Elite Magazine Spring/Summer 2024

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Greetings from Elite

Presenting the fourth issue of Elite Magazine, a window into the unique experiences curated by our hotels of distinction

As I welcome you to the latest issue of Elite Magazine, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the positive feedback we continue to receive on this publication. Designed with you in mind to provide an interesting and informative read during your moments of peace and quiet, it’s always nice know we are hitting our brief. I’m sure this issue will be just as warmly received as the previous three.

On the subject of feedback, we recently embarked on our largest customer sentiment survey to date, receiving nearly 1,000 responses (thank you to everyone who participated). The results of this exercise gave us a fascinating insight into our guests’ interests, plans for the year ahead, perception of Elite Hotels and what our future focus should be – with dining options, technology and sustainability the hot topics! We have already begun using this valuable information to inform future decision-making and hope to repeat the process in the years to come.

Within this issue, we revisit our friends at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, as we proudly announce them as our charity partner for 2024, following on from working together through our charitable arm, The Rotherwick Foundation.

As well as the sterling work discussed within the article, our hotel teams took part in the epic '28 day challenge', raising over £4,000 in the process. The team at The Grand Hotel embarked on a 28km sponsored walk from

Lewes to Eastbourne, navigating path closures, floods and driving rain; Ashdown Park hosted a ‘Country Club Challenge’, with sides competing against each other at clay pigeon shooting, table tennis, quad biking and plenty more besides; while the Tylney team took part in a sponsored bike ride, with an exercise bike positioned in reception and individuals taking it in turns to do their bit. I would like to take this opportunity to convey my personal thanks to all who contributed to these successful fundraising events, whether through taking part or making a personal donation. I am certain that this support will make a huge difference to the tremendous work undertaken by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

As 2023 came to a close, so too did significant refurbishment projects at The Grand Hotel. The Garden Restaurant enjoyed a complete makeover, with bold, new carpet and wall designs resulting in a lighter, more contemporary feel. The unique loungestyle dining space that runs parallel to the Garden Restaurant and benefits from delightful views across the seafront enjoyed similar attention and a new name, henceforth being known as The Colonnade. At Ashdown Park, the Anderida Restaurant has undergone a similar refurbishment with a bright new feel, although the stunning views across the Ashdown Forest remain the same! Finally, I wish you a pleasant stay and hope you enjoy reading this issue of Elite Magazine.

Graeme Bateman FIH MI FIoD Managing Director, Elite Hotels

We are Elite Hotels

From country house opulence to five-star seafront grandeur, Elite’s bespoke collection welcomes you to a world of fine hospitality

ASHDOWN PARK HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB

EAST SUSSEX

The delightful and historic Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club shares its home with Winnie the Pooh, whose wonderful tales were woven right here in Ashdown Forest. Sitting proudly in 186 acres of countryside, the hotel offers 106 bedrooms and suites, elegant lounges and award-winning dining, as well as outstanding leisure facilities in the self-contained Country Club, including a pool, gymnasium, spa treatment rooms, outdoor tennis courts and an 18-hole par-3 golf course. The stunning converted chapel also makes it a magical destination for your wedding, civil partnership or blessing.

T: 01342 824988

E: enquiries@ashdownpark.com

W: ashdownpark.com

THE GRAND HOTEL

EASTBOURNE

Savour stunning views of the sea and the dramatic cliffs of Beachy Head from the only 5-star coastal hotel in the south east. The Grand Hotel, affectionately known as The White Palace, stands majestically along the Eastbourne seafront, its grandeur typified by the breathtaking Great Hall, 152 bedrooms and suites and two award-winning restaurants, as well as 17 private dining and meeting rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, spa treatments and a gym. The Grand’s unique blend of architectural splendour and hospitable charm make it both a favourite with families and an impressive and popular wedding venue.

T: 01323 412345

E: enquiries@grandeastbourne.com

W: grandeastbourne.com

TYLNEY HALL HOTEL & GARDENS

HAMPSHIRE

Nestled within 66 acres of romantic countryside, Tylney Hall is a haven of beauty, from its surrounding tree-lined vista, lake and gardens to the period features accentuating its palatial interior. Luxury and style greet you throughout this Grade II-listed building, which features 112 bedrooms and suites – some of which contain four-poster beds and spa baths –indoor and outdoor pools, gymnasium and spa treatment rooms. Located in the small town of Hook, Tylney Hall offers unrivalled service combined with an old-world sense of charm, which not only makes every stay an indulgence, but also creates a truly impressive venue for the perfect wedding.

T: 01256 764881

E: enquiries@tylneyhall.com

W: tylneyhall.co.uk

A wonderful season of events

An exciting line-up of fine food, sport, flying, nostalgia and music, all cocooned in our exquisite hospitality, awaits you at Elite Hotels

ANYONE FOR TENNIS?

WHAT: TENNIS-THEMED AFTERNOON TEA WHERE: THE GRAND EASTBOURNE WHEN: 24 JUNE-7 JULY

If tennis is your thing, then you’ll know all about Eastbourne. One of the world’s leading tournaments, the Rothesay International, happens each summer in Devonshire Park, just a five-minute walk from The Grand. As strawberries and cream, perhaps with a glass of champagne, goes hand-in-hand with tennis on the lawn in an English summer, The Grand is holding a tennisthemed afternoon tea on each day of this year’s tournament, served from 2pm-6pm in the Great Hall and lounges.

ASHDOWN PARK

THE GRAND

TYLNEY HALL

22 APRIL – TYLNEY HALL

Beyond the ropes: an insider’s guide to writers’ houses

A ladies’ lunch with Lizzie Dunford, director of Jane Austen’s House

10 MAY – ASHDOWN PARK

An evening of fine food and wine with Bluebell Vineyard Estates

Includes 3-course dinner and wine pairing

10 JUNE – TYLNEY HALL

Calligraphy Workshop

Includes workshop activity and a 2-course lunch

MAMMA MIA!

WHAT ABBA IN THE PARK

WHERE ASHDOWN PARK

WHEN 26 AUGUST

“Monday night and the lights are low…” Spend August Bank Holiday in the grounds of Ashdown Park, enjoying food, drink, and the sound of Abba hits being belted out by our sensational Abba tribute band.

THE ELITE SEASON

12 JUNE – THE GRAND

Mirabelle Best of Sussex Dinner Featuring Bolney Wine Estate

7 JULY – ASHDOWN PARK

Forest bathing and Sunday lunch

Includes our special forest bathing experience followed by 2-course lunch

20 JULY – THE GRAND

Jazz on the terrace

Summer barbecue served every Saturday to 31 August on the Chatsworth Terrace

29 JULY – THE GRAND

Wartime themed ladies luncheon

Featuring a ‘wartime’ menu and talk by historian Sandy Boyce-Sharpe

19 AUGUST – TYLNEY HALL

Fused glass craft workshop

Includes craft activity and 2-course lunch

21 SEPT – ASHDOWN PARK

Phantom of the Opera Gala Dinner

3-course dinner plus live music and entertainment in the former Chapel.

THE MAGIC GARDENS

WHAT: GUIDED GARDEN TOUR & AFTERNOON TEA

WHERE: TYLNEY HALL

WHEN: 21-25 MAY, 12-16 AUG

A midweek opportunity to explore Tylney Hall’s fabulous 66-acre estate, originally designed by the legendary Gertrude Jekyll and lovingly restored over recent decades. The tour, which will introduce you to the many different gardens and features within the estate, includes afternoon tea and a plant gift to take away.

Take a step inside

Enjoy a ‘virtual stay’ by taking a 3D tour of all our hotels

For the first time ever, we invite you to take a step inside our beautiful properties from the comfort of your own home.

At the start of this year we commissioned a video team to capture 3D tours of each of our hotels, primarily to showcase some of the amazing spaces we have available for private events, celebrations and meetings. But we couldn’t let the opportunity pass without capturing some of the more recognisable areas such as entrances, receptions, lounges and restaurants!

So please feel free to have a snoop and take a trip down memory lane or start planning your next visit!

elitehotels.co.uk/our-venues

GOING THE EXTRA MILE

CELEBRATING OUR COLLEAGUES WHO MAKE ELITE WHAT IT IS

It’s our people who make the difference. The guest experience is defined by the way you are treated and looked after, and our hotels are only as good as the people who work in them. So we were delighted to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions made by colleagues over the past year, at recent staff parties held

at each of our three hotels. Each hotel chose an employee of the year and a team of the year.

Winners were Dylan Jones (above left), for his significant contribution to the Conference & Banqueting department at Ashdown Park, Lou O’Kill (above right), for fantastic work on maintenance projects at

LICENCE TO GRILL

A NEW MENU OPTION AT THE GRAND

As part of a company-wide approach, The Grand Hotel is the first to introduce a ‘grill style’ menu, in its Garden Restaurant. The new menu will cover both lunch and dinner periods and has been introduced following extensive research into consumer trends and expectations. The thoughtfully prepared menu retains The Grand’s approach to fine food using the best local ingredients wherever possible, and includes classics such as roast of the day, stone-baked pizza, lobster thermidor and shepherd’s pie.

The new menu coincides with a fresh look for the Garden Restaurant following a full refurbishment programme completed in December 2023.

The Grand, and Sasha Mikheiev (centre), for wonderful service in the Lounge & Bars department at Tylney Hall. Team winners were Finance (APH), Housekeeping (TGH) and Reservations (THH). A big shout also to Kevin Ramalingam, for being named Leader of the Year at APH and Jason Hill for achieving the same at TGH.

A taste for summer

For the foodies among you, here is a sample of the summer food festivals for 2024 to whet your appetite for some family fun

When summer is hot on our heels, something else that also heats up is the taste for a good festival. And with a melting pot of culinary experiences in the south of England regions surrounding Elite’s hotels, it’s

hard to not start feeling hungry for all the entertaining events on the menu. From pie and mash being quintessential among Londoners and seafood being a staple along the coast, to smoke, spice and all things vegan, for starters here is just a taster of what’s cooking…

FOODIES FESTIVAL, BRIGHTON

4-6 MAY

Brighton’s 2024 Foodies Festival is its biggest celebration yet – serving a lineup of top chefs, tasty food, delicious drinks and live music. Watch MasterChef Champions, Michelin-starred experts, and top local chefs cook their signature summer recipes in the Chefs Theatre. Younger members of the family can also join in the fun in the Kids Cookery Theatre. There are plenty of opportunities to sample new dishes with delicious street food from around the world; try unusual flavours, meet artisan producers and have all-day fun with food challenges. Learn how to make showstopping cakes in the Cake & Bake Theatre, with expert bakers such as the Great British Bake Off’s Jürgen Krauss. Then wash it all down in the Drinks Theatre, where you can try new wines, champagnes and cocktails, before topping it off by dancing along to live music from the likes of Sister Sledge, and Scouting For Girls.

New for this year’s event is the Cook School, where you can get hands on in an authentic Thai green curry masterclass with celebrity chef Nigel Brown. foodiesfestival.com

The Grand 22 miles

Ashdown Park 24 miles

CHEESE & CHILLI FESTIVAL, WINCHESTER

1-2 JUNE

At the UK’s only show celebrating both cheese and chilli in a festival setting, the Winchester location is already hotly anticipated – with many un-brie-lievable acts at this year’s event. On the food front, there’s a Cooking Theatre – hosted by the famous Chilli Olly and Chilli Dave – a Chilli Eating Competition and Chilli Challenge, a range of chilli and cheeses to sample and a Taste Tent to vote for your favourite sauces from the traders. A variety of live music will also surround the event, from several bands to sax player Walk About Wendy and Battle of the Choirs, as well as entertainment in the form of Jez Avery Stunts, stilt walkers, crazy golf and lots for the little ones! cheeseandchillifestival.com

PUB IN THE PARK, REIGATE

12-14 JULY

This year, there are new chefs, dishes and drinks, and new artists, areas and experiences. The brainchild of Tom Kerridge, this is the UK’s biggest food and music festival celebrating everything there is to love about the glorious British pub. Described by SquareMeal as ‘the culinary version of Glastonbury’, it offers delicious food and drink, marvellous live music and fun and frolics with friends and family. pubintheparkuk.com

The Grand 53 miles Ashdown Park 20 miles

Tylney Hall 25 miles

LYMINGTON SEAFOOD FESTIVAL, HAMPSHIRE

12-14 JULY

This year’s Lymington Festival has gone sea-riously foodie! You can expect a Chefs Cooking Stage showcasing the region’s best, the launch of a Cookery School, where adults and children can book culinary experiences, BBQ smoking and asado fire cooking masterclasses. There are over 80 stalls serving top-ofthe-bill food. Also on land will be live music including The Fleetwood Mac Experience and Fat Cat Soul Band, as well as numerous artisan shopping options and drinks bars. With each year’s event supporting a selected charity, for 2024 the chosen cause is the local RNLI. lymingtonseafoodfestival.co.uk

SMOKE & FIRE FESTIVAL, ASCOT RACECOURSE

20-21 JULY

The UK’s largest BBQ and cooking festival is back, bringing an unforgettable summer food festival experience to Ascot Racecourse, blending gourmet barbecue flavours from the Mississippi Delta and Deep South with live music and family entertainment. Savour delectable delights from award-winning street food vendors, pop-up restaurants and a banquet offering. There are also food challenges for the more adventurous, such as hot wing eating and a mini real ale and cider festival. Once your appetite has been suitably satiated, indulge yourself in a bit of shopping, discovering unique finds at the Artisan Pavilion. Younger members of the family have also not been forgotten, with rides, workshops and a bucking rodeo bull contest. Not to mention, of course, wonderful live music to enjoy throughout the weekend! smokeandfirefestival.com

Tylney Hall 21 miles

Tylney Hall 55 miles

NEW FOREST FOOD FESTIVAL, HINTON ADMIRAL, HAMPSHIRE

17-18 AUGUST

The first ever New Forest Food Festival is set to be a fun-filled and delicious summer weekend – rich in local produce and bringing together internationally renowned chefs and restaurants, artisan foodies and makers, unique skills and intricate crafts. newforestfoodfestival.co.uk

BRISTOL VEGAN FAYRE 2024, ST JUDE’S

24 AUGUST

Further afield and for one-day only, the Bristol Vegan Fayre is absolutely jam-packed with food experts and experiences. There are around 80 stalls and a long line-up of live acts – including comedians and DJs, talks panels, presentations and workshops and an art exhibition. Of course, food is also on the menu – with eight vegan street food caterers and vegans making up around 70 per cent of visitors. This show brings a wealth of vegan products, information and inspiration from local vegan traders along with fantastic independents from all across the UK, as well as a large gathering of campaigners and activists introducing ways to show support for animals and the environment in the local area. vegfest.co.uk

Tylney Hall 58 miles

Tylney Hall 80 miles

HIGH-FLYING FARNBOROUGH

The world’s leading airshow returns this summer, a stone’s throw from Tylney Hall

Look to the skies over Hampshire this summer and you may catch a glimpse of something supersonic. Aircraft of all shapes and sizes will be winging their way to Farnborough International Airshow, and for one day only, members of the public will be able to attend this exclusive aviation-industry event.

From its beginnings as a showcase for post-war British manufacturing in 1948, Farnborough International Airshow has become a must-attend event for leaders in aviation and aerospace. The five-day show attracts thousands of delegates who wish to find out more and explore career opportunities.

Taking place on Friday 26 July, Pioneers of Tomorrow will feature plenty of high-flying action, with everything from fast jets to commercial airliners showing audiences what they can do. This exhilarating display will be accompanied by a live commentary.

Guests can then get up close to some of aviation’s most powerful machines on the ground, with engineers, pilots and aerospace pioneers on hand to

“FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW HAS BECOME A MUST-ATTEND EVENT FOR LEADERS IN AVIATION AND AEROSPACE”

answer questions. There will be handson activities and inspirational speakers and even career workshops, should visitors wish to find out more.

Many aircraft have made their debut at Farnborough, including jet airliner Vickers VC10, supersonic Concorde, the twin-engine Eurofighter Jet and the world’s largest airliner, Airbus A380.

Gareth Rogers, CEO of Farnborough International, said: “The Farnborough International Airshow is more than a five-day, biennial event – it’s a change agent, powering excellence and innovation across the global aerospace and defence industries.

“The interest from global businesses to exhibit and attend the airshow has been phenomenal, and reflects the incredible demand there is from leaders to showcase their technology at our inimitable platform and revolutionise the next era of the industry. I look forward to welcoming the world’s

biggest, best and brightest to Farnborough in July this year.”

Farnborough International Airshow and its sister show Farnborough International Space Show (19-20 March 2025) form one of the world’s most famous aeronautic brands. Says Gareth, “The year 2025 presents a unique opportunity for the international space sector to convene here in Farnborough, building on our 75-year legacy as organisers of the world’s best airshow.”

THROUGH THE YEARS AT FARNBOROUGH

1948: The inaugural airshow took place with 66 British aircraft.

1950: The enormous transatlantic airliner Bristol Brabazon flew to Farnborough.

1952: The Avro Vulcan high-altitude bomber made its debut.

1958: The Fairey Rotodyne was the star attraction and the RAF’s Black Arrows did a record 22-aircraft formation loop.

1962: The Hawker P1127, a precursor to the Harrier jump jet, took off vertically.

1966: The Red Arrows RAF display team made their Farnborough debut.

1970: Concorde took to the skies at Farnborough after a year’s flight testing.

1974: Visitors were wowed by spy plane Lockheed SR-71, aka ‘Blackbird’.

1982: The European Airbus A310 and American Boeing 767 vied for attention.

1988: The Soviet Union brought the 69m-long Antonov An-124 military transport plane and two MiG-29 fighters.

1996: The twin-engine, supersonic Eurofighter showed off its versatility.

2006: Crowds enjoyed a debut flypast by the double-deck Airbus A380.

2016: Visitors saw the Lockheed Martin F-25 Lightning II stealth combat aircraft.

2018: The MoD unveiled sixthgeneration fighter aircraft, Tempest.

2022: The show hosted a live link to the International Space Station to chat to ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti.

FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE CENTRE IS JUST OFF THE A325, ACCESSIBLE FROM THE M3 (J4) AND A31. PARKING IS FREE. EMAIL: ENQUIRIES@FARNBOROUGH.COM

Paws for a Cause

Elite Hotels is proud to present Hearing Dogs for Deaf People as its chosen charity partner of 2024

Renowned for its transformative work in training assistance dogs to provide vital support to those with hearing impairments, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People aligns seamlessly with Elite Hotels’ values of inclusivity and community wellbeing.

Highlighting their shared vision for a more accessible and compassionate world, this collaboration symbolises a harmonious blend of hospitality and heartfelt social responsibility.

“With a longstanding dedication to philanthropy, we are pleased to introduce this auspicious partnership,” says Graeme Bateman, managing director at Elite Hotels. “We are committed to fostering engagement among our esteemed staff and valued guests in support of the

commendable initiatives undertaken by this remarkable charity.”

With in-hotel staff training having taken place, and through a series of fundraising events, together Elite Hotels and Hearing Dogs are embarking on a journey to create lasting, meaningful change.

One such event that has already transpired is Hearing Dogs’ Big Feb Fundraiser – The 28 Challenge. This involved taking on a fun challenge of your choosing, centred around the number 28. Some of the activities that challengers adopted included 28 days of hula hooping, baking 28 different flavours of pasty and 28 days of crochet. When £28 or more was raised, fundraisers were entered into a prize draw to win a fabulous two-night bed and breakfast stay for two adults at an

ELITE HOTELS

Elite Hotel of their choice. Those who raised £50 or more also received an exclusive Hearing Dogs T-shirt. Another fundraising activity with legs is The Great British Dog Walk 2024, happening between March and early July at 13 locations across the UK –including stately homes and country parks, showcasing the best of British scenery. You can use the Hearing Dogs website to find your nearest one. The sponsor money raised will help to create more amazing Hearing Dogs partnerships, and when you sign up, you will receive a free Hearing Dogs dog bandana, a fun activity pack to take on your walk and a downloadable certificate. So whether it’s with a big group alongside other walkers or with your friends and family, when it’s time for walkies with your furry friends, why not walk your way to help change the lives of deaf adults and children.

From paws on the ground to the chance to win a paw-dropping £10,000! By playing the Hearing Dogs Weekly Lottery from just £1, you can help to provide life-changing hearing dogs and other services for people with hearing loss – so every time you play, you help deaf people leave loneliness

behind. One instance where you won’t be lonely is when you book a Paws for a Cause package at an Elite Hotel – as you can share the indulgence with your best furry friends. Bringing you an unforgettable experience – complete with a delectable dinner, followed by a restful night’s sleep in a luxury bed before you wake up to a sumptuous breakfast – what makes this package truly special is the commitment to making a paw-sitive impact. With each Paws for a Cause reservation, Elite Hotels will not only match your £5 package donation but double it to £10 per reservation – totalling a £15 donation per booking. This means your stay not only promises culinary delights and unparalleled comfort, but also plays a part in supporting the training of assistance puppies, providing vital help to those with hearing impairments. With the award-winning and gourmet eatery options available at all hotels,

a dog’s dinner is the furthest thing from how any Elite dining experience would be described. Except for maybe when it’s for a do-good reason – such as when the donation from your invisible doggy-themed side dish of paw-tatoes contributes towards a full month’s supply of training treats for a Hearing Dog. So, although the delight may be invisible, the impact is very palpable.

Head of communications and engagement at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, David Robson, says, “By raising money, donating or actively participating in the great fundraising initiatives Elite has created, guests and employees will be helping to train more life-changing hearing dogs who will help deaf people leave loneliness behind and reconnect with life. So Elite Hotels’ support of Hearing Dogs will make a huge difference to the lives of deaf children and adults across the UK.”

VISIT THE HAMPSHIRE COTTAGE WHERE JANE AUSTEN LIVED AND WROTE HER GLOBALLY BELOVED NOVELS

TICKETS LAST FOR ONE YEAR!

A LOVE SUPREME

Music lovers are in for a treat as East Sussex hosts

Europe’s largest outdoor jazz-funk festival

Heralded as “The most spectacular jazz festival in the country” by The Sunday Telegraph, Love Supreme is packed with stars from the worlds of jazz, soul, funk, R&B and pop.

Now in its 11th year, the three-day festival at Glynde Place in East Sussex is a must-visit for fans of both contemporary creators and long-standing legends.

Since its launch in 2013, Love Supreme has hosted artists such as Herbie Hancock, George Benson, Ms Lauryn

Hill, Jamie Cullum, Earth, Wind and Fire, Grace Jones, Gladys Knight, Elvis Costello, Van Morrison and many more.

This year, from Friday 5 July to Sunday 7 July, international legends will perform alongside up-and-coming artists across five stages.

Ten-times Grammy-winner and ‘Queen of Funk’ Chaka Khan will headline on the Sunday night in celebration of 50 years in music.

US legends Kool & The Gang will perform in their own inimitable style, with sing-along hit singles such as

Ladies Night, Celebration, Jungle Boogie and Get Down On It

Brazilian pianist, composer and bandleader, Sergio Mendes, will bring Latin sunshine to the stage while British stars Joss Stone and Mahalia provide powerful and emotive sets.

Love Supreme Jazz Festival’s Programming Director Barney Dufton says: “The way that jazz, funk, soul and R&B are able to be both contemporary yet classic means that any person – from a teenager going to their first festival to the long-time fans who’ve been seeing live music for decades – will find something on the bill that resonates with them. The festival has a unique, unifying atmosphere that you can’t find anywhere else.”

Other highlights this year include US psychedelic soul band Black Pumas, trailblazing husband and wife vocal duo The War & Treaty, Grammywinning blues sensation Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram and Australian soul singer Jordan Rakei.

Contemporary jazz acts include Cécile McLorin Salvant, Meshell Ndegeocello, Fergus McCreadie, Hiromi’s Sonicwonder, Johnathan Blake,

“THE WAY THAT JAZZ, FUNK, SOUL AND R&B ARE ABLE TO BE BOTH CONTEMPORARY YET CLASSIC MEANS THAT ANY PERSON WILL FIND SOMETHING ON THE BILL THAT RESONATES WITH THEM”

Christian McBride and Billy Cobham. Bands & Voices showcases spoken word, dance and cabaret. Expect the unexpected in this eclectic space – from breakdancing poetry to reggae aerobics. Enjoy the best of local and emerging talent with Arts Council-supported project New Generation Jazz, late-night gigs with Jazz in the Round and DJs at Blue in Green.

There’s plenty to do in between performances – visitors can sample some street food, drop into Rough Trade

for vinyl and CDs and get them signed by artists or even enjoy a relaxing massage. There’s live artist interviews, panels, film screenings and album playbacks plus an exciting kids area for younger visitors.

Love Supreme is now Europe’s largest outdoor jazz festival and it’s easy to see why. The stellar line-up of acts coupled with the scenery of the beautiful South Downs makes for the perfect combination of sunshine, cool summer breezes and world-class sounds.

CHAKA KHAN

Chaka Khan is an inspiration for generations of singers, songwriters, recording artists, storytellers and musicians. Aside from being a singer, she is a songwriter, producer, visual artist, author and actress. With hits such as Ain’tNobody and I’m EveryWoman, Chaka Khan has redefined pop, soul, jazz and funk and has helped mould the contemporary music landscape.

JOSS STONE

Award-winning British artist Joss Stone released her debut album,The Soul Sessions, in 2003, aged 16. She has since released nine studio albums and performed with the greats including James Brown, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight and Sting. In 2022 she released her album NeverForgetMyLove

MEET THE HEADLINERS…

KOOL & THE GANG

American stars Kool & the Gang have been bringing us hits since 1964. Thanks to floor-fillers such as Celebration and JungleBoogie they’ve earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, 25 Top Ten R&B hits, nine Top Ten Pop hits and 31 gold and platinum albums. Their music has been featured in many films and they are the most sampled R&B band of all time.

MAHALIA

Inspired by British soul and American neosoul, Mahalia was signed by Warner Music’s Asylum Records when she was just 13. With defiant lyrics, her songs explore life’s ups and downs. She is one of British R&Bs most successful contemporary artists with two MOBO awards, and BRIT, Grammy, Soul Train and MTV Push nominations.

SERGIO MENDES

One of the most internationally successful Brazilian artists of all time, Sergio Mendes has recorded more than 35 albums, many of which went gold or platinum. The threetime Grammy Award winner and Oscarnominated songwriter has had worldwide hits with his band, Brasil ’66, including Mas QueNada! His Latin-pop and bossa nova sounds bring joy wherever he goes.

BILLY COBHAM

Born in Panama in 1944, jazz drummer Billy Cobham rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s with trumpeter Miles Davis, and then with the Mahavishnu Orchestra. He was inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 1987. His debut album, Spectrum was released in 1973 and reached No 1 on the Jazz Albums chart.

GASTRONOMY AT THE GRAND

Alex Burtenshaw, new head chef at The Grand Eastbourne’s Mirabelle restaurant, enthuses about his food philosophy

For those passionate about fine cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients, look no further than the Mirabelle. The restaurant at The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne has been plating up the best Sussex produce since it opened in 1989 as a sibling to the glamorous London eatery of the same name.

London’s Mirabelle closed its doors for good in 2008, despite being bought by Marco Pierre White, earning a Michelin star under head chef Charlie Rushton and attracting celebrity guests such as Leonardo Di Caprio, Kylie Minogue and Johnny Depp.

Its seaside sister, however, continues to thrive, winning awards, accolades and rave reviews from food writers.

Today, the Mirabelle remains timelessly elegant, serving modern European dishes masterminded by head chef Alex Burtenshaw.

Alex took the helm in 2023 and has since been adding his stamp to the restaurant’s menu, creating exciting cuisine brimming with some excellent local produce.

“I absolutely love food,” says Alex. “It sounds like a cliché but I love eating and creating meals. Ultimately that’s why I do the job I do. I enjoy

cooking for the people I love and eating with my family. Creating dishes for customers is the same.”

When planning a menu, Alex likes to include both classic combinations and bold new flavours.

“I am always on the lookout for a new ingredients or techniques,” he says. “The challenge and excitement comes in the creative process, finding out how I can use them in a combination that works and is true to my style.”

Creating a menu takes careful consideration, a task which Alex and his team undertake every week.

Left Head chef Alex Burtenshaw has been adding his stamp to the menu of the Mirabelle since he arrived in 2023

Main The signature style under Alex is classic British with a modern European twist, creating exciting cuisine

“We start from scratch every Tuesday and plan what needs to be done,” he says. “This could include choosing appetisers for our dinner à la carte diners, deciding what type of bread rolls and flavoured butters we’ll produce and which new dishes to put on the menu.”

Alex began working in the food industry full time when he was 25. He admits he has learned a lot from the talented head chefs he has served with over his 14-year career, but says his passion for food was ignited much closer to home.

“My maternal grandmother was a really good cook,” says Alex. “She always made a good apple pie. She used to do it on a plate. I enjoyed eating her food as a child and that inspired me to want to cook. I used to experiment with the books around the house.

“My parents had a well-used cookbook by Marguerite Patten, which was full of classic recipes, from apple crumble to old-school chilli con carne. I found a copy in a charity shop years later and I still have it in my collection.”

“MY PARENTS HAD A COOKBOOK BY MARGUERITE PATTEN, FULL OF CLASSIC RECIPES. I FOUND A COPY IN A CHARITY SHOP YEARS LATER AND I STILL HAVE IT”

Above Alex loves to champion produce of local suppliers, including meat from a butcher along the coast in Bexhill

Left Every part of dining at Mirabelle is overseen by Alex, who wants guests to have a relaxing and memorable experience

When he is travelling abroad, Alex likes to be experimental and adventurous, taking inspiration from different restaurants.

“My dad was a big foodie and liked watching cooking programmes on TV,” he says. “That’s where I got the bug from really. It made me want to travel to Europe and eat amazing food.

“I love visiting Italy and I like Italian food the most. As a child, my parents used to take me to Italian restaurants on a Saturday night. Pizza and pasta dishes like lasagne, melanzane parmigiana and cannelloni were all favourites. This has followed me into adulthood.

“With Italian food there are not a lot of ingredients – three, maybe four per dish – but the quality of each ingredient stands out, making it so good.”

When it comes to fine ingredients, Alex is keen to feature as much local produce on the Mirabelle’s menu as possible. He sources fresh fish from

Newhaven, meat from a local butcher in Bexhill, Sussex-made cheese and locally produced wines.

With such a range of quality ingredients, Alex says there is one thing he just can’t do without.

“Salt is so important,” he says. “Whether it’s plain table salt or fancy sea salt, it affects the whole balance of the dish. Being able to season a dish comes with experience. I learned to be brave with it. You’ve got to taste and season as you go. It’s the old cliché that you can always add but you can’t take away.”

Alex has been working with the team at the Mirabelle for just over six months now and is really enjoying his role.

The restaurant launched a new lunch menu in the autumn, offering 3 courses for £30 and 2 courses for £25, which has been very well received. Plans are afoot for special gourmet events such as a Seaside Lunch or a wine evening,

which will showcase the best local producers and suppliers.

Above all, Alex is keen to make dining at the Mirabelle a memorable experience. It’s a lovely space to come and relax,” he says. “It’s beautifully decorated. Our front of house team give a first-class service while you are here. And of course, to sound modest, we have really brilliant food!”

GUESTS

RELAX AND ENJOY THEIR DINING EXPERIENCE:

Lunch – Tuesday to Saturday: 12.30pm – 1.30pm

Dinner – Tuesday to Saturday: 6pm – 8.30pm

The restaurant does not operate a dress code, but most guests choose smart casual or formal wear.

To book, please call 01323 412345 or email reservations@grandeastbourne.com

Cured chalk stream trout, violet potato salad, lime caviar, creme fraiche, caraway seed, celery and dill is an example from the lunch menu at Mirabelle

For Alex, the challenge and excitement comes in the creative process, finding out how he can combine new ingredients and techniques

THE MIRABELLE TAKES ORDERS AT THE FOLLOWING TIMES, AFTER WHICH

CAN

The beauty of sustainability

For more than 30 years Elite guests have been enjoying luxury products from British bodycare pioneers, Molton Brown

From its humble roots in the basement of a London hair salon in 1971, Molton Brown has blossomed into a British style icon. The luxury bodycare company was founded on South Molton Street by Caroline Burstein and Michael Collis, a pioneering duo who rejected typical chemical formulas found in existing products. Instead, they sourced organic, botanical bases, hand mixing their first products using the best ingredients.

The Mayfair salon quickly became known for its ‘individual first’ ethos, attracting a following of stylists and celebrities. Molton Brown introduced its first signature scent in 1984 – Orange Grove Bath & Body collection, currently known as Orange & Bergamot. Soon after, Caroline and Michael moved production to their country home at Mott’s Hall, Elsenham. They continued to use natural ingredients, growing herbs in their garden for their collections and drying them in the barn.

Forty years later, Molton Brown remains true to its core values. Its collections are cruelty-free, vegetarian and free from parabens. It still works side-by-side with an eclectic set of perfumers to develop distinctive fragrances – from master perfumer and family friend Jacques Chabert to acclaimed senior perfumer Maïa Lernout and new-generation star Jérôme di Marino.

Molton Brown’s eau de parfum and toilette, and bath, body, hair and home collections have been made in England since day one and the company intends

to keep it that way. Most products start life at its Elsenham facility, just a couple of miles from Mott's Hall. The organisation maintains its family ethos, nurturing talented local people. Some have worked there for over 20 years, passing down skills through generations.

Molton Brown believes that luxury and sustainability work hand in hand. Its manufacturing facility has been carbon-neutral since 2021. It has used 100 per cent renewable electricity since 2016 and recycled nearly 97 per cent of waste in 2021.

“The organisation maintains its family ethos, nurturing talented local people. Some have worked there for over 20 years, passing down skills through generations”

“Our mission is to rewrite the rules of luxury, putting uncompromising care at the heart of everything we do”

It’s all part of a uniquely deep-rooted philosophy, says Mark Johnson, Molton Brown’s former global president:

“Driven by our pioneering legacy, our mission is to rewrite the rules of luxury, putting uncompromising care at the heart of everything we do – be it with our people, our products or our places.”

Elite guests can enjoy a selection of aromatic Molton Brown products, including Coastal Cypress & Sea Fennel Bath & Shower Gel and Hydrating Chamomile Shampoo and

Conditioner. Bathrooms are equipped with a refillable signature dispenser, eliminating the need for single-use bottles. This helps to prevent more than 18,250 bottles and 137kg of plastic being sent to landfill every year. Molton Brown’s paper packaging is 100 per cent FSC-certified and fully recyclable.

When you combine the finest natural ingredients with such admirable credentials, Molton Brown makes it easy for us to feel good about indulging in a splash of luxury.

PURE BENEFITS

Natural ingredients are packed full of health benefits. Here are some brilliant boosters for body and mind:

CYPRESS

Purifying cypress is known to help clear up blemishes. Products containing this oil are useful for balancing oily skin. Its properties tone and tighten skin.

SEA FENNEL

Rich in vitamins A, C and E, plus potassium and iodine. It conditions and soothes skin. Use to target stretch marks and cellulite.

CHAMOMILE

This flower soothes the skin, reducing redness and signs of ageing. It also helps to promote hair strength.

ORANGE

Boost your radiance with zesty orange. This citrus fruit is naturally exfoliating, brightening skin, fading dark spots and correcting uneven skin tone. A good remedy for removing unwanted tan.

BERGAMOT

A citrus fruit known for its antiinflammatory and healing properties. Bergamot has been used to treat acne, eczema and psoriasis.

GINGER

Antioxidants found in this root can increase blood circulation, help protect skin from UV rays and slow the breakdown of collagen.

PINK PEPPER

The spicy aroma of this dried berry can help reduce anxiety, stress and tension. Anti-inflammatory pink pepper oil will boost tired skin.

YLANG YLANG

An oil that soothes stress. Used widely in perfumes, it is also said to be an aphrodisiac, enhancing sensuality.

Relax and rejuvenate

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and revitalisation at the Grand Hotel’s Mindful Escape Serenity Retreat

If you’re feeling run down and need a break from everyday life to truly focus on yourself and make your health and wellbeing a priority, the picturesque Grand Hotel in Eastbourne offers the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind with a Mindful Escape. These weekend retreats run from Friday afternoon to Sunday morning and are taking place Friday 26-Sunday 28 April and Friday 11-Sunday 13 October 2024. Enjoy a weekend of both restorative and energising yoga sessions, beach walks, indulgent spa treatments and

delicious, nutritious meals in this beautiful location nestled by the sea. Take the time to immerse yourself in this tranquil sanctuary for mind, body and soul and reap the benefits when you return home.

Arriving at the hotel on the Friday afternoon, you will check into your luxurious Seaview suite to find a delicious fresh fruit bowl and chilled fresh fruit smoothie for you to enjoy, before taking part in an hour-long session of restorative yoga, designed to help you focus on your body and take

care of your aches and pains. Following the yoga session, you will find yourself luxuriating in a sound-bath meditation, which aims to instil in you a sense of calm and relaxation, as well as improve your mood and help you to feel more in tune with your body and relax your muscles. In the evening, you are invited to a group dinner where you can create your own healthy salad masterpiece using fresh, local ingredients and get to know your fellow guests better in the friendly group setting.

When you wake up on the Saturday morning, you can look forward to a nutritious breakfast in the stunning Garden Restaurant before taking a leisurely walk along the beach, allowing you to feel the benefit of the fresh sea air. Feeling suitably refreshed, you’ll take part in an energising yoga session to rejuvenate you and set you up for the day ahead. Following that, there’s a two-hour spa session waiting for you, which includes time to relax in the spa as well as a 40-minute treatment – will you choose a massage, facial, salt scrub, reflexology, manicure or pedicure? Dinner can be taken at your leisure on Saturday evening and plant-based options are available.

What better way to start a Sunday morning than with a session of sunrise yoga on the beach? Take full advantage of the idyllic setting to fill your body with energy and enhance your mood. A tasty, healthy breakfast in the Garden Restaurant follows before you check out of the hotel and head back to your daily life feeling refreshed and uplifted by your wonderful weekend of relaxation and rejuvenation. The benefits of taking time to focus on your physical and mental health and wellbeing are unmatched, so this retreat offers you the perfect opportunity to make yourself a priority.

Timeless treasures

A stay at one of our hotels offers untold opportunities for exploration and things to do – including several popular antiques fairs nearby

Ardingly Antiques Fair is the largest and most prestigious antiques and vintage fair in the south of England. Held at the South of England Showground over two days, it is just a 20-minute drive away from Ashdown Park and just over an hour from The Grand. The fair has a reputation for high-quality antique and vintage pieces and attracts local, national and international dealers. As it’s so close to the Channel, it’s not unusual to find the best European

vendors displaying their valuable wares, and treasures can be found from locations such as France and Hungary. There’s ample opportunity to find historical items and vintage pieces among the vast array of traders, so whether you’re an antiques enthusiast, a vintage shopper, a professional trader looking to impress your clients or a newcomer wanting to discover some intriguing pieces for your home, there will be something for you at Ardingly Antiques Fair and you can easily spend

hours making your way around all the stalls.

This fair features up to 1,700 stalls, both indoor and outdoor, and offers you the chance to discover an abundance of items, from antique furniture to captivating vintage wall art. Fairs take place throughout the year and delivery couriers are available to help you get your purchases home if they are too big to fit in your car!

Visit iacf.co.uk/ardingly to find out more and to discover the next dates for the fair.

OTHER ANTIQUES MARKETS TO EXPLORE

SUNBURY ANTIQUES MARKET AT KEMPTON PARK RACECOURSE, 30 MINUTES FROM TYLNEY HALL

Held on the second and last Tuesday of the month throughout the year, Sunbury Antiques Market is a favourite among antiques enthusiasts and hosts over 700 traders across two indoor grandstands and outdoor pitches. sunburyantiques.com

ANTIQUES, COLLECTABLES & VINTAGE FAIR, BRIGHTON RACECOURSE, AN HOUR FROM THE GRAND

This one-day fair is held several times a year and has over 175 stalls, creating a great atmosphere. Children under 16 go free and dogs are allowed, so it’s a real family event. lovefairs.com

ANTIQUES, VINTAGE & COLLECTABLES FAIR AT LINGFIELD PARK RACECOURSE, 23 MINUTES FROM ASHDOWN PARK

With five events planned throughout 2024, there’s sure to be a date to suit your stay with us. This show has items to suit all tastes and pockets and prides itself on friendly dealers who’ll give you any advice and guidance you need. lovefairs.com

ANTIQUES FAIR AT NEWBURY SHOWGROUND, 40 MINUTES FROM TYLNEY HALL

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Antiques fairs, with their wonderfully eclectic mix of decorative antique and vintage items, provide a fascinating way to spend a day

This fair is a popular filming location for TV’s Bargain Hunt, and with good reason. There’s a diverse range of high-quality items on sale, making this a must-visit for antiques aficionados and consummate collectors alike. iacf.co.uk/newbury

ANTIQUES & COLLECTORS FAIR AT EAST DEAN VILLAGE HALL, 10 MINUTES FROM THE GRAND

This smaller-scale event offers a more intimate experience for collectors and has a wide range of antiques, ceramics, glass, clocks and myriad quirky items. Call 01323 423137 for more details.

Love renewed

Take the opportunity to reaffirm your love and commitment with the beautiful vow renewal packages available at Elite Hotels

While there are several amazing wedding packages for you to book at Elite Hotels, they’re not exclusively for couples getting married for the first time. We also have a vow renewal package, a heartfelt celebration designed to honour the enduring love between you and your partner, no matter how long you’ve been married. The packages are available at Tylney Hall, The Grand Hotel and Ashdown Park and include everything you need for a truly magical day.

Our hotels create the perfect setting for capturing amazing photographs you will cherish forever with your family, friends and, of course, your partner, with beautiful gardens and grounds as well as period lounges serving as the perfect backdrop.

From start to finish, your day will be managed by our wonderful team, dedicated to making everything run smoothly. You will have full use of the ceremony room and a celebrant to conduct the vow renewal ceremony. Guests can enjoy a glass of English sparkling wine before a delicious Champagne afternoon tea to celebrate

as you and your partner reaffirm your commitment to one another. Allow us to create the perfect setting for that afternoon tea, with the choice of a long and low flower arrangement or table posies to adorn the room. We will also take care of the finer details, including candelabras and stationery, to make sure every element of the day is cohesive whilst staying true to your personality and style.

At the end of the celebration, the happy couple can retreat to their luxury suite accommodation to reflect on the day in sumptuous surroundings. The following morning, they will be treated to a delicious breakfast to round off the occasion perfectly.

Whichever of our three stunning venues you choose, you can be sure we’ll stop at nothing to make your day perfect. At The Grand in Eastbourne, you have a plethora of options for your ceremony and the beach as your stunning backdrop for photographs. Ashdown Park offers its own unique charm to proceedings, with incredible locations inside and out for you to make cherished memories. Tylney Hall has several ways to personalise your day

with many choices of ceremony location as well as dining location, so you can truly make your vow renewal exactly as you want it.

We believe love is a journey worth celebrating at every milestone, so we put every effort into making your vow renewal ceremony as perfect and special as possible so you can fully focus on celebrating your love and cherishing the journey you’ve been on together, whether you’ve been married a short while or for many, many years.

THE SPORT OF KINGS

Of all the sporting spectacles in the south of England, there is none so steeped in history as polo

Polo was a whole different ball game at its inception in Persia more than 2,000 years ago. It was used as a military training exercise, with up to 100 players on each side, battling for the ball over vast plateaus.

The sport as we know it today came to the UK in the late 1800s after British soldiers stationed in India saw locals playing. It has since become an institution worldwide, attracting more than a sprinkling of royals and celebrities.

King Charles, his sons William and Harry, and the late Prince Phillip, have all picked up a mallet over the years. Bing Crosby, Clark Gable and Walt Disney took to horseback in-between filming Hollywood blockbusters. Stars such as Joan Crawford and Ginger Rogers would spectate in the stands, adding a touch of glamour in the latest fashions.

The sport has also inspired a line of clothing when designer Ralph Lauren included a tennis shirt as part of his original Polo line in 1972. Elvis, Steve McQueen and Pele all became fans of the ‘polo shirt’.

Action star Sylvester Stallone has been playing polo since he was aged 11. Taught by his father, Frank, he once said: “Playing polo is like playing golf during an earthquake.”

Of course, polo is not just for men. Dawn Laurel-Jones, wife of actor Tommy Lee Jones, is an avid player and advocate for women’s polo in the US. Model, racing driver and presenter Jodie Kidd is also a keen player.

A visit to a polo game makes for a day out that is both exhilarating and relaxing. Whether you are a seasoned fan or completely new to the sport, Cowdray Park is the ideal place to catch fast-paced action.

Dubbed The Home of British Polo, play takes place within Viscount Cowdray’s 16,000-acre estate against the backdrop of a stunning ruined Tudor mansion in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Polo has been played at Cowdray for over 100 years, with the first competitive tournaments in 1910. The sport took off in the 1920s but was nearly a casualty of World War II, when many UK polo fields were ploughed and taken over by the armed forces.

John, the 3rd Viscount Cowdray, worked hard to revive post-war interest and the prestigious Coronation Cup made its debut at Cowdray Park in 1953, attracting thousands of spectators including the new queen, Elizabeth II.

Despite losing his left arm at Dunkirk in 1940, John continued to play using an artificial limb, adapted so he could hold reins with a hook.

LIKE TO CATCH A GAME BUT UNSURE HOW IT WORKS?

Polo is played with two teams of four players on ponies. There’s a goal at either end of a field that measures 300 yards long by 160 yards wide. That’s more than five times the size of a football pitch, which measures 115 by 75 yards. Its huge area may seem daunting, but players soon cover it at full gallop.

Matches are divided into 7-minute chukkas. There are 4 for low goal games, 5 for medium goal and 6 for high goal. The 3.5-inch plastic polo ball is hit with the side of a mallet. It can travel a fair distance – sometimes 100 to 150 yards.

With hooves and mallets flying, the grass can get hacked up, creating loose clumps of turf or divots. At half time, spectators are invited on to the field to replace the divots by treading them

“WHETHER A SEASONED FAN OR COMPLETELY NEW TO THE SPORT, COWDRAY PARK IS THE IDEAL PLACE TO CATCH FAST-PACED ACTION”

in – a tradition made famous by Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in the 1990 romantic comedy Pretty Woman Cowdray Park Polo Club Managing Director Jamie Peel says: “Polo is a great sport to watch, it’s accessible to everyone and it makes a great day out with the family. For me, there’s nothing better than watching a match in the afternoon sun in front of the iconic

Cowdray ruins enjoying a few drinks with friends.”

This year, the season at Cowdray begins on 27 April with the first stages of the Tyro Cup and runs right through to 22 September with the final of the Autumn Cup.

The British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup takes place between 25 June and 21 July.

The mouth-watering membership of Elite Diners

Exceptional privileges await members of Elite’s exclusive members’ club

Enter a finely crafted world of culinary adventures, celebratory gifts, gourmet escapes, restorative spa and wellness days, golf days, member-only invitations and exclusive events by becoming a member of Elite Diners. An annual fee of just £235 secures amazing benefits worth thousands of pounds, including discounts on food and accommodation, spa access and golf passes*.

“Elite Diners is full of small indulgences that bring great joy – for me, it’s being able to treat the family regularly to dinner and then being credited with a luxury stay and spa day”

Annabel Stanhope, Elite Diners member