MMM Media Christmas Magazine 2017

Complimentary Special Edition

2017

s u o l l e v r a m m m

s a m t s i Chr in Kent

CHAMPAGNE & WINES DECORATIONS FESTIVE EVENTS RECIPES GIFTS PARTIES JEWELLERY SPARKLING STYLES

W Advert

M

e m o c l e W M

erry Christmas to all, and with that glittering prize in mind, we welcome you to our unique guide to the festive season. With everyone’s excitement mounting, we believe it is the only magazine in Kent dedicated to celebrating what’s best in our beautiful county over the holiday period.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and with a nod to human star Andy Williams, it is indeed ‘the most wonderful time of the year’. With so many marvellous gifts, recipes and events to pack in, we help by bringing a selection of the very best on offer in the winter Garden of England and beyond.

Our Christmas highlights include the must-have items for ladies, gents, children and even pets, as well as the best parties, the best food, the best wine, the best markets (here and in Germany), and the best chocolate (essential!)

Unwrap the guide further and you will find fashion, beauty and other gems, too, along with pantomimes, grottos, trees, crafts and crackers.

We have no doubt you will find just what you are looking for, and will be able to scent out some amazing new things, too – and we mean that literally, thanks to our magical content on page 19! Do try it, there’s nothing better than beautiful smells to evoke all the right emotions.

So pore over our perfectly packaged pages and let your imagination take hold as Yuletide approaches. As publishers of the glossy lifestyle magazine mmm, which is also all about the best in our county, we know what Kent residents love.

Good things come in packages of all sizes, and the county’s businesses are no different. Big or small, they work to deliver top quality products with customer service and satisfaction to match. We continue to be grateful to those that have supported this informative festive guide.

Charles Dickens, of course, was a Kent resident himself. So, as Tiny Tim says at the end of the author’s all-time seasonal favourite, A Christmas Carol, ‘God bless us, every one!’

The mmm Team

! s a m t s i r h C ry

Mer

Published by mmm Media Ltd GHL House Second Floor, 12-14 Albion Place Maidstone, Kent, ME14 5DZ mmm.magazine.kent mmm_media_ltd

01622 299035

sales@mmm-media.com mmm-media.com mmm-magazine.co.uk

Dunelm Mulled Wine £6 John Lewis

House Gingerbread £3 Tiger

ad Gingerbre

Gingerbread d man garlan £15 Debenhams

mMenulled wine Mulled Wine £10 John Lewis

Heaven s cent.. .

Mulled wine cocoa infusewith s £5 Hotel Choco lat

Alcohol emporium

Gingerbread DIY House Kit £35 Biscuiteers Baking

Nothing £3.95 gets Tesco of mulled us in the festive spir wine. He re are som it like a warm gla e of our favourites ss ...

Mulled

Woman Gingerbread Decoration £3.25 Paperchase

Champagne charlie jolly ginger £6 Biscuiteers Baking

Harvest Fruits £4.49

Wine £6.50 M&S

£12.50 John Lewis

Luxury Christmas Hamper £125 National Trust

Cutters £6 Sainsburrys Home 18

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scratch here

Gingerbread Man Kit DIY £5.50 Debenhams

us Christ

mas

mas 25

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mmmarvell rbread house DIY Ginge £35 Baking Biscuiteers

Kit

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. © MMM Media Ltd 2017

s t n e t n o c s a Christm p6 6-8 Best Parties 10 Cookies for Christmas 13 Rock that Seasonal Sausage Roll 15 Tartlets to Tempt You

p 60

p22

16-17 How to Cook the Turkey, and more...

18 Mulling Over the Wine 19 Try a Bouquet of the Best Scent 22 Break out the Bubbly 23 Pour the Prosecco 24 Cheeky Chocolate 4

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p 10

p

p54

p 42 25 Gingerbread Men 26 Gifts for Her 28 It’s a wrap!

32 Gifts for Him 34 Festive Fashion 36 Best Make-up 38-39 Best Jewellery 40-41 Gifts for Kids 42 Gifts for Pets 46-47 Top Trees 50-51 Deck the Halls 54-55 Deck the Tables

p 40

PLUS! THE REA L SCENT OF CHRIST MAS P19

58 Let’s Go Crackers!

60 Santa’s Grotto 62-65 Pick of the Pantos 66 Christmas Markets 70 Lantern Festival 72 Top ten TV shows

p 18 mmmarvellous Christmas

5

s a m t s i r h C t Bes parties

The best celebrations Kent has to offer this festive season

GLITTERING GATSBY: MERCURE MAIDSTONE

Celebrate this festive season with a dazzling, high-society party night that the Great Gatsby himself would approve of! With all the razzledazzle of the roaring twenties, these themed parties will transport you into the glamorous world of the Gatsby era. Prepare for an enchanting evening of themed cocktails, delicious food, and music to get you on the dance floor.

For further information, and to book, simply call the Christmas Co-ordinator on 0844 815 9045 or visit www.mercuremaidstone.co.uk/christmas

FROM JUST

ÂŁ39.95 RSON PER PE

PARTY NIGHTS IN A WINTER WONDERLAND: THE ASHFORD INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

From Christmas parties to festive lunches, our warm, welcoming atmosphere allows you and your colleagues, friends and family to celebrate in style amid glamorous surroundings Let your hair down with your friends or colleagues and celebrate a fun night filled with festive magic. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal followed by dancing to classic party tunes from our resident DJ. Party-goers at Ashford International Hotel don’t only get to enjoy a fantastic, festive night out; they can also avoid the late-night queue for a taxi and savour a long, recuperative lie-in the next morning with our special rates on party night accommodation.

For further information, and to book, simply call our Christmas Planner on 01233 219 988 or visit www.qhotels.co.uk

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FROM JUST

£24.95 SON PER PER

PERFECT PARTY: OAKWOOD HOUSE

Set in tree-lined gardens, Oakwood House is the perfect place to relax or party the night away throughout December. From locally sourced lunches and our sumptuous Christmas Day Carvery, to adult and children parties that pull out all stops. There is definitely something for everyone at Oakwood House this festive season. With the added bonus of discounted accommodation rates when attending an event.

Whether you’re joining us with colleagues, family or friends our dedicated staff and entertainers will ensure you have a truly memorable time.

For further information, and to book, simply call 01622 620720 or email info@oakwoodhousehotel.co.uk or visit www.oakwoodhousehotel.co.uk

TO RUSSIA WITH LOVE: THE MAIDSTONE EXHIBITION HALL

Who doesn’t love a Bond theme, especially at Christmas? Relive the thrills of this spectacular film at The Kent County Ground on a variety of dates, courtesy of the Maidstone party suppliers Best Parties Ever.

Take shelter in the Russian forests as you are welcomed into an authentic Cossack encampment complete with snow-clad pine trees.

Taste life as an agent as you savour delicious hot and cold canapés and maybe a shaken Martini or a glass of Champagne from the glamorous Ice Bar. After a clash of steel from Cossack sword dancers, the beautifully lit dining room set in a Tsar’s Palace with the Stunning St Basil’s Cathedral backdrop is revealed.

As you enjoy a sumptuous four-course dinner you will be entertained by Aerial Acrobats who tumble from the starlit skies and a thrilling Cossack Dance Finale.

Finish of the night with a throw of the dice in the Casino Royale, dodgems and dancing.

For further information, and to book, call 01932 359 900 or visit www.bestpartiesever.com

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TRIBUTE NIGHTS: VILLAGE HOTELS

FROM JUST

If you want your Christmas to be a smash hit in 2017 - make Village your number one choice! Book online to ensure you don’t miss out on our mega mix of fab food, drinks and entertainment.

Our famous tribute acts and party nights will have you rocking around the Christmas tree. Our Christmas parties include either a DJ & disco or tribute act, 3 course meal and our bar until 1am.

£19.95 RSON PER PE

FROM JUST

£31 RSON PER PE

For further information, and to book, simply visit www.villagehotels.com/christmas

PARTY NIGHTS: BRIDGEWOOD MANOR

Celebrate the festive season this year at Bridgewood Manor. From Christmas parties to festive lunches, our warm, welcoming atmosphere allows you and your colleagues, friends and family to celebrate in style. We look forward to welcoming you to Bridgewood Manor.

For further information, and to book, simply call on 01634 201333 to reserve your special night. Visit www.qhotels.co.uk

MASQUERADE BALL: HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL

Be taken back in time to a lavish and mysterious Venetian Masquerade Ball…

Find yourself immersed in the opulence of 17th century greeted by Casanova or Venetian Dancers.

After absorbing the atmosphere and impressive surroundings you will be served Dinner.

As guests take their seats and dinner is served masks are removed revealing their true identities.

Once dinner is finished slip back behind your mask, leave your inhibitions behind and head straight to the dance floor to dance the night away.

Over the years the hotel has been home to some of the best Christmas parties of Hythe and we invite you to join us in what will be another successful year so come and enjoy the atmosphere of this special hotel with our friendly and enthusiastic team to look after you.

For further information, and to book, simply call 01303 267 441 or visit www.hytheimperial.co.uk

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PERFECT FOR

Kids

Festive cookies

INGREDIENTS

125g Unsalted Dairy Butter 100g dark brown muscovado sugar 4 tbsp golden syrup 325g plain flour, plus extra for dusting 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 2 tsp ground ginger 5 tbsp icing sugar 3 tbsp Cooks’ Homebaking Sprinkles, such as White Chocolate Stars, Silver Balls, Pearly 100s & 1000s

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METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 170ºC. Line two large baking trays with baking parchment. Melt the butter, sugar and syrup together, stirring occasionally, then remove from the heat.

2. Sieve the flour, bicarbonate of soda and ginger into a bowl, then stir the melted ingredients into the dry ingredients to make a stiff dough. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and roll to a thickness of about 5mm.

3. Stamp shapes out of the dough using Christmas Cookie Cutters. Place the

shapes onto the lined baking trays and bake, in batches, for 9–10 minutes until golden brown.

4. Remove from the oven. While still warm, use a skewer or chopstick to make any holes that you may need to hang up the biscuits with ribbon or string. Leave to cool completely on a wire rack.

5. Mix together the icing sugar with a splash of water to make thick icing then drizzle or pipe over the biscuits and decorate with sprinkles. The gingerbread biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Sausage, cranberry and chestnut rolls INGREDIENTS

400g Waitrose Free Range Pork Sausages 50g Waitrose Christmas Chestnuts, cooked according to pack instructions, and chopped 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh sage 320g all butter puff pastry sheet 2 tbsp Colman’s Cranberry Sauce 1 small Waitrose British Blacktail Free Range Egg, beaten, for glazing

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 190ºC, gas mark five. Using a sharp knife, slice the sausage skins and squeeze out the sausagemeat into a bowl. Stir in the chestnuts and sage.

2. Unroll the pastry on a lightly floured work surface and cut it in half lengthways. Spoon the cranberry sauce down the centre of each half.

Divide the sausagemeat mixture in half and roll each batch into a long sausage the same length as the pastry. Lay each

half on top of the cranberry sauce.

3. Brush the edges of the pastry with a little beaten egg. Fold the pastry over the sausage, then roll it over so that the join is underneath. Cut each piece into eight sausage rolls. Line two baking sheets with baking parchment and transfer the sausage rolls onto them, keeping the pastry join at the bottom. Brush a little more egg over the top and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the sausagemeat is cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack to cool before serving.

PERFE CT FO R

Christm a Eve s mmmarvellous Christmas

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S

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k e e l , n o m l a S s t e l t r a t l l i d and INGREDIENTS

25g e Unsalted Dairy Butter 1 leek, thinly sliced 1 clove garlic, crushed 170ml tub Double Cream 1 medium Free Range Egg 213g can essential Wild Red Salmon 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, plus extra fronds for garnish 2 x 117g packs 18 Party Tartlet Cases

ME THOD

1. Preheat the oven to 190ÂşC. Melt the butter in a small frying pan and add the leek and garlic.

Cook over a medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.

2. Beat the cream and egg

together in a medium bowl, then fold in the leek mixture along with the salmon and dill.

Divide between the tartlet cases.

3. Sit the tartlets on 2 large baking sheets and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the filling is just set.

Garnish with dill fronds and serve

PERFECT FOR

r e n n i D s e i t r a p

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. . . e h t k o o c o H ow t Turkey

Kent Turkeys is the county’s only Kelly Bronze franchisee, rearing just over 1,000 birds and 150 Norfolk geese each year on their family farm near Biddenden

1 WHOLE BIRDS & KBXS

Place breast side down, add 500ml water and your favourite vegetables. Season well. Do NOT stuff – cook your stuffing separately.

Crowns: As above – but breast side up.

Joints: As whole bird – but skin side up and with 250ml water.

All Products: Put in oven with no foil so you don’t steam the skin and poach the meat.

2

WHOLE BIRDS

Turn the bird over halfway through our recommended cooking time. Season again. Pierce right through the skin between the leg and breast to allow the juices to drain and the thighs to cook.

Add more water if required Crown, Joints & KBXS: Halfway through our recommended cooking time, add more water if required.

3 ALL PRODUCTS

From halfway through cooking time, monitor the temperature regularly by putting the thermometer halfway through the thickest part of the meat. Our cooking times are a guide only – all ovens vary so, regardless of the time in the oven, trust your thermometer! (And don’t leave it in the meat while cooking).

‘I personally take my turkey out when the meat is 55°C, rest it and eat it pink when it reaches 60°C’ Paul Kelly, Kent Turkeys

4 ALL PRODUCTS

Take out of the oven as soon as the needle hits 60°C and leave to stand for at least 30 minutes – it will keep cooking and the needle will climb. Don’t be tempted to cover it – it won’t go cold.

How Do You Like Yours?

If the temperature of the meat after standing for 30 minutes is: 60°C – It’s pink 65°C – It’s perfect 70°C – It’s overcooked

5 ALL PRODUCTS: MAKE THE TASTIEST GRAVY...

Skim any excess fat from the top of the stock and scrape in all the delicious caramelised bits from the roasting tin and heat.

6 ALL PRODUCTS: GET CRACKLING!

The breast and leg skin can be peeled off and placed on a baking tray.

Season and return to a hot oven for approximately 10-15 minutes until crisp – it’s delicious!

Turkeys are available to order online at www.kentturkeys.co.uk or by calling 01580 291792.

There are collection points around Kent as well as at Kent Turkeys, Woolpack Corner Farm, Benenden Road, Biddenden, Kent TN27 8BU 16

mmmarvellous Christmas

GREAT O ATIVE T ALTERN

y e k r u T

f e e b d e c i p s t P ot-roas with red cabbage

INGREDIENTS

Knob of essential Waitrose Unsalted Dairy Butter 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 small red cabbage, shredded 75g raisins 150ml balsamic vinegar 3 tbsp light muscovado sugar 1kg essential Waitrose British Beef Toprump or Topside joint 2 tsp Bart Berbere Blend

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 170ÂşC, g. Heat the butter in a flameproof casserole and cook the onion for 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in the red cabbage, raisins, vinegar and sugar.

2. Rub the beef joint all over with the

spice blend and sit on top of the red cabbage. Cover with the lid and roast for 2½-3 hours until the beef is very tender.

3. Leave to rest for 5 minutes, then slice the beef and serve with the braised cabbage and some mashed potatoes.

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Mulled Wine £6 John Lewis

Oucrk pi

Mulled wine with cocoa infuses £5 Hotel Chocolat

Mulled Wine £10 John Lewis

Harvest Fruits £4.49 Alcohol emporium

Mulled wine

£3.95 Tesco

Nothing gets us in the festive spirit like a warm glass of mulled wine. Here are some of our favourites...

Mulled Wine £6.50 M&S £12.50 John Lewis

Luxury Christmas Hamper £125 National Trust

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. . . t n e c s n e Heav scratch here

Advert

Advert

Best of the...

Champagnes Bubbles are essential during the holiday season – here’s the best of the festive fizz

Veuve Clicquot £65 Waitrose

Bollinger £260 Harrods

Moet & Chandon £49.95 Ocado

Ourk pic Krug £49.95 Harvey Nichols

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Taittinger £50 John Lewis

and

P roseccos

Party on with much-loved Prosecco

Distileria Bottega Rose Gold Prosecco 1500ml £49.95 Selfridges

Raphael Dal Bo Prosecco Superiore £15.50 John Lewis

Ourk pic Distileria Bottega 300ml £99 Selfridges

Villa Marcello Prosecco £18 Harrods

Prosecco and chocolate gift box £25 John Lewis

Monticella Prosecco £50 M&S

Ultimate collection platter £30 M&S

Artisan du Chocolat Assorted Snowflake Chocolate and Truffles Box £20 John Lewis

Oucrk pi

Lindt tree £55 The great gift company

2017 Plush Teddy with Godiva Chocolates £30 John Lewis

Merry Christmas Everyone Hamper £50 Hotel Chocolate

Best of the...

e t a l o c o h c y k e e Ch Treat your family to a chocolate box

Hotel Chocolat Tipsy Truffles Hbox John Lewis

Prestat Christmas Holly Assorted Chocolates Box £16.65 Exclusive to John Lewis

Heston The Edibaubles £13.50 Waitrose 24

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Large signature cabinet £160 Hotel Chocolate

Dunelm

Gingerbread House £3 Tiger

Gingerbread man garland £15 Debenhams

n e m d a e r b r Ginge Champagne charlie jolly ginger £6 Biscuiteers Baking

Gingerbread Woman Decoration £3.25 Paperchase

Gingerbread House Kit DIY £35 Biscuiteers Baking

Cutters £6 Sainsburrys Home Gingerbread Man Kit DIY £5.50 Debenhams

DIY Gingerbread house Kit £35 Biscuiteers Baking

mmmarvellous Christmas

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Gucci G-Timeless Women’s Guilloche Bracelet Watch £810 John Lewis Glittery hair ties £14.95 Ted Baker

Kilian £215 Net a Porter Dyson supersonic hair dryer £299.99 John Lewis

Gift ideas...

Oucrk pi

for her Estee Lauder Pure Colour Envy Sculpting Lipstick Collection £30 House of Fraser

£3,275 TIFFANY & CO

Kate Spade New York Notebook £16 John Lewis

Lancome La Vie Est Belle Eau De Parfum £59 House of Fraser

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£1290 Prada

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Elemis Gift of procollagen skincare gift set £199 John Lewis

I t's a wrap! £4.50 Papermash

£4 The Contemporary Home

BaByliss Sheer Volume Ionic Rotating Heated Brush £80 John Lewis

Wrapping paper £3.50 M&S

Apple watch series 3 Pink sand £399 Apple Papermash Clive Christian £450 Net a Porter

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mmmarvellous Christmas

Advert

Advert

Beoplay E8 £259 B&O Mini Copper Cheese Knives £28 Not on the High Street

Gift ideas...

Mulberry cuff links £135 John Lewis

for him Simon Carter Hove Laptop Bag £225 Henry Tibbs Ltd

Stag head glass £27 John Lewis

The Cyclists Handkerchief Set £15 Chase and Wonder

Our pick Ted Baker Jungle Hip Flask £26.99 Country and home

Star Wars Silicone Coasters £8.99 Red5

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mmmarvellous Christmas

Bolongaro Trevor Hugo Boss Armani True Religion Scotch & Soda Mos Mosh J .Lindeberg Circle of gentlemen John White Matchless Rebecca Rhoades Religion Replay MA.Strum Versace Samsoe Day Birger Esemplare J Brand Circolo 1901

Halston Heritage Metallic stretchjersey dress £325 Net-A-Porter

Coast Purity Jacquard Midi Dress £129 John Lewis

Adrianna Papell Flutter sleeve beaded maxi dress with pearl dress £270 House of Fraser

Tom Ford Open-back sequined satin dress £5,280 Net-A-Porter

Party Fashion Our pick

Adrianna Papell Full Length Satin Dress £84 John Lewis

Sparkle and shine at your Christmas party with our glamourous picks

Eliza J Fifties Dress £180 House of Fraser

Jimmy Choo Romy £425 Net A Porter Christian Louboutin So Kate pumps £470 Net A Porter Alexandre Birman Mary bow-embellished sandals £420 Net A Porter 34

mmmarvellous Christmas

Stuart Weitzman Metallic leather sandals £330 Net A Porter

Bolongaro Trevor Hugo Boss Armani True Religion Scotch & Soda Mos Mosh J .Lindeberg Circle of gentlemen John White Matchless Rebecca Rhoades Religion Replay MA.Strum Versace Samsoe Day Birger Esemplare J Brand Circolo 1901

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Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Kajal Liner £17 House of Fraser Hair Couture Rose goldplated boar bristle brush & haircare set £140 Balmain Paris

Victoria Beckham Este Lauder Aura Gloss £30 Net-A-Porter

Smith and Cult The Shining Lip Lacquer £23 Selfridges

Nails inc Nail Polish in Snowflake £14 Selfridges

Glam p u e k a m

Our pick

Burberry Beauty Complete Eye Palette - Smokey Grey £40 John Lewis

Ellis Faas Festive Makeup Set £137 Net-A-Porter

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Jingle that jewellery

Complete that glamorous look for Christmas with a decorative shimmer

9ct Gold Swirl Bangles £550 Eaton & Jones

Stunning earrings made with cabochon rubies, Green enamel and diamonds £1900 Kaizen

Silver Twist Rings £195 Eaton & Jones

Ascot Sterling Silver & 18ct Rose Gold Vermeil Amulet Charm Cuff £180 Links of London

Necklace & Earrings set – sterling silver & CZ set. Earrings (£60.00) Necklace (£45.00) Kaizen

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mmmarvellous Christmas

Linea leaf jewellery £12 House of Fraser

Ascot Sterling Silver and Diamond Horse Shoe Earrings £180 Links of London

©Kaizen antiques and jewellery Emerald cut Green Tourmaline ring £1200 Kaizen Three Row Pearl Necklace £495 Kaizen

Oucrk pi

Naos Trio Star Earrings £22 Oliver Bonas

Journey 14-karat gold, emerald and sapphire earring £245 Jennie Kwon Designs

Silver Swirl Rings £135 Eaton & Jones

Silver Swirl Bangle £380 Eaton & Jones

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Nerf Nitro £49.99 Toys’R’Us

Anki Cozmo £199 Amazon

Pie face sky high £26.99 Argos

Gift ideas...

for kids

Tic tac toe £59.99 Wild and Wolf

Here’s our pick of this year’s top toys for your kids this Christmas

VTech Kidizoom £59.99 Amazon 40

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Little Tikes Princess Cozy Chariot £109.99 John Lewis

Cuckooland.com Neo Rocking Mammoth £129 John Lewis

Lego Boost Toolbox £169.99 Argos

Paw Patrol £69.99 Toys’R’Us

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Biscuit Wreath £18 Great gift company

. . . s a e d i t f i G

s t e p r fo

£9.99 Dobbies

£16.99 Dobbies

Bauble £5.99 Not on the Highstreet

Cat grooming Arch £17.95 House of Bath

Pet Step Storage £29.95 House of Bath

Chloé Pet Bed Available from www.oficinainglesa.com

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Welcome to our slice of Beartopia…

A unique gift shop, tea room & ice cream parlour in the heart of Tankerton We have Christmas all wrapped up for you here at the Bears with gifts for all ages, including the world famous Steiff collection, beautifully hand-crafted Charlie Bears, Suki Bears & a wide variety of teddy bears for all ages.

Let us transport you across the pond to a log cabin set in the heart of Yosemite national park. Larch clad walls, bare brick fireplaces, chandeliers formed from antlers where minor’s lamps subtly light this warm homely tea room and ice cream parlour, creating an outpost feel from the early 1900’s.

A visit to the Bears is an experience for all ages, come and paws for a moment and receive a big bear hug welcome… We are also dog friendly!

Opening times Monday CLOSED Tuesday - Saturday 9.30am - 4pm. Sunday 10am - 4pm

134 Tankerton Road CT5 2AN | Tel: 01227 264950 | www.thebearstradingcompany.co.uk mmmarvellous Christmas

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Advert

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Christmas tree

The perfect

5Ft Woodland PineTree £15 B&Q

CHRISTMAS AT JOHN LEWIS

John lewis have an amazing selection of treess this year, with countless ideas of how to decorate them. From modern minimalist white branches to full Alaskan spruce replicas, we’re sure there’s something for every taste.

Prices start £10.

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1.8m Frosted Vermont Christmas Tree £118 Lights4Fun

Price depending on size.

Pot Grown Christmas Trees Various Sizes Dobbies

Imperial Fir Christmas Tree £995 John Lewis

Oucrk pi

£5 The Contemporary Home

Don't forget the star on top...

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ŠNational Trust John Millar

Noel Sign £19.99 Dobbies

Santa sign £4 B&Q

Waiting For Santa Sack £7 Talking Tables

Cushion £20 The Contemporary Home

Deck the halls!

Happy Holidays Cushion, £34.95 Pignut

£8.99 Cotswold Trading

£5.99 Dobbies

£5.99 Dobbies

£3.99 M&S £9 Contemporary Home

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mmmarvellous Christmas

Happy Holidays Cushion £34.95 Pignut

£17.99 Cotswold Trading

Star tealight holder £6 John Lewis

£39.99 Lights4fun

£6 Contemporary Home £24.99 Dobbies

£7.50 Contemporary Home £4 Contemporary Home

Oucrk pi Stockings £12 Contemporary Home

Party Illuminations Deck The Halls Light Box Sign Talking Tables

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The Rustic Company Stunning summerhouses and garden furniture Built to be the heart of your garden

07946 135441 | 01622 299035

mail@therusticcompany.com | www.therusticcompany.com

Light up wreath £45 The Contemporary Home

e h t Deck tables

Reindeer pots £5 The Contemporary Home

Christmas Trees Patterned Porcelain Trio Nibbles Bowl £14 Sophie Allport

From £7 Sophie Allport

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mmmarvellous Christmas

Wreath £45 Dobbies

Gold Cone & Feather Wreath £45 The Contemporary Home

Reindeer Glasses £5.50 The Contemporary Home

Festive Cakestand £18 Lakeland

Woodland themed table setting Contemporary Home

Santa Plate, Tartan And Cocktail Napkins, Cracker, Cup, from £7 Talking Tables

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8 Luxury gold and black crackers £25 M&S

Character Christmas crackers £15 Paperchase

Chocolate table Cracker £5 Hotel Chocolat

Rather Large Cracker £36 Hotel Chocolat

Let's gcorackers!

Winter Palace Snowflake Christmas Crackers, Pack of 12 £20 John Lewis

Night before christmas Crackers £24 Laura Ashley

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Luxury Cracker for Dogs £3.50 each Annabel James

Planet Ice, Gillingham The South East’s premier ice rink!

Boasting a full-size ice pad with seating for over 1,000 people within the arena, in bright modern surroundings.

We’re also the home to one of the countries most successful ice hockey teams, the Invicta Dynamos!

• general public skating • figure skating • ice hockey Why not take advantage of one of our classes; parents and toddler, hockey excellence and our learn to skate 6-week course. Watch out for our event nights run on a regular basis, these include; Our resident Djs Friday night disco session, spectacular junior disco and guest DJs. We’re also extremely easy to get too, having fast and direct access from the M2“ just follow the brown tourist signs!

Open 7 days a week includin bank ho g lidays

Gillingham Business Park, Ambley Rd, Gillingham ME8 0PU Tel: 01634 388477 FREE car park at the front of our building

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HEMPSTEAD VALLEY

BOOK TODAY

NOTCUTTS

to make a d ate with Santa

Come and visit Santa in his own magical winter wonderland this year at Notcutts. Enjoy a special visit with Santa and a Christmas gift for all the boys and girls.

Check our events page for dates, times and prices at your centre and to book online. Our Grotto is very popular, so advance booking is recommended.

Our traditional Christmas Grotto is now open every day until Christmas Eve! Entrance to the grotto to visit Father Christmas costs £5 per child and includes a wrapped Christmas present.

Santa’s wishing well, will once again be raising money for the Medway branch of Guide Dogs. Children can expect a towering Christmas tree adorned with baubles and lights, plus animated penguins among the many enchanting grotto characters. Children can also hand deliver their letters for Santa and post them in our big red post box and collect their personalised reply back from the grotto elves. You must include a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you you would like your reply to be posted. £5 per child Saturday 18 Nov 2017 to Sunday 24 Dec 2017

. . . a t n a S t i s Vi POP UP !

EVENTS

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Santa has left the comfort of the North Pole and can be found at these special grottos around Kent WHITEFRIARS

A magical new festive family event, come along and join us!To avoid disappointment, book your Grotto Tickets now! Our Grotto is incredibly popular and we would advise you to book online in advance as there are no opportunities to book on the day!

Follow us on twitter @xmascanterbury and look out for the #secretsanta updates! This will inform our guests of the offers and fantastic spot prizes which we will be given to lucky customers throughout the market and surrounding stores every day!

The Official Opening of the Christmas Grotto will be on 3 December.

LEEDS CASTLE

Wander through the Christmas Market to an enchanted path leading to a magical grotto. Father Christmas will be waiting to greet you. Those who have been good, which of course you all are, will receive a traditional gift to take home.

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s e m i m o t n a P in Kent Here’s our guide to Kent’s family-friendly pantos... Oh yes it is!

ROBIN HOOD: SINDEN THEATRE

ALADDIN: ASSEMBLY HALL

Join us for Tenterden’s new star-studded panto! Robin Hood sees the wicked Sheriff ruling over the people and collecting taxes to pay for his own evil plans to take the English crown, whilst Nurse Mimi and Friar Tuck interrupt his plans with their hilarious antics. We need a hero - but will Robin Hood win the heart of Maid Marian rescue the babes and win the day?

Tickets from just £11, 01580 763826 or visit www.sindentheatre.com.

Let Tunbridge Wells take you on an amazing journey – the thrilling story of a boy, a lamp and a genie, Aladdin is one of the most popular pantomimes of all Audiences are promised a traditional show packed with comedy, slapstick, singing, dancing, beautiful costumes and plenty of audience participation!

Tickets from just £10.

Visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

CINDERELLA: ORCHARD THEATRE

You are invited to the biggest Royal Ball of the year as a sumptuous production of Cinderella comes to Dartford.

Starring Louie Spence as Dandini, Michelle Collins as The Wicked Stepmother, Jayne Wisener as Cinderella and Phil Butler as Buttons, don’t miss this year’s unmissable Christmas treat packed full of laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning special effects, beautiful costumes and plenty to boo and hiss at.

With over 30,000 theatregoers attending pantomime at The Orchard Theatre each festive season it’s never too early to book!

Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients we know you expect, Cinderella will feature laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Join Cinders as she goes from rags-to-riches, outwits her very ugly sisters and meets her dashing Prince Charming. Expect pumpkins and mice, carriages and horses, glitz, glamour, beautiful dresses, comedy and a glass slipper!

The clock is ticking, so book your tickets now for the Greatest Pantomime of them all!

With generous discounts for groups, concessions and special rates for schools available for selected performances, book your seats today. From £15, 01322 220000 or visit www. orchardtheatre.co.uk

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Oucrk pi

CINDERELLA: LEAS CLIFF HALL

The classic tale of Buttons and beaus comes to Folkestone’s fabulous venue this Christmas courtesy of CT Productions. As the daughter of Baron Hardup, poor Cinders suffers greatly at the hands of her hideous Wicked Stepmother and two Ugly Sisters, even though her natural beauty should knock anyone for six. Her friend Buttons sees her through, until suddenly a handsome prince, a glass slipper, a magical ball and a glittering coach and horses that threatens to turn into a pumpkin pulled by mice at midnight changes her life Director: Bob Osborne : Neil Hunnisett Chloe Scott forever.

It’s the dream| Producer we all love (Oh yes we| Choreographer: do!)

13-30 December To book, call 0844 871 3035 or& visit CT Productions The Leas Cliff HALL www.atgtickets.com/shows/cinderella/leas-cliff-hall

Invite you to the ball

PETER PAN: MARLOWE THEATRE

Don’t miss Canterbury’s fun-filled, family pantomime, Peter Pan, starring Shaun Williamson (EastEnders and Extras), Wendi Peters (Coronation Street), children’s favourites Gemma Hunt (CBeebies’ Swashbuckle), David Ribi (Channel 5’s Milkshake) and Samantha Dorrance (CBeebies’ The Tale Of Mr Tumble). The show will also feature the hilarious Marlowe favourites Ben Roddy and Lloyd Hollett.

With lots of audience participation and spectacular special effects, this promises to be our biggest and funniest pantomime ever. The croc is ticking so hook your tickets now!

01227 787787 or visit www.marlowetheatre.com

WED 13TH - SAT 30TH DEC 2017

(RELAXED PERFORMANCE WILL BE SUNDAY 17TH DECEMBER 2PM)

FAMILY TICKET FROM £48.00 (4 PEOPLE) ADULT TICKET FROM £14.15 CHILD TICKET FROM £12.15 WWW.ATGTICKETS.COM/FOLKESTONE

LEAS CLIFF HALL HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

web: folkestonepanto.com | Box Office: 0844 871 3035

SNOW WHITE: CHURCHILL THEATRE

Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, don’t miss the fairest pantomime of them all!

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be spectacularly brought to life in Bromley with comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning scenery.

Star of stage and screen Jessie

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Wallace will be joined by comedian and magician Pete Firman as Muddles and hilarious panto dame Jason Sutton as Nurse Nancy.

Throw in a magical Mirror, a beautiful princess, a handsome prince and plenty of audience participation as we outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages.

2-31 December Visit www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

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Visit the

s t e k r a m s a m t s Chri A trip across The Channel to the European markets is always fun, and some of the best are in central Europe

AMBIENCE AND ALE

This festive trip takes you to a variety of Christmas markets across central Europe.

Prepare for the excitement of the season and indulge the senses by exploring and contrasting the various traditions, cuisines, and of course mulled wine, in several amazing cities.

Feel the bustling energy of Munich’s charismatic Christmas markets, savour the smell of spicy festive delights in Salzburg, see the inspirational sights of vibrant Vienna and take a therapeutic soak in the thermal baths of Budapest.

Meander from stall to stall discovering new sights, sounds, flavours and fashions on one shopping trip you will never forget!

Munich’s Christmas markets are probably the most famous of them all. Authentic Bavarian food, ale and music make this an unforgettable Yuletide experience.

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Jolly Budapest really embraces the Christmas spirit. Take a walk through the streets to find every street, tree and market lit up in lights.

Vienna’s Christmas markets are as ornamental as its architecture. Austria’s capital provides a spectacular seasonal shopping affair, with lots of hand-crafted toys, candles and paintings on offer. Where better to pick up those last-minute gifts?

TOTAL DURATION: 8 days GROUP SIZE: Min 1 max 12 TOUR ITINERARY: Start: Munich End: Budapest COUNTRIES VISITED: Austria, Germany, Hungary PRICES: Start from £1,095 VALID: Until 31 December 2017 Prices on land only basis. Packages with flights, car hire or transfers also available www.baldwinstravel.co.uk

01732 865224

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s a m t s i r h C 's t Ken markets If Europe is a tad too far to shop for your stocking fillers, here are some of the best Christmas Markets on your doorstep ROCHESTER

Take a step back in time to a Victorian Christmas to meet some of Dickens’ heroes and villains at the Dickensian Christmas Festival.

Market visitors will enjoy a selection of festive foods, including mulled wine, hot chocolate with Baileys and roasted chestnuts as they browse the stalls for gift ideas and unusual stocking fillers in the historic and picturesque Rochester Castle gardens, overlooked by Rochester’s 12th-century Norman Keep.

Thrill to a magical festive atmosphere with live music as you explore the luxury gifts, Bavarian Village and Craft Fair.

There will also be tasty treats from local producers.

25 November-10 December www.visitmedway.org

LEEDS CASTLE

Visit the Christmas Market on the Cedar Lawn overlooking the castle to discover a splendid array of seasonal gifts, toys, festive decorations, specialist food and drink. Children and adults alike will be enchanted by the reindeer and birds of prey, while traditional funfair rides and live music keep everyone entertained.

25-26 November, 2-3 December, 9-10 December, 16-17 December 2017 Leeds CastleMaidstone ME17 1PL www.leeds-castle.com

CANTERBURY

This year, Whitefriars Christmas Market has been designed for a truly memorable shopping experience with more than 50 cabins offering festive products from a mix of local, national and international traders, and with a continental flavour.

The market is owned and managed

by Kentish company Noah and the Shed who, along with Whitefriars Management, have a mission to support local stores and bring visitors to the traditional high street. They also know how important family events can be at

Christmas. Meeting over mulled wine, enjoying locally-produced cuisine, or buying that perfect one-of-a-kind gift for someone special at this wonderful Christmas market is priceless!

The market will open every day for visitors. Along with the festive gifts on offer you will find gorgeous hearty speciality food and drink ranging from traditional Bratwurst, Mulled Wine and Hot Toddies.

25 November-24 December 2017 Gravel Walk, Canterbury CT1 2TF www.whitefriars-canterbury.co.uk

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TENTERDEN

Enjoy more than 60 Christmas stalls showcasing handmade festive gifts, local food & drink, music and grotto – all positioned along our historic high street. Buy local, get festive, welcome to Tenterden Christmas Market.

24 November 2017 12noon-9pm and 25 November 2017 10am-8pm Tenterden High Street ENTRY: Free For event and parking details visit: www.facebook.com/christmasintenterden @xmasintenterden

FAVERSHAM

Shop, eat and sing at Brogdale this Christmas. Enjoy a mince pie and a festive tipple whilst browsing locally-made gifts for all from the local produce market.

Brogdale Collections is the home of the National Fruit Collection. Set in over 150 acres of farmland, it has more than 4,000 varieties of fruit trees from apples, pears, quinces and plums to cherries and more. The orchards are a living history and heritage of fruit, and the Brogdale charity works to provide access and education about the collection to the public.

3 December Brogdale Collections, Brogdale Road, Faversham ME13 8XZ ENTRY: Free www.brogdalecollections.org/festivals-events

e f i l r u o y p Light u

If you’d like to visit an entertaining festival, too, then visit Walmer Castle for a truly enchanting experience

WALMER CASTLE AND GARDENS, DEAL ENCHANTED LANTERN FESTIVAL

Step into Walmer’s award-winning gardens this festive season and literally experience them in a whole new light. The Enchanted Lantern Festival will let you see them in the magical atmosphere of evening time at Christmas.

A serene and enchanting show of lantern light will beguile your senses and immerse you in the atmosphere of this precious time of year.

After enjoying the enchanted trail, handcraft your very own lantern, adding your own touch to the magic by making it a part of the display.

Finish the evening off with a warming mug of hot chocolate in the castle.

15-18 December, 5pm-8pm Adult £6; Child £3 Non-members: Adult £11; Child 5-15 years £8 Call 0370 333 1183 (Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm; Sat 9am-5pm).

Kingsdown Road, Deal, Kent, CT14 7LJ www.english-heritage.org.uk 70

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s a T m t s i r h C 0 1 T op After all the hearty parties, Christmas is the time to curl up with your nearest and dearest to treat yourselves to some of the best TV shows of the year. Here is our choice of the top 10 to look out for…

DOCTOR WHO: TWICE UPON A CHRISTMAS, BBC ONE

The universe is set to be rocked by the first female Doctor (Broadchurch star Jodie Whittaker), who will hopefully bring a feminine touch to The Tardis. And we’ll be saying a very sad farewell to Peter Capaldi, as he finally loses the battle to stop his regeneration. The surprise reincarnation of the series’ first time-traveller will be back in the shape of David Bradley, and Victoria’s Jenna Coleman may pop up as former assistant Clara, too. What will your verdict on the new Doctor be?

VICTORIA, ITV

The regal tale returns with a Christmas special showing Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and the children playing in the snow. But you can be sure there will be a lot more drama than that! Albert famously loved the winter festival, and boosted the idea of having Christmas trees. It’s said his children had one each! Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes are perfect in the starring roles, and rumours of a real-life romance between the pair has added to the intrigue.

MARY, MEL AND SUE’S SURPRISE PARTY, BBC ONE

Hurrah! Here’s one party you’ll definitely want to break out your Christmas hat for, as The Great British Bake Off’s Mary Berry, Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc reunite for a very good Christmas dinner – to help a very good community cause.

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THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF, CHANNEL 4 Rumour has it we are to feast on two Christmas specials this year, after Channel 4 rocked the TV world, and baking fans everywhere, by poaching the hit cookery show from the BBC’s tent. With Paul Hollywood, Prue Leith, Noel Fielding and Sandi Toksvig in the hot seats, make sure you are oven ready!

T V shows

Also rumoured…

The scheduling was not confirmed as we went to press, but keep an eye open for the return of Rowan Atkinson’s Maigret on ITV and new big-name productions of Agatha Christie’s Ordeal by Innocence (starring Bill Nighy and Poldark’s Eleanor Tomlinson) and Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women (starring Apple Tree Yard’s Emily Watson, Michael Gambon and Angela Lansbury) on BBC One.

CALL THE MIDWIFE, BBC ONE

The Christmas specials of this fabulous, hugely emotional period drama have become an unmissable tradition in themselves. We now reach the 1960s and the worst winter freeze for 300 years, which is sure to threaten the lives of the poor in Poplar and their babies. Prepare for more tears than usual as we lose three of the cast favourites (Patsy, Delia and nun Cynthia). On a cheerier note, we welcome new nurse Lucille (Leonie Elliott) and former EastEnder Anita Dobson guest stars.

THE JOHN LEWIS CHRISTMAS ADVERT, ITV

The department store’s eye-watering ad has become another big Christmas tradition, launching the season in November. Once again, it is sure to tug on the heart strings, with this year’s magical mini-tale said to be focused around a cuddly creature that is ‘a cross between The Gruffalo and a huge cute teddy bear’. Our tissues are out already!

STRICTLY COME DANCING CHRISTMAS SPECIAL, BBC ONE Always a dazzling twirl, we look forward to seeing this year’s theme and this year’s Christmas Champion.

THE HIGHWAY RAT, BBC ONE An animated treat for the youngsters, voiced by David Tennant (though whether in his Scottish or English voice, we are not sure!) Based on the bestselling children’s book, it tells of a rat bandit with a huge appetite for chocolate, biscuits and buns. We are with him there!

THE QUEEN, BBC ONE AND ITV FRENCH AND SAUNDERS, BBC ONE

The funny girls reunite for the first time in 10 years, with TV shocker The Handmaid’s Tale among their parodies. ‘We had fun with some of the costumes’ they told the Mirror. The mind boggles!

Last but never least, and always a winner in the Christmas ratings, we look forward to Her Majesty once more delivering an uplifting message for her nations in the year that marked the suitably glittering Sapphire Jubilee of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch after 65 years on the throne.

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