support for the shifts we need to make to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss,” Michael said.

A measurable impact

In the last year alone, YDMT has made significant progress on a number of fronts:

• £2.17m spent on charitable work and improving the organisation.

• 3,286 connections made with people who benefit from diverse projects, most of these offering longer term support over several sessions.

• Over £1.55m raised thanks to supporters and partners.

• £67,800 granted to 20 community projects through the YDMT Grants scheme.

• 289 project sessions delivered amounting to 1,615 hours of activity – mostly practical conservation work that enables people to take action for nature.

• 32,214 trees planted at 46 sites over the last winter – including 19,490 hedgerow trees and 194 landscape trees.

To make further headway, the Trust wants to scale up its capacity by building partnerships with the growing number of businesses, trusts and charities who are committed to delivering nature recovery on a landscape scale.

Projects currently in development like the ambitious Three Counties – One River scheme will drive habitat restoration and nature recovery across thousands of acres of fragile upland landscape in the vast Lune catchment.

Stretching from Dent in the Northern Dales to the edge of Lancaster, schemes on this scale can only be achieved by working in partnership with like-minded organisations like the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District National Parks, The Forest of Bowland National Landscape, local authorities and The Wildlife Trusts.

Supporting Dales farmers

YDMT has a long track record of working with landowners and farmers to adopt more nature sensitive methods. Over the last 20 years, it has worked hand in glove with a group of landowners in the upper Ribble Valley to restore the floodplains alongside the river.

This ambitious project re-established the natural flow of the river, improving water quality, providing natural flood management to mitigate the impact of climate change and restoring 190 hectares of wetland habitat.

During the course of the project,

212 species of bird have been recorded on the floodplain and a group of 40 local landowners and farmers are now working together with the Trust and its partners to develop a masterplan for an ambitious landscape restoration project spanning the whole upper Ribble catchment.

YDMT HAS A LONG TRACK RECORD OF WORKING WITH LANDOWNERS AND FARMERS TO ADOPT MORE NATURE SENSITIVE METHODS

Since its inception, by working with landowners to identify suitable sites, the Trust has planted more than 1.6 million trees in the Dales and its long-term ambition is to increase tree cover – in what is one of the least wooded National Parks in the UK –from 4.3 per cent to 7 per cent by 2040.

Over the last decade, the Trust has also worked with farmers to restore some three square miles of wildflower meadows in the county. The Dales are home to more upland hay meadows than anywhere else in the UK and YDMT is working hard to protect this vital legacy that’s under so much pressure elsewhere in England.

Building more resilient communities

The Trust is also focused on nature recovery at the hyper-local level, working closely with communities up and down the Dales to make a difference in their backyards.

Last year, in partnership with the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the RSPB, the Trust launched its Homes for Dales House Birds scheme – a four-year campaign designed to maintain four iconic species of bird that are under real pressure in some parts of the country: House Sparrow, House Martin, Swift and Starling.

After an overwhelming response from the public, the project team has installed more than 300 nesting boxes in villages throughout the National Park. This year, the project will monitor breeding success in those boxes and also begin creating more natural food sources for house birds by encouraging community planting of pollinator-friendly or seed-setting species.

Later this year, look out for the Village Greens initiative – which will create little wild spaces for nature in the heart of villages by working with parish councils, schools, community groups or social enterprises. YDMT landscape architects will incorporate features like mini-forests, community

Photography: Harry Balderson

orchards, pollinator patches or edible hedgerows within compact spaces in 10 villages across North Yorkshire.

And YDMT continues to work hard to level up access to the National Park for the next generation of nature recovery champions. The Trust’s Youth Environment Forum brings young people from diverse backgrounds together for youth-led workshops and learning, helping them to develop skills and confidence to lead environmental change.

Projects like these embody YDMT’s hands-on approach to delivering practical local projects that make a difference people really notice.

SINCE ITS INCEPTION, BY WORKING WITH LANDOWNERS TO IDENTIFY SUITABLE SITES, THE TRUST HAS PLANTED MORE THAN 1.6 MILLION TREES IN THE DALES

“There’s a lot of anxiety around the state of the nature and the climate emergency, but taking positive action to address these challenges is the best way to alleviate the anxiety,” said Michael. “By getting involved on a practical level through volunteering or community action, supporting our projects with a tree dedication or living bouquet, or making a more substantial donation via a legacy or corporate sponsorship, our supporters know they are having a positive impact on the landscapes and communities about which they care so deeply.” n

ydmt.org

The wildflower meadows of the Dales urgently need your help. Thanks to support from people like you, we’ve brought three square miles of upland wildflower meadows back to life, so they’re bursting with wildflowers and buzzing with pollinators. But there’s much more to do. Visit www.ydmt.org/mayday and help us do more for meadows.

Scan the code to support our work

PROPER NORTHERN COOL

Sustainable, smart kitchens meet cool northern design, blending high-performance appliances, refined materials and expressive, functional living

In the most refined kitchens, it is no longer the appliances themselves that define the space, but the cabinetry that surrounds them. Thoughtfully designed, handcrafted cabinetry elevates refrigeration from a purely functional necessity into an architectural feature – one that brings balance, elegance and quiet sophistication to the room.

The starting point is always lifestyle. A keen batch cook or frequent host may require generous refrigeration and a dedicated freezer, while a busy family might prioritise flexible, easy-access storage. From there, decisions around integrated versus freestanding appliances follow naturally. Fully integrated refrigeration allows for a seamless, symmetrical look, with cabinetry creating a calm, cohesive aesthetic. Alternatively, statement pieces, such as stainless-steel American style refrigerators, can introduce drama and serve as a striking focal point.

HIDDEN REFRIGERATION

Modern refrigeration is as much about performance as it is about design. Advances in technology offer enhanced freshness systems, while additional cooling solutions –such as wine cabinets or bespoke beverage stations – are increasingly tailored to individual lifestyles. Whether discreetly tucked beneath an island or forming part of a dedicated entertaining space, these features add both practicality and a sense of indulgence.

COOL FOCAL POINT

Placement is equally important. Refrigeration should sit naturally within the flow of the home, ideally close to preparation and social areas. In larger properties, it is increasingly common to duplicate refrigeration across the main kitchen and adjoining utility or prep spaces, ensuring convenience without compromising the overall design.

LIQUID LARDER

Once functionality is resolved, attention turns to form. Cabinetry may conceal or frame appliances, soften their presence or highlight them, depending on the desired effect. Neutral palettes paired with crisp metallic finishes create understated refinement, while deeper tones provide a rich, dramatic backdrop.

As Richard Mason, owner and furniture designer at Yorkshire-based bespoke makers The Secret Drawer, explains: “There are so many options for customers when it comes to kitchen appliances, and it’s our job to guide them towards the best decision for their lifestyle and needs, while considering the overall style of kitchen they want.”

Ultimately, designing around refrigeration is an exercise in precision – balancing practical requirements with aesthetic ambition. Through quality materials, skilled craftsmanship and tailored design, the result is a kitchen that feels both purposeful and beautifully resolved. That’s proper Northern cool – relaxed and quietly confident.

The Secret Drawer are designers and makers of bespoke interiors, blending craftsmanship and creativity to create luxurious, tailored spaces for every room in the home. n

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DESIGNING OUTDOOR LIVING WITH PURPOSE

As the Ribble Valley shakes off winter and the first warmth returns to the soil, gardens begin to demand attention again –not just maintenance but imagination too

At Bannister Hall Landscape Supplies & Plant Nurseries in Higher Walton, spring is less about selling plants and more about shaping spaces. It’s the moment where homeowners stop asking, ‘What should we plant?’ and start asking, ‘How do we want to live?’

Because modern landscaping is no longer simply horticulture. It is design, structure, architecture and atmosphere.

DESIGNING BEFORE DIGGING

One of the most significant shifts in recent years has been the move toward 3D CGI garden design. Much like interior architecture, outdoor spaces are now being digitally visualised before a single slab is laid.

Clients can see porcelain terraces, pergolas, planting schemes and lighting effects in realistic detail – long before installation begins.

WE ARE NOW SEEING CLIENTS TREAT GARDENS AS FULLY DESIGNED LIVING ENVIRONMENTS - SPACES TO HOST, RELAX AND ADD LONG-TERM VALUE

Jon Carlyle Hollywood LLB (Hons), CEO of Bannister Hall Ltd, explains: “A garden should be designed with the same intent as a kitchen or living space. We offer a true one-stop shop – from 3D CGI design through to paving, decking and plant selection – so clients can visualise the complete journey

before we even break ground.”

The result? Fewer compromises, smarter material choices and outdoor spaces that feel curated rather than assembled.

HEDGING: STRUCTURE, PRIVACY, PERMANENCE

If recent years celebrated open-plan gardens, this season is all about structure. Instant hedging and mature screening trees are seeing a surge in demand across the Ribble Valley. Homeowners want privacy – but they want it now, not in five years’ time.

Portuguese Laurel, Photinia ‘Red Robin’, Yew and Hornbeam remain firm favourites.

Pleached trees, with their elevated framed canopies, are particularly popular in contemporary schemes, creating elegant green walls that soften architecture without overpowering it.

With over 40,000 trees, hedges and shrubs across three nurseries, Bannister Hall holds one of the largest private plant stocks in Lancashire. Clients can physically walk through mature specimens and select exact shapes and sizes, rather than ordering unseen.

Gardens are no longer an afterthought. They are becoming an extension of the home’s value – financially and emotionally.

SPRING ARRIVALS FROM ITALY

This spring also sees new architectural specimens arriving from specialist growers in northern Italy.

Mature olive trees – some with beautifully gnarled trunks – are being integrated into contemporary Lancashire gardens with striking effect. Hardy, characterful and sculptural, they provide instant Mediterranean elegance when paired with porcelain paving and soft ornamental grasses.

create clean sight lines and help gardens feel expansive.

Composite decking, aluminium pergolas and integrated LED lighting are increasingly specified at design stage rather than added later as upgrades.

Spring is prime planting season. Soil temperatures are rising, root establishment is strong, and thoughtful planting now ensures a layered, evolving garden through summer and beyond.

But design must lead planting – not the other way around.

Columnar Italian Cypress and structured evergreen topiary add vertical drama and year-round form, bringing European refinement to Ribble Valley landscapes. The appeal lies in contrast with structured Mediterranean specimens framed by the rolling backdrop of Lancashire countryside.

MATERIALS THAT ELEVATE THE SPACE

Porcelain paving continues to dominate high-end landscaping. Valued for its low maintenance, slip resistance and refined aesthetic, large-format slabs in warm

integration with a design studio, hard landscaping materials, architectural timber, mature plant stock and specialist imports –all in one location.

THE RISE OF THE OUTDOOR ROOM

Across the Ribble Valley, there is growing appetite for outdoor kitchens, structured seating zones and defined entertaining areas. The garden is no longer viewed as seasonal, it is an extension of lifestyle.

A GARDEN SHOULD BE DESIGNED WITH THE SAME INTENT AS A KITCHEN OR LIVING SPACE

As Jon concludes: “People invest heavily in their interiors but historically underinvested outside. We are now seeing clients treat gardens as fully designed living environments – spaces to host, relax and add long-term property value. The detail matters.”

For over 25 years, Bannister Hall has supplied award-winning landscapers, developers and discerning private clients across Lancashire. What sets it apart is

Because a beautiful garden is not created by chance. It is designed. n

Bannister Hall Ltd

Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087

sales@bannisterhall.co.uk bannisterhall.com

Business Hours

Open Monday – Friday 7.00am to 5.00pm with free on-site parking everythingplants.co.uk

neutral tones,

As spring takes hold across the Ribble Valley, the message is simple: design first, plant with intent and build with permanence in mind.

Now on display in our Clearly showroom.

At Clearly Interiors, we take the hard work out of renovating your home. Our showroom in Burnley showcases over 25 kitchen displays, over 60 bathrooms and 10 bedrooms for you to feast your eyes upon and get inspiration. We can kit you out using reputable brands like Bauformat, Blanco, Quooker, Neff, Siemens, Daval, Crosswater, and Vitra. Creating a state of the art design for any room is something we pride ourselves upon.

If you are looking for a new kitchen, bedroom, bathroom then there is no need to look further. At Clearly Interiors, we measure, design, quote and install. We can manage your project from start to finish. Contact us to see how we can make your dream project come to life with our FREE survey and design service.

Designer and BBC Sewing Bee judge Patrick Grant has completed a remarkable restoration of a 1950s ESSE heating stove, returning it to pride of place in his 17th century heritage home – a symbol of sustainable living and classic British design.

“I hate throwing anything away,” says Patrick. “This house dates back to 1690, it has a long history. It’s been lived in by lots of people and I wanted everything that I did inside the house to reflect that idea of longevity, history and quality.”

When he began to renovate this historic property close to the Lancashire/Yorkshire border, Patrick was keen to keep and restore as much of the home’s heritage as possible –from the wallpaper and furniture, to the pictures on the walls.

KEEPING THE HOME FIRES BURNING

Sustainability champion and Sewing Bee stalwart Patrick Grant brings a 1950s ESSE stove back to life in his Grade II listed home

In the dining room of the property, Patrick found an original enamelled ESSE 450 stove that he immediately knew he wanted to restore rather than replace: “You know, when you repair something, it’s an act of kindness towards the planet and an act of kindness towards the object itself. It’s an acknowledgement of the value of the craftsmanship that has gone into making something.”

WE WERE ABLE TO PRESERVE THE BEAUTIFUL 1950S ENAMELLED SHELL AND PUT A MODERN, CLEAN BURNING FIRE BOX INSIDE AND IT LOOKS EXACTLY LIKE THE ORIGINAL

The 450 model stove was produced by ESSE in the 1950s and perfectly embodies the style of the time. “It’s a really, really beautiful object. The 50s were sort of the age of the jet set and people were thinking very futuristically. It’s got these wonderful, organic curves on the front. I mean, the proportions of it are beautiful and the bluey green enamel gives it just this incredible iridescence.”

Patrick worked with Barnoldswick-based ESSE to bring the stove back to full working

order and ensure it met today’s stringent efficiency standards.

He explains: “We were able to preserve the beautiful 1950s enamelled shell and put a modern, clean burning fire box inside and it looks exactly like the original, but it now is a wonderful modern, piece of equipment.

“It makes me really happy to think that this thing that has been in this house for 70-plus years will hopefully now be in this house another 70.”

Ever an advocate for quality and craftsmanship, Patrick bought a second, more modern ESSE stove to act as the warm and welcoming focal point in his sitting room. Another well engineered stove he trusts will become part of the home’s story for generations to come.

ESSE Director Peter Ashby said: “It was a pleasure to work with Patrick on this project and help give one of our heritage models a new lease of life. Since it was founded in 1854, ESSE has remained a proud brand, unwilling to compromise on quality and that’s an ethos we share with Patrick and his sustainable Community Clothing label.

“ESSEs are built for durability, efficiency and longevity and by simply switching out the firebox for one that more readily meets modern requirements, we’ve ensured this striking stove can live on for many more years.” n

esse.com

esse1854

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Phill Hopkins, To Accept How I Am Sometimes (Walking Ahead)

CUTTING EDGE

Introducing AutoMowIt. Taking lawn care to the next level –effortlessly!

Taking a fresh innovative approach to lawn care, AutoMowIt combines decades of experience with cuttingedge robotic mowers to simplify and elevate lawn maintenance.

Founder Tyler Stevenson’s 20 years’ premium lawn care experience with GreenThumb ensures that every customer receives expert guidance on choosing the right mower for their specific needs. AutoMowIt focuses on delivering highquality, durable equipment supplying from brands like Ambrogio and Mammotion.

The real beauty of robotic mowers is in the consistency they provide – perfect for maintaining a lush lawn effortlessly. While some people enjoy mowing, the truth is that keeping your lawn healthy requires frequent

care, which is exactly what these mowers do best, even when you’re busy or away. With AutoMowIt you can also customise your mower’s design patterns to add a bit of fun, creating messages or designs in your lawn!

AUTOMOWIT OFFERS A TAILORED, COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION TO KEEP YOUR LAWN IN TIP-TOP SHAPE

These mowers are designed to be efficient and eco-friendly, using grass clippings as natural fertiliser to nourish your lawn. Plus, by frequently mowing, daily if you choose, they prevent the growth of moss and thatch, a particular issue for larger lawns. Keeping your lawn looking vibrant has never been so easy.

The cost savings also make these mowers extremely popular. For example:

• Mr Sprakes, with a 600m2 garden, saw his mowing costs drop dramatically from

£80 a visit to just £1.81 per mow with the Mammotion Yuka Mini.

• Meanwhile, Mrs B, who manages a large field, is now able to maintain 2.5 acres with a Mammotion Luba 10,000, cutting her need for a garden tractor and providing her family with a beautiful, well-maintained outdoor space.

“AutoMowIt is totally independent so we can advise and recommend the type of mower which will work best for each individual client,” says Tyler, who took on the Ambrogio brand five years ago and has more recently added Mammotion to the first-class AutoMowIt line-up.

THESE MOWERS ARE GAME-CHANGERS!

By combining lawn care expertise with the latest robot mower technology AutoMowIt can deliver a truly first-class lawn service for both domestic and commercial clients.

“Each time I supply and install a robot I get referrals for friends and family. I only make a recommendation if it’s the perfect fit,” Tyler adds. “These mowers are game-changers and exceed all expectations!”

So, whether you have a small garden or a large estate, AutoMowIt offers a tailored, cost-effective hassle free solution to keep your lawn in tip-top shape day in and day out. n

AutoMowIt Unit 3, Portland Farm

With more light, we are more energised, which is why we seek a clearer and more organised living space.

Reasons you may wish to declutter are:

• To make your home a more inviting atmosphere for enhanced social gatherings with friends and family

• To make for better relaxation

• To impact positively on your mental well-being

However all too soon the summer will end, so it is important to cultivate a mindset for regular decluttering that prevails into the autumn and winter months, to prevent

EMBRACE THE SEASONAL SHIFT

In the summer we benefit from longer days and warmer weather, so it is a great time to refresh your home. Rachel Cordingley, from award-winning A Tidy Mind Team, gives some helpful advice

clutter from building up again and to enable you to maintain a more organised home. This can be achieved by:

• Becoming focused on simplicity and intentionality

• Regularly evaluating your belongings, asking if they truly add value to your life

• Adopting a monthly decluttering schedule

• Establishing a ‘one in, one out’ policy for new purchases

• Creating a more mindful approach to consumption

Ultimately all of this will lead to a calmer and more enjoyable living environment. n

A Tidy Mind Team 07956 650146 rachel@atidymindteam.co.uk atidymindteam.co.uk

linkedin.com/company/ a-tidy-mind-team/ @atidymindteam

Best Health & Wellbeing Business of the Year Award from Ilkley Business Awards 2026

UNLOCK THE FULL POTENTIAL OF ANY LAWN

With expert lawn and surface care by Stephen Graham and Phil Alston of GreenThumb, your garden will always look its best

Gardens have become an essential extension of the home, places to relax, entertain and invest in.

Nearly half of UK homeowners have put money into improving their outdoor spaces in recent years, with average spending reaching more than £2,000. Clear evidence that lawns and gardens are now both lifestyle assets and valuable financial investments.

Although grass is the most common and diverse plant on the planet, maintaining a lush, healthy lawn is not as easy as it appears. Issues like weeds, moss, disease and grub damage often catch new homeowners off guard, making expert support invaluable.

That is where GreenThumb comes in. Locally managed by Stephen Graham and Phil Alston, GreenThumb helps homeowners achieve the very best results from their lawns. Whether someone is new to garden care or simply seeking professional outcomes, GreenThumb’s tailored treatments and proven expertise make all the difference.

SERVICES OFFERED:

BESPOKE LAWN TREATMENT PLANS

Customised packages are designed to meet the unique needs of each lawn throughout the year.

NEW: HARD SURFACE CLEANING

Patios, paths and driveways can be kept pristine and safe with expert treatments that remove moss, algae and weeds.

FLEXIBLE PAYMENT OPTIONS

Homeowners can choose from affordable monthly plans or one-off services to suit their budgets.

CUSTOMER LOYALTY PROGRAMME

Clients benefit from exclusive discounts, seasonal offers and priority bookings.

PROVEN EXPERIENCE

GreenThumb is the UK’s leading lawn care provider and the local branch, managed by Stephen Graham and Phil Alston since 2025, work closely with Tyler Stevenson

of GreenThumb Blackburn, one of the longest-running in the network. The Blackburn team has recently renewed its full franchise licence – an achievement that reflects consistent results and a strong commitment to quality service.

LOCAL ROOTS: COMMUNITY FOCUS

Although GreenThumb is a national brand, each branch is independently owned and operated. Stephen and Phil take great pride in giving back to the local community, supporting and sponsoring grass root projects and charities.

This community investment is just one of the ways the team strengthens the places they call home.

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR LAWN?

Contact GreenThumb today to start the journey toward a dream garden – from lush, healthy grass to spotless patios and weed-free paths. n

GreenThumb

C44 Fulwell Court Red Scar Industrial Estate Longridge PR2 5NP 01772 378808 greenthumb.co.uk

TILE SHOWROOM AND TRADE COUNTER ADDRESS Collins White Unit 1 Hawthorn Business Park Lincoln Way Clitheroe BB7 1QD BATHROOM - LIVING - OUTDOOR

Open: Monday - Friday 08:00 - 17:00 Saturday 08:30 - 14:00 jody@collinswhite.co.uk 01200 538973 www.collinswhite.co.uk

FOR THE PERFECT FIRE…

Founded by Paul and Debbie Barker, Anchor Logs is a family business selling ready-to-burn kiln dried logs from their farm in Gargrave

Anchor Logs’ success is built on two fundamental principles – supplying the best quality product and providing outstanding customer service. Being a certified member of the ‘Woodsure Ready to Burn Scheme’ shows Anchor Logs’ commitment to responsible, sustainable woodland management practices, ensuring their customers receive only the highest quality products.

The wood is processed into logs and dried in the drying kiln on site. Anchor Logs also supply kindling, coal and log stores.

We also like to talk to our customers and welcome telephone orders during office hours: 01756 748342. Anchor Logs offer free delivery within a 30-mile radius.

Online orders welcome 24/7 at anchorlogs.co.uk n

anchorlogs.co.uk

hello@anchorlogs.co.uk Order and pay online

Creativity knows no bounds…

Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic, charcoal, graphite, pastel and chalk) or anything else –object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts and micro shredded banknotes.

His latest collection are collages from recycled billboards and dry transfer lettering with original wording. He said about the artworks: “The large scale halftone printing, the torn forms, vivid colours and ripped edges are ideal to create purely abstract expressions, as opposed to the original advertising images.”

To purchase, or to commission an artwork call: 01279 861863 / 07909 850462 email: endartistuk @ gmail.com To view his gallery visit: www.endarts.co.uk

Treat yourself to true comfort. A riser recliner chair that makes every moment at home feel effortless.

Designed around you, chosen with expert care. Our Skipton showroom is home to an exceptional range of riser recliner chairs, each selected for quality, comfort, and lasting style. Come and discover the difference, voted the UK’s number one by Which?, six years in a row.

from timeless classics to bold contemporary patterns, can now move seamlessly between interior and exterior living spaces. Whether placed on a terrace, balcony or garden seating area, Ecorugs introduce warmth and softness to surfaces such as stone, porcelain tiles or wooden decking, helping outdoor areas feel like a natural extension of the home.

Crucially, practicality remains central to the collection’s appeal. Because Ecorugs are machine washable, they are easy to maintain even when exposed to the elements. Dirt, dust and everyday marks can simply be washed away, allowing the rugs to retain their appearance season after season.

ELEGANCE MADE EASY

These beautiful rugs that can be used indoors or outdoors, are perfect for busy households that care for the planet

When Louis De Poortere first introduced its Ecorugs collection, the ambition was clear – to move towards a more sustainable approach to rug design. By shifting to a 100 per cent polyester construction, the company created rugs that could be fully recycled through its take-back programme. But the material innovation also unlocked a range of unexpected practical benefits, including impressive durability, weather resistance and the ability to be machine-washed.

GARDENS ARE NO

LONGER

JUST SPACES FOR GARDENING OR APPRECIATING NATURE, BUT PLACES TO RELAX, ENTERTAIN AND EVEN WORK

Following extensive testing across the different textures and qualities within the range, Louis De Poortere can now confirm that the entire Ecorugs 2026 collection is suitable for outdoor use.

This means the brand’s distinctive designs,

Alan Russell, sales director at Louis De Poortere, explains: “Outdoor living has grown significantly and homeowners are paying increasing attention to how their gardens support their lifestyles beyond traditional expectations of what a garden should be. They’re no longer just spaces for gardening or appreciating nature, but places to relax, entertain and even work.”

The practicality of Ecorugs also makes them well-suited to busy indoor spaces. Their washable design provides a convenient solution for households with pets, children or high foot traffic, where occasional spills and everyday accidents are part of daily life. With the ability to refresh the rug in a washing machine, homeowners can keep their interiors looking fresh without the need for professional cleaning. n

louisdepoorterestore.com

Romance Refined Blush Toned Kitchen

A romantic kitchen in soft pink, where gentle blush tones create an atmosphere of warmth and ease. Thoughtfully crafted details and refined materials come together with contemporary design elements, resulting in a space that feels both timelessly elegant and effortlessly modern.

If pink was once dismissed as a passing trend of the Millennial blush era, its resurgence this season suggests otherwise. Designers are once again embracing its full tonal spectrum—from the palest powder hues to richly saturated magentas—repositioning pink as a sophisticated and enduring choice for contemporary interiors.

Interior designer Rebecca Baker of The Secret Drawer highlights the colour’s remarkable versatility. Softer shades can instil calm and comfort, while deeper, more vibrant tones bring energy and personality. This adaptability allows pink to function both as a subtle backdrop and a confident statement, depending on how it is applied.

A recent project in Lancashire offers a compelling example of this renewed appreciation. A 200-year-old cottage has been carefully reimagined, with

Understated Elegance

its kitchen emerging as a space that balances romance with refinement. The bespoke cabinetry, designed and handcrafted by The Secret Drawer, is finished in Calamine 230 by Farrow & Ball—a delicate blush softened with understated grey undertones. Rather than dominating the room, it works as a sophisticated neutral, gently enhancing the surrounding architecture.

At the centre of the design, a striking island introduces contrast in the form of Paean Black, also by Farrow & Ball. This deeper tone anchors the space, creating a sense of structure and visual depth. The interplay between light and dark establishes a layered composition that feels both elegant and intentional, where softness is offset.

Thoughtful detailing elevates the scheme further. Burnished brass handles offer a subtle nod to classic European café style, adding

warmth and a sense of timeless charm. Above, softly glowing glass pendant lights cast a flattering, ambient light that enhances the room’s inviting atmosphere. Sleek Silestone worktops in Snowy Ibiza introduce a crisp, contemporary finish, ensuring the overall look remains fresh rather than nostalgic.

Blush tones are woven seamlessly throughout the kitchen, tying together its various elements while softening darker features. These hues sit beautifully alongside the natural materials within the extension, where oak beams and a vaulted ceiling bring texture and warmth. As Baker notes, soft pink serves as a more interesting alternative to beige—acting as a refined neutral that introduces tranquillity, depth, and a quiet sense of luxury.

Functionality has been considered with equal care. Furniture designer Andrew Ellwood developed a

3 Secrets to Sophistication

bespoke layout that maximises the compact footprint without compromising on aesthetics. Modern appliances are fully integrated, including discreet refrigeration, a dishwasher, and a slimline recycling unit, all concealed within the cabinetry. Generous storage has been achieved through cleverly designed drawers and cupboards, alongside an oak wine rack that adds a final touch of indulgence.

Freestanding oak seating at the island completes the space, reinforcing its role as a sociable hub. It invites everyday moments— morning coffee, casual dining, and relaxed evenings—while maintaining an air of understated elegance.

Ultimately, this kitchen demonstrates that pink, when used with care and intention, transcends fleeting trends. It becomes a versatile and timeless design element—one that brings warmth, character, and quiet sophistication to the modern home.

The Secret Drawer designs and creates bespoke interiors for every room in the home.

secret-drawer.co.uk

Secret 1: Neutral Treat blush as a sophisticated neutral for elegant interiors

Secret 2: Contrast Be bold with a statement piece to add high contrast

Secret 3: Moulding Moulding details deliver timeless heritage style

THE DELICIOUS TASTE OF SUMMER

Outdoor cooking has come a long way from a simple barbecue at the bottom of the garden, writes Katie Hammond

Today, barbecuing is all about creating a space to cook, entertain and unwind – and a new range is catering for that growing appetite for al fresco living.

The Grill Guru range has landed at Dawsons Department Store in Clitheroe, both in-store and online via BBQ World. com, bringing with it a carefully curated collection of barbecues and outdoor cooking equipment designed to combine quality craftsmanship with absolute affordability.

For Ian Hodgett, Garden Furniture and BBQ Specialist at Dawsons and BBQ World (now the UK’s largest online barbecue retailer) the appeal lies in that balance: “We’re always

keen to be on board with brands from the start,” he explains. “With Grill Guru, we are one of the first retailers to bring it to market. It’s about trusting the product and making sure we’re offering something that genuinely works for our customers – great quality, but at the right price.”

The Grill Guru range covers all bases, from three, four and six-burner gas barbecues through to a high-performance pizza oven and the increasingly popular plancha griddle. It’s designed as a one-stop shop for anyone looking to build or upgrade their outdoor cooking set-up, whether they’re a casual weekend griller or a more adventurous home chef.

That versatility reflects a wider shift in how outdoor spaces are used. Tom Lavelle, Grill Guru’s UK Account Manager, explains: “Since the pandemic, people have started to see their gardens as an extra room – it’s somewhere to cook, to host and to spend quality time together.”

One of the standout products in the range is the plancha, a flat-top griddle that has surged in popularity in recent years.

Grill Guru’s model is built from what Tom describes as ‘indestructible materials’, offering durability and performance which far rivals more expensive alternatives.

WE’RE ENTHUSIASTS OURSELVES. THAT MEANS WE CAN GUIDE CUSTOMERS TO THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR THEM

Tom continues: “The plancha has quickly become a favourite. You can cook pretty much anything on it – smashed burgers, breakfasts, pancakes and even stir fries.”

For those looking to experiment further, the pizza oven offers another dimension. Reaching temperatures of over 400 degrees, it allows for everything from crisp, authentic pizzas to perfectly seared meats – bringing restaurant-style cooking into the outdoor living space.

Ian adds: “We don’t just sell barbecues –we’re enthusiasts ourselves. That means we can guide customers to the right choice for them, whether they’re starting from scratch or adding to what they already have.”

With the full Grill Guru range now available online and on in-store display at Dawsons, it offers a compelling blend of innovation, practicality and value. And as outdoor cooking continues to evolve, it’s clear that for many, the barbecue is no longer just a summer staple – it’s a way of life. n

MEET THE DESIGNER

Isobel Riding from Isobel Interiors in Barrowford chats to Gail Bailey about her journey into the world of interior design and what continues to inspire her work

Isobel Riding has a clear and straightforward approach to her work as an interior designer: “From the initial concept through to the finishing touches, I aim to keep the process seamless, working closely with clients to design beautiful interiors that truly reflect their individual style and personality,” she explains.

Having previously spent two years studying architecture, Isobel realised she wanted a more creative outlet. So, she changed course and has gone on to graduate from Northumbria University with a degree in Interior Design 12 months ago: “I then realised in my final year that I wanted to start my own business, so I launched the studio and shop as I was completing my degree and graduating. It was a very hectic time – but totally worth it!”

MY APPROACH IS HONEST, OPEN AND FRIENDLY - THERE ARE NO EGOS OR PUSHY SALES TACTICS, JUST CONSIDERED PROFESSIONALISM WITH A GENUINE PASSION FOR ALL THINGS DESIGN

Isobel Interiors has two distinct strands – an interior design consultancy and a homeware boutique. Together, they intertwine, giving clients everything they need under one roof, all guided by Isobel’s expert eye: “Our ground floor retail space showcases a carefully curated mix of home décor and soft furnishings from leading brands and designers, along with

an extensive selection of fabric and pattern books to explore. Upstairs, the real creativity comes to life in my state-of-the-art design studio,” says Isobel.

Isobel’s projects cover a wide spectrum: “I work both on commercial projects and with individual clients and I am equally passionate, whether it’s a single room or a full house revamp – I just love to be able to transform living spaces,” says Isobel.

Some of her recent projects have included two local hotels along with a new build in the Lake District: “We’re based here in the Ribble Valley but work across the North West region,” Isobel says.

Isobel describes her style as a traditional country feel with a modern twist. As she says: “Our homeware boutique is a reflection of my style. I grew up surrounded by textiles, design and exceptional craftsmanship and from an early age I appreciated the skill and care that goes into creating something beautiful – as well as the satisfaction of seeing a space come together.”

DESIGN TRENDS COME AND GO, BUT YOUR PERSONAL TASTE IS OFTEN MORE CONSISTENT THAN YOU REALISE

Isobel describes current trends as having a continued focus on neutrals enriched with the layering of textiles. Think earthy tones, muted greens and soft browns, brought to life with subtle pops of colour. But as Isobel so expertly advises: “Design trends come and go, but your personal taste is often more consistent than you realise. Look around your home, your wardrobe, or even your favourite artwork to spot recurring colours. Whether it’s warm terracotta, moody forest greens or gentle neutrals, this consistency reflects what you’re instinctively drawn to.”

Isobel’s ethos of working with clients resonates throughout the whole process: “I know that by really listening to the client, understanding what they want and the budget they want to work with is important. I aim to get it right first time!”

This approach ensures interiors that truly

feel like home – simple, thoughtful and completely personal to each client.

“My approach is honest, open and friendly –there are no egos or pushy sales tactics, just considered professionalism with a genuine passion for all things design. I’m here to help you feel confident in your choices and just as importantly, to enjoy the process.”

Client feedback is always what matters most, with one recent client sharing: “Isobel was an absolute pleasure to work with and made the whole process feel stress-free and easy. The thought of designing interiors for an entire house felt really overwhelming, but she understood our style and needs immediately and created a home we are totally in love with.” n

isobel.riding@isobelinteriors.co.uk isobelinteriors.co.uk

Above left: Barbour Gianna midi dress

Above right: Barbour Broome rugby shirt RRP £89.95 barbour.com

Above left: Herzen silk blouse with tunic neckline and floral print £269 michelle b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford

michelleb.co.uk

Above right: RSpring Time linen blend blazer £110, Spring Time check waistcoat £59 joebrowns.co.uk

CRAFTING A LEGACY

Within the setting of a 200-year-old converted cow barn in Clapham, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a family business stands sturdy in its belief that quality should always outlast trends, writes Katie Hammond

Established in 1987 by Richard and Justina Sexton, Glencroft started out with a simple philosophy –to create classic British country and homeware using natural fibres and trusted craftsmanship. Nearly four decades later, that ethos remains unchanged, with son Edward Sexton now writing the next chapter of the Glencroft story.

He explains: “Being authentic and true to our Yorkshire roots is what we’re all about. Put very simply, we just want people to know exactly where our products come from and how they’re made.”

Those values matter more than ever in an age of mass production and marketing buzzwords. Whilst many businesses talk about sustainability, Glencroft prefers to embody it.

“We know the seven local farms supplying our Clapdale Wool and we’ve been to the factories and seen every stage of production,” Edward explains. “Sustainability can

become a word that loses meaning, but we want to show people the reality of what it actually means.”

That traceability sits at the heart of the

business. More than 80 per cent of Glencroft’s products are manufactured in the UK, with many still produced by the same local factories and people that the company has worked with since it first opened its doors in 1987.

Richard himself has spent his working lifetime in wool and sheepskin manufacturing, starting out in the industry in the 1960s. He witnessed first-hand the decline of British production and the movement to overseas facilitation.

BEING

AUTHENTIC AND TRUE TO OUR YORKSHIRE ROOTS IS WHAT WE’RE ALL ABOUT. WE WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW EXACTLY WHERE OUR PRODUCTS COME FROM AND HOW THEY’RE MADE

Edward continues: “Dad saw manufacturing beginning to move away from the UK and products being labelled in ways that weren’t always honest. From the beginning, he was determined he wanted to work with local producers and factories.”

Among Glencroft’s most popular products are its Yorkshire-style flat caps, with around 6,000 sold annually (made using genuine

Harris Tweed and their own Clapdale Wool tweed) and shipped to independent retailers and castle gift shops throughout Scotland and the rest of the UK, as well as internationally. Its hand-finished British sheepskin rugs remain another signature product. Richard still personally quality-checks and handfinishes around 100 rugs each week, working with the country’s last remaining commercial sheepskin tannery – a relationship stretching back decades.

Then there is the knitwear, including Glencroft’s substantial, traditional British Wool jumpers. The classic range includes the traditional Aran and more casual honeycomb knit, designed to endure changing fashions and changing seasons alike.

“They’re nothing fancy – just honest, decent clothing, or ‘proper’ as we say in Yorkshire. Hearty, big cosy jumpers made with 100 per cent British Wool – old school!” Edward says with a smile.

Glencroft has just launched a range of tweed bags, made from Clapdale Wool, the company’s fully traceable tweed cloth created within 50 miles of its home in Clapham. The Dalesbred zip pouch, wash bag and tote bag are available in bright country green or light grey plaid. Each bag can be traced back to the sheep on the hills surrounding Glencroft.

WE KNOW THE SEVEN LOCAL FARMS SUPPLYING OUR CLAPDALE WOOL AND WE’VE BEEN TO THE FACTORIES AND SEEN EVERY STAGE OF PRODUCTION

“Each of these bags is designed to last but they also tell a bigger story,” says Edward. “It’s about showing that small farms, traditional breeds and British manufacturing

all have a place in today’s fashion industry.”

Taking over the family business was never part of Edward’s original plan. Growing up in Clapham, he admits he was initially eager to leave, studying marketing before building a career in media and events in London.

But in 2013, after completing a master’s degree, he began to see fresh opportunities within the business his parents had built and made the move back up north, where he now lives with wife Ruth and their two daughters.

“I started thinking about Dad’s legacy and how I could help move things forward,” he says. “A significant change which has made a big impact on the business was building our online offering. This has enabled us to be much more accessible to all corners of the globe and streamlined the process of being able to reach new customers who love our products and want to easily purchase them with minimum hassle.

“Ultimately, we’re trying to make sure we stay true to our original ethos and values, whilst also thinking of the challenges ahead and where we will take the business over the next ten years – that balance is key.”

For Glencroft, it seems the future – much like its clothing – is being built to last. n

At the heart of this is Richard, their Yorkshire based travelling tailor, who has become something of a quiet institution in the North. Rather than expecting clients to carve out time for fittings, he brings the full experience to them, whether at home or in the office. It is a service that feels both traditional and entirely contemporary, offering the same meticulous attention to detail without the need to step outside your front door.

THEIR RECENT MOVE TO A NEW ADDRESS IN ILKLEY SIGNALS A SUBTLE BUT IMPORTANT NEW CHAPTER

This approach does not dilute the craft. Far from it. Each commission still involves dozens of measurements, careful figuration and a near limitless choice of fabrics and styling options. The difference is simply where the conversation happens.

Their recent move to a new address in Ilkley signals a subtle but important new chapter. The space reflects the brand’s understated confidence, offering a northern base that mirrors the calm, considered experience of their London showroom while

MODERN TAILORING, DELIVERED

Norton & Townsend redefine bespoke tailoring with nationwide reach, a new Ilkley home and a personal travelling service bringing craftsmanship directly to clients

For those already familiar with Norton & Townsend, the appeal has never been about noise or novelty. It is about consistency, craft and a quietly confident understanding of how modern clients actually live.

Founded in 1990, the business has enjoyed remarkable longevity in a sector where many have come and gone. That staying power is rooted in a simple idea done exceptionally well. Deliver proper bespoke tailoring, but make it work around the client rather than the other way round.

Today, that philosophy is more relevant than ever. With a network that stretches across the country, Norton & Townsend have evolved far beyond the confines of a single showroom. Their reach is genuinely national, supported by regional tailors and a service model that prioritises access as much as artistry.

reinforcing their commitment to clients outside the capital.

Importantly, Norton & Townsend have also continued to expand their offering beyond the traditional boundaries of menswear. Bespoke tailoring for women now sits comfortably alongside their established reputation, approached with the same precision and adaptability that has defined the brand for decades.

What emerges is a business that understands its audience. Clients who value quality but expect flexibility. Who appreciate heritage but live firmly in the present.

In that sense, Norton & Townsend are not just keeping pace with modern luxury. They are shaping what it looks like. n

Norton & Townsend 5a Little Lane Ilkley LS29 8EA 0345 066 2030 nortonandtownsend.co.uk

BESPOKE TAILORS

Wherever your day takes you, make sure you stand out in a bespoke suit, or separates from Norton and Townsend.

GENEVA HAUTE HORLOGERIE PATEK PHILIPPE, LEEDS – THE ART OF TIME

In the heart of Leeds a new standard of horological excellence is firmly established. Patek Philippe brings its unmistakable legacy to Yorkshire through its UK monobrand boutique – an address where Swiss precision meets British refinement in its most elevated form

Situated on Albion Street within the historic home of Berry’s Jewellers, the boutique represents a seamless fusion of heritage and modern luxury. Thoughtfully designed by Patek Philippe’s own architects, the space reflects the Maison’s enduring values: discretion, elegance and uncompromising attention to detail. Every element from material

PATEK PHILIPPE CREATIONS ARE AMONG THE MOST COVETED IN THE WORLD – DESIGNED NOT SIMPLY TO BE WORN, BUT TO BE PASSED DOWN THROUGH GENERATIONS

to lighting, has been curated to create an environment that is both welcoming and quietly exceptional.

Guests are invited to explore the world of Patek Philippe in its purest form, where each timepiece embodies nearly two centuries of innovation and craftsmanship. Patek Philippe creations are among the most coveted in the world – designed not simply to be worn, but to be passed down through generations.

At the core of this destination lies a distinguished partnership. Patek Philippe and Berry’s Jewellers, both proudly familyowned, share a deep-rooted dedication to trust, expertise and timeless beauty. This alignment of values ensures a level of

service and knowledge that is as exceptional as the watches themselves.

“The arrival of the first Patek Philippe UK Monobrand Boutique signified an important moment – not just for us, but for Leeds as a city,” says Simon Walton, Managing Director of Berry’s. “It’s the culmination of decades of partnership and a deep belief in Leeds’ reputation as a luxury shopping destination outside London.”

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO BRING A PIECE OF GENEVA TO LEEDS AND OFFER CLIENTS IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND THE FULL PATEK

PHILIPPE EXPERIENCE

“Berry’s embodies the values we hold most dear – tradition, independence and integrity,” says Adrian Lurshay, Managing Director of Patek Philippe UK. “We are delighted to bring a piece of Geneva to Leeds and offer clients in the north of England the full Patek Philippe experience.”

Inside, the collection is presented with clarity and intention – from the timeless elegance of the Calatrava to the extraordinary complexity of the Grand Complications. Each visitor has the opportunity to engage with watchmaking at its highest level.

As Leeds continues to evolve as a destination for discerning clientele, Patek Philippe stands at the forefront – offering a rare combination of exclusivity, heritage and personal service. Discover the ultimate expression of time. Discover Patek Philippe, Leeds. n

56 Albion Street Leeds LS1 6AD

0113 242 3333

patekboutique@berrys.co.uk

berrys.co.uk

Patek Philippe Boutique

TIME TO CELEBRATE

Michelle Berkins and her team are celebrating 21 years of success at her Barrowford ladieswear store Michelle B, writes Gail Bailey. Photography: Kirsten Platt

Experience, hard work and determination are behind t he success of Michelle Berkins, who had a 25year career in textiles before opening the doors of her award-winning ladieswear shop, Michelle B, in 2005: “We focus on more than finding the perfect outfit,” Michelle explains. “The team creates such a warm, welcoming atmosphere that customers often drop in just for a browse, a coffee and a catch-up.”

The business has grown over the years and this is down to the individual service Michelle B’s offer that has gained them a fabulously loyal clientele. Michelle explains: “We give lots of time and ensure customers are completely at ease.” And it is not only the clientele who are loyal. Many of Michelle’s team have been with her for years, including Marina Rawlinson, who has been there since day one: “Not only is Marina an experienced member of the team, she also models many of the outfits for us – she’s a regular feature on our website!” Michelle adds.

Partners are part of the experience too –some husbands can be found enjoying a coffee while they wait, and for those who prefer to wait outside it’s not unusual for the team to deliver a cup out to the car!

The shop continues to evolve its fashion offering with carefully curated collections. Michelle has a keen eye and is constantly sourcing new and innovative brands to bring to the shop floor:

“New additions include NOIB Clothingarriving soon with bold prints in natural, sustainable fabrics,” Michelle says. “Also featured is Greek brand Archaic Kori, offering flowing kaftans, elegant dresses and versatile tunics inspired by a Greek summer.”

Some of the accessories include IZIPIZI sunglasses – stylish and lightweight unisex eyewear and the sensory indulgence of Baobab Collection candles in handblown glass: “We’re also delighted to stock a selection of Empreinte bras,” says Michelle. “It’s a truly luxurious range and makes such a difference when trying on a dress.”

To celebrate 21 years, Michelle B invited customers to a successful week-long event at the end of April which was inspired by the sun-drenched charm of the Amalfi Coast. The window display was full of summer vibrancy and echoed the colours and textures of an Italian escape. Clients enjoyed Limoncello spritz and slices of lemon cakeall while discovering the latest collections! The celebrations reflect the past two decades: “We offer style, sincerity and a shopping experience that feels genuinely welcoming,” adds Michelle. And there’s another key member of the team, Barney, Michelle’s dog, who joins her in the shop each day - and who is happiest when he’s charming and welcoming customers too! n

2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060

michelle@michelleb.co.uk michelleb.co.uk

come a long way. Gone are the days of thick, chalky creams that felt sticky and heavy. Today’s formulas include lightweight lotions, hydrating facial SPFs, tinted options, sprays and even glow-boosting finishes that sit beautifully under make-up. There really is something for every skin type and routine.

SISLEY SELF TANING HYDRATING BODY SKIN CARE £112 sisley-paris.com

GLOW THE SAFE WAY

A golden glow is always tempting when summer arrives, but healthy skin should come first. Here’s why SPF and faux tan make the perfect pairing

When the sun finally shows its face, it is only natural to want to get outside, soak up the warmth and enjoy that lovely summer feeling. Whether you are heading to the beach, pottering in the garden, lunching outdoors or simply walking the dog, sunshine can give us all a welcome lift.

But while a little daylight can do wonders for our mood, our skin needs protection every single day, especially during the brighter, warmer months.

Using an SPF is one of the simplest ways to look after your skin. Sun protection helps shield against UV rays, which can cause sunburn, premature

MEDIK8 ADVANCED DAY TOTAL PROTECT SPF30 £57 medik8.com

ageing, pigmentation and long-term skin damage. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still reach your skin, so SPF is not just for holidays or heatwaves. Think of it as your daily beauty essential, just like moisturiser or mascara.

For the face, many dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, applied generously every morning.

DR HAUSCHKA TINTED FACE SUN CREAM SPF30 £35 drhauschka.co.uk

If you are spending time outdoors, it should be reapplied regularly throughout the day. The same goes for the body. Shoulders, chest, hands, ears and the back of the neck are easy to forget, but they are often the areas that catch the most sun.

The good news is that SPF products have

Of course, many of us still love the look of sun-kissed skin. This is where faux tan comes into its own. A good self-tan can give you that fresh-from-holiday glow without the risks that come with lying in the sun. Mousses, drops, gradual lotions and professional spray tans make it easier than ever to choose your perfect shade, from a subtle golden tint to a deeper bronzed finish.

Faux tan is also wonderfully confidenceboosting. It can even out skin tone, make legs look more polished and give you that healthy summer radiance before you have even packed your beach bag. Just remember that most fake tans do not protect you from the sun, so SPF still needs to be part of your routine.

GATINEAU GOLDEN GLOW BLURRING BODY BRONZE £40 gatineau.com

The real summer secret is simple. Protect, hydrate and fake the glow. Your skin will thank you now and in years to come. n

Improves appearance and functionality of the skin

Non-invasive with minimal downtime

LIFE-CHANGING LASER

After years of hiding his nose and losing confidence, Brett discovered UltraPulse laser treatment at Discover Laser and finally found relief, recovery and a reason to smile again

Characterised by thickened, uneven skin on the nose, rhinophyma often develops from untreated or severe rosacea. Commonly affecting men over 40, it can leave anyone feeling self-conscious and unsure where to turn for treatment.

Dr Miguel Montero at Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic offers life-changing treatment for rhinophyma using UltraPulse CO2 laser, a powerful tool in dermatology.

Rhinophyma typically presents as a bulbous, enlarged nose with thickened skin and visible pores. In advanced cases, the excess tissue can obstruct nasal airflow, causing functional and aesthetic concerns.

Dr Montero explains: “UltraPulse is ideal for rhinophyma, it allows me to target thickened skin with incredible precision. Unlike surgery, it’s minimally invasive and preserves healthy structures. The results can be transformative not just cosmetically, but emotionally and functionally too.”

One patient, Brett, explains how his treatment has made all the diffference:

“I first realised I had a problem about 2016 with the swelling on the side of my right nostril. After about two years, I was referred to a private surgeon who did not want to have anything to do with the problem.

“The last two years have been horrible. The growth was accelerating in size and would occasionally bleed. I got to a stage where I dreaded social interaction, although as an accountant in private practice, I did have to deal with face-to-face interviews with clients. My mental health was, without me being fully aware, being affected. I was

also finding that my nostril was blocking, interfering with my breathing and also my nose was constantly streaming.

“I was at a stage this year where I did not think anything could be done. Then my neighbour saw an article in a magazine for Discover Laser. It seemed that there were other people with similar problems and there was a possibility of treatment.

“From the moment I telephoned for an appointment the experience was really positive. Miguel not only put me at ease but took one look at the nose and his opinion was that Laser treatment would work!

“The process was not painful and within minutes the growth had gone. The recovery was straightforward – the change within three weeks was remarkable. My breathing is better and my nose has stopped running.

“I’ve been given my life back. Everyone, friends and family, are amazed! To anyone with this sort of problem, I would say do not hesitate to contact Discover Laser. I will always be indebted to them.”

Discover Laser is a trusted destination for advanced dermatological skin care in the North West. If you or someone you know is living with rhinophyma, there’s no need to feel resigned to the condition.

With expert care and advanced laser treatments, Doctor Montero can help restore both appearance and confidence.

To book your private RHINOPHYMA CONSULTATION with Dr Montero, call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886

THE PROCESS WAS NOT PAINFUL AND WITHIN MINUTES THE GROWTH HAD GONE. THE RECOVERY WAS STRAIGHTFORWARD AND THE CHANGE WITHIN THREE WEEKS WAS REMARKABLE

I’VE BEEN GIVEN MY LIFE BACK. EVERYONE, FRIENDS AND FAMILY, ARE AMAZED!

~ BRETT, DISCOVER LASER PATIENT ~

BRETT BEFORE

BRETT AFTER

Close your eyes and imagine your life without the thing or person you’re struggling to let go of. Visualise the space it creates, the weight lifted off your shoulders and the new opportunities that arise. Use this visualisation to remind yourself of the benefits of moving forward.

PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FOR LETTING GO

Physical clutter:

• Tackle one area at a time. This makes the process less overwhelming and helps you make steady progress.

• Label three boxes as keep, donate and throw. As you sort through items, decide which box each item belongs in. If you haven’t used an item in the past year, question whether you need it.

MIND MATTERS

You can unlock your true potential by taking practical steps to overcome what is holding you back, advises therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes

Do you feel stuck, like the wheels are spinning but you’re not moving forward? It’s a frustrating place to be and it can affect both your mental and physical well-being. Feeling stuck often leads to a sense of helplessness and negativity. To truly be happy and fulfilled, you need to align with your own values and desires, rather than conforming to what others expect of you. So, let’s dive into three essential steps to help you break free and embrace your true potential.

IDENTIFY WHAT NO LONGER SERVES YOU

This process can be simple in theory but challenging in practice.

Physical clutter: Look around your home and identify items that no longer serve a purpose. Emotional baggage: This refers to unresolved feelings, grudges or limiting beliefs that weigh you down.

Unfulfilling relationships: Evaluate your relationships and identify those that are toxic or draining. This could include friends, family members or colleagues who consistently bring negativity into your life.

UNDERSTAND WHY LETTING GO IS DIFFICULT

Letting go is more than just deciding to move on – it’s a deeply emotional process. Often, it feels safer to hold on to what we know, even if it’s not serving us well. Our brains are wired to seek comfort and familiarity, leading us to cling to ‘the devil we know’ rather than facing the uncertainty of change.

Common excuses that keep us stuck include:

• Fear of future regret

Belief that things might improve with time

To overcome these barriers, you need to challenge your thoughts and embrace the possibility of change. Start by reframing the situation as an opportunity for growth rather than loss. Ask yourself how your life could improve if you let go of these burdens. Visualise the positive changes and how they could enhance your well-being.

Relationships:

• Write down the names of people who drain your energy or make you feel bad. Reflect on what specifically makes these relationships unfulfilling.

• Limit the time you spend with these individuals or avoid certain conversations that lead to negativity. Determine if you need to gradually distance yourself or make a clean break.

• If needed, consult a counsellor to navigate complex dynamics and gain perspective.

Emotional baggage:

• Write down any beliefs that hold you back, such as ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘I’ll never succeed’. Challenge these beliefs by asking if they are based on fact or external programming.

• Replace limiting beliefs with positive affirmations. For example, ‘I am capable of growth’. Regularly practice affirmations and visualisations that align with your desired life.

Letting go is not about losing something but about gaining freedom to embrace new possibilities. Be kind to yourself along the way and celebrate your progress as you move towards a brighter future. n

Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.

NOT JUST FOR SPORTS PEOPLE

Sports massage can help a much wider range of people than its name might suggest

Aileen Kennedy has had her own sports and remedial massage therapy practice for over 20 years and has now joined the team at Craven Clinic in Skipton. Aileen has treated many sports people – from regular gym goers to professional athletes – but many of the issues she has worked on have been as a result of a variety of other reasons including:

• sitting at a computer for hours

• doing too much digging in the garden

• holding the baby on one side

SO, WHAT IS SPORTS MASSAGE?

In a nutshell, sports massage is a treatment tailored to you that uses a combination of techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point techniques, myofascial release, PNF stretching, mobilisations and soft tissue release.

Regular sports massage can help to ease the pain and discomfort of tight muscles, reduce stiffness and increase range of movement. Along with helping you to recover from injury, it can help to prevent injury, such as a

hamstring tear due to the niggle you didn’t know you had, or help prevent your back going into spasm when you bend over to pick something up.

REGULAR SPORTS MASSAGE CAN HELP TO EASE THE PAIN AND DISCOMFORT OF TIGHT MUSCLES, REDUCE STIFFNESS AND INCREASE RANGE OF MOVEMENT

Whatever your reasons for needing a sports massage, at AK Massage Therapy, you’re in good hands. n

For more details go to: akmassage.co.uk

Craven Clinic Ltd Mount Pleasant, High Street Skipton BD23 1JZ 01756 796690 info@cravenclinic.co.uk cravenclinic.co.uk

DR KIM WHITAKER

DR KIM WHITAKER

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical Psychologist

Call: 0161 5490866

Call: 0161 5490866

Email: admin@drkimwhitaker.com

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W Call: 0161 5490866

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develops in childhood and about two thirds of children carry the disorder into adulthood. The way symptoms present can differ in males and females, and can alter with the passage of time.

Common presenting symptoms are appearing chaotic, poor time management, erratic moods, forgetfulness and distractibility. We often see co-occurring conditions, particularly with undiagnosed ADHD, such as anxiety and depression.

is a Neurodevelopmental condition; it begins in childhood and is lifelong. It effects social communication and is associated with restricted and repetitive behaviours and sensory sensitivities.

ASSESSMENTS are NICE compliant and include clinical interview, observations, information from school or work, questionnaires, developmental assessment, in person assessment, review of reports and records and discussion with other professionals.

Individually tailored recommendations follow, and a feedback session is included after completion of any assessment with Dr Kim CALL 01615490866

CONSULTING ROOMS in Manchester Wigan Liverpool Warrington Preston Burnley Blackburn

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Get Well, Stay Well at the Craven Clinic

Our clinic nestles in a quiet courtyard in the heart of Skipton, a place for change and healing in a peaceful environment

ACUPUNCTURE

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

ALLERGY TESTING

AROMATHERAPY FACIAL

BIORESONANCE

BOWEN THERAPY

BWRT®

CBT

COACHING

COUNSELLING

EAR CANDLING

HOT STONE MASSAGE

HYPNOTHERAPY

INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE

MANICURE/ PEDICURE

ALLERGY TESTING

Do you experience constipation, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, acid reflux, skin rashes, fatigue, headaches?

If your symptoms are debilitating and affecting your quality of life then you may benefit from an intolerance/ allergy test.

For further information or to book an appointment call 01756 796690 or email info@cravenclinic.co.uk

MASSAGE

NATURAL FACELIFT

OSTEOPATHY

PODIATRY

PSYCHOTHERAPY

REFLEXOLOGY

SMOKING CESSATION

FREE 15 MINS NURSE LED CLINIC CONSULTATION

We can check your: • blood pressure • weight • height • BMI and offer health advice, along with signposting to other complementary therapies you may benefit from.

For further information or to book an appointment call 01756 796690 or email info@cravenclinic.co.uk

THERAPY ROOMS / WORKSPACE / MEETING SPACE AVAILABLE TO RENT

Father’s Day at Craven Clinic

SUNDAY 21ST JUNE 2026

Looking for that perfect gift to treat someone special this Father’s Day?

Gift Vouchers for relaxing therapies are available at the clinic & online! For more details go to: akmassage.co.uk

SPORTS MASSAGE Craven Clinic | Mount Pleasant | High Street | Skipton |

Root veggies – sweet potatoes, carrots, beets

• Fruits – bananas, berries, oranges (great pre-workout)

• Oats – steady energy, good for your gut lining

Avoid processed carbs like white bread and sugary snacks as they’ll often give you a quick energy spike, followed by a crash.

LOAD UP ON HEALTHY FATS

Fats support endurance, hormone balance and inflammation reduction, helping to decrease soreness and boost performance. Focus on:

• Avocados – fibre and healthy fats (great in salads, smoothies or on toast)

• Extra virgin olive and coconut oil –great for cooking and digestion

NUTRITION WITH KELI

• Nuts and seeds – almonds, walnuts, chia, flaxseeds

• Fatty fish – for recovery and joint health

Had an intense workout but feel wiped out, bloated or extra sore the next day? Isn’t it so frustrating? It’s not just about how hard you train, it’s also how your body processes food. If your gut is not in the best shape, your performance and recovery can suffer. I have some good news though – small diet tweaks can make such a big difference. Let’s dive into how to fuel for better performance, more endurance and most importantly, longterm health, because longevity is ultimately the real goal as well.

EAT ENOUGH PROTEIN (WITHOUT MESSING UP YOUR DIGESTION)

Protein is essential for muscle growth and

recovery and good digestion ensures you absorb all the benefits. To support your gut, reduce soreness and speed up recovery, fuel up with these nourishing, whole-food protein sources instead of processed powders or bars:

• Lean meats – chicken, turkey, grass-fed beef

• Fatty fish – salmon, sea bass, mackerel (loaded with anti-inflammatory omega-3s)

• Eggs – a great option if they sit well with you (scramble, poach or boil)

Lentils and beans – excellent plant-based protein, just watch for bloating if you consume too much

• Tofu and tempeh – easy to digest and rich in protein

• Veggies – spinach, peas and mushrooms offer protein while being gentle on digestion. Perfect for topping up your intake

For a clean, gut-friendly protein, I love Nuzest Clean Lean Protein. Made from pea protein, it’s free from additives, easy to digest and packed with amino acids for recovery. Get 20 per cent off with my affiliate code: KELI at nuzest.co.uk.

CHOOSE SMART CARBOHYDRATES

Carbs fuel your body, but some are gentler on your gut. For steady energy without bloating, try:

• Whole grains – quinoa, brown rice, sourdough

SUPPORT YOUR GUT WITH PROBIOTICS & PREBIOTICS

A balanced gut aids digestion, energy and recovery. Keep it in check with:

• Probiotics – Greek yoghurt, kimchi, miso, sauerkraut

• Prebiotics – garlic, onions, oats, bananas These promote better digestion, less inflammation and sustained energy for longer workouts.

STAY HYDRATED

Hydration is key for energy and muscle function. Add:

• Coconut water – natural electrolytes, great post workout

• Herbal teas – peppermint or ginger for digestion

Avoid excess caffeine and sugary drinks as they can mess with digestion and leave you feeling sluggish.

Training hard is only part of the equation –your gut health is what keeps you strong, energised and enables you to recover quickly. Take care of your gut and it’ll take care of you – inside and outside the gym. n

nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com

nutritionwithkeli

Expert Keli Thompson explains some gut-friendly tips to boost strength and stamina for active individuals

Orthopaedic Services at The Yorkshire Clinic

Our expert team can provide you fast access to treatment at a time to suit you.

Our Services include:

We offer a range of ways to pay including self-funding and using your private medical insurance. Please contact our team on 01274 051 592 for more information or scan the QR code.

Did you know you can now book appointments using our online booking system? Head to our website for more information

A LATE CAST

At 66, discovering fishing becomes an unexpected lesson in patience, presence and connection, offering quiet moments of reflection, shared time with family and a welcome pause from modern life, writes Tedd Walmsley

There’s something quietly transformative about picking up a fishing rod for the first time at 66. It wasn’t a lifelong ambition fulfilled, nor a bucket-list moment ticked off with ceremony. Rather, it was a gentle nudge –perhaps inspired in part by evenings spent watching Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, where Paul Whitehouse and Bob Mortimer reflect on life, friendship and health between casts, that led me to the water’s edge.

What I discovered was far more than a pastime.

Fishing, as it turns out, is a masterclass in slowing down. In a world that nudges us constantly towards urgency – with emails, notifications, the hum of daily responsibility –there’s something quietly radical about standing still, watching the water and waiting. Mobile phones, quite naturally, stay in pockets. Time stretches. The mind settles. You begin to notice things – the ripple of a breeze across the surface, the call of birds overhead, the subtle shift in light as clouds drift by. It’s mindfulness, but without the jargon.

IT ENCOURAGES CONVERSATION WITHOUT FORCING IT, PROVIDES SPACE FOR REFLECTION AND FOSTERS CONNECTION WITH NATURE, WITH OTHERS AND WITH

ONESELF

For me, it’s also become precious time with my son, Robert. Between work commitments and the rhythms of family life, uninterrupted hours together are rare. Yet here, by the bank, conversation flows easily – or not at all. Both feel equally valuable. There’s a shared purpose, but no pressure. Just companionship, punctuated by the occasional burst of excitement when a line tightens and the water comes alive.

And excitement there is. The quiet anticipation gives way to adrenaline in an instant. A catch, no matter how modest, brings a sense of achievement that feels both childlike and deeply satisfying. But alongside that thrill comes responsibility. Learning to handle fish with care, to respect their environment and to return them safely to the water adds a layer of attentiveness that sharpens the whole experience. It’s not simply about catching, it’s about stewardship.

There’s also a broader conversation here, particularly around men’s health. Too often, wellbeing is framed in clinical or structured terms – gym sessions, step counts, prescribed routines. Fishing offers something softer, yet no less powerful. It encourages conversation without forcing it, provides space for reflection and fosters connection with nature, with others and with oneself.

At 66, I hadn’t expected to find a new rhythm, let alone one that feels so restorative. Fishing has gently reminded me of the value of presence, of being exactly where you are, with no need to rush ahead.

Sometimes, it seems, the best things really do come to those who wait. n

training as we age. Research consistently shows that resistance training can improve mobility, reduce injury risk and support both physical and mental wellbeing. At UNITY the emphasis is not just on exercise, but on helping people feel capable, confident and connected.

At the other end of the age spectrum, UNITY TEENS has been launched to help young people build resilience, confidence and healthy habits through strength and functional fitness training.

The sessions are fully coached, inclusive and fun, with a strong focus on teamwork and creating positive lifelong relationships with exercise. In a time when many teenagers face increasing pressures around mental health, screen time and self-confidence,

MOVEMENT FOR LIFE

UNITY’s new MOVE and TEENS programmes are helping every generation build strength, confidence and community through supportive, inclusive fitness

At UNITY strength has no age limit.

From teenagers discovering confidence through movement to older adults staying active and independent, the Embsay-based gym is proving that fitness can – and should –be for everyone.

Built on a philosophy of community, connection and support, UNITY has introduced two new programmes designed specifically for different generations within its growing fitness family – UNITY MOVE and UNITY TEENS.

Located at Embsay Mills near Skipton,

the gym has quickly earned a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and expert coaching. Founder Ruth Wylde created the space with a clear vision in mind, to build a gym where “effort is celebrated over ego” and where members feel supported from the moment they walk through the door.

RESEARCH

CONSISTENTLY SHOWS THAT RESISTANCE TRAINING CAN IMPROVE MOBILITY, REDUCE INJURY RISK AND SUPPORT BOTH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING

That inclusive ethos sits at the heart of UNITY MOVE, a new class aimed at helping older adults improve strength, mobility, balance and confidence in a supportive, coach-led environment. Designed for people wanting to stay independent and active later in life, the programme focuses on functional movement, bone density and longevity.

Rather than intimidating workouts or high-pressure training, UNITY MOVE offers gentle, scalable exercise with expert guidance every step of the way. It reflects the wider approach at UNITY, where every class is adapted to suit all fitness levels and every achievement – big or small – is celebrated.

The programme also responds to a growing awareness of the importance of strength

the programme aims to give young people a supportive environment where they can challenge themselves, develop discipline and feel part of a community.

The introduction of both programmes reflects UNITY’s wider mission to make movement accessible at every stage of life.

Alongside MOVE and TEENS, the gym also offers Strength Training, HYROX, Functional Fitness, Reformer and Mat Pilates, personal training and specialist coaching. Its modern facility includes a 10-bay rig, Olympic lifting platforms, a dedicated machine room and a large class space, all designed to help members train safely and effectively.

But while the equipment is impressive, UNITY believes its biggest strength is its people.

Whether you’re 14 or 74, a complete beginner or an experienced athlete, the message remains the same – there is a place for everyone at UNITY. n

UNITY

Ground Floor, Embsay Mills

Skipton BD23 6QR 07426 908363

info@unityembsay.co.uk unityembsay.co.uk

@unityembsay

THE ART OF PERFECTION

In the Ribble Valley, where craftsmanship and heritage are quietly revered, Renovo Dental has established itself as the definitive name in bespoke implant dentistry

Renovo Dental operates in a rarefied sphere where precision engineering meets artistry and where compromise is simply not part of the language.

Founded by the highly experienced clinician Dr Usman Riaz, Renovo was conceived with a singular philosophy - to deliver cosmetic and implant dentistry at the highest possible level - all meticulously planned, flawlessly executed and designed to endure for decades. Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the practice now stands as the pre-eminent implant specialist in the North West, with

a three-month waiting list and a discerning clientele that includes fellow dentists who entrust their own smiles to Renovo’s care.

“It goes without saying that you should not compromise when it comes to implants and your smile, it is an investment,” says Dr Riaz. “Implants should last at least 20 years or more. If taken care of, lifelong. If you get an implant done once, it’s got to be done well.”

At Renovo, placing the implant is regarded as the straightforward element. The true mastery lies in the planning - an intricate, detail-driven process that considers gum architecture, bone health, facial harmony

and the individuality of every smile.

“For us, placing the implant is simple. Our philosophy is about the planning and making the implant look and act like a natural tooth.

“Aesthetic dentistry is not about changing smiles, it’s about respecting them. Implants must be harmonious with the facial aesthetics, as every smile is unique.”

It is this devotion to detail that elevates Renovo beyond clinical excellence into the realm of artistry.

FOR US, PLACING THE IMPLANT IS SIMPLE. OUR PHILOSOPHY IS ABOUT THE PLANNING AND MAKING THE IMPLANT LOOK AND ACT LIKE A NATURAL TOOTH. THAT’S THE HOLY GRAIL

Central to that journey is an in-house specialist team, ensuring continuity, accountability and an uncompromising standard of care. Among them is Dr Khurrum Hussain, a highly experienced specialist periodontist and implant surgeon whose expertise has earned international recognition. Recently, Dr Hussain was invited to present at the prestigious ICE Annual Scientific Symposium 2026, which focused on ‘Innovations in Implant Dentistry and Peri-Implant Disease’. Held at the Manchester Hilton, the symposium gathered the world’s leading implant authorities, including keynote speaker Professor Tomas Albrektsson, widely regarded as the father of modern dental implantology.

Dr Hussain joined this distinguished line-up to discuss how serious implant failures and complications can be avoided - a subject that lies at the very heart of Renovo’s philosophy.

‘’It’s about precision, predictability and control’’ says Dr Khurrum. “That makes everything much easier for the patient.”

The latest technology at Renovo is not employed for spectacle, but for superiority. Advanced CT scanning and digital smile design software allow for forensic-level planning.

From the first assessment to final smile, every step follows a patient-specific workflow, where the gum profile, the biomechanics, including the bite and smile aesthetics, are all pre-planned.

“There is no guesswork. We already know what the result is going to be, so for us it’s all about the journey. We find that journey

exciting and we like our patients to be involved in the planning too.”

Yet what truly sets Renovo apart is its holistic approach. Many implants are placed on the same day, often without the need for bone grafting, gum removal or sutures. High-tech laser systems are used to disinfect and accelerate healing. Renovo has taken this even further by incorporating oral biomarkers to assess inflammation and study the micronutrition to support healing.

“Optimising a patient’s health before implant surgery acts in our favour,” explains Dr Riaz. Patients may self-refer or be referred by their own dentists and once under Renovo’s care they are coached and mentored in maintaining exemplary oral health and as Dr Riaz explains: “Our aim is to deliver dentistry that not only looks great, but the teeth feel like they truly belong and last for many more years.”

The results speak volumes. More than 1,000 smiles have been transformed through implant rehabilitation since the foundation of Renovo Dental. Whether replacing a single tooth or reconstructing multiple teeth, the objective remains unwaveringlongevity, practicality and beauty in perfect balance.

OUR AIM IS TO DELIVER DENTISTRY THAT NOT ONLY LOOKS GREAT, BUT THE TEETH FEEL LIKE THEY TRULY BELONG AND LAST FOR MANY MORE YEARS

Indeed, Renovo’s implants are crafted to mimic nature so convincingly that patients and observers cannot distinguish them from the real thing. “People often can’t believe they’re not their natural teeth. That’s the holy grail.”

Working six days a week and dedicating many hours to meticulous planning, the Renovo team remains driven not by volume, but by passion. Dentistry, as Dr Riaz affirms, is evolving and Renovo is proud to be at its vanguard, inspiring the next generation while quietly redefining what is possible.

In the Ribble Valley, excellence has found its benchmark at Renovo Dental where perfection is not pursued it is engineered. n

Renovo Dental

Pendle House, Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000

hello@renovodental.co.uk

renovodental.co.uk

You might also have heard of Redmire Falls, recently used in the filming of Danny Boyle’s 28 Years Later if you’re a fan of a horror film. See? Wensleydale does NOT mess around when it comes to famous falls!

But whilst this trio are certainly worth a visit, I am here to advocate for the unsung heroes, because in Wensleydale you are quite literally falling over those waterfalls there are so many. (Ok, not LITERALLY falling over waterfalls. That sounds painful and probably not advisable). But with so many stunning cascades that fly almost entirely under the radar, I’ve decided that one of my favourite family friendly waterfall walks should be shouted out.

THIS FORTY-FOOT BEAUTY IS HIDDEN IN A SECLUDED AND VIBRANT GREEN WOODED GORGE, WITH DRAMATICALLY STEEP SIDES AND TAKES A LITTLE MORE EFFORT TO FIND

Aysgill Force. It sounds pretty similar to its famous cousin doesn’t it? But it is not to be confused with the pretty cascades on the River Ure, this forty-foot beauty is hidden in a secluded and vibrant green wooded gorge, with dramatically steep sides and takes a little more effort to find. But that’s the beauty of this gem, it’s a true waterfall hunt!

Let’s head to Hawes in the farthest reaches of Wensleydale, where this adventure begins. This pretty market town has cobbled streets,

A WATERFALL HUNT: AYSGILL FORCE

It’s summer in the Yorkshire Dales and we’re going on a waterfall hunt – but perhaps not the world famous one that you’re thinking of! Intrigued? Samantha Brown from the Reluctant Explorers tells us more

This family friendly waterfall is one of our favourites. Bite-sized and brilliant but definitely an underdog, just the way I like them!

I always describe Wensleydale as being the motherland of the Dales waterfalls. It boasts the country’s highest single drop waterfall (above ground) in Hardraw, which starred in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves as a pretty spectacular and presumably remarkably powerful shower. You’ve probably heard of Aysgarth Falls, also world famous for its silver screen connections, the cascades having been admired for centuries after they were originally made famous by the likes of Turner and Wordsworth.

a friendly community vibe and waterfalls running right through the centre of town, which sets the scene perfectly for this walk. It’s surrounded by rugged moorland and dramatic mountains and is also the home of the world-famous Wensleydale Cheese factory, adored by Wallace and Gromit and cheese connoisseurs far and wide!

From Hawes, this route takes you to the little village of Gayle, where you’ll spot yet another set of pretty falls on the beck (I told you this walk delivered on the waterfall front right?)

This is the beck that you’ll follow through the valley bottom to reach the super secretive Aysgill Force.

The eagle-eyed of you will spot one of the clever mosaics that form part of the Hawes Mosaic Walk – and beyond there you’ll be striding on towards the falls themselves. Once nearby, the roar of the water will greet you well before you catch a glimpse of the force. Visible from the viewing platform only, you will gaze down into the gorge and plunge pool of the waterfalls (taking care as there are some unguarded drops here) before emerging out from the cool canopy into the rolling fields of Sleddale with views beyond to Dodd Fell.

This four mile circular offers you up some pretty stunning scenes, but what on earth is in it for the kids? Whilst they might not be quite as enchanted by the view as you are, a waterfall hunt is always up there as one of our favourite things to do as a family and there will be plenty of birds to spot on the way to the gorge.

Even better? This walk has two (yes two!) play areas, one in Gayle and one at the end in

Hawes right opposite the Dales Countryside Museum, which you can also pop into to explore, if you find the time. For those who were excited about the mention of cheese, the walk heads right past the doors of the Wensleydale Creamery, where you can take a peek inside the factory and get an insight into how they make this worldfamous cheese.

WITH SO MANY STUNNING CASCADES THAT FLY ALMOST ENTIRELY UNDER THE RADAR, I’VE DECIDED THAT ONE OF MY FAVOURITE FAMILY FRIENDLY WATERFALL WALKS SHOULD BE SHOUTED OUT

Head back down into Hawes and you’ll find the ice cream parlour and, for the grown ups, the pub too!

And if that’s not enough to make the kids sleep tonight. I don’t know what will! n

Fairytale Ball Experience

still think princesses are real. join us and make nforgettable memories with

Moana & Rapunzel

Live singing, dancing & lots of laughter

Hugs and photos with the princesses

Princess packed lunch, teas & coffees & refreshments

MORE THAN JUST

A SHOE SHOP

Fitright footwear is changing the way we think about shoes, so if you are looking for stylish, comfortable footwear that fits then look no further.

Wtime to rethink your approach. Customers regularly return not just for the shoes, but for the service, a friendly face, honest advice and a level of care that’s increasingly rare in today’s retail environment.

term foot health. What if you didn’t have to choose? What if a shoe could support your lifestyle without compromising on appearance?

That’s exactly the philosophy behind fitright footwear – a specialist shoe shop dedicated to helping customers rediscover what it means to walk comfortably. Whether you’re dealing with common concerns like wide or narrow feet, or more complex issues such as arthritis, plantar fasciitis, bunions, or Morton’s neuroma, the team at fitright takes the time to listen. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that no two feet are the same – and your shoes shouldn’t be either.

about shape, support and function. From cushioned sole units that absorb impact to structured designs that improve posture, each pair is carefully selected to enhance both comfort and mobility. For many customers, this attention to detail is life changing. Walking becomes easier. Pain is reduced. Confidence returns.

In a world of fast fashion and quick fixes, fitright footwear offers something refreshingly different – a slower, more thoughtful approach that puts people first.

A visit to Fitright Footwear isn’t just a shopping trip – it’s an investment in your everyday quality of life. n

Photography: Kirsten Platt Fitright

ith 10 years’ experience, fitright footwear isn’t your typical retailer. We have a unique, appointment only, complimentary, one-to-one measuring and fitting service rarely found in a high street shoe shop, which is designed to take the stress away from searching for the right shoe. From the moment you walk through the door, this is a shoe shop where expertise meets genuine care and customers are guided through their personalised fitting experience, designed to understand their individual needs. When it comes to footwear, most of us have been conditioned to prioritise style over substance. A sleek silhouette, a trending colour or a familiar brand name often wins out over what truly matters – comfort, fit and long-

At the heart of fitright footwear’s success is its commitment to precision fitting. Using professional measuring techniques and years of specialist knowledge, staff ensure that every customer leaves with footwear that truly fits and supports them. It’s not just about size – it’s

Foot health is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in overall wellbeing. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to long-term problems affecting not just the feet, but the knees, hips and back. At fitright footwear we aim to educate customers, provide real solutions and ultimately help people move through life with greater comfort and confidence.

If you’ve ever settled for shoes that ‘just about fit’ it might be

Appointments only: Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm

3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172

harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399

clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

fitrightfootwear.co.uk

comfort.fit.style _fitright

LEGAL GUIDANCE PREVENTS PITFALLS

The death of a loved one is an emotionally challenging time. Alongside grief, family members and friends are often faced with the practical responsibility of administering the deceased’s estate. While it may appear straightforward at first glance – particularly where a will exists – estate administration is a legally complex process filled with potential pitfalls. Seeking professional legal advice from a solicitor at an early stage can protect executors, beneficiaries and families from costly mistakes, unnecessary delays and future disputes.

Estate Administration is More Complex Than it Appears

Many estates involve more than simply distributing money or property according to a will. Executors and administrators

must identify and value assets, settle debts, deal with tax obligations and ensure the estate is administered in strict accordance with the law. Even relatively modest estates can involve multiple bank accounts, investments, pensions, life insurance policies and property, sometimes spread across different jurisdictions.

ESTATE

ADMINISTRATION CAN STRAIN FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS, PARTICULARLY WHERE EMOTIONS RUN HIGH OR EXPECTATIONS DIFFER

Solicitors are trained to navigate this complexity. They understand the procedural requirements, appropriate timescales and documentation needed, ensuring the estate administration progresses efficiently and lawfully. Without professional support, individuals risk overlooking obligations or handling matters incorrectly, which can lead to serious legal and financial consequences.

Lee Kirby, Senior Solicitor at Walker Foster explains why professional legal advice is essential when administering an estate

Avoiding Personal Liability

One of the most overlooked dangers of estate administration is personal liability. Executors and administrators are legally responsible for their actions and can be held personally liable if mistakes are made. This includes distributing assets before debts or tax liabilities are settled, missing claims from creditors, or failing to identify all beneficiaries.

A solicitor helps shield personal representatives from unnecessary risk. By ensuring that statutory notices are placed, creditors are properly addressed, and assets are distributed in the correct order, using a solicitor significantly reduces the likelihood of personal liability. For many executors, particularly those unfamiliar with legal processes, this protection is invaluable.

Navigating Inheritance Tax and Hidden Tax Traps

Inheritance Tax calculations can be complex, even where an estate appears to fall below the threshold. Reliefs, exemptions, gifts made during lifetime, trusts, business assets and property valuation all play a role in determining liability. Mistakes in reporting or valuation can result in penalties, interest or unexpected tax bills.

Solicitors work closely with tax advisers and HM Revenue & Customs to ensure accurate calculations and timely submissions. They can also advise on transferable allowances, residence nil-rate bands and potential post-death variations. Without professional guidance, families may overpay tax – or worse, underpay and face later investigations.

Dealing with Ambiguous or Disputed Wills

Not all wills are clear, valid or uncontested. Ambiguous wording, missing original documents, improperly executed wills or statements of intention can all create uncertainty. In some cases, family members may dispute the will itself or make claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

A solicitor can interpret the will correctly, advise on its validity, and manage disputes sensitively and professionally. Early legal involvement can often de-escalate conflict, preserve relationships and avoid costly litigation. Where disputes cannot be avoided, solicitors are equipped to represent the estate and protect the executor’s position.

Ensuring Compliance with Legal Timelines and Procedures

Estate administration is governed by strict rules and timelines. Applications for the grant of probate or letters of administration must be correctly prepared, signed and submitted, often alongside complex supporting documentation. Errors or omissions can delay the process for months.

A solicitor ensures that all procedural steps are completed correctly and promptly. This not only speeds up the administration but reassures beneficiaries that the estate is being handled competently and transparently.

LEGAL ADVICE IS NOT MERELY A COST –IT IS AN INVESTMENT IN CERTAINTY, PROTECTION AND PEACE OF MIND

Identifying and Managing Hidden Pitfalls

Many estates contain hidden complications that are not immediately obvious. These may include unknown debts, jointly owned assets, trust interests, foreign property, business holdings or unresolved claims. There may also be issues relating to digital assets, online accounts or intellectual property.

Solicitors are skilled at identifying these risks early and addressing them appropriately. Their experience enables them to anticipate problems before they arise and guide executors through unfamiliar territory with confidence.

Providing Reassurance and Objectivity

Estate administration can strain family relationships, particularly where emotions run high or expectations differ. A solicitor provides an independent, professional presence, ensuring decisions are made

objectively and in accordance with the law rather than under pressure or emotion. This impartiality often reduces tension and reassures beneficiaries that the estate is being administered fairly. It also gives executors peace of mind, knowing they are acting properly and fulfilling their legal duties.

An Investment in Peace of Mind

While some may be tempted to administer an estate without professional help to save costs, mistakes made during administration can prove far more expensive in the long run. Legal advice is not merely a cost – it is an investment in certainty, protection and peace of mind.

By instructing a solicitor, families can focus on remembrance and healing, confident that the legal and financial complexities are being managed safely and professionally. In times of loss, that reassurance is often worth far more than the fee itself. n

Walker Foster Solicitors

Skipton Office

3 High Street, Skipton BD23 1AA 01756 700200

Barnoldswick Office Craven House

Newtown, Barnoldswick BB18 5UQ 01282 812340

Silsden Office

63 Kirkgate, Silsden, Keighley BD20 0PD 01535 656000

Settle Office

1 High Street, Settle BD24 9EX 01729 811240

Ilkley Office

27 Riddings Road, Ilkley LS29 9LX 01943 609969

Northallerton Office

Century House, Thornfield Business Park Northallerton DL6 2XQ 01609 711158

Harrogate Office

First Floor, 7 Victoria Avenue Harrogate HG1 1EQ 01423 222950

info@walkerfoster.com

walkerfoster.com

HELP FIGHT WILDLIFE CRIME

Legal reforms are now needed to help fight wildlife crime, writes Victoria Benn

The Yorkshire Dales is a special, protected landscape, with incredible birds and animals making its moorlands, meadows and woodlands their home. The pressures of human activity through development, agriculture and the impact of climate breakdown have long affected vulnerable species, however one such human activity that many of us are perhaps unaware of – and that continues to have a big impact – is wildlife crime.

With its limited resources, the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit prioritises crimes against bats, badgers, illegal wildlife trade, illegal hunting, poaching, hare coursing and birds of prey. Despite being protected in law for more than 70 years, birds of prey remain a significant priority, with illegal persecution continuing and species such as the hen harrier now red listed as a UK bird of conservation concern. Indeed, data collated by the RSPB shows that over a recent 15-year period, there were 152 confirmed incidents of illegal persecution in the Yorkshire Dales, including 41 involving hen harriers. These crimes range from poisoning and trapping to shooting, often taking place in remote upland areas where detection is difficult.

One of Friends of the Dales most popular online talks held earlier this year (and now available to watch on its YouTube channel) featured Detective Inspector Mark Harrison from the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit. In this talk Mark explained that prosecution rates are low for crimes against birds of prey –not because these crimes aren’t happening –but because of the challenges in gathering evidence. Barriers include remote locations, lack of witnesses, no CCTV, exposure to elements and a loss of forensics through weather and natural predation. Time is also a big factor for evidence gathering in any crime, but becomes a further challenge in crimes of this type. Members of the public can help by knowing the signs of the potential persecution to look out for and report. Further information about this is available at friendsofthedales.org.uk.

THESE CRIMES RANGE FROM POISONING AND TRAPPING TO SHOOTING, OFTEN TAKING PLACE IN REMOTE UPLAND AREAS WHERE DETECTION IS DIFFICULT

Mark also emphasised that the way to really affect change is at ground level, stopping crime before it happens. He highlighted that clearer and tougher sentences would motivate people to behave differently. He also emphasised that making such crimes notifiable would enable better intelligence sharing and resourcing.

As an independent charity, free from any political allegiance, Friends of the Dales has launched a petition advocating three key reforms to help drive down the frequency of such crimes. Summarised in its forthcoming letter to Mary Creagh MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Nature, it is asking

people to sign to support the introduction of sentencing guidelines and the strengthening of penalties for offenders of wildlife crime; the creation of a National Wildlife Crime Database and the regulation and licensing of the gamebird-shooting industry. The message behind the Eyes on the Skies campaign is simple – it’s time to call time on wildlife crime. n

To sign the petition visit: friendsofthedales.org.uk

PURE INDULGENCE

Nestled within 40 acres of Lancashire parkland, Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort offers a seamless blend of countryside calm and indulgent luxury, writes Ali Gudgeon

Our visit, centred around the hotel’s aptly named Indulgence Escape, proved to be a celebration of fine food, thoughtful detail and much‑needed relaxation. With sweeping views of Pendle Hill and the rolling terrain beyond, it’s little wonder this stylish property has become one of the most sought‑after places to stay in Lancashire.

From the moment we checked in, indulgence was unmistakably the theme. Awaiting us in our elegant room was a bottle of chilled sparkling wine alongside artisan chocolates – an inviting start that immediately set the tone for the stay. With no agenda to follow, the afternoon was ours to enjoy as we pleased. A gentle woodland walk through the estate, filled with fresh country air, set us up perfectly for the indulgent evening meal that followed.

As evening approached, the real highlight beckoned – dinner at Wilfred’s Restaurant & Bar, one of the hotel’s two AA Rosette‑awarded dining rooms. Wilfred’s is a welcoming yet sophisticated space, its ambience shaped by dark iroko wood, polished brass accents and sumptuous fabrics.

The menu champions British produce with confident Italian influences, crafted by an acclaimed team of chefs. The Indulgence Escape offer gave us £50 each to spend on the a la carte menu and we were spoilt for choice!

To start, I opted for the sun blushed tomato hummus, while my husband chose the garlic pizza bread with tomato – both light, flavourful and the perfect prelude. For mains, my Sunday roast was generous and beautifully cooked with melt in the mouth beef, while the 10oz fillet steak, served with triple‑cooked chips, was a standout – tender, rich and expertly prepared. A crisp glass of Pinot Grigio tied everything together effortlessly.

Despite being happily full, dessert was non‑negotiable. Sticky toffee pudding and a vegan apple tart, finished with cappuccinos, were the ideal sweet ending to the evening. Service throughout the evening was attentive and friendly, striking just the right balance.

After a deeply restful night’s sleep, morning brought one last indulgence, breakfast. The light‑filled restaurant takes on a completely

different character by day, with floor‑to‑ceiling windows creating a bright, airy atmosphere. We enjoyed a full English breakfast alongside fresh pastries and coffee, while the serve‑ yourself selection offered everything from yoghurt and fresh fruit to cereals, preserves and juices.

More than simply an overnight stay, the Indulgence Escape delivers a carefully considered taste of affordable luxury. A genuine treat for food lovers, it invites guests to slow down and savour each moment –from standout dining to restful surroundings. Running until 31st August and priced at just £250 per couple, it offers exceptional value for a truly indulgent getaway.

I can’t wait to visit again and I’ll definitely be adding on a visit to The Woodland Spa –the ultimate in indulgence! n

COMPETITION TIME!

Win 'The Indulgence Escape'

Luxury overnight stay with dinner for two, plus fine sparkling wine and artisan chocolates worth £250.

Scan the QR to tell us in 50 words or fewer why you should win.

crowwoodhotel.com

ESTATE LIFE

Gisburne Park Estate is owned and managed by Guy and Amber Hindley, who are converting it into a thriving five-star resort

This season, we were delighted to host our much-anticipated Wedding Showcase in the breathtaking surroundings of our valley. The event proved to be a tremendous success, welcoming a wonderful mix of couples who came to explore everything our estate has to offer for their special day.

With 2026 weddings now in full swing, we are excited to

move into a vibrant and busy season ahead. The showcase also brought fantastic momentum for the future, with a strong number of 2027 bookings secured and we are thrilled to announce that our 2028 dates are now officially open. As summer begins, we are

equally pleased to welcome back one of our most loved features – our outdoor heated pool. A firm favourite among guests, it offers something truly special particularly for those enjoying a stay in our glamping accommodation. Following the success of last year, we

WE ARE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE THAT OUR 2028 WEDDING DATES ARE NOW OFFICIALLY OPEN

have expanded our offering to include a total of 15 beautifully appointed tents, available to book on a two-night basis from May through to September.

At the heart of the estate lies Hindelinis, our on-site restaurant, which continues to be a hub of atmosphere and enjoyment. With its spectacular outdoor space, it provides the perfect setting to relax over drinks and dining. The return of our live singers and DJs brings a lively energy every weekend, creating an experience our guests love.

We are also excited to introduce our new summer menu, which is already receiving fantastic feedback. Highlights include our organic estate venison burger, which has quickly become a standout favourite, alongside new additions such as grilled halloumi with hot honey, fresh mussels and a selection of delicious breakfast buns to enhance our morning offering. n

Gisburne Park Estate

Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300

events@gisburneparkestate.co.uk

gisburneparkestate.co.uk

@hindelinis

@ribblesdalepark

@gisburneparkestate

Photography:

Jane Ball Photography

A collection of six award-winning venues across the Ribble Valley, Lune Valley & Yorkshire Dales. Scan to

Say I do... TO YOUR DREAM VENUE

Discover the Dream Venues collection by James’ Places –a portfolio of six exceptional wedding venues set across the Ribble Valley, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lune Valley.

From elegant manor houses to beautifully restored country inns, each setting offers its own distinct character, combining breathtaking surroundings with award-winning hospitality. Rustic, romantic or relaxed, finding the one is all part of the adventure.

Private viewings offer the chance to explore these beautiful venues at your own pace, taking in the atmosphere and discovering the details that make each setting so special.

Begin your journey at

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Rebecca Jones, Paige Hargreaves, Emilie May, Anthony Horseman & Sam Sparks

A SEASON TAKING SHAPE

With residents moving in, grounds maturing and new lodges arriving, Goosnargh Lodge Park offers a rare chance to join an already flourishing lifestyle setting, writes Tedd Walmsley.

Photography: Anthony P Driver

There is something quietly special about this time of year at Goosnargh Lodge Park. May brings with it a sense of clarity, the landscape sharpening into focus, the greens deepening and the longer light gently stretching each day. The park feels composed, confident and increasingly assured, as though everything is beginning to fall into place just as it should.

For Liz and I, living here part of the time, that sense of progress is something we notice constantly. Returning week to week, there is always something new to take in, subtle changes in the grounds, another lodge taking shape, the community quietly growing. It’s an evolution that doesn’t shout for attention, but reveals itself steadily, reinforcing our decision to be here with each passing visit.

What was once a promise of space, design and possibility is steadily becoming a livedin landscape, shaped not just by vision, but by the rhythm of everyday life.

THE

SAUNA, STEAM ROOM AND GYM, SOON TO OPEN, WILL INTRODUCE ANOTHER LAYER TO LIFE ON THE PARK, ONE CENTRED AROUND WELLBEING, ROUTINE AND QUIET INDULGENCE

Most noticeably, the community itself has begun to flourish. With seven residences now occupied, there is a genuine sense of life across the park. A quiet, unforced camaraderie

that comes from shared experience rather than design. Morning walks lead to familiar faces, conversations unfold naturally and there is a growing sense that this is not simply a collection of lodges, but a place where people are beginning to belong. With a further five families due to move in over the coming months, that feeling is only set to deepen. It is this balance between privacy and connection that continues to define the character of Goosnargh. Space remains a constant luxury here, but it is no longer just physical. It is social, emotional and unhurried, allowing each owner to engage as much or as little as they choose, without expectation or intrusion.

Across the grounds, the attention to detail has noticeably evolved. The landscaping has matured, with the ground staff refining and shaping the environment with a more curated hand. Edges are softer yet more intentional, planting schemes are settling into their surroundings and sightlines across the park feel increasingly considered. There is a growing sense of cohesion, as

though the land itself is being gently edited into its final form.

One of the most engaging developments is the emerging community garden. Still taking shape, it already hints at what it will become, a shared space rooted in both practicality and pleasure. It speaks to a slower, more connected way of living, where growing, tending and sharing are as much a part of the lifestyle as the lodges themselves.

Equally anticipated are the forthcoming wellness facilities. The sauna, steam room and gym, soon to open, will introduce another layer to life on the park, one centred around wellbeing, routine and quiet indulgence. These are not additions for show, but thoughtful enhancements that reflect the wider ethos of the park – considered, balanced and designed to enrich rather than overwhelm.

Choice, too, continues to expand. A number of new show lodges, now being positioned around the main lake, are arriving from respected manufacturers including Victory Leisure Homes, Prestige Homeseeker and Your Retreats, offering an even broader palette of styles, layouts and finishes. Alongside a small collection of existing show homes, these lodges will be available for immediate occupancy, creating a rare

opportunity for those looking to step into park life without delay.

Around the main lake, another quiet transformation is underway. The golf holes, once part of the original nine-hole course, are being carefully rediscovered and redefined. Brought back into view with a light, considered touch that respects their history while preparing them for a new season.

WHAT WE HOPED FOR AT THE OUTSET – SPACE, CALM, QUALITY AND A SENSE OF EASE – IS NOW PART OF DAILY LIFE

Many of the lakes themselves are original features of the landscape, now being thoughtfully brought back to life in every sense of the word. Cleared, restored and sensitively developed, they are already beginning to attract wildlife and over time, will become a true haven.

Taken together, these developments do not alter the essence of Goosnargh, they

simply reveal it more clearly. The park is not trying to become something different, it is becoming more fully itself.

For us, the lived experience is perhaps the most compelling part of the story. What we hoped for at the outset – space, calm, quality and a sense of ease – is now part of daily life. And as the park continues to grow around us, it only strengthens the feeling that this is somewhere built not just to visit, but to truly settle into.

Goosnargh Lodge Park has always been about more than lodges. It is about pace, space and the freedom to shape a lifestyle on your own terms. Now, as the season gathers momentum and the community continues to grow, that vision feels not only realised, but ready for its next chapter. n

Goosnargh Lodge Park

Inglewhite Road, Preston PR3 2ED 01772 211211

goosnarghlodgepark.co.uk

LET’S TAKE A RIDE…

To mark the release of Wuthering Heights the Yorkshire Dales National Park is sharing this Swaledale circular route that passes close to some of the filming locations

This route follows the undulating road up the lovely valley of Swaledale and then climbs to the highest pub in the country, the famous Tan Hill Inn. From here the route back to Reeth is a classic – a quiet road through beautiful scenery which can seem virtually downhill all the way if the wind is behind you (which it usually is).

This route starts at Reeth in Swaledale which has a good range of accommodation, shops, cafes and pubs. There is also the Dales Bike Centre which can hire you a bike or carry out repairs.

SWALEDALE CIRCULAR

Start/Finish: Reeth

Distance: 27 miles (45km)

Refreshments: Reeth, Gunnerside, Muker, Keld and Tan Hill

Toilets: Reeth, Gunnerside, Muker and Keld

Nearest train No main line station close

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

1. Take the road at the top of the village green in Reeth (signposted Gunnerside 6mls B6270). Continue up the valley on

the undulating road through Healaugh and Low Row where there is a pub and Holme Open Farm. Continue on through Gunnerside and Muker to reach Keld.

2. Shortly after leaving Keld take the right turn signed to Tan Hill. The Tan Hill Inn is the highest pub in England so, not surprisingly, the road goes uphill.

At first it follows the valley bottom before a tougher section of climbing brings you to a T-junction with the pub just to your right.

3. After leaving Tan Hill the road is a fantastic long descent (particularly if the wind is behind you) down to Arkengarthdale. There is only one short section of uphill between you and Reeth which is about 13 miles away. Enjoy. n

Details of this route and many others of varying lengths and difficulty, can be found at: cyclethedales.org.uk

STAY.

Escape to the Yorkshire Dales for indulgent stays, spa serenity and outdoor adventure.

Yorkshire Dales for indulgent stays, spa serenity and outdoor adventure.

Set within a vast Yorkshire Dales estate, The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa invites you to switch off and stay a while. From cosy rooms to the award-winning Nàdarra Spa, every moment is yours

Set within a vast Yorkshire Dales estate, The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa invites you to switch off and stay a while. From cosy rooms to the award-winning Nàdarra Spa, every moment is yours

For moments of stillness or sparks of adventure, time moves differently here. Sink into warm outdoor pools, breathe in wide open air, and explore the estate at your own pace - before retreating for a deeply restful night.

GOING UNDERGROUND

Nestled beneath the limestone slopes of Ingleborough, White Scar Cave is the longest show cave in Britain. Resident Manager John Connaughton welcomes Ben Hopkins on a spectacular tour through tunnels and caverns that unravel history and stir the imagination

The word ‘CAVES’ writ large in white paint across the sloping roof of John’s home makes White Scar Cave easy to locate. Walking past the visitor centre and cafe John appears from his office, welcomes me into a transparent bubble tent next to his house and extolls the virtues of the landscape that surrounds us.

“It’s a beautiful location,” says John, who has lived next to the cave since 1985.

Over my shoulder Morecambe Bay can be seen on the westernmost horizon while a short walk above the cave entrance the

landscape is dominated by Yorkshire’s famous Three Peaks and Ribblehead Viaduct.

TECTONIC PLATES

SHIFTED THESE FORMATIONS THOUSANDS OF MILES NORTH FROM THEIR ORIGINS IN WEST AFRICA TO THE HILLS OF NORTH YORKSHIRE

Having previously run a Youth Hostel, John is at home out here, far from the throttled streets of city life. “Why is it, on

days like this, so many people get in their cars and go straight to a crowded beach, when there’s so much to see and experience in the countryside?”

The Discovery

I’m handed a helmet and join the tail end of a small group to enter the cave’s long and narrow passage. Our guide, Adders, wastes no time in making sure we’re equipped for what lies ahead before introducing us to a life-size model of the intrepid caver and Cambridge undergraduate, Christopher Long. In 1923 the cave entered recorded history when Christopher, armed only with candles attached to his hat, followed the underground stream on all fours, becoming the first known person to explore its depths.

The discovery quickly sparked interest and by 1925 the cave had been opened to the public as a ‘show cave’. Basic infrastructure,

such as pathways and lighting were gradually introduced, transforming a hazardous natural space into a managed attraction.

Exploration continued for decades. In 1971, cavers broke through a boulder blockage to discover the vast Battlefield Cavern, a find that significantly expanded knowledge of the cave system. However, it remained inaccessible to the public until 1991, when a tunnel was excavated to include it in guided tours.

WHEN YOU WALK UNDER THE DEVILS TONGUE AND THE SWORD OF DAMOCLES SOME MAY WONDER IF JUDGMENT DAY IS UPON US

The Experience

Following the snaking tunnel past echoing waterfalls towards our final destination in Battlefield Cavern, makes for a fascinating 80-minute tour. Formations sculpted through millions of years of carbon dioxide enriched rainwater slowly dissolving the limestone have created a mile long passage. In parts the white limestone appears like melted wax with a flesh-like glow.

Safety is at the forefront of every guided tour. The raised metal grid flooring and hand rails enable visitors to see the water flowing

beneath their feet, allowing for a sense of space and orientation. The lighting is enough to inform you when to duck and assure you won’t miss a step but not excessive enough to spoil the shadowy ambience.

Adders points toward the historical, explaining the geological formation of limestone with clarity and humour. Our attention is drawn to the numerous fossils that trace the cave’s history. Several hundred million years ago layers of organic marine life on the ocean floor compressed to form limestone. Tectonic plates shifted these formations thousands of miles north from their origins in West Africa to the hills of North Yorkshire. Meaning the spiral pattern of the sea snail I see before me originated in West Africa some 500 million years ago –or thereabouts!

More mysteriously is how the cave’s infamous Judges Head, Witches Fingers and Sword of Damocles were formed. The Witches Fingers protrude from the cave walls like bony fingers. The Judges Head appears from the rocks as a human head in profile, sculpted by nature and featuring what genuinely looks like a textured legal wig. When you walk under The Devils Tongue and The Sword of Damocles some may wonder if judgment day is upon us.

When we pass a group of schoolchildren, their eyes are drawn to the strange shapes

and formations with a joyous sense of wideeyed wonder.

The low roof forces us to crouch before climbing a long sequence of steps leading to a Cathedral sized cavern dominated by thousands of stalactites two metres long and fallen boulders below. Known as Battlefield Cavern the theatrical space, some 90 metres long, is a fittingly spectacular destination for our journey through time.

When I emerge from the water shaped tunnel, blinking in the afternoon sun I’m inclined to agree with John. A journey into White Scar Cave really is a unique experience and a world away from the routine ritual of seeking out overcrowded beaches and shopping arcades. A rewarding discovery and an experience that may well last a lifetime. n

UNDERGROUND FAMILY ADVENTURE

A rainy Easter, a tight squeeze and three generations rediscovering one of the Dales’ most memorable adventures

There’s something rather special about returning to a place that holds your memories and discovering it anew through younger eyes.

Our recent Easter visit to White Scar Cave felt just like that. Thirty years ago, I brought my own children here, Robert among them. This time, it was Robert’s turn to share the experience with his son Charlie. Three generations stepping into the same subterranean world, each seeing it in their own way.

Above ground, the Yorkshire Dales were wrapped in a familiar Easter mood. Low cloud drifting across the hills, a steady drizzle and the sort of weather that makes you rethink even the best laid plans. White Scar Cave,

however, offers the perfect escape. Step inside and the world quietly shifts.

The experience begins with calm reassurance. Hard hats are fitted and a clear, friendly safety briefing sets the tone. It’s immediately apparent that this is a well run operation, where visitor comfort and

CHARLIE WAS COMPLETELY CAPTIVATED, NOT JUST BY THE SHEER SCALE OF THE CAVERNS BUT BY THE STORIES BEHIND THE FORMATIONS

safety are taken seriously. The cave itself is thoughtfully managed, with solid pathways and careful lighting that make it accessible and enjoyable for families ready for a little adventure.

Then, almost without noticing, you are drawn in.

The guided tour unfolds with ease. Our guide struck that perfect balance,

knowledgeable without being overwhelming and engaging without ever feeling rehearsed. Charlie was completely captivated, not just by the sheer scale of the caverns but by the stories behind the formations, their shapes sparking the imagination in a way only caves can.

There are moments where the cave gently reminds you that it is still very much in charge.

‘The Squeeze’ is one such moment.

I’ll admit, I don’t remember it feeling quite so personal thirty years ago. Time –and perhaps a fondness for good food – have a way of altering one’s perspective. Charlie slipped through effortlessly, Robert followed with a knowing smile and I approached with a little more caution.

It’s not difficult, but it certainly lives up to its name, particularly if, like me, you’re a well built chap. There’s a brief moment of negotiation with the rock, a slight turn of the shoulders and then, with dignity mostly intact, you’re through.

Unsurprisingly, this became Charlie’s highlight.

For Robert and me, there was a quiet sense of nostalgia in retracing familiar steps. Much has improved over the years. The experience feels more polished and the facilities are better, yet the magic remains untouched.

Back in daylight, there’s time to pause and reflect. The café at the end is a welcome addition, offering a warm and relaxed space to gather thoughts, share favourite moments and round off the visit perfectly.

White Scar Cave is, quite simply, a superb family day out. Educational without effort, adventurous without being daunting and perfectly suited to those inevitable rainy days in the Dales.

For us, it was more than a visit. It was a reminder that some experiences stand the test of time, only becoming richer when shared again. n

whitescarcave.co.uk

A CLASSIC CUMBRIAN RETREAT

Set within 14 acres of private woodland and manicured gardens, Abbey House Hotel is more than just a place to stay - it’s a living piece of history, shaped by generations yet firmly thriving in the present, writes Katie Hammond

Designed in 1910 and completed in 1914 by renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, the striking sandstone mansion was originally built as the private home and guest residence of Commander Craven, Chairman of Vickers Shipbuilding. In its formative years, the hotel welcomed an extraordinary guest list, with King George V, the Prince of Wales, the future Queen Mother - then Duchess of York - and even the Prince of Siam all passing through its doors when visiting Barrow for ship launches and high-level conferences or just enjoying the famous warmth of Cumbrian hospitality.

Step inside today and that sense of heritage remains beautifully intact. The Great Hall still stands as it always has, whilst the hotel’s layout offers subtle nods to its past life. Oscar’s bar was once the billiard room, its restaurant the former drawing room, while Abbots Bar served as the dining room.

The Garden Room was a private sitting space and the now reception area once bustled as the servants’ hall. It’s a building that tells its own story at every turn of the pages of history.

Abbey House’s journey has seen many twists and turns. In 1951, the property was taken over by Barrow Borough Council and transformed into a residential home for the elderly - a role it fulfilled until 1983, when it closed and fell into disrepair.

Its revival came in 1986 (this year marks the 40th anniversary of its newest incarnation) when Tim and Loretta Kilroe purchased the property and began the careful process of transforming it into the hotel it is today.

Their vision was clear - to restore its grandeur whilst creating something welcoming, contemporary and enduring. A sympathetic extension, added in 2000, saw the hotel evolve further without losing any of its original character.

TIM AND LORETTA KILROE’S VISION WAS CLEAR - TO RESTORE ITS GRANDEUR WHILST CREATING SOMETHING WELCOMING, CONTEMPORARY AND ENDURING

40 years on and the hotel remains proudly family-owned, now under the stewardship of their son, Tim Kilroe, and his wife Karen - continuing a legacy that is as much about people as it is about hospitality.

That strand of continuity sits comfortably in every corner of the beautiful and historic building. Many of the team have been in role for decades, creating an atmosphere which feels both professional and deeply personal. Operations Director Brian Conroy has worked with the Kilroe family for 32 years, whilst gardener Richard Courtman has tended the grounds for three decades, nurturing the landscape which frames the hotel so beautifully.

Laura Ellis – who is approaching 20 years of service - leads a highly experienced weddings team alongside Lauren Gee and John Moore, delivering celebrations with a seamless, intuitive touch, whilst Sales and Marketing Manager Donna Conroy oversees the hotel’s evolving presence, ensuring it continues to attract both loyal guests and new visitors to enjoy a few relaxing days away.

Oscar’s, the hotel’s AA Rosette-awarded restaurant, is expertly run by Michael Brown and ably supported by Executive Chef Craig Belstona space which balances refinement with a welcoming warmth, much like the hotel itself.

Over the years, Abbey House has evolved into one of Cumbria’s most sought-after wedding venues, with the addition of a stunning new Wedding Garden in 2025 offering a picturesque setting for outdoor ceremonies. That appeal extends far beyond the big day thoughfrom relaxed brunches to elegant stays, it continues to adapt – with fresh ideas layered onto its rich heritage.

Location, too, plays its part. With strong transport links, guests can easily explore the wider Lake District. Nearby Ulverston - just 10 minutes away - offers a lively calendar of festivals and events and the picturesque Bowness is within easy reach by car or bus, making the hotel an ideal base for discovering the whole of the region. n

ABBEY HOUSE HAS EVOLVED INTO ONE OF CUMBRIA’S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER WEDDING VENUES, WITH THE ADDITION OF A STUNNING NEW WEDDING GARDEN

Yet for many, the real draw is the hotel itself. A place where history lingers, where the same family still leads with care and pride and where generations of guests return time and again - because Abbey House Hotel is not just about location, but becoming part of a story which has been unfolding for more than a century.

CANCER CHARITY’S MIGHTY HIKE

Walkers are being invited to raise money for a cancer charity with a ‘Mighty Hike’ through the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales Mighty Hike will take place on 27th June to raise vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The circular walks start in Malham and follow the grassy trails of the river Aire and Pennine Way, past drystone walls, old mills and beautiful bridges. Full marathon hikers will enjoy spectacular views of Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss.

The registration fee for the full marathon is £25, while the fee for the half marathon is £20. Both have funding pledges of £250. Macmillan is holding mighty hikes across the country to raise vital funds for people living with cancer. The events are being staged from May through to September in 12 of the most beautiful parts of the UK, including the Gower Peninsula, Rob Roy, Giant’s Causeway and the South Coast.

Last year 27,900 Mighty Hikers raised a record-breaking £14.5 million to mark the 10th anniversary. Since 2015, the series has raised £85 million to support people living with cancer.

Richard Martin, from Hampshire is one of those taking part in the Yorkshire Dales Mighty Hike. He has completed 13 hikes, ranging from the Norfolk Coast to the Gower Peninsula, in memory of his dad and his sister.

“I lost both my Dad and Sister to cancer so this has led to me being a long-term supporter and volunteer for Macmillan.

I am a keen walker so being able to combine walking and fundraising for Macmillan is amazing,” he said.

EVERY PENNY RAISED HELPS US TO DO MORE FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH CANCER AND WILL SUPPORT OUR VITAL WORK TO MAKE CANCER CARE FAIRER

“There’s nothing like being with so many like-minded people when you take part in a Mighty Hike, it truly is inspiring,” he added.

Lauren McEvoy, Mighty Hike Team Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “We’re extremely grateful to all our incredible supporters who embraced the challenge of hiking a full or half marathon Macmillan Mighty Hike last year.” She added: “Every penny raised helps us to do more for people living with cancer and will support our vital work to make cancer care fairer - so that everyone, no matter who they are or where they live can get the best possible care that the UK has to offer.”

All participants will receive:

• A free Macmillan hiking t-shirt.

• A clearly marked route with expert mountain leaders.

• Regular refueling stops with plenty of snacks and refreshments.

• Medical assistance.

• Free professional photos to remember the incredible achievement.

• A fresh buffet lunch, plus a hot meal to finish if doing the full marathon.

• A Mighty medal and complimentary drink to celebrate crossing the finish. n

Visit: macmillan.org.uk/mightyhikes to find out more.

SUPERCAR SUNDAY

The public are being invited to be part of a spectacular event at Grantley Hall in North Yorkshire

Grantley Hall’s much-loved Supercar Sunday returns on Sunday 6th September and this year promises to be bigger, bolder and more spectacular than ever before. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Grantley Hall’s magnificent 38-acre estate, the highly anticipated event will once again bring together world-class motoring, outstanding live entertainment and exceptional food and drink for an unforgettable late-summer celebration.

EXQUISITE SUPERCAR DISPLAYS

Held in partnership with Supercar Driver, the UK’s leading supercar community, Supercar Sunday has become one of Yorkshire’s standout lifestyle events, attracting both car enthusiasts and locals looking for a spectacular day out at Grantley Hall. From rare hypercars and timeless classic cars to the latest highperformance supercars, guests can expect extraordinary displays across the entire estate.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore an unrivalled collection of prestigious marques and iconic models, whilst soaking up the atmosphere that has made Supercar Sunday such a popular fixture in the Yorkshire social calendar.

PREMIUM FOOD AND DRINK

Alongside the impressive motoring displays, guests can enjoy a full day of curated entertainment. Grantley Hall’s rolling barbecue will keep visitors fuelled throughout the day, whilst the VIP bars and exclusive pop-ups from premium brands including Whispering Angel and Don Julio will ensure there is no shortage of lavish refreshments to enjoy.

WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT

Music and entertainment also take centre stage with live talks and performances from

the main stage. As the sun begins to set on this year’s event, prepare for an unforgettable headline performance from British pop icon Sophie Ellis-Bextor, set to bring an electrifying finale to what promises to be one of the most exciting social events of the year.

Supercar Sunday 2026 is shaping up to be a truly unmissable occasion. Whether attending for the cars, the music, the food or the atmosphere, expect an exceptional day out in one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful settings.

AND SO MUCH MORE

Beyond its headline events, Grantley Hall continues to establish itself as one of Yorkshire’s premier luxury destinations. A true gastronomic escape, Grantley Hall is home to five exceptional restaurants, three elegant bars and a pub. From the Michelin-starred artistry of Shaun Rankin to the vibrant, Asian-inspired creations of Bar & Restaurant EightyEight, every menu creates a lasting memory.

Non-residents can also step into the serene oasis of the Three Graces Spa, blending award-winning facilities with the restorative backdrop of the North Yorkshire countryside. Unwind for the day and enjoy the 18-metre indoor pool, Nordic Spa Garden and outdoor vitality pool, all guaranteed to restore and awaken the senses. n

Head to: grantleyhall.co.uk/whats-on to learn more and secure your Supercar Sunday ticket.

Grantley Hall Ripon HG4 3ET 01765 620070

grantleyhall.co.uk

LANCASHIRE COUNTRYSIDE ESCAPE

Discovering Longridge House offered the perfect Lancashire retreat, with warm hospitality, excellent food and easy access to the Ribble Valley, Bowland and Yorkshire Dales alike, writes Tedd Walmsley

Tucked away on the edge of the Ribble Valley, with the Forest of Bowland on its doorstep and the Yorkshire Dales within easy reach, Longridge House immediately felt like the sort of place Liz and I are always delighted to discover. Relaxed yet refined, welcoming without ever being overdone, it proved to be the perfect base for our restorative Lancashire escape.

From the moment we arrived, there was a warmth to Longridge House that instantly put us at ease. The team struck that enviable balance between friendly and professional service, creating an atmosphere that felt genuinely personal rather than polished for the sake of it. Whether we were returning after a countryside walk or asking for recommendations on places to explore in the Ribble Valley, nothing ever seemed too much trouble.

Our room was beautifully appointed, thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind and full of the kind of touches that elevate a stay from pleasant to memorable. We especially loved discovering the homemade Goosnargh cakes waiting for us, a particularly charming Lancashire flourish that felt simple, generous and quietly indulgent.

LONGRIDGE HOUSE DELIVERED SOMETHING REFRESHINGLY DIFFERENTEXCELLENT FOOD, GENEROUS PORTIONS AND GENUINELY GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY

Dining was another real highlight of our stay. In an age where hotel restaurants can often feel overpriced or uninspiring, Longridge House delivered something refreshingly different – excellent food, generous portions and genuinely good value for money. We enjoyed menus filled with comforting, home-cooked favourites alongside seasonal local produce, all served in relaxed surroundings that encouraged us to linger a little longer over dinner.

Outside, the grounds and facilities were equally impressive. Families are exceptionally well catered for, with plenty of outdoor space

for children to enjoy, while dog owners will appreciate just how pet-friendly the hotel truly is. We loved seeing four-legged guests welcomed as warmly as their owners, making Longridge House an ideal choice for those unwilling to leave anyone behind. Breakfast deserves a special mention too. Each morning, Liz and I looked forward to the beautifully presented home-cooked buffet, which provided the perfect start to the day, whether we were heading out for a walk in the nearby fells, planning some shopping in Preston or setting off to explore the charming towns and villages scattered throughout the Ribble Valley.

For Dales readers looking for somewhere close enough for a spontaneous weekend away or even a relaxing midweek break, yet different enough to feel like a true escape, Longridge House is a wonderful find, warm, inviting and perfectly placed for discovering one of Lancashire’s most scenic corners. n

Family Sleepover Package

From £269

• Homemade cookies & milk

• The best Lancashire breakfast

• Hanging pancakes for the kids

• Rain or shine family activities

For more details and to book please call, or visit the website.

Wholesome Nature Package

From £185

• Curated countryside walks

• Longridge House packed lunch

• Complimentary tea or coffee

• The best Lancashire breakfast

For more details and to book please call, or visit the website.

Longridge House

Chipping Lane, Thornley Chipping PR3 2TB 01772 233142 longridgehouse.com

Photography: George Ward

Photography: Nick English

Photography: George Ward

Hawkeye Falconry / BMX Stunt Bike Display / Daniel Thwaites Shire Horses / Shetland Pony Grand National

Ferretworld / Dog Agility & Family Dog Competitions / Bee Keeping / Bonsai Miniature Tree Displays / Military Village / Chloe Fuller & The Super Spaniels / Children’s Village / Fire Engine / Mini Land Rovers / Beer Tents and Live Music / Exotic Mobile Petting Zoo / Donkey Rides Children’s Circus / Fun Fair / Heavy Horse Competitions / Light Horse Competitions / Show Jumping Competitions / Fishing Displays with Jim Fearn / Craft, Lifestyle and Foo and Competitions tock Displays

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A GREAT DAY OUT!

Agricultural shows have been part of British rural life for centuries. Andrew Vaux examines their enduring popularity and looks ahead to what this summer has to offer.

There’s no doubt that agricultural shows are major events in the local diaries of Dales life. Beginning as small, local gatherings where farmers could showcase their livestock and farming innovations, over the years they’ve grown into large community celebrations.

Today, visitors can expect a unique mix of attractions, including livestock competitions, equestrian events and show jumping, vintage tractors and machinery, local food and drink stalls, craft and produce competitions, dog shows and sheepdog trials, as well as family entertainment and live demonstrations.

Photography: Shutterstock.com/Andrew Fletcher VISITING ONE OF THESE SHOWS IS A UNIQUE WAY TO EXPERIENCE

Agricultural shows are also an opportunity to support local farmers, artisans and food producers – from homemade jams and award-winning cheeses to handcrafted goods and locally reared livestock, they truly showcase the best of Yorkshire.

But what makes agricultural shows such a great day out?

THE AUTHENTIC SPIRIT OF THE COUNTRYSIDE

One of the main reasons is that they appeal to people of all ages.

For families, there are activities to try and plenty of entertainment throughout the day. Children enjoy meeting farm animals close up and cheering on events such as sheepdog trials or horse competitions.

For food lovers, the highlight is the produce stalls they can stroll around, often sampling culinary delights along the way. The county boasts an impressive food culture and many shows feature everything from artisan cheeses and baked goods to locally brewed ales and street food.

Meanwhile, visitors interested in farming and countryside skills can learn more about livestock breeding, machinery and traditional crafts.

But overall, agricultural shows are more than just events – they’re quite simply a celebration of the people, traditions and landscapes that define Yorkshire.

From the world-famous Great Yorkshire Show to small village gatherings, each event offers something unique – bringing communities together, supporting local businesses and keeping rural traditions alive for future generations.

Visiting one of these shows is a unique

way to experience the authentic spirit of the countryside.

So, let’s take a look at a couple of examples from this season’s show calendar.

Gargrave Show celebrates its 120th anniversary on Saturday 22th August.

Held annually in the scenic settings fronting Eshton Hall, it’s a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and draws visitors from far and wide to celebrate rural life.

Show Secretary Paul Watson said: “Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a first-time visitor, we have a fantastic day planned, with something for everyone to enjoy.

From top-quality livestock and equestrian competitions to wonderful local crafts, produce and family entertainment, this year’s show promises to be a memorable one. We look forward to welcoming you to Gargrave and sharing this special tradition with you.”

Meanwhile, on Saturday 29th August, Wensleydale Show is a great day out for all ages – showcasing the finest equine, livestock, horticulture and handicrafts.

IT’S WONDERFUL TO SEE EVERYONE COME TOGETHER WITH SO MUCH COMMUNITY SPIRIT

AND PRIDE

A key highlight at this year’s show will be an interactive performance by Jurassic Earth giving visitors the chance to step back in time as three incredible dinosaurs – the mighty T. Rex, the towering Brontosaurus and the lightning-fast Raptor – take centre stage for two action-packed performances in the main ring.

Show Secretary Anna Pennell said: “This will be the 114th show and there’s no doubt that over the years the event has become an extremely important part of local life. It’s wonderful to see everyone come together with so much community spirit and pride.

“We’re delighted to welcome Jurassic Earth for what should be a great spectacle

“As well as fun and educational activities in the main ring – including stone walling displays – there’ll be a large variety of trade stands and music performed by Leyburn Brass Band. We’ll also retain the show’s agricultural roots with an extensive range of dairy and beef cattle, sheep, horses and vintage vehicles as well as handicraft, home craft and young people displays.”

Here are some of the agricultural shows in and around the Yorkshire Dales this summer. n

Ryedale Show ryedaleshow.co.uk August

2.8.26 Tockwith Show tockwithshow.org.uk 9.8.26 Ripley Show ripleyshow.co.uk

22.8.26 Gargrave Show gargraveshow.org.uk

23.8.26 Arthington Show arthingtonshow.co.uk

29.8.26 Malham Show malhamshow.co.uk

29.8.26 Wensleydale Show wensleydaleshow.org.uk

31.8.26 Reeth Show reethshow.co.uk September

1.9.26 Kilnsey Show kilnseyshow.org.uk

2.9.26 Muker Show mukershow.co.uk

20.9.26 Nidderdale Show nidderdaleshow.co.uk

26/27.9.26 Masham Sheep Fair mashamsheepfair.com

LoNgRIdGE shOW 2026

INTIMATELY AND UNIQUELY YOURS

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful countryside of the Ribble Valley, an intimate and family run venue offers a unique and romantic wedding setting with a difference, writes Katie Hammond

Just over the Lancashire border, Hidden Oaks in Ribchester has already made a name for itself locally with its popular spa treatments available individually, alongside its idyllic setting as a quiet getaway with cosy holiday cottages.

Alongside the original Ribble Valley Holiday Homes business, Hidden Oaks has evolved from family home Oak Bank Farm, which Liz and John Wade bought in 1997 to raise their growing family. What began as a farm diversification project has steadily grown into a thriving hospitality and wedding venue business, run alongside daughters Hannah Keppel and Abigail Wade.

Today, Hidden Oaks combines luxury accommodation, spa facilities and intimate wedding weekends within a unique rural setting.

The venue’s distinctive wedding offering was originally inspired by Hannah’s own wedding at the farm in 2017. Living in London at the time, she always knew she wanted to marry back home in Lancashire – and the family home was the obvious and perfect setting.

“It was very relaxed and beautiful and so special having everybody together for an entire weekend,” says Hannah. “So many of our family and friends had travelled to celebrate with us and instead of seeing everyone for just one day, we were able to spend real quality time together – it took all the pressure off.”

IT’S RELAXED, INTIMATE AND COUPLES CAN COMPLETELY MAKE THE WEEKEND THEIR OWN

And so, the Hidden Oaks concept began to take shape. Couples can now exclusively hire the venue and accommodation for up to 100 guests, allowing families and friends to celebrate together from Friday through to Sunday.

Hannah continues: “There’s something lovely about everybody waking up the morning after the wedding for a big breakfast together. It’s relaxed, intimate and couples can completely make the weekend their own.”

At the heart of the venue is an old farm barn renovated by John and Liz, now transformed into a stylish indoor ceremony and function space. Outdoor ceremonies can also take place beneath the magnificent oak trees which inspired the venue’s name.

Accommodation remains one of Hidden Oaks’ biggest unique selling points within a competitive Ribble Valley wedding market.

“We looked at what was missing locally,” Hannah explains. “People wanted somewhere exclusive where guests could stay over and really enjoy the full experience together.”

Alongside weddings, guests can also enjoy spa facilities and treatments, with private spa bookings available for groups of up to 20 –something still relatively unusual in the area. Supporting neighbouring independent businesses is also central to the family ethos. Whilst guests can enjoy coffee and cakes at the spa, they’re often encouraged to visit the nearby Ribchester Arms or Stydd Gardens for a wider selection of delicious food and wine.

“It’s always been about family and our local community,” says Hannah. “Mum and Dad are still heavily involved, the grandchildren are often here whilst we work and everybody mucks in together. It’s grown from our family home into something really special which we hope will continue for generations to come.” n

Hidden Oaks

The Barn at Oak Bank Farm

Stoneygate Lane, Ribchester PR3 3YN 01254 965091

hiddenoaks.co.uk

SCHOOL’S OUT SORTED

School holidays can be a nightmare for working parents – but summer holiday clubs offer a fun, flexible and reliable solution

As the long summer break approaches, families are facing the annual balancing act of keeping children entertained, active and socially engaged while parents continue to work. Increasingly, summer holiday clubs have become an essential solution, offering far more than simple childcare.

From sports camps and drama workshops to forest schools and STEM sessions, holiday clubs provide children with opportunities to learn new skills, build confidence and stay connected during the long break from school. Across the UK, demand for these programmes has grown steadily as parents look for structured, affordable activities that support both education and wellbeing.

One of the biggest benefits of summer holiday clubs is the social interaction they provide. Long school holidays can sometimes leave children isolated from their peers, particularly if parents are working full-time. Holiday clubs create a positive environment where children can make friends, develop communication skills and take part in team activities that encourage cooperation and confidence.

Physical activity is another major advantage.

With concerns continuing around screen time and sedentary lifestyles, many clubs prioritise outdoor play, sports and adventure activities. Whether it’s football tournaments, dance sessions or nature trails, these programmes help children remain active during the summer months while also supporting mental wellbeing.

ONE OF THE BIGGEST BENEFITS OF SUMMER HOLIDAY CLUBS IS THE SOCIAL INTERACTION THEY PROVIDE

For younger children especially, holiday clubs can help maintain routine and structure. Experts often highlight the importance of consistency during school breaks, as long periods without stimulation can lead to learning loss. Educational holiday clubs, including reading groups, science workshops and creative arts programmes, allow children to continue developing skills in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

Parents also benefit significantly. For working families, reliable childcare during the summer holidays can be difficult to

arrange and extremely costly. Holiday clubs offer flexibility, with many running full-day sessions that align with working hours. This support can reduce stress for parents while ensuring children are cared for in a safe and supervised environment.

Another important feature of holiday clubs is inclusivity. Many local councils, schools and charities now provide subsidised or government-funded places for lower-income families, helping ensure children from all backgrounds can access enriching summer experiences. Programmes linked to the government’s Holiday Activities and Food initiative also provide healthy meals alongside activities, supporting families during the cost-of-living crisis.

Perhaps most importantly, summer holiday clubs give children the chance to discover new interests. A child attending a coding workshop may uncover a passion for technology, while another trying theatre for the first time may gain lasting self-confidence. These experiences often extend beyond the summer itself, helping shape hobbies, friendships and future ambitions.

As schools break up for summer once again, holiday clubs continue to play a valuable role – supporting children’s development, easing pressure on parents and turning the long summer holiday into an opportunity for growth, fun and connection. n

WHERE SPORT SHAPES THE WHOLE PERSON

At Stonyhurst, sport is a defining part of everyday life, combining high-performance opportunity, academic ambition and personal development within a full, values-led boarding school education

Sport at Stonyhurst is not about choosing between sporting performance and education –it is about excelling in both. With a long tradition of sporting excellence that remains strongly evident today, the school offers pupils an environment where sporting ambition is nurtured alongside an increasingly strong academic offering and excellent examination outcomes, personal growth and a strong sense of community. Here, sport is woven into the rhythm of school life from the earliest years onwards, shaping character, confidence and resilience in ways that extend far beyond the pitch or court.

This philosophy reflects Stonyhurst’s Jesuit ethos, which places equal value on intellectual, physical and moral development. Pupils are encouraged to give their best, whether they are striving for national honours or discovering a new sport for the first time. What matters most is progress, commitment and the development of the whole person.

Pupils at Stonyhurst can take part in 18 different sports with regular competitive fixtures. Traditional core sports such as rugby, cricket, hockey and netball form a

strong foundation, complemented by a wide range of additional opportunities including tennis, football, golf, basketball, badminton, athletics and swimming. This breadth ensures that every pupil can find a sport that challenges and inspires them, regardless of experience or aspiration.

SPORT AT STONYHURST IS NOT ABOUT CHOOSING BETWEEN PERFORMANCE AND EDUCATION – IT IS ABOUT EXCELLING IN BOTH

Importantly, sport at Stonyhurst is inclusive without being unfocused. All sports are valued and supported within a clear, coherent programme, ensuring a consistently high standard of coaching,

facilities and opportunity. This approach allows pupils to enjoy both competitive success and a lifelong engagement with physical activity, whether they are representing the school at county level or building confidence through participation. That commitment is reflected in Stonyhurst’s growing national profile across multiple sports. Pupils regularly represent the school at county, regional and national level and teams compete strongly in major competitions. In January 2026, Stonyhurst’s 1st XV Under 18 rugby team secured the Lancashire Schools Cup with a decisive 31–17 victory against Scarisbrick Hall at Fylde RFC. The occasion was marked by more than 400 Stonyhurst pupils travelling to support their peers, underlining the strength of community that sits at the heart of school life.

Stonyhurst’s Tennis Academy also continues to gain national recognition, having qualified twice in the past two years for the national girls’ finals of the LTA Aberdare Cup, finishing eighth and then sixth out of more than 300 schools nationwide. The Academy has also been recognised as one of the top six schools in the UK for tennis provision, reflecting consistent standards and competitive depth. For pupils with the talent and ambition to pursue sport at a higher level, Stonyhurst offers Specialist Sports Pathways in tennis, football and golf. The Football School of Excellence provides a structured performance environment with UEFA-qualified coaching,

competitive fixtures and individual development planning, alongside links with the University of Lancashire and NCE Soccer, which supports talent development across the UK and US, providing clear and structured pathways for aspiring footballers. The Golf Academy, set against the backdrop of the Ribble Valley, offers year-round coaching, technical support and access to a state-of-the-art golf simulator for data-led performance, alongside championshipstandard courses that support progression to county and national level. These pathways provide a clear, carefully structured route for development, combining expert coaching and high-performance facilities with a balanced, academically demanding school experience. Pupils continue to benefit from academic challenge, strong pastoral support and a rich co-curricular life, ensuring sport enhances rather than replaces a holistic education.

External recognition has underlined the strength of this approach. Invited to visit the school by Director of Tennis David Shaw, national tennis coach Judy Murray conducted skill-building sessions with pupils and toured the facilities. Following her visit, she was highly complimentary.

“I have been very impressed,” she said. “To have two courts in an indoor dome allows you to play all year round and put on a really meaningful Tennis Programme which I am sure will go from strength to strength. The kids are very lucky to have the opportunity to train here alongside their academic pursuits.”

Reflecting on the visit, David Shaw noted that recognition at this level matters.

“To have someone like Judy Murray recognise how successful the Stonyhurst Tennis Programme is, is hugely important,” he said.

The visit was significant not only for tennis, but for what it represents more broadly. Such recognition affirms Stonyhurst’s belief that high-performance sporting opportunity and academic ambition can and should, go hand in hand.

What sets Stonyhurst apart is the way

sporting ambition is held within a full school education, benefitting both boarders and day pupils alike. Training, study and downtime are carefully balanced, allowing pupils to develop independence, discipline and resilience while remaining fully engaged in academic life and the wider community.

TO HAVE SOMEONE LIKE JUDY MURRAY RECOGNISE HOW SUCCESSFUL THE STONYHURST TENNIS PROGRAMME IS, IS HUGELY IMPORTANT

The school’s holistic approach to sport is further supported through a comprehensive Strength and Conditioning Programme, alongside yoga and fitness provision, helping pupils develop physical strength, mental resilience and emotional wellbeing. This ensures young people leave Stonyhurst not only as stronger athletes, but as confident, balanced individuals.

Ultimately, sport at Stonyhurst is about preparing pupils for life beyond school. Through challenge, teamwork and commitment, young people learn how to lead, how to persevere and how to contribute positively to the world around them. This vision is further strengthened through the introduction of the new Lancashire Scholarship, designed to recognise exceptional sporting talent

across the county and to invite outstanding sportsmen and women in rugby, cricket, hockey or netball to become among the first Lancashire Scholars at Stonyhurst at 11+ and 16+ entry. It is this integration

of opportunity, ambition and personal formation that makes sport at Stonyhurst not only successful, but transformative. Families are warmly invited to discover more at one of the school’s upcoming Open Days. n

Stonyhurst Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073

stonyhurst.ac.uk

ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk

LEARNING THROUGH ADVENTURE

Summer in the Yorkshire Dales is made for adventure. Yet the best family days out offer far more than a way to fill the school holidays

Who said learning can’t be fun? Just because schools are closed for the summer doesn’t mean education has to stop. In fact school holidays are the perfect opportunity to open up the wider world to youngsters on a series of thrilling adventures.

Across the Dales, children can step inside medieval castles, ride heritage railways, explore underground caves, encounter wildlife and discover history in ways no classroom can quite replicate.

For young historians, the Dales is packed with places where the past feels remarkably close. Bolton Castle, in Wensleydale, is one of the most atmospheric, with its medieval chambers, towering battlements and hands-on activities helping children imagine life inside a working fortress. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority recommends it as a family favourite, with displays and experiences that can include falconry and archery. Further south, Bolton Abbey combines dramatic priory ruins with riverside walks and woodland trails, offering children an engaging introduction

to monastic life, architecture and the natural world in a single visit.

Transport enthusiasts, meanwhile, can step back into the golden age of rail travel. The Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway and Wensleydale Railway offer much more than scenic journeys through the countryside. They provide a fascinating glimpse into Victorian engineering, rural

ACROSS THE DALES, CHILDREN CAN ENCOUNTER WILDLIFE AND DISCOVER HISTORY IN WAYS NO CLASSROOM CAN QUITE REPLICATE

transport and the role railways played in shaping the towns and villages of the Dales. The National Park highlights several heritage routes as memorable ways to explore the region by train.

The Yorkshire Dales’ striking limestone landscape also serves as a vast outdoor classroom. Landmarks such as Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls reveal how water, ice and time have sculpted the landscape

over thousands of years. White Scar Cave, near Ingleton and Ingleborough Cave, near Clapham, are especially memorable for younger visitors. The vast underground chambers, dramatic rock formations and guided tours transform geology into a real-life adventure. Family guides regularly rank both among the area’s most rewarding educational attractions.

Museums add another dimension to a summer day out. The Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes offers an excellent introduction to the region’s farming traditions, lead mining heritage, crafts, railways and communities. Families willing to venture a little further will find Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden equally rewarding, combining history, religion, landscape design and natural beauty within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Animal lovers can learn just as much from a day on the farm. Attractions such as Hesketh Farm Park, near Bolton Abbey, introduce younger children to livestock, food production and the seasonal rhythms of rural life, with hands-on activities often including feeding animals, collecting eggs and learning how farms operate throughout the year.

The finest educational days out are often the ones that never feel educational at all. In the Yorkshire Dales, learning comes wrapped in steam whistles, stepping stones, castle walls, waterfalls, caves and picnic blankets – proof that the summer holidays can be every bit as inspiring as they are memorable. n

EDUCATION NEWS

HOCKEY STARS

Queen Mary’s School pupils, Jemima and Vita, are celebrating after an outstanding day of hockey saw them win both the Yorkshire Finals and the Regional Finals with Thirsk Hockey Club. Their biggest challenge was a tense penalty shootout to secure victory and a place at the National Finals in May. A school spokesperson said: “This highlights both the players’ dedication and the strength of the hockey development opportunities available at Queen Mary’s School.”

NEW HEAD

William Doherty will take up the role of Head of Stonyhurst this May, joining from Xavier College Melbourne where he has been Principal since 2018. With over 30 years’ experience in Jesuit education, including earlier leadership roles in Sydney, he brings significant international expertise. A spokesperson for the school said: “His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Stonyhurst, as the school continues to build on its strong academic record and global outlook.”

BUS RUN

What do you do when your campus is nestled in a beautifully wooded and rural area of the Yorkshire Dales? You start a school bus pick up, of course! The Wharfedale Montessori School bus run was launched last month and the smiles at the pick up points speak to its success. Currently, the bus runs twice a week, making stops in Skipton and Embsay, with plans to expand the service as needed.

It was here, she says, that the seed for Full Circle was truly sown: “My background shaped everything,” Sarah explains.

“I’ve always believed that care should be centred around the individual – who they are and what matters to them – and I wanted to bring that same philosophy into funeral care.”

In a sector often associated with tradition and formality, the award-winning Yorkshire-based Full Circle Funerals is quietly re-aligning the ways in which we can say goodbye, writes Katie Hammond

With funeral services in Ilkley, Harrogate, Leeds and Guiseley, this female-led, independent business is building a growing reputation for doing things differently – placing people, not process, at the very heart of everything.

Founded in 2016 by former NHS surgeon Sarah Jones, Full Circle emerged from a deeply human crossroads of medicine, compassion and lived experience. Before launching the business, Sarah trained and qualified in surgery in Scotland, later moving into the social care sector.

ALONGSIDE ITS BESPOKE APPROACH TO FUNERALS, FULL CIRCLE HAS ALSO BECOME A LEADING ADVOCATE FOR THE EXPANSION OF SERVICES BEYOND THE FUNERAL ITSELF

Now approaching its tenth anniversary, Full Circle stands as a reflection of that ethos – a business built not on rigid packages or predefined services, but on listening, empathy and flexibility. At its core is a simple but powerful belief that people are incredibly resilient and know what they need even in the most difficult of times. Sarah continues: “People need time, space and the right environment to be able to fully express what they want for their person. If you provide that, they can create the most beautiful, meaningful farewells. Our role is to facilitate that – not dictate it.”

This philosophy plays out in every aspect of the business. From the moment someone comes into the team’s care, the focus is not just on the person who has died, but on the family and wider network around them.

“We are looking after that person for their family,” Sarah says. “We’re often meeting relatives at the worst moment of their lives and it’s about respectfully and gently guiding them to consider their choices and the decisions that they need to make, assessing their needs one step at a time.”

While some families choose traditional services, others opt for more contemporary or alternative celebrations of life. Many incorporate cross-cultural or multi-faith elements – something the team actively encourages and supports.

Sarah explains: “In most families, there are different beliefs, traditions and expectations involved. We can help bring those together –whether that’s incorporating prayers from one faith alongside another or weaving in different cultural elements at different stages. It’s about respecting everyone’s voice.”

That inclusivity extends to Full Circle’s refusal to operate a preferred supplier list –a deliberate decision designed to further avoid a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.

“If we limited ourselves to a set list,

we’d limit our clients’ choices,” says Sarah. “We want to remain completely open so we can find the right fit of people and celebrants, for example, for a fitting and unique service for each individual.”

It’s a model that requires a highly skilled and emotionally intelligent team – something Sarah is particularly proud of. The business employs eight people, with each family supported by a dedicated funeral director from start to finish, wherever possible.

PEOPLE NEED TIME, SPACE AND THE RIGHT ENVIRONMENT TO BE ABLE TO FULLY EXPRESS WHAT THEY WANT FOR THEIR PERSON

“Continuity is so important,” she says. “Our team need to be able to listen not just to what’s being said, but also to what isn’t – picking up on cues, helping people articulate what they might not yet have the words for.”

Clients frequently comment on the depth of care they receive.

“One piece of feedback that really stayed with us was from a family who said we were ‘curious about their person’,” Sarah recalls. “They felt we took the time to truly

understand how their relative lived and what was important to them – not just how they died. That’s exactly what we aim for –because that person really matters.”

Alongside its bespoke approach to funerals, Full Circle has also become a leading advocate for the expansion of services beyond the funeral itself, recognising a gap in care once the funeral has taken place.

“People often go from having lots of contact with professionals like registrars and funeral directors to suddenly needing to find information and support elsewhere,” Sarah says. “Grief doesn’t end with the funeral.”

To address this, Full Circle now offers a range of bereavement support, from peer groups to counselling resources, helping families navigate the weeks, months and years after loss.

Nearly a decade on, the business continues to grow – not by scaling up in a traditional sense, but by deepening its commitment to the values on which it was founded.

“We’ve built this together as a team,” Sarah reflects. “In the early days, it was about talking everything through, learning from each other and from every family we supported. That’s still how we operate today.” n

fullcirclefunerals.co.uk

BUSINESS MATTERS

Here is some of the latest business news from in and around the Dales.

If you have business news contact: annette.mcintyre@live-magazines.co.uk

SALE OF HORTICULTURAL BUSINESS

A horticultural business has been sold to a new owner after being in the same family for 79 years and three generations.

Moorland Nurseries & Garden Centre, between Harrogate and Knaresborough, was founded in 1947. Its original owners, the Merrin family, had built a highly regarded, community‑focused business. The site has been acquired by British Garden Centres, the largest family owned garden centre group in the UK, which now has a national portfolio of 79 centres. The

acquisition marks the next chapter for the site, bringing new investment and opportunities to build on the family’s decades of dedication to horticulture and retail in the region. The site will now operate as Knaresborough Garden Centre and the existing team will remain in place following the acquisition.

Andrew Birnie, Director – Retail & Leisure at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, said: “Moorland Nurseries & Garden Centre is a much‑loved, long‑standing family business. We

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS BOOST

The government has announced up to £8 million of funding to train the next generation of construction workers in Yorkshire and the Humber.

Tens of thousands of placements will be created for aspiring construction workers across the country in a £96 million boost to train new talent and build more homes.

This is part of the £625 million Construction Skills Package aiming to train up 60,000 skilled workers by 2029.

The construction industry is facing significant shortages, with the latest

BUSINESS AWARDS

Skipton Bid has hosted its first ever launch event for the town’s annual business awards.

Local businesses were invited to attend to find out more about the awards at the launch event which took place at the beginning of June. The event was open to businesses that wanted to offer sponsorship, submit a nomination or just find out more.

Sarah Howsen, Skipton BID Manager, said: “It’s the biggest business event in the Skipton calendar, so definitely deserves a suitable launch!”

Office for National Statistics figures showing that there are over 35,000 job vacancies – over half of which are due to a lack of required skills. The government has also published a plan to support schools and colleges to transition from legacy qualifications at the same level, including BTECs, to a clearer system of V Levels, T Levels and A Levels from 2027 as options after GCSEs, along with two new qualifications for lower attaining students to support them to progress beyond GCSEs. New subjects have been announced

received interest from a wide range of potential buyers however we are delighted to have supported its sale to British Garden Centres, whose experience and scale will ensure the site continues to thrive.”

for the second year of delivery in 2028 that will help to address skills shortages and boost key industries such as housebuilding.

Skipton BID is calling on local charities to get involved and partner with the awards to attend on the night to collect donations. In previous years, Skipton Rotary Club and The Principle Trust have attended and collected hundreds of pounds in donations across the awards evening.

Nominations for this year’s Skipton Business Awards are set to open in June and will remain open until mid July.

The awards ceremony will be held at Skipton Town Hall on Monday 5th October.

Businesses which didn’t manage to attend the launch but which want to sponsor this year’s awards, should contact the Skipton BID team on: info@skiptonbid.com

Barnard Castle

t. 01833 600160

21 Galgate, Barnard Castle, Co. Durham. DL12 8EQ

Grassington

t. 01756 753015

6 Station Road, Grassington, North Yorkshire. BD23 5NQ

Hawes

t. 01969 666290 Market Place, Hawes, North Yorkshire. DL8 3QS

Leyburn

t. 01969 621230

7 Railway Street, Leyburn, North Yorkshire. DL8 5EH

THE FAMILY GROCERS

With a business firmly rooted in heritage yet firmly focused on the future, we sit down with Booths’ Chief Brand Officer Emma Booth to explore leadership, legacy and the evolving face of one of the North’s most loved family grocers

Can you tell us about your career journey and what brought you into the family business?

I began my career outside the family business, working across logistics, marketing and retail which gave me a strong grounding in operations, customer experience and the commercial side of the industry. Growing up around Booths, I understood its values, but it wasn’t until I’d built that external experience that I felt I could bring something meaningful back. Joining the business felt like a natural next step, combining what I’d learned with a genuine connection to the brand – it’s about not just continuing what’s been built, but helping to evolve it for the future.

Who have been your biggest influences?

My dad. Watching him lead with integrity, humility and respect for colleagues and customers has completely shaped how I approach leadership. Beyond that, I’ve learned a great deal from people across the business – our colleagues and suppliers all bring such valuable perspectives.

What does your role involve day to day?

As Chief Brand Officer, I spend a lot of time in stores, focusing on product displays, signage and the overall customer experience. I also work closely with teams on campaigns, launches and how we communicate the Booths story. What excites me most is shaping how people experience the brand day to day, from the presentation details to the feeling customers have when they walk through the door.

How would you describe your leadership style?

It’s values-led and people-focused. Creating an environment where colleagues feel trusted and supported is essential, because everything starts with our people. Earlier in my career, I was more hands-on, but over time I’ve learned the importance of stepping back and empowering others.

Booths is known for its culture – how do you nurture that?

Our people are at the heart of everything we do. As a business and brand, Booths is built on respect, trust and a strong sense of

community and it’s important we hold onto that as we evolve. Our strapline, ‘The Family Grocers’, reflects not just family ownership, but the wider family of colleagues. Staying close to our teams, listening and ensuring people feel valued is key.

How do you balance heritage with progress?

It starts with respecting our regional roots –relationships with local suppliers and commitment to quality are fundamental. At the same time, we have to keep moving forward, which means evolving in a way that stays true to those foundations – whether that’s modernising how we communicate or introducing new products which meet changing customer needs.

THE BOOTHS BRAND REDESIGN IS A STANDOUT MOMENT. IT’S BEEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BRING TOGETHER OUR HERITAGE AND QUALITY IN A WAY WHICH FEELS FRESH AND CONTEMPORARY

What are you most proud of?

The Booths brand redesign is a standout moment. It’s been an opportunity to bring together our heritage and quality in a way which feels fresh and contemporary. It hasn’t been about changing who we are, but expressing it more clearly and consistently across everything, from in-store experience to packaging and communications.

What makes Booths unique?

It’s the combination of quality, provenance and a genuinely personal approach. We focus on exceptional food and drink, champion local suppliers and create an offer that feels distinctive. Alongside that is our ‘warm northern welcome’ – that friendliness and authenticity customers feel as soon as they walk in is what sets us apart. What challenges have you faced?

Balancing the expectations of a family business whilst carving out my own path has been key. It’s been about respecting the past whilst

bringing my own perspective. Navigating change is another – whether evolving the brand or introducing new ideas, the key is bringing people with you.

How are changing customer habits influencing strategy?

There’s a growing focus on health and wellbeing, with customers seeking fresh, natural products. We’ve leaned into our strengths in fresh food and curated ranges to make healthier choices more accessible. The key is evolving with customers whilst keeping quality and trust at the centre of everything we do.

What does sustainability mean to you?

It’s about making responsible, long-term choices which benefit customers, communities and the environment without compromising on quality. One initiative I’m particularly passionate about is increasing loose fruit and veg, reducing plastic and giving customers more flexibility. Small changes can make a big difference at scale.

What excites you about the future?

Building on a strong foundation whilst continuing to shape the brand is incredibly exciting. There’s real momentum, from the brand redesign to improving the customer experience in-store and online. It’s driven by the passion of our teams and that combination of great people and clear direction makes the future very positive.

Where are the biggest opportunities for growth?

There’s real potential to take the Booths brand beyond our stores, particularly through growing our business-to-business offer. We’re also focused on enhancing our online experience, making it easier for customers to shop with us whichever way they choose.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Trust your instincts sooner and don’t feel the need to have everything mapped out – that clarity comes with experience. I like the idea that your hero is yourself in 10 years’ time –you’re always working towards that version. Stay curious, back yourself and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. n

COMFORT, CAPABILITY AND PRACTICALITY

Combining electric efficiency, premium comfort and genuine practicality, BMW’s latest X3 plug-in hybrid proves that modern luxury can fit seamlessly into everyday life

On a glorious late May morning, with the Yorkshire Dales bathed in sunshine and the hedgerows bursting with colour, the latest plug-in hybrid X3 felt perfectly at home. The roads were dry, the views stretched for miles and every village seemed to be enjoying the first real taste of summer. It was the ideal setting to discover what many motoring journalists are already describing as one of the most accomplished premium SUVs on sale today.

The X3 has always occupied a sweet spot in BMW’s range. Larger and more versatile than a family hatchback, yet far easier to live with than some of the brand’s larger SUVs, it has long appealed to families, business owners and active couples alike. This latest generation takes everything that made the X3 successful and refines it further.

Finished in striking Brooklyn Grey metallic paint and sitting proudly on stunning 21-inch M Light Star-spoke alloy wheels, our test

IT FEELS PREMIUM, CONTEMPORARY AND UNMISTAKABLY BMW

car certainly turned heads. The proportions are spot on. Strong, athletic and purposeful without ever appearing oversized, it possesses

a quiet confidence that suits both a country house driveway and the executive car park.

The M Sport package Pro adds extra visual drama. Red brake calipers peek through the jet-black wheels, while the illuminated BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille creates a distinctive signature after dark. Combined with the extended Shadowline detailing, the overall effect is sophisticated rather than shouty. It feels premium, contemporary and unmistakably BMW.

Step inside and the sense of quality immediately impresses. The cabin is beautifully executed, with superb materials and thoughtful detailing throughout. Electric sports seats with memory function provide exceptional comfort, while the heated front seats and heated steering wheel add a welcome touch of luxury during cooler mornings.

The panoramic glass roof proved particularly enjoyable on our sunny test route. It floods the cabin with natural light and enhances the already spacious feeling inside. Whether transporting clients, children or friends heading out

for a weekend adventure, everyone travels in comfort.

BMW has also embraced technology in a way that feels genuinely useful. The curved digital display integrates driver information and infotainment seamlessly, while wireless smartphone connectivity means your favourite apps, navigation and music are always close at hand. The optional Harman Kardon surround sound system transforms every journey into a private concert hall, delivering rich, crystal-clear audio quality. Out on the road, the X3 truly comes into its own.

Power comes from BMW’s sophisticated plug-in hybrid system, combining a petrol engine with electric assistance to deliver impressive performance and remarkable efficiency. Around town, many journeys can be completed largely on electric power alone, making school runs, shopping trips and local errands smooth, quiet and economical.

Yet when the road opens up, there is plenty of performance in reserve. The instant electric torque works seamlessly with the petrol engine to provide strong acceleration whenever required. Overtaking slower traffic on country roads feels effortless, while motorway cruising is refined and relaxed.

Several national motoring publications have praised the latest X3 for its balance, and it is easy to understand why. What Car? highlighted its excellent blend of comfort and driver engagement, while reviewers at The Daily Telegraph noted how composed and capable it feels regardless of road conditions. During our drive through the Dales, that balance was immediately apparent.

absorbs

surfaces with ease, yet there remains a satisfying sense of precision through the steering wheel. Twisting roads become genuinely enjoyable, while longer journeys are undertaken with remarkable comfort.

OVERTAKING SLOWER TRAFFIC ON COUNTRY ROADS FEELS EFFORTLESS, WHILE MOTORWAY CRUISING IS REFINED AND RELAXED

Practicality remains one of the X3’s greatest strengths. The generous boot easily accommodates luggage, golf clubs, walking gear or shopping bags, while rear passengers enjoy excellent legroom and headroom. Families will appreciate the easy access and versatile interior, while dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts will find ample space for all the equipment that comes with an active lifestyle.

For company car users, the plug-in hybrid powertrain offers additional appeal thanks to favourable Benefit-in-Kind taxation rates compared with traditional

petrol-powered alternatives. Meanwhile, private buyers will appreciate the flexibility of electric driving for shorter journeys combined with the reassurance of a petrol engine for longer trips.

What struck me most during our day with the X3 was how effortlessly it adapted to every situation. It felt equally comfortable gliding quietly through picturesque villages, covering motorway miles or exploring the winding roads that make Yorkshire such a wonderful place to drive.

The BMW X3 30e xDrive M Sport is a vehicle that understands modern life. Stylish without being ostentatious, practical without feeling utilitarian and technologically advanced without becoming complicated, it delivers exactly what today’s premium SUV buyer is seeking.

On a beautiful Yorkshire summer’s day, surrounded by some of Britain’s finest scenery, it felt every inch the complete package. n

Lloyd Colne BMW Crown Way, Colne BB8 9NP 01282 720720

lloydcolnebmw.co.uk

@lloydcolnebmw

The adaptive suspension

rougher

KITCHEN IN THE WITH…

Adam Degg is the chef behind FIFTY TWO at Rudding Park, the Michelin-starred restaurant set within a converted shipping container at the edge of the kitchen garden in Harrogate. With 20 covers, no printed menu and 500+ plants growing across 52 raised beds, the restaurant is one of Yorkshire’s most distinctive dining destinations. Photography: Olivia Brabbs Photography

The stunning Rudding Park Hotel sits in the picturesque village of Follifoot, a short drive south east of Harrogate town centre.

With sumptuous lodgings, numerous accolades at the Good Spa Awards, award-winning golf courses and expertly designed gardens, it’s obvious why the hotel is often the first choice for discerning guests visiting the area. Food too is top of the list for visitors – and here Rudding Park Hotel has excelled itself in the form of FIFTY TWO.

Led by head chef Adam Degg, the restaurant’s name alone oozes contemporary confidence. The bold capital letters hint at a culinary experience founded on bold flavours, craftsmanship and a natural energy that can’t be taught. When these attributes come together, diners are guaranteed they’ll leave the restaurant with full stomachs and broad smiles.

Adam has lots to smile about too. Having worked with national treasure Tom Kerridge, he donned his trusty chef’s whites and showed the nation his skills on series 19 of Great British Menu, serving up a tikka-spiced cauliflower starter and mushroom ketchup buttered brill.

Adam doesn’t ‘do’ ordinary. He doesn’t even do menus, either. Instead, guests are treated to a luxury ‘dinner party’ vibe but elevated to an unpretentious yet indulgent experience that’ll live long in the memory. With emphasis on letting the food do the talking, there is a maximum capacity of only 20 guests per evening, each seated on chairs facing the open kitchen. Clearly, this arrangement was designed by a chef at ease with his work. Diners love the varied 10 sample courses,

with drinks pairings optional at the Michelinstarred restaurant.

Part of FIFTY TWO’s success is the kitchen garden, headed up by head kitchen gardener Emma Pugh. The garden supplies the restaurant with over 500 different types of edible plants, each grown in soil enriched by high-grade organic matter.

Is FIFTY TWO fine dining? Certainly. Is it also relaxed and cracking value? Absolutely. Should you pay a visit to sample Adam’s delectable creations? Does this really need answering?

THE JOURNEY

What first drew you into the world of food? Pure accident, if I’m honest. I missed a train home one night and ended up pulling a shift at a friend’s parents’ restaurant in exchange for a lift home afterwards. That was my first ever encounter with a professional kitchen and I was hooked before the service was over. The pressure, the rhythm, the fact that everything you’ve done that day comes down to ten seconds at the pass. I never really looked back. Cooking isn’t something I chose so much as something I couldn’t stop doing.

INSPIRATIONS & INFLUENCES

Who or what has been your greatest culinary inspiration?

Anthony Demetre, without question. He’s had the biggest influence on me as a chef. The clarity of his cooking, the respect for ingredients, the refusal to over-complicate a plate. That way of thinking shaped how I approach everything at FIFTY TWO. Beyond the kitchen, it’s the garden and Emma, our gardener. When you watch something grow from seed to plate over months, you stop

treating ingredients as commodities. You start treating them as collaborators.

SIGNATURE DISH

If you had to choose one dish which truly represents you as a chef, what would it be and why?

The brown butter tart. The garnish shifts with the garden, right now its rhubarb and sorrel picked that morning, but the tart itself stays the same. It’s simple, which means you have nowhere to hide. The pastry must be right, the buttery custard must be right and the balance with whatever the garden gives us has to be right. Get any of it wrong and the plate tells on you. That’s why I love it. It

demands perfection every single service and that keeps you honest.

CULINARY HEROES

Which chef (past or present) would you most love to cook alongside and what would you make together?

Honestly, I already do it every service. My sous chef, Adam Jones – Jonesy to everyone in the kitchen. We’ve cooked side-by-side long enough that we barely need to speak during service. There’s a rhythm to it, a trust – that’s a rarer thing than people realise. The best cooking I’ve ever done has been next to him.

If I had to pick a chef from the wider world, it would be Fergus Henderson. Something rooted and unfussy, bone marrow on toast on the table – and I’d spend most of the day just listening.

KITCHEN WISDOM

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started cooking professionally?

Get one per cent better every day. Not 50 per cent better next week. One per cent today. The kitchens that frighten you early on are usually the ones teaching you the most,

so stay in the room. Talent gets you noticed. Consistency keeps you there.

GUILTY PLEASURE

When you’re off duty, what’s the dish, snack or drink you secretly love no matter how simple?

A proper bacon sandwich with ketchup on good bread (Haxby Bakehouse) and a pint of Guinness. Not at the same time, usually. But on the right Sunday, who knows. n

fiftytworuddingpark.co.uk

MOUNTAIN WATER D’CAFF DE MEXICO

D’caff coffee drinkers are looking for high-quality, great tasting coffee and they can find it at Wild Pen Coffee Roasters.

Photography: Hawke.tv

ountain Water D’caff coffee beans are decaffeinated using a mountain water extraction process, which is organic and does not use any chemical compounds. Not only does the mountain water remove the caffeine but it also retains all of the flavour.

Briefly, the process begins with a batch of green coffee beans which are soaked in mountain water to extract the caffeine. When a new batch of green beans is placed in the saturated water only its caffeine is extracted, leaving the natural flavours of the coffee beans in place.

COFFEE OF YOUR DREAMS

The coffee is cultivated in Mexico by smallholder coffee farmers – most of the farming is done by family. Many of the farms are organic and Rainforest Alliance Certified.

Finding this decaffeinated coffee, which is traceable to the farms and uses a decaffeination process certified as organic, is definitely a plus.

Tom at Wild Pen Coffee says: “More people are now seeking specialty beans, which we are busy roasting and we are delighted to include this D’caff de Mexico in our select choice of coffees.” n

Find more information at: www.wildpen.coffee

IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT SCONE

What makes a perfect scone?

Mike Dixon takes a trip down memory lane to reveal a few tips from his own extensive research

It was June 2013 and I was at a low ebb. I was undergoing investigations for prostate cancer and, being a retired pathologist who knows too much about cancer, I was highly stressed. Two of my oldest friends, ‘oldest’ as in both long-standing and almost-ancient, sensed my anxiety. They invited me to join them on an excursion in the Dales, stopping for morning coffee.

I can’t remember that first cafe, but I do recall being overcome by the aroma of freshly-baked scones. So, in addition to cups of coffee, we each had a fruit scone with clotted cream and jam. I found the company exhilarating and the fruit scone alluring. It was a positively therapeutic experience. That first cafe visit set the pattern for fortnightly road-trips into the Dales. We always stopped for coffee and a scone and we became fastidious. “Are your scones freshly baked?” was our opening gambit. If the answer was anything but “Yes”, we avoided scones and ordered toasted teacakes. If that request was met by: “Sorry, we don’t do teacakes”, then we would turn in desperation to carrot cake, or even

flapjack – and another cafe entered our mental blacklist.

As the months passed, we widened our net. By the end of our first year, we had visited cafes from Pool-in-Wharfedale in the south-east to Gargrave in the north-west.

I FOUND THE COMPANY EXHILARATING AND THE FRUIT SCONE ALLURING. IT WAS A POSITIVELY THERAPEUTIC EXPERIENCE

Our experience of fruit-scones widened accordingly. We became more discerning, always spending some time evaluating the scones before conversation returned to the well-trodden paths of politics, Methodism (one of our number was a retired Minister), books, cinema, football, cricket and inevitably health issues.

After a few years our scone-eating experience had reached the point where we would agree a score depending on quality. The ‘Scone-Score’, on a scale 1-10, became the yardstick by which we judged cafes. Having never awarded a 10, the search continued. What then were the qualities of a good fruit-scone that we were seeking? How could a scone score the perfect 10? We were no ‘Bake-Off’ experts, but we had learnt a thing-or-two about scones. Through discussion we arrived at a set of criteria that the perfect scone would need to satisfy. I will attempt to collate them here:

1. The top should be golden brown (if not obscured by icing sugar) and slightly crisp on the surface.

2. Height matters – ideally, 11 /2 -2 inches (3-5 cm) tall with straight or slightly rounded sides.

3. Light, fluffy interior. The inside should look light and should pull apart easily.

4. An even distribution of fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas or even cranberries), all of which should be plump and slightly juicy.

5. The taste should be subtle, after all it is designed to be eaten with a topping. It should be slightly buttery and only mildly sweet.

6. Finally, it should split cleanly by hand, hold clotted cream and jam without collapsing and stay tender rather than crumbly.

Did any scone fulfil all these characteristics? No, not quite, but a few came close.

AFTER A FEW YEARS OUR SCONE-EATING EXPERIENCE HAD REACHED THE POINT WHERE WE WOULD AGREE A SCORE DEPENDING ON QUALITY

As the years passed, the search became compromised when one of us developed serious mobility problems. The availability of disabled parking and other accessibility considerations – and the convenience of the conveniences – trumped the quality of the scones. Our choice of destinations became increasingly restricted. Many cafes didn’t measure up to our new requirements. In our final phase, ‘wheelchair friendliness’ became the dominant consideration.

In 2023, the Dales’ scone triumvirate was no more. Our oldest member died. Thereafter the remaining two members had occasional outings but the raison d’être, or perhaps the raisin d’être, was missing. Scones were eaten with barely a comment. In early 2024, another death left me as the sole repository of the knowledge gained from over ten years of scone scrutiny. It would be good if I could share with you the location of the Holy Grail of scones in the Dales. Unfortunately, I cannot point to one establishment where you can purchase the perfect scone any time you visit. Nevertheless, I will share a ‘short list’ of my favourites with you.

• The Cake House, Main Street, Grassington BD23 5AA

• Old School Tea Room, Hebden nr. Grassington BD23 5DX

• Abbey Tea Rooms, Bolton Abbey BD23 6HB

• Town End Farm Shop and Tea Rooms, Airton BD23 4BE

I must emphasise that the search has not been exhaustive and is limited to the southern Dales. Furthermore, scone appreciation obviously has a personal dimension and ‘taste memory’ varies considerably. Maybe you should embark on your own search? n

FRESH BEGINNINGS

Under new ownership, Bowland Forest Farm is now ready to welcome new customers, writes Gail Bailey

Being under new ownership, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the much-loved, Bowland Forest Farm: “We have immediately set to work to bring fresh energy and ambition to the site,” explains manager Nathan.

Two beautiful properties are already open for business on the site, the Farm House and the Barn. Both are proving popular and are already busy with bookings. Each property has been thoughtfully designed and they are all beautifully presented, self-catered retreats, combining comfort with charm: “One of the standout features is the flexibility the properties offer,” explains Nathan.

“When rented together, the two spaces can accommodate up to 32 guests, making them ideal for large family gatherings, group

celebrations, or special occasions.” And being equipped with games rooms, hot tubs, garden rooms, spacious kitchens, private gardens, private parking and nestled in a stunning countryside setting, they truly offer an ideal place for making special memories together.

WE HAVE IMMEDIATELY SET TO WORK TO BRING FRESH ENERGY AND AMBITION TO THE SITE

Looking ahead, there is much more to come. Plans are already underway to re-open and revitalise other parts of the site, including a farm shop and additional accommodation options: “Our goal is to begin unveiling these soon,” Nathan says. “Gradually transforming the site into a vibrant and welcoming destination, with plenty to offer both new and returning visitors.”

As you can imagine, with new ownership come new ideas and you can expect to see ongoing refurbishment and improvements across the site over the coming months. Bowland Forest Farm will be a perfect place for families and there will be a new playground installed along with other outdoor spaces – almost like a mini-leisure park which will welcome day guests as well as those wanting to stay overnight: “There is space for guests arriving with motorhomes –and with the farm shop set to reopen, along with a welcoming bar area, special themed

evenings and Thursday afternoon teas are planned – there will be something for everyone to enjoy throughout their visit,” Nathan adds.

A further highlight is the opening of the high-end restaurant on site, serving exceptional dishes crafted from quality ingredients, all within a stylish and relaxed atmosphere. Only the best will be key and this includes the drinks selection with Hawkstone beers and spirits available both in the restaurant and the farm shop.

“It’s a truly exciting time for Bowland Forest Farm and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone soon!” Nathan adds. n

Keep an eye on the website and socials so you don’t miss any of the latest updates and exciting things happening soon at Bowland Forest Farm.

Bowland Forest Farm

Settle Road, Bolton-by-Bowland BD23 4SN

01200 400545

stay@bowlandforestfarm.com

bowlandforestfarm.com

@bowland_forest_farm

From Afternoon Tea and Father's Day celebrations to live music and family events, there's plenty happening at Bowland Forest Farm over the coming months.

Afternoon Tea

Selected Thursdays throughout June & July

Relax and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the elegant surroundings of The Bowland. Expect a selection of sandwiches, homemade sweet treats, freshly baked scones and your choice of tea or coffee, with Prosecco upgrades available.

August Bank Holiday Weekend

29 to 31 of August th st

Father’s Day

Sunday 21 of June st

Treat Dad to a relaxed afternoon of great food, good company and a warm Bowland welcome. As part of our Father's Day celebrations, every dad dining with us will receive a complimentary pint of Hawkstone and a free dessert.

Join us for a weekend of food, drinks, live entertainment and family fun. With live music across the weekend and a Family Fun Day & Barbecue on Bank Holiday Monday, there's something for all ages to enjoy.

SPARKLING SUMMER

Led by award-winning Chef Patron Nigel Haworth, Michelin-starred restaurant

The Three Fishes offers local, seasonal ingredients and exceptional British cuisine

Summer has arrived at The Three Fishes, bringing long lunches, golden evenings and the perfect excuse to dine outdoors on its beautiful terrace, with covered pagoda. Whether you’re enjoying a chilled glass of English sparkling wine in the sunshine, gathering friends for alfresco dining, or relaxing over a seasonal farm to fork menu, The Three Fishes by Nigel Haworth offers the perfect countryside setting to make the most of the season.

To celebrate English Wine Week, the restaurant is proud to present a specially curated programme featuring some of England’s most exciting wine producers. This year’s featured vineyards include Gusbourne from Kent and Danebury Vineyard, Exton Park and Louis Pommery England from Hampshire, all recognised for producing elegant sparkling

and still wines that highlight the exceptional quality of modern English winemaking.

GUSBOURNE WINE DINNER

Enjoy a memorable evening on 19th June celebrating one of England’s most prestigious wine estates with Gusbourne’s Steve Kirkham. This unique experience begins with a welcome glass of the award-winning Gusbourne 51° North, a beautifully refined sparkling wine named after the famous latitude shared by some of the world’s finest wine regions.

THE THREE FISHES BY NIGEL HAWORTH OFFERS THE PERFECT COUNTRYSIDE SETTING TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE SEASON

Guests will then enjoy a specially designed seasonal tasting menu created by Nigel Haworth, with each course expertly paired with outstanding Gusbourne wines. Produced from vineyards in Kent, Gusbourne has become internationally recognised for its vintage-only sparkling and still wines, crafted with meticulous attention to detail using traditional methods and extended lees ageing.

Places are limited and early booking is strongly recommended.

BOOK NOW

Visit The Three Fishes this summer for alfresco dining, exceptional wines and unforgettable evenings.

ENGLISH WINE WEEK AT THE THREE FISHES

English Wine Week 20th - 28th June, is a national celebration of the incredible quality, innovation and craftsmanship found across English vineyards and wineries. The Three Fishes is marking the occasion with a dedicated wine menu available all week, plus three special BBQ’s, each pairing three exceptional English wines with themed cuisine on each evening.

THREE EVENINGS • THREE CUISINES • EXCEPTIONAL ENGLISH WINES

24th June USA BBQ

An American-style BBQ smoked over hickory wood featuring Texas brisket, BBQ prawns and Carolina pulled pork tacos, paired with standout English wines from Gusbourne, Louis Pommery England and Exton Park.

25th June East Asia BBQ

Bold Asian-inspired BBQ flavours, including Korean short ribs, miso black cod and char sui pork belly, perfectly matched with wines from Danebury Vineyard, Gusbourne and Exton Park.

26th June England BBQ

A celebration of English BBQ with Herdwick lamb, smoked trout and seasonal summer dishes, served alongside exceptional wines from Louis Pommery England, Gusbourne and Danebury Vineyard. n

Recommended by Michelin, The Good Food Guide, Estrella Top 50 Gastropubs and Hardens.

The Three Fishes Mitton, Clitheroe BB7 9PQ 01254 826666

reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk thethreefishes.co.uk

@thethreefishesmitton

NEW CHAPTER FOR COACHING INN

Opposite the historic Coach & Horses in the picturesque

Ribble Valley village of Boltonby-Bowland, an exciting new chapter has begun for the much-loved coaching inn with the launch of The Coach House

Set within a Grade II listed former coach house, The Coach House has been thoughtfully transformed into an elegant and spacious retreat sleeping up to six guests across three beautifully designed bedrooms –The Coachman, The Carriage and The Stables. The beautifully refurbished accommodation combines countryside charm with luxurious modern comfort.

Laid out across two floors, the accommodation has been carefully designed to feel both luxurious and welcoming, making it ideal for family gatherings, weekends with friends or relaxed countryside escapes. Guests are welcomed into a cosy living room complete with a log burner, while the spacious open-plan kitchen and dining area offers everything needed for longer stays, including a breakfast bar, dishwasher, washing machine and fully equipped kitchen.

The standout master suite, The Coachman, features a super king-size bed, ensuite shower room and an eye-catching freestanding

rolltop bath positioned within the bedroom itself, creating a boutique hotel feel within the characterful surroundings of the historic building.

Throughout the property, original charm sits comfortably alongside thoughtful modern touches including Bath House toiletries, TVs in all bedrooms, complimentary WiFi, central heating, EV charging available at the pub opposite and dog-friendly facilities for up to two dogs. Outside, guests can also enjoy a private garden with patio seating and lawned area, perfect for peaceful mornings or unwinding after a day exploring the Ribble Valley.

THE BEAUTIFULLY REFURBISHED ACCOMMODATION COMBINES COUNTRYSIDE CHARM WITH LUXURIOUS MODERN COMFORT

And of course, with The Coach & Horses located directly across the road, guests can effortlessly enjoy everything the inn has become known for – from hearty food and welcoming hospitality to relaxed drinks in one of the area’s most characterful village pubs. For special occasions, guests can even arrange access to a private chef experience on request.

The launch of The Coach House marks an exciting expansion of The Coach & Horses’ accommodation offering, giving guests even

more flexibility while retaining the warm hospitality and charm the inn is renowned for.

Surrounded by beautiful countryside, walking routes and quintessential Ribble Valley villages, it provides the perfect base from which to slow down, reconnect and experience one of Lancashire’s most picturesque corners in comfort and style.

The Coach House is available to book for a minimum two-night stay, with prices starting from £650 for two nights, making it an ideal option for celebratory gatherings, family getaways and relaxing weekends in the countryside. Cots and additional beds can be provided upon request. Guests are also welcome to bring along their four-legged companions, ensuring no member of the family gets left behind.

And for those simply looking for an additional room when The Coach & Horses’ accommodation is fully booked, individual rooms within The Coach House are also available to reserve separately. n

For full availability, pricing and booking information, guests can contact the team at The Coach & Horses directly.

Main Street,

Clitheroe BB7 4NW 01200 447331

coachandhorsesribblevalley.co.uk

The Coach & Horses

Bolton by Bowland

DINING ALFRESCO

Eight at Gazegill brings relaxed farm-to-table dining to summer, with food and drink now available to enjoy outside on the Terrace

For anyone who already knows Eight at Gazegill, summer brings a fresh reason to book a table. Set on the organic farm at Gazegill, near Rimington, the restaurant has always been rooted in its surroundings, but this season the experience feels even more connected to the land. For the first time, the lunch menus are now available on the Terrace, meaning guests can settle in outside for much more than a drink.

It is a simple change, but a very welcome one. The Terrace is made for long lunches, sunny afternoons and relaxed family meals, with countryside views, fresh air and the easy pace that suits summer dining. Dogs are welcome outside on the Terrace too, so walkers, families and four-legged companions can all make the most of a visit. By day, the outdoor space is a real draw for younger guests. Children can enjoy

the playground, say hello to the friendly farm animals on site and get a feel for the place behind the food on their plates. This summer, there is also an offer families will want to enjoy – children eat free all day on Thursdays. For every adult main ordered, a child under 12 can enjoy a free main meal.

THE TERRACE IS MADE FOR LONG LUNCHES, SUNNY AFTERNOONS AND RELAXED FAMILY MEALS, WITH COUNTRYSIDE VIEWS

As the week moves towards the evening, the mood shifts. Friday and Saturday nights at Eight are adults only, turning the restaurant into a calm, grown-up haven for seasonal dining, thoughtful cooking and time around the table. It is a lovely contrast, relaxed and family-friendly through the day, then a more intimate setting for adults as the sun begins to dip.

Seasonal menus are curated by Chef Patron Doug Crampton, using produce grown, reared or foraged on the organic farm at Gazegill. The result is food that feels thoughtful without being fussy, with dishes shaped by the fields, hedgerows and livestock just beyond the kitchen door.

Eight at Gazegill is open Thursday to Sunday. The daily menu is served 12 - 3pm Thursday to Saturday, or enjoy the incredible value 4 course set lunch menu for just £38 per person. On Friday evenings, enjoy a four-course set menu at £55 per person, while Saturday evenings bring the tasting menu at £85 per person. And let’s not forget the amazing 3 course Sunday lunch available 12 - 4.30pm with a reduced menu available to enjoy outside on The Terrace. Fans of the Saturday brunch should book soon, as the last opportunity to enjoy it is 20th June.

As Managing Director Ian O’Rielly says: “Eight isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of place, people and the power of food to bring us together. We’re delighted to share our table with you.” n

SUMMER OFFER

KIDS EAT FREE EVERY THURSDAY*

*One free child’s main meal (under 12), with every adult main meal

Eight at Gazegill

Dancer Lane, Rimington, Clitheroe BB7 4EE 01200 445519 (option 2) reservations@eightatgazegill.co.uk eightatgazegill.co.uk

Gourmet Breaks AT NORTHCOTE

Turn everyday into an escape in the Ribble Valley with Northcote’s Gourmet Break: Michelin-star dining, cocktails, countryside exploring, a relaxed evening, peaceful overnight stay, and award-winning breakfast.

- Gourmet Menu for Dinner in the Northcote Restaurant - Overnight accommodation in your chosen room or suite category - Northcote’s cook-to-order breakfast the following morning

from £265 per person*

DINING WITH INTENT

At The Rum Fox, a new spring menu, thoughtful sourcing and quietly evolving hospitality keep regulars returning for something both familiar and refined

There is a quiet confidence to spring at The Rum Fox. Regulars will recognise it in the way the menu shifts with the season, the kitchen leaning into produce at its best. The new spring menu is not a reinvention but a continuation of what has always defined the place. Clean flavours, careful technique and a clear sense of purpose run through every dish.

Seasonality is not simply referenced, it drives the menu. Ingredients arrive at their peak and are treated with restraint, allowing them to speak for themselves. Specials play an important role, sometimes fleeting, sometimes returning favourites, always shaped by what is available. It creates a sense of movement without losing the familiarity that regulars value.

That consistency comes from the steady presence of Bob Geldeard and partner Kiaja Monk. Together with their team, they maintain a balance between precision

and warmth. The kitchen delivers with confidence while front-of-house ensures the experience feels relaxed and attentive without ever becoming overbearing.

Sourcing continues to evolve, with a renewed focus on securing the very best suppliers. It reflects an ongoing commitment to quality rather than novelty. Relationships with producers are carefully built, ensuring consistency while allowing the menu to respond naturally to the seasons. It is a quiet process but one that underpins everything on the plate.

Sunday lunch remains a key part of the week. It carries a sense of occasion while retaining the ease that defines The Rum Fox. The pacing, the quality of ingredients and the atmosphere all contribute to something that feels both special and familiar.

For those seeking a more private experience, The Den has become a defining feature. It offers a space that feels distinct while still connected to the wider restaurant. Private dining here is thoughtful and well executed, shaped to suit the occasion.

THE QUALITY OF INGREDIENTS AND THE ATMOSPHERE ALL CONTRIBUTE TO SOMETHING THAT FEELS BOTH SPECIAL AND FAMILIAR

One recent guest captured the experience, saying: “Our party of nine mature gentlemen visited The Rum Fox for the first time to enjoy an afternoon in The Den, watching the racing at the Cheltenham Festival. I had liaised with Bob in advance. Accommodating doesn’t do him justice – he bent over backwards to provide for our every whim and fancy. On arrival, we enjoyed a drink or two at the bar. The service was excellent and the atmosphere convivial. Bob couldn’t

wait to show me The Den. I was impressed. Set out royally in silver service attire, it looked superb.

Prior to a long, lazy and particularly enjoyable, eight-course ‘taster’ luncheon, our party took their places and relaxed with a champagne reception – Billecart Salmon –my favourite! The food was spectacular, beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. Bob and the team can cook! All in all, a wonderfully enjoyable afternoon. A perfect setting, attentive, but not invasive service, excellent fayre and nine well-fed patrons. We have already booked for next year! I recommend you do too.”

Experiences like this highlight what The Den offers. It is not simply a private room but an extension of The Rum Fox ethos, where detail, service and food come together seamlessly.

Looking ahead, there is a sense of quiet momentum. More events are planned, including the Wine Club and a guest chef collaboration with the Unruly Pig expected in

June. Details will follow on social channels, but it signals an openness to new ideas while remaining grounded in what works. Behind the scenes, the team continues to grow. Recruitment is focused on finding the right people, those who understand the standards being set and the importance of consistency. Kitchen and front of house work in step, creating an experience that feels cohesive from start to finish.

A WONDERFULLY ENJOYABLE AFTERNOON. A PERFECT SETTING ATTENTIVE, BUT NOT INVASIVE SERVICE, EXCELLENT FAYRE AND NINE WELL-FED PATRONS

It is this ongoing pursuit of improvement that defines The Rum Fox. Not dramatic change, but steady refinement across every element. For those who know it well, the appeal remains the same, with just enough evolution to make each visit feel fresh. n

SAMPLE SET MENU

Three courses £39

Two courses £33

Available Wednesday to Saturday lunch and Wednesday and Thursday evenings

STARTERS

Asparagus and wild garlic soup

Crispy stuffed potato skin

Lancashire cheese soufflé Cheese sauce, Grindleton apple chutney

King prawn, brown crab and scallop gratin

Singapore chilli crab sauce, coriander

MAINS

Lamb shoulder, slow cooked, lamb faggot, purple

broccoli, wild garlic, lamb potato hash, minted lamb sauce

Lancashire cheese and onion pie or peppered venison pie, crinkle cut chips, carrots and purple broccoli

Cod, garlic potatoes, three cornered leek, Chablis sauce

DESSERTS

Chocolate cremosa

Blood orange caramel and granita, whipped miso fudge

Sticky toffee pudding, toffee sauce, vanilla ice cream

Courtyard Dairy cheese, selection of three

Grindleton Clitheroe BB7 4QS 01200 871691

info@therumfox.co.uk therumfox.co.uk

The Rum Fox Sawley Road

THE CLASSIC ROUTE TO SUCCESS

William Haggas is a proud Yorkshireman and one of the most successful thoroughbred horse trainers in the UK. He talks to Max Gardner about his successful career

The stables of William Haggas are situated at the headquarters of British horse racing in Newmarket, where his is one of the most respected names. He trains horses for some of the richest people in the world and his career prize money runs into tens of millions of pounds. In a career spanning 40 years, he has won an incredible seven Classics, accumulated more than 30 major titles in seven different countries and can boast over 2,900 career wins to his name.

But boasting isn’t in his nature. When asked how proud he is of his successes, he said: “It doesn’t matter how much money we’ve won. It’s an honour to have worked with so many wonderful horses. You look back at individual horses and success, to me, is extracting the maximum potential out of each and every one.”

HE TRAINS HORSES FOR SOME OF THE RICHEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD AND HIS CAREER PRIZE MONEY RUNS INTO TENS OF MILLIONS OF POUNDS

Haggas, 65, started life in Skipton, gateway to the Dales. His father owned a successful textile mill in Keighley and had the means to send his son to one of the country’s most iconic public schools, Harrow. While there, he played three times for the school’s cricket team in its annual match at Lords against Eton, captaining his final game there in 1979.

He also played a single game for Yorkshire Second XI, at Headingley.

When school finished, Haggas returned to Yorkshire to take up a job in his father’s mill, but this wasn’t the life he wanted and, after a matter of weeks, he threw in the towel on an ordinary career, travelled to Newmarket and begged to work for Jeremy Hindley, the trainer of his father’s single racehorse.

Explaining why he made that decision, Haggas said: “The job at my father’s mill was pretty ordinary so, on my first weekend off, I pitched up at Newmarket and told Jeremy I’d do anything, sweep the yard, muck out the horses, make cups of tea. It worked and I’ve been in Newmarket ever since.”

And, in a twist of fate, Haggas’ first job was booking rides for apprentice jockey Michael Hills, who would later bring him his first Classic success, The Derby in 1996.

In a few short years Haggas learned what was to become his trade for the next 40 years. He became an assistant trainer, first for Mark Prescott and then John Winter. In the 1980s Newmarket proved to be a playground for budding trainers and Haggas rubbed shoulders with the likes of Henry Cecil, Michael Shorte and James Fanshawe. He obtained his training licence in November 1986 and bought his current stables, then just a dilapidated 20-box yard, at Somerville Lodge. Just five months later, in April 1987, he trained his first-ever winner, Tricky Note, with only 25 horses in his stables.

Over the years, Somerville Lodge has been transformed. It is now the epitome of equestrian excellence with state of the art facilities and a team which trains over 180 horses at any one time. In 1989 Haggas married his wife, Maureen, the daughter of legendary jockey Lester Piggott and, with their two adult children, the business has become a family affair.

The first of Haggas’ seven Classic winners came in 1996 when Shaamit, a 12/1 outsider, raced to victory in what is considered to

be the greatest flat race in the world, the Epsom Derby. He then waited 15 years before he won his second UK Classic, the 2011 Oaks, when he trained another outsider, 20/1 Dancing Rain.

The years in between were fruitful though, with notable, high-level successes both in the UK and abroad. Then in 2013 Haggas was invited to train for the late Queen Elizabeth II – and he didn’t disappoint. Within a year he had his first winner for Her Majesty, Purple Spectrum romping home in his maiden outing at Windsor. With Addeybb he won the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Australia’s Randwick racecourse in consecutive years, 2020 and 2021. And in 2023 he took part in The King’s Procession at Royal Ascot, where he became the first trainer, with Desert Hero in the King George V Stakes, to give the new monarch a winner.

THEN IN 2013 HAGGAS WAS INVITED TO TRAIN FOR THE LATE QUEEN ELIZABETH II - AND HE DIDN’T DISAPPOINT

Haggas has trained many fabulous horses. Sea of Class had five wins in the summer of 2022, including the Irish and the Yorkshire Oaks. Economics won the 2024 Irish Champion Stakes after winning the Dante Stakes at York on just his third start. But of Baaeed, who only suffered one career defeat and delivered four consecutive Group 1 wins in 2022, Haggas said: “He is probably the best horse we’re ever likely to have. He was just different, like riding a motorbike in the Tour de France.”

Haggas still intends to work hard and believes he has a lot still to give to horse racing: “I’m nearly at pension age but as long as people want to send quality horses to us it’s going to be hard to retire. I can see myself going on a bit longer.” n

With the longer days, you can enjoy a round of golf after 4pm with our special twilight rates.

Visit ilkleygolfclub.co.uk to book your tee time and enjoy one of Yorkshire’s top courses.

ilkleygolfclub.co.uk Enjoy late afternoon golf at Ilkley from only £45*

applies to fourball bookings,

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Visit our TrackMan centre for the serious - and less serious - business of golf

Relax in style as you hone your skills or take on your friends on the most advanced golf simulator around.

With complimentary mini bar, fresh coffee, 250+ courses to choose from and a state of the art screen, a great experience is guaranteed. And if your game lets you down, you can always arrange a lesson with our PGA club professional, Glen Ient.

Wednesday 19 - Saturday 22 August

LAYERED IN STONE & STORY

Captivated by both the untamed countryside and manmade buildings returning to nature, Wensleydale artist Rachel Morrell discusses her work with Kate Bowyer

It’s a bright, blustery morning as I wind my way up the narrow lanes above Askrigg, dry stone walls rising like lines on a well-worn map in the warming early summer light. Tucked into a south-facing hillside is artist Rachel Morrell’s studio, containing her quietly compelling body of work shaped by the surrounding landscape. Rachel shows me into her converted barn that feels every inch the working artist’s space – canvases layered against walls, textiles draped and stitched, sketchbooks

stacked with purpose. Through the window, the muted greens and greys contours of Wensleydale’s fields and fells echo the abstract forms in her work.

I’VE ALWAYS BEEN DRAWN TO PLACES THAT FEEL LIKE THEY HAVE A PAST

“It’s the light,” she says, following my gaze. “It’s always changing. In the seven years I’ve been here, I never see the same view twice.”

Born in Leeds and raised near Castleford, Rachel’s path to becoming a full-time artist had to wait until the right moment in life.

“I always wanted to go to art school,” she recalls. “But at the time, it just wasn’t seen as the ‘done thing’. I studied English instead, but the creative thread was always there, figuratively and literally drawing me back.”

A career in retail buying, then providing

debt advice and support for Citizen’s Advice, might seem worlds away, as was home in the south of England. Returning north gave Rachel the place – and permission – to pursue her long-held ambition.

A winter spent on Bridge House Arts’ portfolio course in Ullapool proved transformative, sparking a fascination with rugged landscapes and derelict structures that continues to shape her work today. During her following MA in Creative Practice at Leeds, Rachel’s attention turned to abandoned mills, places where industry and nature quietly overlap.

“I’ve always been drawn to places that feel like they have a past,” she explains. “Where generations made their mark in the landscape – and which, in turn, are being slowly reclaimed by time and nature.”

The theme of landscape as memory runs deeply through Rachel’s contemporary textured canvasses. Layers of paint, gesso and fabric are built up, worked into and sometimes stripped back, creating surfaces that feel as weathered and complex as the stone walls and limestone scars that inspire them.

“I’m not trying to capture a specific place,” she explains. “It’s more about suggestion, evoking the feeling of being there. I like that people can bring their own interpretation to it.”

Textiles play an equally important role in her practice, using traditional techniques and natural dyes, and dissolvable materials that leave behind delicate thread structures, adding further tactile layers of depth and texture.

It’s about to be Rachel’s fourth summer welcoming the public to her usually private

home studio for the popular annual North Yorkshire Open Studios. Held over the first two weekends in June, visitors relish seeing artists’ work – and artists working – in situ.

“As I’m a bit off the beaten track, my visitors have made a conscious effort to travel here, many returning annually, which makes it rather special,” says Rachel. “I find they appreciate the wildness as much as I do –and they’re really interested in talking about the work, insight into my processes and the landscapes that inspire it.”

I’M NOT TRYING TO CAPTURE A SPECIFIC PLACE. IT’S MORE ABOUT SUGGESTION, EVOKING THE FEELING OF BEING THERE

Those unable to reach Rachel during the Open Studios can connect with her work and see details of forthcoming exhibitions on her website and Instagram. She also has a public space at Sedbergh’s Farfield Mill. Fittingly for her affinities, this Victorian textile mill was rescued from dereliction and is now a vibrant community-run arts and heritage centre. Her fourth-floor studio sits among a community of makers, who, like Rachel, can often be found creating their art there, maintaining that sense of connection.

“It’s a very warm, welcoming space, not an austere gallery,” she says. “Perhaps it’s following two centuries of workers’ boots treading the floorboards before us, people just like us.

“It’s lovely seeing families enjoying looking around the creative art, textiles, pottery and jewellery, chatting to the

makers, exploring the preserved mill’s history – and the volunteer-staffed café is a destination in its own right!”

As we step back outside, the wind has picked up, shifting clouds across the valley and casting fleeting shadows over the fields below. It’s easy to see how a landscape like this might never lose its hold.

“It does feel like I’ve come full circle,” reflects Rachel. “I always wanted to do this –and now I’m here, where history lies layered in stone and story, making work inspired by it. One view, one inspiration, one piece at a time. I’m very lucky.” n

rachelmorrell.co.uk

Instagram: @rachelmorrellart

The free exhibition, celebrating the beauty of the Dales, will take place at The Garden Rooms at Tennants, Leyburn from 16th to 28th June, showcasing local landscape and wildlife.

The competition, which was open to amateur photographers, is run by The Garden Rooms at Tennants and charity Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust.

Visitors to the exhibition will be able to vote for the overall winning entry – and the victorious winning photographer will

DALES

SHOWCASE

Stunning images of the Yorkshire Dales will be on display in an exhibition of the finalist entries in a photography competition

receive a prize of photographic vouchers worth £100 and a Yorkshire Dales hamper.

Alison Tennant, Director of The Garden Rooms at Tennants, said: “There are some exceptionally talented amateur photographers in the Yorkshire Dales and we look forward to sharing their creativity with our visitors.”

The exhibition is open to the public seven days a week from 9am to 5pm.

IMAGE 1: Andrew Fletcher, ‘Dalesbred Sheep’, taken at the Wensleydale Show.

IMAGE 2: Richard Coulstock, ‘Sunrise on the Moors’, taken on Grinton Moor.

IMAGE 3: Phil Martin, ‘Reflecting’, taken at Snaizeholme Wood in Widdale.

IMAGE 4: Frank Kelly, ‘Drumlins’, taken near Sedbusk.

IMAGE 5: Jessica Shade, ‘Gathering’, taken near Aysgarth. n

tennantsgardenrooms.com ydmt.org

GOOD READ

SUNSHINE, STORIES & SWITCHING OFF

Lazy afternoons, warm evenings and the perfect excuse to slow down. Summer reading has its own rhythm. It’s the paperback tucked into a beach bag, the novel balanced beside a sun lounger and the quiet hour in the garden when the world finally pauses. Whether you’re escaping to the coast, staying close to home in the Dales or simply making the most of longer evenings, the right book can turn a moment into a memory.

Here are three current reads for him, her and the kids. Perfect companions for summer days and slower living.

FOR HIM: THE TRADING GAME Gary Stevenson

Sharp, intelligent and impossible to put down. Former City trader Gary Stevenson’s memoir has become one of the year’s most talked-about books. From his East London upbringing to becoming one of the most successful financial traders in the world, Stevenson offers a fascinating insight into ambition, money and modern Britain. What makes this book stand out is its honesty. Beneath the high-stakes trading floors and extraordinary success lies a thoughtful reflection on pressure, inequality and what really matters. It reads like a thriller but carries real emotional depth. Read it with: A strong coffee by the pool or a quiet morning before the house wakes up.

FOR HER: ONE DAY

David Nicholls

Tender, witty and wonderfully immersive. Following the huge resurgence of popularity after the recent Netflix adaptation, One Day has found a whole new audience this summer – and for good reason. David Nicholls tells the story of Emma and Dexter, revisiting them on the same day each year as life, love and friendship evolve around them.

There’s warmth and heartbreak woven into every chapter, alongside sharp observations about growing older and finding your place in the world. It’s deeply human writing that feels perfect for quiet afternoons with nowhere to be.

Read it with: A chilled glass of rosé in the garden while the evening sun lingers.

FOR THE KIDS: IMPOSSIBLE CREATURES Katherine Rundell

Magical, adventurous and utterly transporting. Katherine Rundell’s latest bestseller is already being hailed as a future classic. Blending mythology, fantasy and fast-paced storytelling, Impossible Creatures follows two children on a thrilling journey through a hidden world filled with dragons, sphinxes and ancient secrets. Rundell writes with extraordinary imagination and energy, creating a story that feels tailor-made for summer adventures and bedtime reading alike. It’s the kind of book children disappear into completely –and adults may quietly borrow afterwards. Read it with: Bare feet on the grass and the sound of sprinklers in the background.

Summer books are different from winter reads. They invite us to drift a little, breathe more deeply and savour time rather than rush through it. Whether you’re poolside abroad, tucked away in the Dales or simply stealing a peaceful hour at home, these stories offer the perfect seasonal escape. Because sometimes the best journeys begin with turning the first page.

David grew up in Sheffield and studied in London. He has won The Sunday Times Playwriting Award and in 2026 he was nominated for best script in the UK Pantomime Awards for Jack and the Beanstalk at Harrogate Theatre.

How long have you been connected to Harrogate Theatre and what do you enjoy most about being its Chief Executive?

I have been CEO of Harrogate Theatre for 22 years, however my association with them started in 1999, when I was their Drama Officer whilst working for Yorkshire Arts

and many top community performance groups help the town to punch well above its weight. But there are lots of things to enjoy about Harrogate and its environs, especially the lively hospitality scene and the beautiful countryside.

What’s your favourite local walk or view?

I have family up in County Durham and we regularly meet half way at Richmond for a picnic and then the circular walk around the River Swale to Easby Abbey. My father-in-law, when he was with us, used to spook his grandchildren with the story of The Little Drummer Boy.

Where do you most like to eat locally?

If it’s a posh night out The Orchid. The Pickled Sprout for both formal and informal. For coffee, breakfast or brunch Weetons, overlooking the Stray.

What’s your favourite time of year in Harrogate and the Dales?

Autumn and the promise of Christmas that culminates with our Pantomime.

Which Yorkshire writer, artist or sportsperson do you admire most? Sally Wainwright.

MY DALES…

David Bown is Chief Executive at Harrogate Theatre and is an award-winning writer. He has been an actor, writer, director and senior manager in theatres across the UK and America

(now the Arts Council). Most of all I enjoy working with our staff.

What are your top three favourite plays –and which playwrights most inspire you?

Any script is only as good as the creative team bringing it to life. I saw the very first production of Road by Jim Cartwright at the Royal Court when I worked there in the 1980s. Phenomenal. Caryl Churchill’s Serious Money, again at the Royal Court.

I recently saw Ulster American at the Edinburgh Fringe written by David Ireland. The most brutal comedy I have ever seen. But there are many playwrights whose work I admire; Brian Friel, Jez Butterworth, Steven Dykes, Abi Morgan, Lorca, Lucy Prebble, April de Angelis...

What do you most like about Harrogate? Harrogate has many wonderful assets, not least of all the arts and culture scene, of which I am part of. The theatre, Harrogate International Festivals, the Mercer Gallery

Five people you’d invite to a Yorkshire dinner party?

Maisie Adam from Harrogate, a big supporter of the theatre and was a member of our youth theatre. Bob Mortimer, born in 1959 when Middlesborough was part of the North Riding of Yorkshire. The brilliant actress Anna Maxwell-Martin. Micah Richards should keep the atmosphere lively. Lastly, Tim Stedman, the extraordinary comic genius that has been in the last 25 Harrogate Theatre Pantomimes.

Your favourite most inspiring quote or advice?

‘Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching’. A line from my favourite TV show Frasier but attributed to C.S Lewis. However, the advice/quote that has been of the most use to me is… ‘righty tighty, lefty loosey’, probably somewhere in Shakespeare, I can see Lady Macbeth saying it. n