Dales life spring 1 2016

FREE Spring 2016

ANTIQUES

|

FOOD

Hare Today BRITAIN’S FASTEST MAMMAL

Hot Shot

SHOOTING WITH A YORKSHIRE CHAMPION

|

INTERIORS |

WILDLIFE

|

GARDENING

Wild and Wonderful ORCHIDS OF THE YORKSHIRE DALES

Snap Happy A DALES PHOTOGRAPHER AT WORK

Just Desserts

Health-conscious puds from HENRIETTA INMAN

e: .uk sit co eb ns. r w he ou kitc sit eVi shir rk yo

SUPPLIERS OF BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS COUNTY KITCHENS (Leyburn) Ltd

Showroom: Belle Vue Offices, Market Place, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 5AW Open: Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Please ask for our complimentary brochure, Telephone: 01969 624274 2

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

from the editor

New Year, New Dales Life! elcome to our Spring issue. And an especially warm welcome to our new readers in the Skipton and Ilkley areas.

Here at Dales Life we’ve never been content to rest on our laurels, which is why the magazine has continued to expand and improve over the last 23 years. It’s a track record few other, if any, free regional magazines can match.

We’re regularly bombarded with requests to make the magazine more widely available, so that’s what we’ve decided to do.

This summer the South Dales will be getting their own unique edition of the magazine. Until then we’re distributing our current issue a little further south than normal – just to give new readers a taster of what’s coming!

Both versions of Dales Life – the North Dales and the South Dales editions – will be packed with the usual lively mix of fascinating features, terrific photography and useful local information.

And, most importantly, we’ll be promoting the talented individuals and independent local businesses that make our region so special. Except that now, of course, we’ll be able to focus more closely on what’s happening in your particular part of the Dales.

We’re very excited about the project, and we hope you will be too. So enjoy our feature-packed Spring issue – and expect even bigger and better things to come!

Sue Gillman Editor

GUARANTEED DELIVERY Take out a subscription and never miss another issue!

Visit www.daleslife.com

NOT HAD DALES LIFE THROUGH YOUR LETTERBOX? See page 124 to find out where you can pick up a copy for free.

MORE THAN JUST A MAGAZINE Read our latest issue — and enjoy exclusive extras — online at www.daleslife.com.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

3

The home of the world’s finest fireplaces BEAUTIFULLY STYLISH WOOD BURNING AND MULTI-FUEL STOVES, GAS & ELECTRIC FIRES, FIREPLACE SURROUNDS & ACCESSORIES ALL OVER 5 ROOMS AT OUR SPECIALIST SHOWROOM IN NORTHALLERTON

235 HIGH STREET, NORTHALLERTON, DL7 8LU WWW.YORKSHIREFIREPLACES.CO.UK 01609 779866 FULL INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE

4

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

13 35

38 18

Contents Spring 2016

9

IFE STYLE L Inspiring ideas for your home and garden.

16 I NTO THE BLUE The magnificent spectacle of a bluebell wood is a highlight of every nature lover’s year.

18 I T’S A KNOCKOUT Spring is the time to see our normally secretive hares, says Professor Chris Baines.

26 WILD AND WONDERFUL Orchids are fascinating flowers and the Dales is one of the best places to find them.

35 GARDEN NOTES Garden news, products and advice,

by Adam Appleyard.

38 HEAVEN SCENT This spring why not try planting some sweet-smelling shrubs, says Adam Appleyard.

9

45 FOOD FILE Food news, events and the best of local products.

49 DRINKS NOTEBOOK An amazing cellar, cocktails and award-winning beers.

cover image © David Tipling

Dales Life 90 Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1LT. www.daleslife.com

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

5

94

63

Contents 54 THE DISCERNING DINER Claudia Blake visits The Bruce Arms, West Tanfield.

Spring 2016

58 SEASON’S BEST Forced Yorkshire rhubarb has been a Yorkshire speciality since the early nineteenth century.

63 JUST DESSERTS Delicious sweet treats, free from gluten, dairy and refined sugar.

72 GOING NUTS Wake up to the health-boosting benefits of cooking with coconut oil.

82 DALES DIARY A guide to local events compiled by Liz Hanson.

94 D ALES LIFE LOVES A collection of gorgeous goodies for the new season.

100 HOT SHOT A day in the life of wedding photographer, Olivia Brabbs.

106 PRIZE LOT This month’s auction room highlights.

108 SHOOTING STAR John Gillman brushes up his gun skills with aspiring olympic shooter, Ross Elgie.

128 TO DINE FOR Great places to eat in the Yorkshire Dales.

6

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

100

72 Editor Deputy Editor Production Advertising

Art Editor Proofreader Proprietor

Sue Gillman Brian Pike Claudia Blake Sue Gillman Michaela Reeves Stef Suchomski Alison Farrell Sue Gillman

Contributors Prof. Chris Baines, Brian Pike, Ian Henry, RHS Images, Olivia Brabbs Elena Greenway, Amanda Cook, Wendy Pain, Adam Appleyard, Whitfield Benson, The National Trust.

t. 01904 629295, 01904 279499 m. 07970 739 119 e. sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com Dales Life 90 Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1LT.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

7

NEW COLOURS FOR 2016

STOCKIST: Thirsk Decorating Centre (Rydenor Ltd.) The Old Sorting Office, Thirsk Ambulance Station, Newsham Road, Thirsk,YO7 1PU 01845 440668

Love Thy Interiors Exciting new collections for Spring

Our store in Thirsk is the perfect place to find that special spring gift.

We have a unique collection of homeware, soft furnishings, furniture, lighting and collectable pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

Open 7 days a week plus bank holidays.

www.lovethyinteriors.co.uk 8

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

11 Kirkgate Thirsk YO71PQ

01845 527123

LIFE STYLE Inspiring ideas for your home Enchanting handmade Easter rabbit, one of the delightful creations available from halinkasfairies.com

Fine bone china bowl from Sophie Allport’s Hare collection, now in stock at Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, dovetailinteriors.com

Sanderson’s new Woodland Walk collection captures the freshness and vitality of spring – see it at Milners of Leyburn, milnersofleyburn.co.uk Stylish seasonal wreath, made of moss studded with speckled eggs, from The Contemporary Home, tch.net

You can find this charming rabbit print cu shion designe d

by Stephanie Pisani at graduatecolle ction.co.uk

Cheerful spotty rabbit egg cup from an extensive range by quailceramics.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

9

DOVETAIL INTERIORS FURNITURE HOME ACCESSORIES GIFTS

17 Market Place, Bedale, DL8 1ED 01677 426464 www.dovetailinteriors.com

The Fettling Fairies Amazing furniture refinished with a touch of magic Visit our website to see how we use our magic to breathe new life into

Dressers ♦ Drawer Chests Wardrobes ♦ Dressing Tables Farmhouse Tables and Chairs and much more.

We can also wave our magic wands over your own cherished furniture or items we have sourced for you.

www.thefettlingfairies.co.uk Viewing by appointment at Moulton, Richmond 01748 478748 enquiries@thefettlingfairies.co.uk 10

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

LIFE STYLE Inspiring ideas for your home

Perky pomegranate design half-pint mug from the Emma Bridgewater collection at Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, dovetailinteriors.com

Stylish and practical kitchen scales, with a bowl that doubles as a mixing bowl, from Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk, lovethyinteriors.co.uk

Get down to some serious cooking with a sensational Rangemaster cooker – explore all the options at Homecare, Darlington, homecaresupplies.co.uk

Colourful tea towel decorated with a vari ety of jau nty hens at Doveta il Interiors , Bedale, dovetailin teriors.co m

Collect and store your new-laid eggs in this super sunshine yellow egg collecting tin from annabeljames.co.uk Classic kitchen dresser, refurbished and hand-painted by The Fettling Fairies, thefettlingfairies.com Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

11

Oak Flooring | Crucial Trading | Amtico | Karndean | Brintons and much more Unit 6 Borough Court, Borough Rd, Gallowfields Trading Estate, Richmond, DL10 4SX t 01748 822834 m 07789 996526 e nhflooring@btinternet.com w www.nhflooring.co.uk Telephone Nick Hodges to make an appointment 12

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

LIFE STYLE Inspiring ideas for your home

Set of handmade dotty napkins, available in a variety of colours from tickettyboo.co.uk

Flamboyant floral wallpaper from Little Greene’s new Archive Trails collection at Thirsk Decorating Centre, 01845 440668

You can find this handsome butcher’s block, crafted from solid spruce, at Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk, lovethyinteriors.co.uk

Long-lasting soy candle with a lovely fruity fragrance, hand-poured in Yorkshire by Dovecote, thedovecoteshop.com

Perky Goosey Go osey tea towel, pa rt of a range of coordin ating homeware from theskinnycardco mpany.com

Fine bone china mug featuring wildlife painter Robert E Fuller’s charming artwork – see more designs at robertefuller.com Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

13

B e a r C o t tag e I n t e r i o r s

Rustic Country Style Design

Bespoke design service ranging from a single cushion cover to a complete home design package

Curtains & Blinds, Fabric, Furniture, New Interiors and Gifts The Cattle Market, Market Place, Hawes, DL8 3RD Tel 01969 666077

www.bearcottageinteriors.co.uk

We specialise in the finest bespoke solid wood, and hand painted kitchens.

All lovingly hand-made in our own workshop.

Turning your dreams into reality 14

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

GROVE HOUSE Unit 1 Concept Park | Thirsk Ind.Est. Thirsk | North Yorkshire | YO7 3NH T: 01845 523562 E: info@grovehousefurniture.co.uk www.grovehousefurniture.co.uk

LIFE STYLE Inspiring ideas for your home

Elegant kitchen clock by Thomas Kent, available in a range of colours from Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk, lovethyinteriors.co.uk

Luxurious upholstery fabric from Linwood’s Arcadia collection, available from Bear Cottage Interiors, Hawes, bearcottageinteriors.com

Magnificent sculpture of a rooster by Paul Smith – see it, and more of Paul’s work, at Pyramid Gallery, York, pyramidgallery.com

Eye-catching bread bin from Garden Trading’s new Dorset Blue range, available at Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, dovetailinteriors.com

Retro kitchen blackboard with pretty ceramic tile inserts – buy it online at boutiqueprovencale.co.uk Conical mug from creative-tops.com, featuring a design from an antique table at the National Trust’s Sizergh Castle

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

15

Thorp Perrow Arboretum Image by Wendy Pain

THE STUNNING PURPLE-BLUE HAZE created by thousands of bluebells in flower is a highlight of every nature lover’s year. It is also something of a national speciality. Bluebells occur throughout much of North West Europe, but only in small, scattered colonies; the magnificent spectacle of a densely packed bluebell wood is a distinctly British phenomenon. One of the most impressive displays in the Dales can be seen at Thorp Perrow Arboretum (thorpperrow.com), along with one of the finest displays of trees and shrubs in the UK.

16

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

17

it’s a Spring is the time to see normally secretive hares ‘boxing’ in the fields.

Professor Chris Baines takes a look at the lives of these beautiful, but increasingly threatened, creatures

18

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

19

“ Their ability to melt into the landscape has always given the brown hare a slightly mysterious reputation” HARE LOSS

OPENING PAGES Hare in spring meadow THIS PAGE, TOP Boxing hares ABOVE Three hares in procession OPPOSITE Hare nibbling birch leaves OVERLEAF A pair of leverets in a hedgerow

20

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

hese days ‘Mad’ March hares have every reason to be mad! Brown hare numbers have declined by more than 80% over the past 100 years, and in some parts of lowland England they are virtually extinct.

In the farming landscape of the Yorkshire Dales the brown hare is still doing reasonably well. Even so, it is always a thrill to spot them. Hares are mainly nocturnal, and spend most of the day lying low in a shallow depression or ‘form’. They are generally solitary individuals – unlike rabbits, which are more common and live in colonies – and their relatively long, black-tipped ears make them easy to identify, even in silhouette.

Historically, brown hares were a popular quarry species, and it is only just over a decade since hunting hares with dogs was made illegal. There is still no closed season on shooting, and numbers can be reduced dramatically each spring where rough shooting is practised. The main cause of the hare’s continuing decline, though, seems to be the pattern of modern farming.

Hares live above ground the whole year round, and thrive best in a mixed landscape of meadows and arable crops, hedges, ditches and small woodlands.

As fields have been made bigger and the wild margins have been cultivated or swept away, it has become increasingly difficult for brown hares to do well.

Too much pasture and there will be a shortage of summer crop cover. A dominance of arable crops, on the other hand, will mean a shortage of winter grazing. Traditional mixed farming is ideal. But whatever the landscape, if the habitat network is improved then brown hares can recover rapidly.

Modern farming machinery has also taken its toll. When threatened, a brown hare’s strategy for survival is to press down as low as possible and stay absolutely still. This strategy may have worked against wolves in ancient times, and even against hunters and poachers more recently, but crouching down in the path of a huge mechanical harvester is no protection at all.

FAMILY FORTUNES Hares can be prolific breeders, with as many as four families of between two and four offspring in a year.

The young hares, known as ‘leverets’, may be born in any month, although spring and summer are generally favoured. Unlike rabbits, they are born fully furred and with their eyes open.

The leverets disperse soon after birth, which helps increase their chances of survival. For the first month the mother gathers them together at sunset each day to suckle them. After that they are on their own.

In Britain, healthy adult hares have no natural predators, but the young leverets are very vulnerable. Foxes are probably the main threat, but buzzards, stoats and weasels all take their share.

Brown hares are thought to have been introduced to Great Britain from mainland Europe in pre-Roman times. They were well suited to our landscape and our relatively mild climate, and they became embedded in the country’s folklore. There are many old songs that celebrate the hunting of the hare, and jugged hare is one of England’s great classic dishes. A mature hare weighs 3–4kg and would have provided enough meat to feed a large family.

Their ability to melt into the landscape has always given brown hares a slightly mysterious reputation, and their habit of boxing one another in plain view must always have been intriguing. It was naturally assumed that this behaviour involved macho males sparring amongst each other to win the favour of the females. Recent research has shown the opposite to be true. It seems that females spar with their suitors to assess their potential as strong and healthy mates.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

21

HARE FACT FILE ◆ Atop

heather moorlands and in other upland regions, instead of the brown hare (Lepus europaeus) you’ll find the mountain hare (Lepus timidus). The mountain hare, unlike the brown hare, is native to Britain. It has shorter ears, and its coat turns white in winter.

◆ On

average brown hares live for 3 to 4 years in the wild, but individuals have been known to live for up to 12 years.

◆ A

century ago there were an estimated 4 million wild hares in the British countryside. That number is now well below 1 million.

◆ Hares

can communicate with each other by signalling with their ears or thumping the ground.

◆ In

DOING A RUNNER Although lying low and feeding after dark are a hare’s main survival strategies, they also have a remarkable turn of speed, and their very long back legs equip them perfectly for running uphill. They are Britain’s fastest wild mammal, and on the level they can reach speeds of up to 45mph in short bursts.

The brutal bloodsport of hare coursing relied for its spectacle on hares being able to outrun all but the fastest of greyhounds and lurchers.

However hares do have an Achilles heel. When forced to run downhill they are much less stable, and prone to tumble head-over-heels.

When hares were hunted by packs of beagles, steering the quarry towards a downhill route was a popular part of the huntsman’s strategy.

Hares can damage crops if their numbers become

“ Hares prefer wild grasses and natural herbs to arable crops” 22

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Anglo-Saxon mythology the hare is associated with the goddess Eostre, after whom Easter was named, so the hare is in fact the original ‘Easter Bunny’.

◆ In

China, Mexico and many other countries, people see the image of a hare in the full moon rather than a ‘man in the moon’.

excessive, but in Britain this situation is highly unlikely. The situation in Argentina, though, is very different. European brown hares were introduced at the end of the 18th century and are now regarded as a major pest, causing serious damage to forestry and arable crops. However they have become that country’s most important game species, with as many as six million hares ‘harvested’ each year and exported to the European meat market.

In Britain, hare conservation is perfectly compatible with commercial farming. Hares prefer wild grasses and natural herbs to arable crops, and if farmers are able provide some hedgerow shelter, flower-rich headlands and a few quiet corners for them to lie up undisturbed, these beautiful wild creatures can become a familiar feature of our landscape once again.

MILNERS of Leyburn E S T. 1 8 8 3

STYLE FOR YOU AND YOUR HOME CARPETS

❖

RUGS

❖

CURTAINS

❖

BLINDS

❖

UPHOLSTERY

❖

BEDDING

❖

LADIES FASHION & ACCESSORIES

6 Market Place, Leyburn DL8 5BJ | 01969 622208 | sales@milnersofleyburn.co.uk www.milnersofleyburn.co.uk Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

23

T I M B E R

• Oak Beams • Doors • Decking • Sawn Timber • Machined Timber • Skirting • Architrave • Flooring • Cladding 24

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

TIMBER SOLUTIONS

Call us or visit our showroom for advice on how we can help you with your project.

GREEN LANE, MELMERBY RIPON HG4 5JB

01765 640564

sales@duffieldtimber.com www.duffieldtimber.com

FLOOR TILES & FLAGS CLEANED AND SEALED Kitchens • Conservatories • Halls

JOHN LORD

01748 811452 • 07961 460020 john@steamcleanseal.co.uk

High quality workmanship from an experienced team at the right price

Established 20 years ★ All aspects of hard landscaping undertaken T: 01969 640457

★ M: 07803 735000 ★ E: frank@stonescapes.com www.stonescapes.com

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

25

26

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

wild and wonderful Elusive and beautiful, orchids are some of our most fascinating wild flowers. And the Dales is one of the UK’s best places to find them, says Elena Greenway MOST PEOPLE THINK OF ORCHIDS as huge, vividly coloured tropical blooms. But here and there, in hidden corners of the Dales, we’re lucky enough to have our very own miniature versions. And whilst British orchids may be built on a smaller scale than their gaudy foreign relatives, they’re every bit as beautiful – as you’ll see if you seek them out and take a closer look.

Our native orchids, of which there are some fifty species, have always fascinated botanists. For one thing, several of them are exceedingly rare nowadays. The stunning Lady’s Slipper Orchid, for example, once relatively common in the Dales, was thought to have become extinct in the UK until the discovery of a single plant in Wharfedale in the 1930s. The site of this lone survivor was jealously guarded by conservationists, and the plant was painstakingly propagated. It has now been successfully reintroduced at a number of suitable sites, including Kilnsey Park Nature Reserve.

Even the commoner British orchids can be capricious and unpredictable, vanishing from a particular location for years on end and then unexpectedly reappearing. Add to that their often surprising shapes – and in some cases pungent odours – and it is no wonder they have acquired such an air of mystery amongst wild flower enthusiasts.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

27

OPENING PAGES Early Purple Orchid among bluebells THIS PAGE, ABOVE Common Spotted Orchid TOP RIGHT Burnt Tip Orchid LEFT Early Purple Orchid OPPOSITE Lady’s Slipper Orchid OVERLEAF TOP LEFT Pyramidal Orchid CENTRE Northern Marsh Orchid RIGHT Fragrant Orchid BOTTOM LEFT Bee Orchid CENTRE Southern Marsh Orchid RIGHT Frog Orchid 28

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

The Yorkshire Dales is a particularly good place to get to grips with this intriguing group of plants. Most orchids favour alkaline soil, and our limestone hills are very much to their taste. What’s more, orchids quickly die out in grassland that has been ‘improved’ with fertilisers or herbicides, and whilst unimproved meadows and pastures are nationally scarce – and have largely vanished from lowland England – we still have more than our fair share here in the Pennines.

The orchid-spotting season starts in spring, with the appropriately named Early Purple Orchid being one of the first into bloom. Its clusters of dark purple flowers (occasionally pink or pure white) can be found from April through to June. They rise from neat rosettes of glossy, dark-blotched leaves, and once you know what you are looking for you can spot these in hedgebanks and open grassland from late winter onwards.

The Early Marsh Orchid, Southern Marsh Orchid, Northern Marsh Orchid and Common Spotted Orchid are, like the Early Purple, all relatively easy to find in upland meadows and pastures in spring, thanks to their large, attention-grabbing pink or purple flower heads.

These species are closely related, and telling them apart can be a challenge, even for experts, especially because hybrids between them are common.

Three orchids you won’t have too much difficulty identifying, though, are the Pyramidal Orchid, the Burnt Tip Orchid and the Fragrant Orchid, all of which crop up in undisturbed limestone pasture and around old limestone quarries. The flower heads of the Pyramidal Orchid, true to its name, are in the form of a neat pink pyramid.

Getting to Grips with Orchids Orchids can be found in numerous locations in and around the Dales, and because they can pop up unpredictably after a lengthy absence, you might even discover an unrecorded or forgotten colony! Keep your eyes open when you’re out and about, especially in wilder, less intensively farmed areas.

Many of the nature reserves managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust are ideal places to find orchids. For a full list of reserves, along with details of guided walks and other YWT activities, visit www.ywt.org.uk. The YWT does important conservation work in our region, so do consider making a donation or volunteering to help.

For a useful introduction to the local flora, including orchids, look out for a copy of Wild Flowers of the Yorkshire Dales by Sylvia Arnold.

It is currently out of print, but you can pick up a secondhand copy online for a song, along with companion volumes covering the Yorkshire Moors and Wolds.

To help you tell the different species apart, take a hand lens and a good illustrated field guide to wild flowers with you. Blamey and Fitter’s Wild Flowers of Britain and Ireland is the one I usually slip into my bag.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

29

Those of the Burnt Tip Orchid are particularly eye-catching, being whitish-pink with contrasting dark maroon tops. As for the Fragrant Orchid, it is indeed strongly fragrant, producing a sweet, clove-like scent that is particularly noticeable on still, warm evenings.

PLAN BEE You may have to work hard to find the Frog Orchid, in part because it is so well camouflaged. Its flowers are yellowish green, and the plant itself is short and stubby, so sharp eyes are needed to distinguish it from the surrounding vegetation. The Frog Orchid gets its name from the fact that each of the individual flowers is supposed to look like a miniature frog, but you will have to exercise a certain amount of imagination to see the similarity.

It requires less of a leap of faith to see a butterfly in the Greater Butterfly Orchid, whose languid, drooping, greenish-white petals do indeed look like delicate wings. It can be found in old hay meadows, unimproved grassland and ancient woodland, and is in flower from June onwards.

30

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Whilst the Frog Orchid and the Butterfly Orchid bear only a passing resemblance to their namesakes, there’s no question that the Bee Orchid does look remarkably like a fat bee. This is no coincidence, because during the course of its evolution the Bee Orchid relied for pollination on attracting a particular species of bee to do the job. As it happens, the species of bee in question is confined to the Mediterranean, so in the UK the Bee Orchid is exclusively self-pollinating.

An even cleverer mimic is the Fly Orchid, which at a quick glance looks for all the world like a small moth or solitary wasp, right down to the pair of antennae. Unfortunately it is rarely found in the Dales, so you’ve got a better chance of seeing it if you head for the Moors and visit the Ellerburn Bank Nature Reserve near Pickering in early June.

But with orchids, of course, nothing is ever certain, so if you’re aiming to tick off all the British species you will probably have to spend a couple of years – and travel a fair few miles – to get the job done. It’s a worthy ambition, though, so why not get started this spring?

There’s nowhere quite like Homecare

We have a huge range of designer brands all under one roof Homecare is one of the largest home improvement centres in the North East, a family run company established for over 40 years. Our vast showrooms display the very best in bathrooms, range cookers, fireplaces, woodburners and multifuel stoves. Our friendly team will help you find the ideal solution to suit your needs and budget. Whatever you are looking for you can rely on us to supply the leading brands at discounted prices and if you find the same product cheaper we’ll endeavour to match it.

Valley Street, Darlington DL1 1PY | 01325 352224 | www.homecaresupplies.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

31

THORP PERROW

A fantastic day out for the whole family

Explore 100 acres of stunning woodland, run wild and free in our adventure play area or meet exotic birds and animals, no two visits to Thorp Perrow Arboretum are the same!

Find us on facebook or visit www.thorpperrow.com

THORP PERROW, BEDALE, NORTH YORKSHIRE, DL8 2PS TEL: 01677 425323

32

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Constable Burton Hall Gardens

Tulip Festival 2016 Saturday 30th April to Monday 2nd May

Sponsored by “BLOMS BULBS” Chelsea award winning nursery Explore a festival of tulips amongst the romantic gardens. 6,500 tulips planted annually to give a dazzling display of colours and forms.

Refreshments Admission: Adults £4.00, Senior Citizens £3.00, Children free

Garden open season 2016

Saturday 19th March – Sunday 25th September 9am - 5pm For further details telephone 01677 450428 gardens@constableburton.com www.constableburton.com

HARROGATE SPRING FLOWER

SHOW

Rated UK’s best gardening event by Which?Gardening

21-24 APRIL 2016

GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOWGROUND

•NEW Plant Pavilion with over 100 nurseries •Inspirational show gardens •Stunning floral art •Cooking demonstrations •Great garden shopping •Unique crafts and gifts •Expert growing advice

Save £2.50*per ticket Book before Tuesday 12 April flowershow.org.uk 01423 546157 *A booking administration charge applies per order

North of England Horticultural Society

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

33

The home of the Watch ’em Grow range of starter plants, seedlings and plugs

Open Mon-Sat 8am-4.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm Ravensworth, Richmond, North Yorkshire DL11 7HA info@ravensworthnurseries.com | Fax: 01325 718953 | Tel: 01325 718370

Lowmill Landscapes PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPING SPECIALISTS Lowmill Landscapes are hard landscaping contractors that specialise in all aspects of landscape work, including walling, paving, driveways, water features, fencing and groundworks.

Our small team of qualified, experienced craftsmen provides an efficient and excellent service throughout the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding areas.

Tel: 01677 450510 Mobile: 07710 747891 Email: admin@lowmill-landscapes.co.uk www.lowmill-landscapes.co.uk

34

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

CAN DO!

Seasonal Sensation

The Pasque Flower Small but strikingly beautiful, the pasque flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris) gets its name from the fact that it flowers around Easter time (‘pascha’ being the Latin for Easter). Its preferred habitat is well-drained soil in full sun, so it’s perfect for rockeries or alpine beds. Once you’ve got it established, don’t try to move it.

The pasque flower may only stand a few centimetres high but its roots can reach down a metre or more, and it resents any disturbance.

garden notes Adam Appleyard’s

It’s a real pleasure delivering water to your thirsty garden favourites with this sleek 5-litre Haws Slimcan – the oval body makes it much easier to carry than a traditional round watering can. Made from heavy gauge steel, it’s finished in a variety of colourful hot-dip zinc galvanised coatings that look great and will keep corrosion at bay for decades.

Now in stock at Jamesons Country Store, Masham, wejameson.co.uk/country-store.

Easy Growing

SPOT-ON POTS

A stylish planter or two, carefully positioned, can transform the look of a garden, courtyard or house frontage. Working in partnership with the RHS, Apta has developed a range of pots and accessories – including glazed, terracotta and lead-effect ones – that combine elegant good looks with practical features like extra-large drainage holes to encourage root growth.

They’re guaranteed against frost damage for ten years too! Visit apta.co.uk to find your nearest stockist.

Want a garden full of colour and interest this summer? Then it’s time to think about stocking your borders and filling those greenhouse shelves. To get off to a flying start, check out the extensive range of Watch ’em Grow starter plants, seedlings and plug plants on sale at Ravensworth Nurseries (ravensworthnurseries.com) near Richmond. The nursery, a family-run business, has been trading for half a century now, despite the freak hailstorm that devastated their glasshouses last summer! They have been developing and extending the Watch ’em Grow range for twenty years, and all the plants in it are raised on site.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

35

Coming Up Roses It’s no wonder we British love roses. They’re simple to grow – even in our wayward climate – and once established will keep producing masses of glorious flowers for decades. And if there’s one man who has transformed the nation’s appreciation of roses, it’s multi-award-winning breeder David Austin. During his long career he has introduced nearly 200 new rose cultivars, cleverly combining the charm and fragrance of old roses with the vigour and repeat-flowering of newer strains.

Not the cheapest roses on the market, but an excellent long-term investment. You’ll find a wide selection of David Austin roses at Braithwaite’s nursery, Leeming Bar (braithwaitesnursery.co.uk).

garden notes Adam Appleyard’s

Opal Fruits

Tomatoes can be grown in even the smallest space, and that’s particularly true for cherry tomatoes, like this handsome variety known as Black Opal. Black Opals may be small, but with a bit of care and attention each plant will provide up to 200 sweet, tangy fruit during the growing season. You can buy the seeds from Thompson & Morgan (thompson-morgan.com). Sow them in pots in a heated propagator or on a sunny windowsill.

TABLE TIME When it comes to planting seeds and potting on seedlings, having a decent work surface makes all the difference. This sturdy spruce potting table from Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk (lovethyinteriors. co.uk) ticks all the boxes.

It’s a sensible height, and features a hardwearing zinc-clad top along with three spacious drawers and a low-level shelf for storage.

And with its honest good looks it will definitely add a touch of rustic charm to any shed or greenhouse.

36

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

NATURAL SELECTION Encourage the right animals and plants to set up home in your garden and they’ll help you keep everything in top shape without the use of nasty chemicals. Whether it’s planting marigolds next to prized crops to keep the aphids away, or inviting hedgehogs in to hoover up those troublesome slugs, Garden Friends by Ed Ikin (National Trust Books) is a great source of hints and tips about how you can garden in harmony with nature.

We supply top quality seasoned hardwood and kiln dried logs from sustainably managed woodlands Delivery is free within a 30 mile radius of Darlington Order your logs online from

www.fieldhouselogs.co.uk

or contact us for more information www.fieldhouselogs.co.uk | info@fieldhouselogs.co.uk Manfield, Darlington, DL2 2RD | t: 01325 731717 | m: 07967 305979 Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

37

Make spring a sensory delight by planting sweet-smelling shrubs, says Adam Appleyard

Heaven

scent

38

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

t’s an exhilarating time of year to be out in the garden, with green shoots popping up everywhere and fresh splashes of colour appearing in the borders on a daily basis.

For me, though, one of the highlights of spring is inhaling a good lungful of those rich, heady, floral scents that have been missing during the winter months.

Whilst it’s possible to have a winter garden packed with visual interest (dramatic evergreen foliage, elegantly textured bark, vibrant berries), scent is quite another matter. Yes, there are scented winter-flowering plants, but they are few and far between. What’s more, odours simply don’t carry well on chilly air; it takes a proper dose of spring sunshine to bring out the sweet-smelling best in your garden!

I like to fill my garden with plants that not only look good in spring but smell good too. Daffs and tulips are all very well, but they’re hardly going to win any prizes for their perfume. For a genuinely exciting olfactory experience, here’s my personal selection of sweet-scented spring shrubs. Plant these and you’ll have something satisfying to sniff right the way through from January to June!

LUSCIOUS LILAC Lilacs have been prized by gardeners ever since they were introduced to Britain in the late 1500s, thanks to the profusion of large, heavily scented flower heads they produce in late spring.

Lilacs were especially fashionable in Edwardian times, and many neglected specimens planted during that era have now grown into substantial trees. With regular winter pruning, though, it’s easy to encourage younger plants to remain neat, small shrubs, so even a modest garden has room to fit in a lilac or two.

The lilac most often planted in the UK is Syringa vulgaris, a hardy all-rounder that’s happy in any well-drained, sunny spot. As a colour, pale lilac doesn’t float my boat, but fortunately Syringa vulgaris comes in a wide range of appealing hues, from snow white to deep pinks and smouldering purples. For real impact you’ll find it hard to beat S. vulgaris ‘Sensation’, each of whose Pop Art flowers comes in the form of a pinky-purple cross, boldy edged with white.

“ it takes a proper dose of spring sunshine to bring out the sweetsmelling best in your garden!”

OPPOSITE PAGE Close up of cut lilac flowers THIS PAGE Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

39

DIVINE DAPHNES As a plant group, daphnes are treasured for their gorgeous, heady fragrances – search one out, take a deep sniff and you’ll appreciate why. Most daphnes are small, slow-growing evergreen shrubs that flower in early spring, which also happens to be the best season to plant them.

Daphne laureola has yellow-green flowers and is a native British species. An increasingly infrequent one, but you can still find it growing in woodland above Richmond town falls, just opposite the castle. The site is typical of the conditions it loves: well-drained, limy soil in partial shade.

THIS PAGE, LEFT Daphne mezereum ‘Album’ with bumblebee RIGHT Daphne arbuscula subsp. arbuscula in flower OPPOSITE TOP Chaenomeles x superba BOTTOM Chaenomeles x superba “Coral Sea Pink’

40

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

“ As a plant group, daphnes are treasured for their gorgeous, heady fragrances – search one out, take a deep sniff and you’ll appreciate why” The more exotic-looking Daphne mezereum is one of the few deciduous daphnes, and its white or deep pink flowers, carried on dark, bare branches, make it a show-stopper in early spring. This species can also be found growing wild in the UK, but as a garden escape rather than a true native.

Many daphnes are nondescript when not in flower, but Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata’ maintains year-round interest thanks to its handsome evergreen leaves, which are dark green with zingy yellow borders. There are plenty of other daphnes to explore, including D. arbuscula, D. tangutica and D. × burkwoodii. There are two key rules with all of them: don’t let them get waterlogged, and don’t move them once you’ve planted them out.

CRACKING QUINCES There’s a good deal of confusion about quinces, but what we’re focusing on here are the ‘flowering’ or ‘Japanese’ quinces: small deciduous shrubs from the Far East, grown for their gorgeous spring blossom rather than their fruit. That said, you can pick the highly astringent fruit for use in liqueurs and preserves, but it’s probably not worth the bother.

The Latin name for flowering quinces, Chaenomeles, is a challenge for even professional horticulturalists to pronounce, and maybe that’s why many gardeners call them ‘japonicas’. This is distinctly misleading, because most of the flowering quinces on sale at a modern nursery are not in fact Chaenomeles japonica. Once popular, C. japonica has nowadays been supplanted by C. speciosa and C. × superba.

Whilst it’s possible to buy pure white cultivars (C. speciosa ‘Nivalis’, for example), one of the most

endearing features of flowering quinces is their vibrant orange, pink or scarlet blooms. For sheer exuberance the sizzling scarlet of C. × superba ‘Nicoline’ is hard to beat. For something more muted, try ‘Crimson and Gold’ or ‘Pink Lady’.

Choosing between quinces may be difficult, but growing them isn’t. Chaenomeles are hardy little beasts with no particular prejudices regarding soil type.

Providing it’s well drained, they will thrive equally well in full sun or partial shade.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

41

“With their rich, sweet,

slightly medicinal smell, viburnums are a spring garden must”

VIBRANT VIBURNUMS With their rich, sweet, slightly medicinal smell, viburnums are a spring garden must. One of the most delightful is a hybrid created in the 1930s, Viburnum × bodnantense. In a good year this will provide superlative garden value, bearing clusters of white or pink blooms on bare branches from October through until the end of March.

TOP Vibernum plicatum ‘Mariesii’ BOTTOM LEFT Vibernum opulus ‘Roseum’ RIGHT Daphne laureola ‘Spurge Laurel’

42

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Whilst its flowers are heavenly, Viburnum × bodnantense is undistinguished as far as foliage is concerned. If you’re after year-round interest you could consider its evergreen cousin, V. davidii, with its eyecatching, three-veined leaves and (providing you have a female plant) plump clusters of metallic blue berries.

Another worthy viburnum, albeit not evergreen, is V. opulus, the guelder rose. The guelder rose is another British native, which in its wild form has flat flowerheads composed of small, fertile flowers surrounded by larger, showier, infertile ones. More tempting to gardeners, perhaps, are cultivars like ‘Roseum’ (also known as ‘Snowball’), which produces dozens of dense, globular flower heads that look like a shower of fluffy white tennis balls.

Like lilacs and flowering quinces, viburnums are hardy, easygoing shrubs that tolerate a wide range of sites and conditions, needing little other than an occasional light pruning to keep them smart.

Look closely…

Can these really be PVCu? From Harrogate to Hartlepool, Hawes to Helmsley, our many thousands of happy customers are looking out on the brighter side of life, improving their homes and enjoying the superb quality of our products and workmanship.

Take advantage of greater energy savings, security and style.

From contemporary to traditional, we offer a bespoke range of top quality window and conservatory designs and bespoke solutions in a colour and style to suit you.

Visit our showrooms at:

Lifetime Home Improvements Plews Way, Leeming Bar Ind. Estate Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 9UL

t: 01677 424381 w: www.lifetimewindows.co.uk

Talk to the experts – designed and fitted by specialists we can bring your ideas to life… We offer a no obligation design and quotation service, so contact us today and tell us about your plans – we’ll be delighted to hear from you.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

43

Spring at The White Bear Masham, North Yorkshire PUB

•

RESTAURANT

•

ROOMS

The White Bear is a five star inn situated in the pretty market town of Masham, in the foothills of the Yorkshire Dales.

We serve delicious breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas and dinner.

All prepared using the finest local produce.

Stay in one of our delightful rooms and experience a real taste of the Dales.

01765 689 319 • thewhitebearhotel.co.uk 44

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Icing on the Cake If you want a truly stunning bespoke cake to celebrate a wedding, christening, anniversary or birthday, take a look at the images at fairycakesnorthyorkshire. co.uk. Here you’ll find dozens of inspiring examples of cake designer Lindsay’s ingenious creative work, all freshly baked in Fairy Cakes & Co.’s studio kitchen in Carthorpe, near Bedale. Call 01845 567631 for a free consultation and to sample some of the exciting flavour combinations on offer.

FOOD notes

PAN-HANDLING Led by a dynamic motherand-daughter team, The Fruity Kitchen at Sutton-onthe-Forest near York has built up an enviable reputation for their handmade jams, marmalades, chutneys, relishes and curds. Steering well clear of artificial additives, preservatives, setting agents and colourings, they make their awardwinning preserves in small batches in traditional open pans, with not a machine in sight. You can find a full list of their retail stockists at thefruitykitchen.co.uk.

Season’s Eatings

The asparagus season is looming, and for a few short weeks we can look forward to enjoying succulent UK-grown spears.

Traditionally asparagus spears are cooked standing upright in a saucepan of water so the delicate tips gently steam. To my mind, though, roasting gives you a far richer flavour. Arrange your spears in a roasting tin, drizzle with olive oil and season. Pop into a preheated oven at 220°C, Gas Mark 7 for about ten minutes, turning occasionally.

Choc Therapy Easter is a welcome excuse to indulge in chocolatey treats, and if you want to browse a mouthwatering selection of luscious confectionery you’ll find plenty to feast your eyes on at Beau Cocoa in Northallerton (4 Market Row, 01609 774148, facebook.com/beaucocoa).

Whether it’s a quirky Easter egg for the kids, a box of luxurious truffles for yourself, or a dairy- and glutenfree gift for a health-conscious friend, this bright, friendly little shop is sure to be able to help.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

45

BEST BAA NONE Sweet, tender spring lamb is a highly anticipated Dales speciality, and for quality and flavour you can’t beat meat from rare breeds like Jacob or Hampshire Down. Campbells of Leyburn have a team of expert traditional butchers who make it their business to source superb rare breed lamb from local suppliers.

What’s more, they’re always happy to advise you on how to cook it to perfection. For more information call the Campbells butchery direct on 01969 625600.

FOOD notes EGGSCEPTIONALLY HAPPY If you’re concerned about animal welfare then you probably already buy free-range eggs. But not all free-range eggs are equal, say Hen Nation, part of the newly launched Good Food Nation brand (www.goodfoodnation. co.uk). Many free-range hens are destroyed at around 70 weeks of age; they’re considered to be past their egg-laying prime, even though they have many years of life ahead of them. The Hen Nation flock, by contrast, live out the full term of their natural lives contentedly roaming a spacious traditional hay meadow. Hen Nation eggs are available from Farmaround Organic (farmaround.co.uk).

46

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Nice Ices

If the weather is warm this Easter, here’s the perfect way to cool down: a Cadburys Creme Egg ice cream from G&T’s Ice Cream Parlour. You’ll find G&T’s at Risplith between Ripon and Pateley Bridge – a convenient stopover for visitors to Fountains Abbey or Brimham Rocks. As well as imaginative ice creams and sorbets (and yes, they make a gin-and-tonic flavoured one) you can enjoy teas, coffees and home-baked cakes.

Visit www.gantsicecream.co.uk for directions and opening hours.

Having Your Cake Afternoon tea is an English institution that has captured the world’s imagination, and nowadays swanky hotels everywhere from Bogota to Beijing fetch out the teapot and the fancy cakes at four o’clock. Ironically very few of us here in Blighty take the trouble to make afternoon tea for ourselves, but master patissier Will Torrent’s new book, Afternoon Tea at Home (Ryland Peters & Small) might just change all that. It’s full of ingenious twists on teatime classics that make sandwiches and eclairs seem every bit as adventurous and exciting as any gourmet supper.

CONSIDERING A RANGE COOKER?

Range cookers look fantastic in both contemporary and traditional kitchens.

The ovens in a range cooker are typically around 20% bigger than an average 60cm built-in oven, and are often multi-functional, meaning they offer several different modes of cooking. Also, as most range cookers have two or more ovens there is plenty of space, so lots of dishes can cook at the same time – perfect for large family gatherings and entertaining.

With so much choice available, choosing the right range cooker that suits you can sometimes be a daunting prospect, which is why you should contact an expert like Walter Dix & Co. Founded in 1888, family-run business Walter Dix & Co became one of the first AGA dealers in 1931, covering Tyneside, Northumberland, Durham and North Yorkshire. They stock a large collection of leading quality brand range cookers and have a magnificent showroom just off the A1 at Team Valley, Gateshead, where they are able to showoff the very best cookers on the market. In addition to AGA range cooker brands available include Lacanche, Viking, ILVE, Steel, Britannia, Mercury, Falcon and Rangemaster.

Clients visiting the showroom can not only expect to see a huge range of products but are also sure to receive expert one-to-one advice. The team at Walter Dix & Co is friendly, knowledgeable and happy to talk you through your various options, allowing you to choose with confidence the right cooker for your home and budget.

To find out more get in touch or visit the Team Valley showroom.

To find out more get in touch or visit the Team Valley showroom.

Walter Dix & Co, 1 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North, Team Valley, Gateshead NE11 0JF ■ 0191 482 0033 ■ Web: wdix.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

47

Enjoy Roux Scholar Jonathan Harrison’s unique cuisine in the traditional surroundings of the Sandpiper Inn. Modern British food using only the finest local ingredients, beautifully prepared and presented.

Fine wines, real ales and friendly service.

Accommodation available.

Market Place, Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 5AT www.sandpiperinn.co.uk

FOR RESERVATIONS TELEPHONE 01969 622206

The Guzzling Gander provide specialist professionally staffed boutique-style bars for any occasion, Christmas parties, birthday parties, weddings, charity events, balls, cocktail parties, shoots, hunts, christenings, corporate events - or just because you need a bar!

We will take the stress so you can enjoy your event.

Contact us on 07736 386 674 theguzzlinggander.co.uk or find us on facebook.com/TheGuzzlingGander No event too big or small 48

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

TOP GLASS

There can’t be many restaurants in Yorkshire with a wine cellar as impressive as The Saddle Room in Coverdale. Beneath its elegant brick vaulting you’ll find more than a hundred personally selected wines catering for all tastes. And thanks to a unique wine preservation system, they can offer more premium wines by the glass – a rare chance to try some exclusive tipples without having to buy a bottle! Discover more about The Saddle Room’s spiffing cellars – and their informal and informative wine club – at www.thesaddleroom.co.uk.

BARGAIN BUBBLY If you fancy celebrating Easter with some elegant pink champagne, Campbells of Leyburn (campbellsofleyburn. co.uk) are currently running a remarkably generous promotion on an excellent fizz. They are slashing the price of Champagne Henriot Brut Rosé NV by almost half, from £55 to a very affordable £29.99.

With its delicate fruity notes, long finish, subtle pink tint – and, of course, lashings of invigorating bubbles – it makes a perfect lunchtime or early evening treat.

DRINKS

notebook pale ale

NEW BREWS

Anyone who appreciates exceptional ales should keep their eyes peeled for a set of three exciting new beers from The Black Sheep brewery in Masham (www.blacksheepbrewery. com), each of which celebrates a slice of Theakston family history.

‘Pathmaker’, for example, pays tribute to Paul Theakston, the brewery’s visionary founder. Brewed with Chinook hops, it’s a pale ale with a malty mouth feel and a crisp, bitter finish.

Pathmaker is available on tap and in 330ml bottles decorated with a surreal portrait of the man himself.

Great Shakes With warmer weather in the offing, here’s a light, bright refreshing cocktail recipe from expert mixologists The Guzzling Gander (theguzzlinggander.co.uk). As well as providing five-star bar service for private and corporate events across the North, The Guzzling Gander offers individual cocktail masterclasses for birthdays and special occasions – the ideal opportunity to develop some impressive behind-the-bar skills of your own!

ELDERBUBBLE

A summery champagne cocktail with elderflower and fizz.

Ingredients 2 shots gin ½ shot elderflower cordial 1 shot fresh lemon juice 1/8th shot sugar syrup champagne or prosecco Method Shake the first four ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled flute glass and top with fizz. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

49

Bookings now being taken for Easter Easter Bank Holiday

Open for brunch, lunches and afternoon teas Why not come and join us on Good Friday for our Fish Specials

Coffee, Scones, Cakes, Afternoon Tea & Lunches Bookings for private parties (Day & Evening) Bespoke menus available Breakfast served daily 10am - 11.30am â?– Sunday Lunch served till 4pm every sunday

Opening hours: Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5.00pm, Saturday 10am -6pm. Bookings 6pm - 8pm.

Sunday 10am - 4pm. Bank holidays 11am - 4pm Bookings now available online

Birdforth, Easingwold YO61 4NW • 01845 501495

www.thecornercupboard.co.uk

Richard III is a traditional hotel in the picturesque town of Middleham Well known for our warm welcome and friendly service, we offer a varied menu from pub classics alongside a daily specials board using local produce.

Relax and unwind in our cosy bar or snug in front of our roaring fires, or stay in one of our themed rooms.

A private dining room is available for small parties or functions up to 24 people

50

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

WELCOME TO

Richard III Hotel, Middleham We are open all day and offer breakfast, morning coffee. lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.

Market Place, Middleham, DL8 4NP 01969 623240 | richard111hotel.com

THE BRUCE ARMS R E S TA U R A N T

PUB

ROOMS

SPRUCED UP FOR SPRING! An 18th Century Coaching Inn with real character Some of the finest food in Yorkshire Comfortable en-suite bedrooms Extensive gin, whisky and wine selection Cask ales and craft bottled beer PRIVATE DINING ROOM for up to 30 diners Early Evening and Sunday Lunch Fixed Price Menus

FIZZY FRIDAYS

Buy a bottle of champagne or prosecco on Friday evenings and we’ll include a platter of our ‘mega nibbles’ to go with them.

A great way to start the weekend!

OPEN WEDNESDAY EVENING TO SUNDAY LUNCH

2 MAIN ST. WEST TANFIELD, HG4 5JJ 01677 470325 www.thebrucearms.com

THIRTEEN Relaxed dining in the Yorkshire Dales

Situated in the picturesque market town of Leyburn Thirteen offers good, honest food using the very best of locally sourced produce together with a great selection of superb wines.

A great place to meet friends and family for a lazy lunch or a relaxed dinner.

For Reservations Telephone: 01969 622951 Email: table@thirteenatleyburn.co.uk www.thirteenatleyburn.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

51

The Bruce Arms Masham

The Bruce Arms is a charming little pub situated in the picture perfect town of Masham.

We serve traditional and hearty cuisine.

Our menu reflects the seasons and is constantly changing.

The cosy bar has two roaring fires and is a great place to relax and enjoy our selection of local ales, fine wines and spirits.

Great service, fantastic food and comfortable rooms to stay.

3 Market Square, Masham, North Yorkshire HG4 4DY

01765 689372 brucearmsmasham.com 52

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

FOOD • WEDDINGS • ACCOMMODATION in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales

New to the dales is The Saddle Room Restaurant open every day . Experience sumptuous “Grand Honest Food Cooked to perfection”, served with hand-picked wine from our award-winning vaulted cellar in the warm, friendly atmosphere of these unique surroundings. Stay in our refurbished spacious cottages, suitable for both couples and families or our new Bed and Breakfast Rooms, adjacent to the restaurant and The Forbidden Corner. Our self-contained air conditioned function suite caters for 50 guests and up to 350 people in the exquisite grounds of Tupgill Park, making for memorable weddings and events. * New for 2016* Is our rustic Bell Barn.

Bar • Restaurant • Cellar • Accommodation COVERDALE, LEYBURN, NORTH YORKSHIRE DL8 4TJ T: 01969 640596 E: INFO@THESADDLEROOM.CO.UK WWW.THESADDLEROOM.CO.UK

Stone House Hotel

Relax and unwind in our classic country house overlooking Wensleydale

Open daily for: Coffee & Fresh Baking Light lunches served 12-2pm Delicious Table D’Hôte Dinner Menu 6.30-8.30pm

Relax - Explore - Discover Sedbusk, near Hawes, Wensleydale 01969 667571 www.stonehousehotel.co.uk Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

53

the discerning

DINER

Claudia Blake visits The Bruce Arms in West Tanfield 54

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

s winter fades into spring and the days lengthen, West Tanfield makes a pleasant starting point for a late afternoon stroll. The verges of the road leading down into the village from Masham bristle with limegreen wild hellebores. The banks of the Ure opposite the historic Marmion tower are home to drifts of snowdrops and violets, along with one or two floral rarities like the yellow star of Bethlehem.

The Bruce Arms, on West Tanfield’s Main Street, is one of two village pubs – both now under the same ownership – where you can relax and recharge your batteries. The Bruce has changed hands several times over the years, but some of its contents have clung doggedly to their time-honoured places, including the shotgun mounted over the large stone fireplace and the ancient fishing rod on the wall between the dining room and the bar.

When we last visited, several years back, the high-ceilinged dining room felt a little austere and the service was distinctly hit and miss. Fortunately the new owners have addressed both of these issues.

There are more tables than there used to be, and they are nicely dressed with flowers and candles. Along with characterful old rugs, cushions and soft lighting, they contribute to an overall effect that is cosy and welcoming. As for the service, it was just the way I like it: friendly, prompt, informative and unfussy.

Crocks Away Freshly baked bread buns paved the way for our starters. Like the rest of the meal, these were neatly and stylishly presented on good, honest white crockery – a welcome relief from the frustratingly impractical slates and boards that restaurateurs regularly wheel out under the misapprehension that it makes them cutting edge.

My starter was a plump, handsome blue cheese soufflé sitting in a rich, creamy sauce. Great texture – crisp on the outside, with a light, soft centre – but I didn’t pick up much blue cheese flavour and I thought it would have been improved with a touch more seasoning. Fortunately a couple of cleverly chosen accompaniments breathed extra life into the dish: a quenelle of sweet, tangy orange marmalade and a salad of tiny leaves pepped up with a bright, citrusy dressing.

Our other starter, an equally plump fishcake, also came with high-spirited companions – in this case a rich tomato chutney and fine ribbons of soused fennel. Again I would have liked to have had rather more seasoning in the plate’s main event, which was in danger of being eclipsed by its sidekicks.

On to mains, and a plateful of duck breast with hoisin sauce that stole the prize (albeit against tough competition) for best-looking dish of the evening. The pink meat was framed by seared orange pyramids of duchesse sweet potato, interspersed with loose, calligraphic squiggles of spring onion.

Whilst it was pretty as picture, the flavours didn’t dazzle my palate quite as much as the visuals. The duck was tender and cooked to perfection, but the salt cellar that had gone AWOL during preparation of the starters was back with a vengeance, and the meat’s aromatic crust was too salty for my taste. I’m not convinced that sweet potato is the ideal partner for sweet hoisin sauce, and I thought it a shame that spring onion (lots of it, all very pungent) was the only green veg on the plate.

Swap the majority of the onion for pak choi and you’d have a much more plausible dish.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

55

Bean There Fortunately our other main, rump of lamb with a creamy pea and broad bean fricassee, was a far more harmonious composition. Once again the meat was precisely cooked. The fresh green peas and beans set it off nicely as regards both colour and texture. A decent slab of fondant potato added the finishing touch to a very pleasing picture.

When it came to choosing desserts, I was intrigued by The Bruce’s offer of parsnip and date pudding. Parsnip? In a pud? Well I suppose it works for carrots, so why not give it a go? We also ordered the safer-sounding option of a dark chocolate mousse.

“the service was just the way I like it: friendly, prompt, informative and unfussy” What to expect The parsnip and date pud proved to be a riff on that classic dining pub staple, sticky toffee pudding. As with carrot cake, the contribution of the parsnip was more a matter of texture than of taste, in this case making the end result lighter and fluffier than your run-of-the-mill sticky toffee pudding. It was served with a suitably heady toffee sauce and a globe of distinctly more-ish banana ice cream.

With the chocolate mousse we were back on more familiar territory. Rich, sticky and sensuous, it came in a glass tumbler, topped with fresh raspberries and blueberries, and with a coconut tuile biscuit on the side. It slipped down nicely and there was lots of it – job done!

All in all, then, a very pleasant evening, with only a couple of minor wobbles. The Bruce Arms is shaping up to be a notable landmark on the North Yorkshire dining scene, and a good reason for planning a trip to West Tanfield this spring.

Or in any other season, for that matter.

For further information about The Bruce Arms call 01677 470325 or visit www.thebrucearms.com.

56

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Imaginative food, simply and stylishly presented.

Ambience

Cosy former coaching inn with no shortage of period character.

Service

Cheerful and professional.

The bottom line

Three courses cost us just over £31 each, excluding drinks.

Wines by the glass start at £4 (125ml).

Choices

We ordered from the à la carte menu, but there are a variety of other dining options, including steaks and a fixed price (‘3-2-1’) menu.

Ideal for

Romantic assignations; days out; indulgent evenings.

In case you were wondering

Yes, there was once an East Tanfield, a short distance downstream. It thrived for many years, but was abandoned centuries ago.

Now scheduled as an Ancient Monument, East Tanfield is one of Yorkshire’s best documented deserted medieval villages, and substantial earthworks mark its site to this day.

STEP INTO SWALEDALE, STAY, RELAX, EXPLORE

Spring at The Burgoyne

Walks, lambs, wild flowers, fine food, market towns, waterfalls, fine wines, magnificent views, comfy sofas, meadows, moors, inglenook fire, nesting birds, tranquil, unique, memorable.

On The Green, Reeth, North Yorkshire • 01748 884292 • enquiries@theburgoyne.co.uk • www.theburgoyne.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

57

Promoting Yorkshire produce in association with The Wensleydale Creamery

58

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

SEASON’S BEST

Yorkshire RHUBARB

Tall, slender and a wonderfully vibrant shade of pink, forced rhubarb has been a Yorkshire speciality since the early years of the nineteenth century.

In its heyday, just prior to the Second World War, Yorkshire’s ‘Rhubarb Triangle’ covered an area of 30 square miles between Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield. Every day during the rhubarb season, up to 200 tons of the succulent stalks grown here were shipped out on special express trains bound for London.

Yorkshire rhubarb has a taste and texture far superior to the coarser, chunkier rhubarb that’s a familiar feature of our gardens and allotments. It owes its special delicacy to the fact that it is grown in lightproof, heated sheds. Exposure to strong light thickens and toughens the fibres in rhubarb stalks, which is why Yorkshire rhubarb is grown in darkness – and why, traditionally, it is harvested by candlelight.

Rhubarb’s popularity dipped in the 1950s and 1960s, largely due to the ready availability of imported tropical fruit. In recent years, however, it has been rediscovered by celebrity chefs, and as a result is once again widely appreciated. In 2010, Yorkshire rhubarb was awarded Protected Designation of Origin status in recognition of its unique quality and rich heritage.

Buying rhubarb Look for firm, dry, unblemished stalks. Ideally buy rhubarb with the leaves still attached; these should be fresh and pert.

Storing it Store rhubarb in the fridge, unwashed. But don’t keep it for more than a day or two – freshness is crucial!

Preparation Wash thoroughly. Trim the stalks and remove the leaves, which are toxic and should never be eaten.

Forced rhubarb will be tender and won’t need peeling. If using maincrop rhubarb, remove any stringy ribs.

Cooking tips Cut into chunks and bake or gently simmer for a minute or two. Rhubarb sweetens as it cooks, so don’t add too much sugar to start with – you can always add more later.

Health benefits Rich in vitamins A, C and K, along with several B-complex vitamins and a variety of minerals. Low in calories, and fat free.

Where to find Yorkshire rhubarb Campbells of Leyburn Booths, Ripon Brooke’s Farm Shop, Richmond.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

59

Yorkshire Wensleydale & Ginger Cheesecake with Yorkshire Rhubarb Compote FOR THE CHEESECAKE 200g crushed digestive biscuits 75g melted butter 500g Yorkshire Wensleydale & Ginger cheese 500g cream cheese pouring cream for mixing 125g stem ginger in syrup icing sugar to taste

Mix together the digestive biscuits and melted butter. Press down firmly in a 20cm loose-bottomed cake tin and refrigerate.

Mix together the Yorkshire Wensleydale & Ginger cheese and cream cheese, and add enough cream to make a stiff, smooth consistency. Add the stem ginger, and then the icing sugar to taste.

Spread the cheese mixture onto the biscuit base and refrigerate until needed.

FOR THE COMPOTE 700g Yorkshire rhubarb stalks, washed and cut into 1cm pieces 100ml apple juice 60g soft brown sugar, plus extra to taste

Put all the ingredients into a heavybottomed saucepan that won’t react to acids (not aluminium, copper or iron).

Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and continue to simmer for about five minutes, or until the rhubarb begins to soften and break down. Remove from the heat and cool. Sweeten with extra sugar if the compote is too tart for your palate.

Serve with the cheesecake.

ABOUT THE WENSLEYDALE CREAMERY The Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes is famous the world over as the home of Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese, which achieved European Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in December 2013. This means that Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese is the only one actually made in Wensleydale itself – if it doesn’t say ‘Yorkshire Wensleydale’ it’s not from Wensleydale!

For more information about The Wensleydale Creamery and their Visitor Centre – plus more inspirational cheese recipes – visit www.wensleydale.co.uk.

60

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

stunning kitchens are a product of great design

Think Kitchen and Bathroom Ltd 5 Standard Way, Standard Way Business Park, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2XE

01609 770287 Download our brochures from kitchenbathroombedroom.co.uk

ki ng A tc w m he it *s n h e tic tt& s c old ve o ry

luxury at home

FR flo E or E i

Luxury at home

With infinite colour options your kitchen can be truly individual

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

61

Great news for all our advertisers!

Spring 2016

FREE

Coming soon - the new Dales Life South Dales Edition

O RS N | TE RI IO INIT DS |ED FOLOE | A D ES U H Q T TI N U A SO

Hare Today

REINEG A RD FEN FEmer| 20G16 LIm W IL DSu

Wild andl WonderfFu THE

ORCHIDS O LES E DA YORKSHIR

BRITAIN’S FASTEST MAMMAL

Snap Happy

Areas covered inlude Ingleton, Kettlewell, Settle, Grassington, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Pool-in-Wharfedale, Skipton, Silsden, Addingham, Ilkley, Otley

A DALES APHER PHOTOGR AT WORK

Hot Shot

Increasing our overall circulation to

SHOOTING WITH A E YORKSHIR N IO P M CHA

35,000 …more than any other local quality magazine!

rts e s s e D t s u J -conscious puds from Health

INMAN HENRIETTA 26/02/2016

14:16

.indd 1

ing 001-049

Same great content.

Same mission to help your business grow.

But now with the power to deliver your message exactly where you want it.

1 Dales Life

1-2016 Spr

To book space in the first issue please contact Michaela Reeves t 01535 439950 m 07840 383759 e michaela@daleslife.com 62

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

just

desserts Sumptuous sweet treats – and not a hint of gluten, dairy or refined sugar

It may sound too good to be true, but it’s perfectly possible to make delicious cakes, puds and pastries using only wholesome, healthy ingredients, and Henrietta Inman is here to show us how. Henrietta is an expert pastry chef who has worked in numerous awardwinning kitchens, including the Michelin-starred Lanesborough Hotel. Here are four of her clever twists on classic recipes – perfect for anyone looking for a guiltfree way to indulge a sweet tooth!

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

63

64

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Tiramisù mousse SERVES 4 Vanilla Cream 2 x 400ml cans of coconut milk 50g (2½ tbsp) blonde coconut nectar or raw clear honey ½ vanilla pod (bean), split lengthways and seeds scraped out

Coffee Mousse 25g (5 tbsp) ground coffee 150ml boiling water 150ml coconut milk 150g avocado (about 1 large avocado) 70g maple syrup 1 tsp cacao powder 1 tsp carob powder Pinch Himalayan pink salt 1 tsp vanilla extract 20g (1½ tbsp) coconut oil

To decorate A few cubes dark (bittersweet) chocolate 85% cocoa solids

The night before, put the two cans of coconut milk in the fridge for the vanilla cream. You will also need four tall but wide glasses, coupes or bowls.

Open the refrigerated cans of coconut milk and scrape off the thicker part of the milk. You need 450g thick set milk for the vanilla cream. Set aside in the fridge until needed. Reserve the rest of the coconut milk for the coffee mousse.

To make the coffee mousse, combine the ground coffee and boiling water and set aside. Place 150ml of coconut milk into a blender. Place the rest of the mousse ingredients, except the coffee and coconut oil, in the blender and blend until smooth. Melt the coconut oil and add to the blender. Strain the coffee, measure out 60ml and add to the blender, blending until completely smooth.

Spoon out 55g of the coffee mousse into each glass and refrigerate.

Next make the vanilla cream. Take the set coconut milk and whip until smooth and thick using a hand-held whisk or freestanding mixer, then add the coconut nectar or honey and vanilla and whisk once more. Remove the glasses from the fridge and spoon 40g of vanilla cream over each layer of coffee mousse. Divide the rest of the coffee mousse over the first layer of vanilla cream, then top with a final layer of cream according to the size of your glasses.

Be careful as you layer it as the layers will be soft. Refrigerate until needed, grate chocolate over the top, serve with any leftover cream and enjoy.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

65

66

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Pear, chocolate and hazelnut tart with cacao pastry crust SERVES 8–10 Cacao pastry crust 45g (3½ tbsp) coconut oil, plus extra for greasing 75g ground hazelnuts 60g buckwheat flour, plus extra for dusting 15g (3 tbsp) cacao powder 30g coconut sugar 10g (1¼ tbsp) arrowroot ¼ tsp Himalayan pink salt 35ml (7 tsp) water

Chocolate and hazelnut frangipane 3 tbsp milled flax seeds 9 tbsp water 200g hazelnuts, preferably activated dried 20g (3 tbsp) ground hazelnuts or ground almonds (almond meal) 20g (4 tbsp) cacao powder ½ tsp Himalayan pink salt 90g homemade chocolate or dark chocolate 85% cocoa solids, roughly chopped into pea-size pieces 130g coconut oil, melted 120g raw honey 30g (2 tbsp) hazelnut butter or almond butter 4 medium-large sweet pears, just under 1kg, preferably Comice, ripe but still quite firm

Grease a 33 × 12.5cm rectangular tart tin or a 23cm round tart tin with coconut oil. Line a baking tray with baking parchment. For the pastry, melt the measured coconut oil and set aside. Mix together the dry ingredients with a whisk to disperse any lumps. Pour in the coconut oil then the water and stir until well combined.

Spread out a piece of baking parchment slightly larger than the tart tin and lightly dust with buckwheat flour. Place the pastry on the parchment and pat it out to about the size of the tart tin. Lightly dust the surface with more flour, cover with another layer of parchment and roll it out until even and about 3mm thick to make a crunchy pastry crust. Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes while you make the frangipane.

Preheat the oven to 170°C/325°F/Gas Mark 3. Mix the milled flax seeds with the water and leave for about 15 minutes to form a gel. Stir occasionally. Lightly toast the hazelnuts in the oven for 5–7 minutes on the prepared tray. When cool, remove the skins and blitz the nuts in a food processor – some should be finely ground while the rest are in slightly larger pieces. Combine the blitzed hazelnuts with the ground hazelnuts, cacao and salt, add the chocolate and then mix in the melted coconut oil, honey and hazelnut butter. Finally fold in the flax seed mix.

Line the tart tin with the pastry. The pastry will break apart so gently push it together to make sure all the gaps are filled. Chill again in the fridge while you peel and core the pears and cut them into eighths.

Once chilled, smooth out any gaps in the pastry and push it up the edges, slightly overlapping the top of the shell, then trim off the edges. Place a piece of baking parchment in the pastry case, fill with baking beans and blind bake for 5 minutes, remove the baking beans and bake for a further 5 minutes.

Remove from the oven, cool for 5 minutes and then fill with the frangipane, spreading it evenly. Arrange the pear slices on top. Bake for 10 minutes, rotate the tray and bake for a further 10–15 minutes. Leave to cool in the tin for about 20 minutes, glaze with apricot jam, and then remove. Serve warm.

Glaze 2–3 tbsp no added sugar high fruit content apricot jam

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

67

68

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Baked banana, date and pecan loaf with spiced caramel sauce SERVES 8–10 Banana Loaf 1 tbsp milled flax seeds 3 tbsp filtered water 80ml cashew milk 1 tsp apple cider vinegar 190g dates 190ml filtered water 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda 2–3 large bananas 120g pecans, preferably activated dried 70g teff flour 70g brown rice flour 20g (2½ tbsp) arrowroot ¼ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground cardamom ½ tsp mixed spice ½ tsp coarse sea salt, ground 50g easy apple purée 40g (2 tbsp) unsulphured molasses 80ml EVCP rapeseed oil 1 tsp vanilla extract

Spiced Caramel Sauce 1 x 400ml can coconut milk 100g maple syrup or raw honey ½ tsp coarse sea salt ½ vanilla pod, split lengthways and seeds scraped out, pod kept 5g (about 4) whole star anise 5g (1 tbsp) cardamom pods

Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas Mark 6. Grease and line the bottom of an 18 × 11 × 8cm deep loaf tin with baking parchment.

Combine the milled flax seeds with the water and leave for about 15 minutes to form a gel. Mix the cashew milk with the apple cider vinegar and set aside.

In a medium saucepan, cook the dates with the measured water until all the water is soaked up and forms a paste. This should take about 5 minutes. When the water has just been soaked up, remove the pan immediately from the heat and stir in 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda. The mixture will fizz. Keep on mixing until most of the fizzing has stopped then leave the paste to cool.

On a baking tray, bake the bananas in the oven for about 3 minutes on each side until the skins blacken. Remove from the oven and turn down the temperature to 170°C/325°F/Gas Mark 3, then toast the pecans on a baking tray for 5–7 minutes, until just beginning to colour. When cooled, roughly chop.

In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients from the teff flour to the salt and add the remaining 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda).

Peel the bananas and mash 200g into the dates. Add the apple purée, molasses, oil and vanilla extract to the cashew milk. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and add the cashew milk mix, dates and bananas, flax seed gel and chopped pecans. Mix thoroughly to combine by lightly folding everything together. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 30 minutes, rotating the tin half way. Reduce the heat to 160°C/310°F/Gas Mark 2½ and bake for a further 15–20 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the centre of the loaf comes out clean. Leave the loaf to cool and demould when cooled completely.

In a medium saucepan bring all the sauce ingredients to a boil, stirring to combine. Turn down the heat to medium and reduce the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should be thicker and a golden caramel colour. Remove the cardamom pods, star anise and vanilla pod with a slotted spoon. Pour into a bowl and set aside.

Before serving, whisk the sauce and pour over slices of the loaf. The loaf and sauce can be served warm or cold.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

69

70

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Pristine Black Forest Parfait SERVES 10 Chocolate Cake 60g Brazil nuts 80g pitted Medjool dates ¼ vanilla pod, split lengthways and seeds scraped out ½ tsp Himalayan pink salt 1 tbsp cacao powder ½ tsp ground cinnamon 40g homemade chocolate, or dark chocolate 85% cocoa solids, roughly chopped 40g sprouted oats

Vanilla Layer 100g cashew nuts 70ml almond milk 30g (2 tbsp) blonde coconut nectar or raw clear honey ½ vanilla pod, split lengthways and seeds scraped out 50g coconut oil, melted

Cherry Layer 100g (3½ oz/¾ cup) cashew nuts 200g pitted fresh cherries ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp Himalayan pink salt Finely grated zest of ¼ lemon 3 tsp lemon juice 100g coconut oil 50g dried sour cherries 10–20g (2–4 tsp) coconut nectar or raw honey, optional

Soak the cashew nuts for each layer separately in 200ml of filtered water with a scant ½ tsp of Himalayan pink salt for 3–4 hours. Drain and rinse well. Line a baking tray 27cm long and 4 cm deep with baking parchment.

In a food processor, roughly chop the Brazil nuts for the cake. Remove from the processor, then add the dates, vanilla seeds, salt, cacao powder and cinnamon to the blender and blitz to make a paste. Add the chopped nuts, chocolate and sprouted oats, and pulse a few times to combine.

The mix will be in crumbs but should come together when you squeeze a piece in your hands.

Turn out the raw cake mix and press it along one long and one short edge of the baking tray to make a 26.5 x 9cm rectangular base. Now you need to make a make-shift mould around the cake base. Fold up a piece of aluminium foil, overlapping it about three times to make a 4cm high wall. Place the wall around the two edges of the cake that aren’t touching the baking tray. Freeze.

Make the vanilla layer. Blend the soaked cashew nuts and almond milk until smooth. Add the coconut nectar or honey, vanilla seeds and coconut oil and blend until completely smooth. Pour over the chocolate base, making sure none of the mix leaks through the mould. Freeze immediately to set (1–2 hours). The vanilla layer must be completely set before adding the cherry layer.

Make the cherry layer. Place the cherries, cinnamon, salt, lemon zest and juice in the blender and process to make a cherry juice. Add the soaked cashew nuts and blend until almost completely smooth. Melt the coconut oil and add it to the blender, along with the sour cherries, and blend once more until completely smooth, scraping the mix down from the sides if necessary. The mix should turn from a deep purple to red when the sour cherries are added. Taste and adjust to your preferred sweetness if desired. Pour the cherry layer over the vanilla layer and freeze for a further 1 hour until firm but not frozen solid. Remove from the freezer and slice into 2.5 cm wide rectangles. To get a clean cut, dip a sharp knife in hot water and slice when frozen.

Decorate each piece as you want to. I love to use cacao nibs, fresh cherries and edible flowers. Keeps in the fridge for five days. This can be frozen for up to three months but it needs to be defrosted before serving as it should be served like a cold mousse.

Recipes and photographs are from Clean Cakes by Henrietta Inman with photography by Lisa Linder, published in hardback by Jacqui Small and available from all good booksellers.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

71

72

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Going Nuts Suddenly everyone is waking up to the health-boosting benefits of cooking with coconut oil. Here Lucy Bee uses it to create a delicious and nutritious three-course meal

There’s something about the classic combination of goat’s cheese and rocket that I never grow bored with – it just works. This frittata is great for a cheap and fast evening meal but makes a healthy and filling lunch, too.

GOAT’S CHEESE AND ROCKET FRITTATA Preheat the grill on a medium setting. Melt half of coconut oil in a heavy-based pan, add the onions and sauté over a medium heat until soft. Add the garlic and cook for a further 2 minutes, then tip into a mixing bowl, add the rocket, parsley and pesto, mix together, then add the eggs.

Melt the remaining coconut oil in the frying pan until hot, then pour the mixture into the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the mixture just starts to set. Scatter the goat’s cheese and Parmesan over the top and cook for a further 2 minutes.

Place the pan under the grill for 3–5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Leave to stand for 5 minutes before cutting into wedges and serving. Season to taste.

SERVES 4 1 tbsp Lucy Bee coconut oil 2 red onions, thinly sliced 2 large garlic cloves, crushed 200g rocket 2 tbsp chopped parsley 2 tbsp Sun-dried Tomato Pesto 6 medium eggs, lightly beaten 75g soft goat’s cheese 3 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan Himalayan salt and ground black pepper

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

73

This is the perfect altemative to Sunday roasts and is a real treat for family dinners come the end of the week. I just love the French-style creamy sauce, which tastes delicious with mash. Perfect for indulging!

SERVES 4 1 chicken, about 1.5kg 50g Lucy Bee coconut oil 1⁄2 lemon 1 large bunch of tarragon Himalayan salt and ground black pepper Chopped chives, to serve

FOR THE SAUCE 6 shallots, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed 150ml white wine vinegar 200ml chicken stock 3 tsp Dijon mustard 60ml single cream 20g chopped tarragon leaves

74

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

TARRAGON ROAST CHICKEN Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6. Prepare the chicken for roasting by rubbing it all over with the coconut oil. Put the chicken in a roasting tray and place the lemon half and tarragon inside the chicken. Season well, transfer to the oven and roast for 11⁄4–11⁄2 hours, or until the juices run clear when the thickest part of the leg is pierced with a skewer. Remove the chicken from the roasting tray and keep warm.

Place the tray over a medium heat and add the shallots, garlic and vinegar. Cook until softened, scraping any tasty bits from the bottom of the pan.

Add the chicken stock and mustard, stir together and reduce for about 5 minutes. Gradually add the cream and warm through before sprinkling in the chopped tarragon.

Carve the chicken. Serve with the tarragon sauce, sprinkled with chopped chives and accompanied by either Roast Potatoes or Potato and Celeriac Mash and steamed broccoli. Season to taste.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

75

76

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Gluten-free pastry is quite tricky to make and roll out, so I have to admit I sometimes get help with that bit! However, it tastes so delicious that it’s most definitely worth the patience – perfect for a Friday or Saturday night treat, especially served with banana and strawberry ice cream.

SERVES 6–8 FOR THE PASTRY 100g Lucy Bee coconut oil, plus extra for greasing 200g gluten-free plain flour 45g icing sugar 1⁄4 tsp xanthan gum 30g roasted chopped hazelnuts 1 egg yolk 2–4 tbsp cold water

FOR THE FILLING 100g Greek yoghurt 500g crème fraîche 2 tbsp honey 400g strawberries

STRAWBERRY AND HAZELNUT TART Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6. Lightly grease a 23cm, loose-bottomed fluted tart tin.

To make the pastry, put the flour, icing sugar, xanthan gum and coconut oil in a food processor and process until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the chopped hazelnuts, egg yolk and 2 tbsp of cold water and mix again until the mixture comes together, adding more water if necessary. Remove and shape the dough into a round, then wrap in cling film and leave to rest for 15 minutes in the fridge.

Roll out the pastry between two sheets of cling film until quite thin (about 3mm thick) and big enough to line the tart tin. Gently peel off the top sheet of cling film and carefully invert the pastry into the tin. Remove the second sheet of cling film. If the pastry crumbles or tears, use your fingers to mould it into the gaps, as it’s quite pliable. Neaten off the top edge of the pastry and chill in the freezer for 5 minutes.

Remove from the freezer, use a fork to prick the base in a few places, line with baking parchment and fill with ceramic baking beans. Bake blind for 10–15 minutes, or until the pastry is just beginning to colour. Remove the baking beans and parchment and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes until golden and cooked. Leave to cool.

Unmould the cold pastry case from the tin and place on a serving plate. Put the yoghurt, crème fraîche and honey in a bowl and mix well together. Pour into the cooked pastry case, smoothing over the top.

Cut the strawberries into eighths and arrange in rounds to decorate.

Recipes and photographs are from Coconut Oil – Nature’s Perfect Ingredient by Lucy Bee, published in hardback by Quadrille and available from all good booksellers.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

77

Visit us at

SANDERSON & CO

INTERIOR DECORATING SUPPLIERS High Street, Leyburn | Tel: 01969 623143 See in store leaet for full Ts&Cs. Promotion runs in participating outlets from 20th February through to 31st May 2016.

Claims must be received by 14th June 2016. Retain original dated till receipt and original promotional leaet.

Mail in offer. Open to UK residents only, 18+. Limited to one single claim per household.

If your suite is showing signs of wear, why not consider reupholstery?

e s at e u rog w Se Har ho e rS Th we at Flo

Sophisticated Style

Bespoke upholstery service

Let us bring your old suite back to life

We offer a bespoke upholstery service.

We can make your suite as good as new by covering with the latest fabrics, and replacing the fillings.

Choose from a fantastic choice of fabrics, our craftsmen will restore your furniture to the highest of standards.

Contact Colin Blanchard for more information.

78

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

01677 470238 or 07764 279815 ocean-designs.co.uk

MAKERS OF BESPOKE KITCHENS AND BEDROOM FURNITURE

T 01609 775383 W DEANSBURYKITCHENS.CO.UK E INFO@DEANSBURYKITCHENS.CO.UK Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

79

JACOBEAN HOUSE

Country Seat of Founder of Maryland, USA

400 YEARS OF HISTORY ‘Fabulous house, gardens and afternoon tea was superb.

One of the best. Thank you!’

2016 - Longer Opening Hours Gardens and Tea Room Sat – Wed until 26 Oct (+Good Fri), 10am – 5pm (4pm until 23 March)

Hall Good Fri, and then Sat – Wed from 26 March – 26 Oct, 11am – 5pm

Kiplin Hall, nr. Scorton, Richmond, DL10 6AT 01748 818178

For events and more information: kiplinhall.co.uk 80

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

escaping the everyday Surprise your eyes this spring with new views and vistas, unexpected artworks and carpets of bluebells and wildflowers at this World Heritage Site.

Members and under 5s go free

01765 608888 nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey

National Trust

Š National Trust Images/Jonathan Pow. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

81

SPRING 2016

Dales Diary HIMALAYAN GARDEN & SCULPTURE PARK

HARROGATE SPRING FLOWER SHOW

Grewelthorpe, Ripon 01765 658009 www.himalayangarden.com

Great Yorkshire Showground 01423 546157 www.flowershow.org.uk

Spring Opening 2016

Thursday 21st to Sunday 24th April, 9.30am to 5.30pm (4.30pm Sunday). Tickets £16 if booked before 12th April (Sunday £14), or £18.50 on the gate (Sunday £16.50). Under 16s free with an adult.

Tuesdays to Sundays plus Bank Holidays from Saturday April 23rd to Sunday June 12th, 10am to 4pm. Adults £7.50; children under 12 free. Concessions for parties of 20 and over.

The award-winning 20-acre Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park is widely considered to have the North’s largest collection of rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias.

There are nearly 20,000 plants, including some 1,400 rhododendron varieties, 250 azalea varieties and 150 different magnolias – all set in a beautiful valley with scenic woodland walks. For 2016 there are newly planted areas, a new visitor centre and refreshment facilities.

The nursery will be open, selling nearly 200 different varieties of rhododendron as well as many other hardy ericaceous shrubs and perennials.

82

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Featuring beautiful show gardens, great shopping and a packed programme of live entertainment, Harrogate Spring Flower Show is the first big event in the gardening calendar.

The show welcomes 100 UK nurseries offering a huge range of plants and spectacular displays. New for 2016 is Botanica: Plants & People, which explores the timeless relationship between people, plants and the landscape.

Amble along The Avenue to admire the stunning new show gardens and find out how to upcycle your garden with a series of practical talks on making fun features from simple materials.

Rated Britain’s best gardening event by Which?, the event also hosts the country’s biggest exhibition by florists and flower arrangers, showcasing stunning individual artworks and large-scale displays.

A cookery theatre, specialist regional foods, great garden shopping, handmade crafts and lovely gifts all add up to a great day out for garden lovers!

SPRING 2016

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL near Ripon 01765 608888 nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Golden Egg Hunt Friday 25th March to Sunday 10th April, 10am to 4pm.

A tiny golden egg is hiding somewhere on the estate. Team up with your family and friends to take on this challenging treasure hunt. Tell us where you saw it for a chance to win a special prize.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Friday 25th March to Sunday 10th April, 11am to 4pm. Trails £2, with a shorter route for little legs.

Little bunnies have been hoppety-hopping around! Explore every corner of the estate to find them and get a yummy Cadbury chocolate prize.

Weaving in the Workshop Friday 25th March to Sunday 10th April, 11am to 4pm.

Get your fingers working and creative juices flowing with a woolly medieval craft. Head to Swanley Grange where there’s lots to discover about the history of the wool trade.

Easter Eggsploits Monday 28th March from 1.30pm.

Join in an afternoon of eggciting Easter Monday traditions with egg rolling on Abbey Green and a ‘best decorated egg’ competition. A very special long-eared guest has been invited too!

World Heritage Weekend

YORKSHIRE DALES MILLENNIUM TRUST 015242 51002 www.ydmt.org Choral Concert at Priory Church, Bolton Abbey, BD23 6AL Saturday 14th May, 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Adults £10, Under 16s free. To include a complimentary glass of wine or soft drink at the interval. Booking advisable, call 015242 51002 or email info@ydmt.org.

An evening of song performed by the highly accomplished Yorkshire Dales chamber choir Cantores Salicium. The programme will include Handel’s ‘Hallelujah Chorus’, ‘Zadok the Priest’ and ‘Music for the Royal Fireworks’.

An exciting new work commissioned for the choir and inspired by the Yorkshire Dales landscape will also be unveiled. All profits in aid of local charity Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust.

Guided Spring Flower Walk in Wensleydale Wednesday 25th May, 10am start. Suggested donation of £15 per person to support work of YDMT. Booking essential, call 015242 51002 or email media@ydmt.org.

A moderate 6-mile walk from Aysgarth to Castle Bolton and back, via Aysgarth Falls and with views of Bolton Castle, led by YDMT. We hope to enjoy carpets of spring flowers in Freeholders Wood, including bluebells and early purple orchids. We’ll also walk through our first major supporter woodland, St Joseph’s Wood, which was planted in 1998–99 thanks to dedications and donations from many people.

Meet at Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre, Aysgarth, North Yorkshire DL8 3TH. All ages welcome (children must be accompanied).

Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th April.

Discover what makes the estate a World Heritage Site and learn about a day in the life of an 18th century gardener from historical gardener Michael Brown.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

83

84

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

SPRING 2016

THORP PERROW ARBORETUM Bedale, North Yorkshire 01677 425323 thorpperrow.com

KIPLIN HALL near Scorton, Richmond 01748 818178 kiplinhall.co.uk

Spring Sensations Daily, 10am to 5pm From the early snowdrops through a riot of colourful crocuses and daffodils to the splendour of the bluebells in May, springtime at Thorp Perrow is always spectacular.

The tearoom serves a delicious seasonal menu of locally produced lunches, cakes and refreshments, and the Birds of Prey and Mammal Centre entertains with flying displays at 11.30am and 1.30pm. Kids can run wild and free in our adventure playground.

Easter Trail 18th March to 11th April, 10am to 5pm.

Standard entry charges plus £1 per child Follow the trail around the Arboretum for lots of Easter-themed fun. Collect your prize when you complete it!

Easter Kids’ Activity Days 1st to 3rd April, 11am to 4pm. Standard entry charges apply.

Easter-themed activities perfect for active kids aged 4+. Join in any time from 11am to 4pm, and don’t forget to wear your wellies!

Spring Tour Wednesday 13th April, 1pm onwards.

Standard entry charges plus £10 to include lunch and tour. Book your tickets on 01677 425323 or enquiries@thorpperrow.com.

Enjoy a delicious light lunch in the tearoom, then join the Curator for a guided tour of the Arboretum dressed in its spring finery.

Easter for Families Friday 25th to Monday 28th March. Normal opening times and prices apply. Free with admission to Hall and gardens.

Activities for children throughout the Easter weekend. On Easter Sunday from 10am onwards the North Yorkshire Vintage Machinery Society will be displaying items from their collections.

Art Through the Ages in an English Country House Monday 11th April, 10.30am to 12.30pm plus further dates TBA. £20 per talk, or book the series of 4 talks for £70. Maximum 25 people per talk.

What sort of paintings would you have seen in an English country house in the past? Art historian Sandra Pollard introduces art from the 16th century in the first of this series of four lectures, which link to the many paintings that hang at Kiplin Hall. Please call for details about the other three lectures.

Photography for Beginners Thursday 21st April, 10am to 3pm. £45 per person, maximum 12 people.

So you’ve got a nice camera and you’re wondering how to use it? Join photographer Guy Carpenter, who will guide you gently through the technical fundamentals, particularly how to control exposure. Then practise your skills in Kiplin’s beautiful grounds. A camera with at least some manual settings is preferable.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

85

SPRING 2016

CONSTABLE BURTON HALL near Bedale 01677 450428 www.constableburton.com Constable Burton Garden Opening 2016 Saturday 19th March to Sunday 25th September, 9am to 5pm. Please see website for full details.

NEWBY HALL near Ripon 01423 322583, option 3 www.newbyhall.com Easter Family Fun Days Sunday 27th and Monday 28th March, 11am to 5pm. See website for Newby Hall and Gardens admission charges.

Lots of Easter fun for all the family!

Explore the beautiful terraced woodland gardens of this handsome Palladian villa.

Spring Plant Fair Sunday 8th May, 11am to 4pm. See website for Newby Hall and Gardens admission charges.

Specialist nurseries from all over the North will be bringing their plants and expertise to Newby’s beautiful gardens.

Tractor Fest Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June, 10am to 5pm.

Tulip Festival Saturday 30th April to Monday 2nd May, 9am to 5pm. Adults £4, Senior Citizens £3, children free.

Sponsored by Chelsea-award-winning nursery Bloms Bulbs, Constable Burton’s famous Tulip Festival features a dazzling array of 6,500 tulips, planted annually. With everything from traditional favourites to exciting new variants, it’s a breathtaking celebration of colour and form. Refreshments available.

86

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

£10 adults, £9 seniors, £8 children, under 4s free. Includes entry to the garden and adventure garden.

The biggest Tractor Festival in the North, organised by the Yorkshire Vintage Association. We’ll be celebrating all things Yorkshire with a ‘Made in Yorkshire’ theme that will see an array of exhibitors showcasing thousands of vintage tractors, cars, lorries, stationary engines and motorcycles. The perfect family day out, with fun activities throughout the weekend including vintage tractor pulling, the chance for children to drive mini tractors around our track, interactive exhibits and working machinery.

SPRING 2016

THE ROBERT FULLER GALLERY Fotherdale Farm, Thixendale 01759 368355 www.robertefuller.com

THE HAREWOOD ANTIQUES AND FINE ART FAIR Harewood House, near Leeds 01797 252030 www.harewoodfair.com A Royal Weekend Friday 10th June 11am to 8pm; Saturday 11th June 10.30am to 6pm; Sunday 12th June 10.30am to 5pm. Admission £5 including catalogue. Free entry for members of Harewood House.

To mark HM The Queen’s 90th birthday, many of the exhibitors at the Fair will be bringing items with royal connections, including a pair of crystal presentation goblets commemorating the 1937 coronation of George VI, and an elegant side table attributed to a royal cabinetmaker.

Other displays will include fine silverware, jewellery, ceramics, clocks and watches, bronzes, carpets and rugs, antiquarian books, fossils and oriental antiquities.

Songbirds: Sounds of the Wolds June 11th to July 3rd. Please see website for details and times of accompanying events.

Yorkshire-based wildlife artist Robert Fuller celebrates the county’s beautiful songbirds with an exhibition tailored to help visitors learn to identify the different tweets made

by British species.

Robert’s gallery on the Yorkshire Wolds lies under the flight path of numerous migrating birds and is noted for its healthy populations of rare visitors like redstarts. Visitors can enjoy Robert’s meticulously detailed oil paintings of UK songbirds and then learn the difference between bird chirrups via interactive displays.

There will also be walks through the surrounding Yorkshire Wolds countryside to learn how to identify birdsong, lessons in unscrambling the daily dawn chorus, evening safaris to spot owls led by the artist, and bird safaris specially tailored for tots.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

87

Passionate PassionateAbout About Qual QualityityandandChoice Choice Campbells CampbellsofofLeyburn Leyburn YourYour family family runrun FineFine FoodFood andand WineWine Emporium Emporium ampbell’s ampbell’s independent independent family family owned owned foodfood C C emporium emporium has has served served the the dales dales for over for over 140140 years years andand continues continues to inspire to inspire artisan artisan andand locallocal companies, companies, to help to help pioneer pioneer newnew products products andand services services to to improve improve customer customer choice. choice.

The The shopshop is a first is a first stopstop for many for many travellers travellers to Leyburn to Leyburn to to viewview the finest the finest locallocal rarerare breed breed meats, meats, an extensive an extensive range range of store of store cupboard cupboard ingredients, ingredients, a well-stocked a well-stocked delicatessen delicatessen and and a varied a varied selection selection of exotic of exotic fruits fruits and and vegetables. vegetables.

For those For those people people bored bored withwith shopping shopping in supermarkets, in supermarkets, and and the same the same limited limited options, options, Campbell’s Campbell’s exciting exciting selection selection of local, of local, artisan artisan and and continental continental cheeses cheeses fromfrom around around the world, the world, fill the fill whole the whole aisleaisle – and – and you you are spoilt are spoilt for choice! for choice!

Whether Whether it is it local is local Yorkshire Yorkshire and and English English cheese cheese which which includes includes the famous the famous Wensleydale Wensleydale cheese cheese fromfrom Hawes Hawes Creamery Creamery or something or something fromfrom further further afield, afield, you you won’t won’t findfind a better a better cheese cheese board board selection selection locally. locally.

In our In our extended extended upstairs upstairs winewine department department you you can can discover discover some some of the of widest the widest selection selection of over of over 10001000 wines wines and and more more that that 150 150 maltmalt whiskies whiskies plusplus other other spirits, spirits, sparkling sparkling winewine and and champagne, champagne, in the in region! the region!

OurOur already already successful successful WineWine ClubClub which which hosts hosts visiting visiting growers growers and and major major brands brands invites invites you you to take to take up free up free membership membership to hear to hear about about exclusive exclusive offers offers including including tastings, tastings, previews previews and and discounts. discounts.

We look We look forward forward to seeing to seeing you you in store in store soon. soon.

4 Commercial 4 Commercial Square, Square, Leyburn, Leyburn, North North Yorkshire Yorkshire DL8DL8 5BP5BP Tel: Tel: 01969 01969 622169 622169 Email: Email: richard@campbellsofleyburn.co.uk richard@campbellsofleyburn.co.uk

www.campbellsofleyburn.co.uk www.campbellsofleyburn.co.uk

Commercial Commercial Square Square

Hawes Hawes A684 A684

Wensleydale Wensleydale Railway Railway

HarmbyHarmby Road Road Bedale Bedale

Campbells Campbells of Leyburn of Leyburn is situated is situated in Commercial in Commercial Square Square at theattop theend top of end theofvillage the village near near to thetoBolton the Bolton ArmsArms pub. pub.

Campbells CampbellsofofLeyburn Leyburn

– serving – serving the Dales the Dales community community sincesince 18681868 – naturally – naturally | Dales Life | Spring 2016

88

SPRING 2016

DALES COUNTRYSIDE MUSEUM Station Yard, Burtersett Road, Hawes 01969 666210 www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk Run, Rabbit, Run! Friday 25th March to Sunday 10th April, 10am to 5pm. Included in museum admission.

Hop in for some eggstravagant Easter fun!

Get your bobtails moving, find the letters on the bunnies hidden around the Museum and make a word to win a prize. Themed crafts in the Creation Station on our train outside.

Drystone Walling Demonstration Tuesdays 29th March, 5th April and 31st May, 11am to 3pm. Included in museum admission.

Join our Dales Volunteers as they showcase the traditional craft of drystone walling. During five short drop-in sessions they will talk through the process of turning a pile of stones into something that will last for centuries.

PYRAMID GALLERY 43 Stonegate, York 01904 641187 www.pyramidgallery.com Spring Exhibition: Echoes 16th April to 8th May. Mondays to Fridays 10am to 5 pm, Saturdays 10am to 5.30pm.

Also open on selected Sundays, please contact the gallery for details.

Echoes brings together the evocative work of two York artists, Emma Whitelock and Sally Clarke. Both women portray the female figure in atmospheric pieces, complementing each other in their mood. Emma uses painting and printmaking, creating enigmatic works that combine pathos and memory with a deep connection to the Yorkshire landscape. Sally is a printmaker, interested in how process can naturally evolve an image. Her figures are very much the focus in their dreamlike settings.

Rugmaking Sundays 3rd April and 15th May, 11am to 4pm. Adults ÂŁ40.

Learn the basics on a full-day workshop with internationally renowned rug maker Heather Ritchie and create a unique piece for your home.

Materials and a locally sourced lunch included.

Hawes Town Trail Wednesdays 6th April and 25th May, 2pm to 4pm. Free event, donations welcome.

Join our experienced Dales Volunteers on this easy 2-mile guided walk exploring the historical, industrial and natural beauty of Gayle and Hawes, home to Wensleydale Creamery. Meet at the Dales Countryside Museum.

In the Kitchen Fridays 8th April and 27th May, 11am to 3pm.

Included in Museum admission.

Join us in our traditional farmhouse kitchen where costumed Friends of the Museum will explain the work that went on there.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

89

90

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

SPRING 2016

SISSONS GALLERY 23 Market Place, Helmsley, YO62 5BJ 01439 771385 www.sissonsgallery.co.uk Moorcroft ‘Design Debut’ Event Saturday 4th June from 12 noon onwards.

Moorcroft’s Senior Designer Rachel Bishop will be at the gallery with her special vase, the stunning ‘Florian Revisited’. The vase will carry the back-stamp ‘Sissons Gallery, Helmsley’, along with Rachel’s signature, under the glaze.

‘Florian Revisited’ can be purchased and signed on the day by Rachel, but pre-orders are essential.

Moorcroft will only make what we order!

Please let us know if you can attend as tickets are required for (free) refreshments. If you are unable to attend, we will be taking orders for ‘Florian Revisited’ that Rachel will sign for you on the day. For further details contact diana@ sissonsgallery.co.uk.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

91

…is one of England’s most recent follies The brainchild of Mr. C.R. Armstrong, C.M.G. OBE, it was originally built as a private folly but due to public demand was subsequently opened.

A unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created in a four-acre garden in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The temple of the underworld, the eye of the needle, a huge pyramid made of translucent glass, paths and passages that lead nowhere, extraordinary statues at every turn. There are decisions to make and tricks to avoid, a day out with a difference which will challenge and delight children of all ages.

OPENING TIMES FOR 2016 EVERY DAY FROM 24 MARCH - 31 OCTOBER & then Sundays until Christmas.

Mon - Sat 12 noon - 6pm.

Sundays & Bank Holidays 10am - 6pm.

Tupgill Park Estate, Coverham, Middleham, Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 4TJ

Visit the

ADMISSION IS BY PRE-BOOKED TICKETS ONLY To reserve your ticket please telephone

01969 640638

www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk

Corner C a

fé WITH ITS NEW MENU & freshly–m ade sa soups, barista ndwiches, co delicious AW ffees and ARD WINNIN G PIES & CAKE S

RELAX IN OUR RURAL WENSLEYDALE RETREAT AT WESTHOLME ESTATE

Tucked away on the banks of Bishopdale Beck, surrounded by lush rolling countryside, Westholme Estates is the perfect retreat for private parties, corporate events and celebrations.

Kids can go wild meeting our animals in the park!

Our contemporary lodges offer the perfect holiday location to experience the natural beauty of the Dales. Hendersons Bar and Restaurant, recently refurbished to the highest standards, is just a short stroll away – the ideal place to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner or relax with a coffee while you plan your day’s adventures.

Westholme: at the heart of the Dales WESTHOLME ESTATE WESTHOLME ESTATE, AYSGARTH, LEYBURN, NORTH YORKSHIRE DL8 3SP 01969 663268 | paul.dixon@westholme-estate.co.uk 92

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

ROYAL ARMOURIES MUSEUM

EASTER TOURNAMENT FRI 25 – MON 28 MARCH 2016

An action-packed day out for all the family. #RATOURNAMENT

Book your tickets now www.royalarmouries.org

MEDIEVAL EASTER

Tues 29 March – Sun 17 April 2016 Crafts / Falconry / Combat / Squire School / Archery

www.royalarmouries.org

Spectacular international jousting competition in the heart of the city.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

93

Nude and buttercream Kite Tote by Mulberry from Chestnut, Darlington 01325 481975

Lifting Eye Serum by Crème De La Mer, available at John Lewis, York Bangle by Jaqueline Warrington from Emma Sedman, Leyburn 01969 368006

Aquazurra sexy thong sandals, Harvey Nichols, Leeds Velvelutto skinenhancing foundation, from templespa.com

Ombre iridescent eye shadow in Silver Plum, from Clarins counters nationwide 94

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Cotton dress by Tory Burch at toryburch.co.uk

Gold stacking rings with precious stones from Pyramid Gallery, York 01904 641187

Waterline earrings handmade to order from Pyramid Gallery, York 01904 641187

Clarins Multi-Active Nuit cream available from Clarins counters nationwide

Luxurous deep-cleansing Glorious Mud by Temple Spa at templespa.com

Silk skin BeeBee cream by Deborah Mitchell, from Blink Beauty, Northallerton 01609 779390

Tom Ford patent finish lip colour at selfridges.com

Bionda Castana blush leather sliders at Harvey Nichols, Leeds

Striking pink outfit by Stella McCartney at stellamccartney.com

Blossom pink leather bucket bag, at youngbritishdesigners.com

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

95

Free catalogue on request

The Robert Fuller Gallery A hidden gem! Enjoy a visit to Robert E Fuller’s gallery near the pretty Yorkshire Wolds village of V T n As seen o Thixendale. See his stunning wildlife paintings, prints, cards and gifts.

Wander around his studio to find out how he works. Watch live wildlife cameras on stoats, owls and more and learn all about the secret lives of

g t an amazin ” “Wow wha not to miss! e on ce en experi

Britain’s best loved creatures.

Robert E Fuller is one of Britain’s leading wildlife artists and is regularly seen on TV programmes such as the One Show and Countryfile. He is also a passionate conservationist who combines his art for a zeal for preserving the animals and birds he owes his livelihood to.

Wander round the Open 7 days Open everyday 10.30am-4.30pm The Robert Fuller Gallery, Thixendale, Nr Malton YO17 9LS 20 minutes from York on the A166 beautiful gallery at a week www.RobertEFuller.com your leisure Free entry Tel: 01759 368 355

FLOWER OF MAY FLOWER OF MAY family holiday parks family holiday parks OWN YOUR OWN HOLIDAY HOME YOUR OWN HOLIDAY HOME 9OWN STUNNING PARKS IN YORKSHIRE 9 STUNNING PARKS IN YORKSHIRE Excellent B&B accommodation set in beautiful Priory grounds with ample safe parking Holiday home packages Holiday home packages from only £11,995* *available on selected parks from only £11,995*

01947 600051 www.sneatoncastle.co.uk 96

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

*available onStuart selected parks593376.

For country parks call on 07943 For country coastal parks For parks call call James Stuart on on 07984 07943 204501.

593376.

For coastal parksFEES call James on 07984 204501.

NO SITE UNTIL 2017!

NO SITE FEES UNTIL 2017! www.flowerofmay.com www.flowerofmay.com

THE ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR

AT HAREWOOD THE MARQUEE HAREWOOD HOUSE NEAR LEEDS LS17 9LQ

10 - 12 JUNE 2016 Friday 11.00 - 20.00 Saturday 10.30 - 18.00 Sunday 10.30 - 17.00

two for one admission to fair with this advert 01797 252030

www.harewoodfair.com

© Harewood House Trust

Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

97

BEST OVERALL HEAVEN SALON 2015/2016

Spring offers

for Dales Life readers Buy one Heaven facial and receive the next one half price Offer available from March until the end of April.

All half price facials must be taken by end of April. (not in conjunction with any other offers).

Spring Bee Sting mani/pedi offer 30 - 32 Malpas Road Northallerton, N. Yorkshire DL7 8TB 01609 258542 www.blinkbeauty.co.uk

10% off when both mani and pedi are booked together.

Offer available from March until the end of April.

A patch test is required for certain Heaven facials, the first one 48 hrs prior to treatment.

Gatsby’s hairdressing

01677 426943

To book space in the Summer issue contact Sue Gillman

Spring Offer

20% discount to all new clients 9a Market Place, Bedale 98

| Dales Life | Spring 2016

Telephone: 01904 629295 Mobile: 07970 739119 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com

A6 Land advert May 15_Layout 1 12/02/2016 08:54 Page 1

Cut & Finish For only £25.00 at Saks Barnard Castle and Saks Sedbury Stables on production of this advert VALID UNTIL 31ST MAY 2016 SAKS HAIRDRESSING 2 MARKET PLACE BARNARD CASTLE COUNTY DURHAM DL12 8ND

SAKS HAIRDRESSING THE STABLES SEDBURY HALL SCOTCH CORNER DL10 5LQ

T 01833 637 020

T 01748 850 101

barnardcastle@sakshair.co.uk

scotchcorner@sakshair.co.uk

Terms & Conditions apply. Mention advert at time of booking and bring to appointment, available at salons listed above on selected days with selected stylists. Cannot be used with any other offer/discount or exchanged for cash. Only one redemption per client.

Subject to availability. No photocopies.

The best of British and International contemporary designer jewellery Enameller, jeweller and goldsmith Bespoke design service and commissions Jewellery gallery and in-house workshop Contemporary textiles and accessories Newsteads • High Street • Leyburn North Yorkshire • DL8 5AQ Winter Opening Hours, Monday 10-4, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10-5 T: 01969 368006 • info@emmasedman.co.uk emmasedman.co.uk Spring 2016 | Dales Life |

99

A DAY IN THE LIFE

100 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

hot shots For York-based photographer Olivia Brabbs, photography is in the blood. Inspired by her father - renowned landscape photographer and author Derry Brabbs - Olivia relinquished her career as an occupational therapist to set up her own wedding and commercial photography business. She has been running it for the last ten years

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 101

You describe your work as ‘documentary’ wedding photography – what exactly does that mean?

In a nutshell, it’s turning traditional wedding photography on its head. Instead of bossing people around and choreographing set-piece shots, my emphasis is on letting the day flow naturally and giving the couple and their guests the freedom to be themselves. By quietly observing, rather than trying to direct events, I can capture images of everyone enjoying the occasion in a relaxed, informal mood. It’s less intrusive, and it creates a more detailed and intimate record. It also gives the couple extra time to be with friends and family instead of posing for an endless series of regimented group pictures.

How do you prepare for a shoot?

Thorough planning is absolutely crucial. I meet up with my clients well in advance and talk through the arrangements for the day in meticulous detail, making sure I know the first names of all the important family members and friends. Even though this is my tenth year of photographing weddings, I still get nervous the night before. And rightly so, because documenting someone’s special day is a serious responsibility – when I lose the nerves it will probably be time to quit! I have certain rituals about getting my kit ready, and I take every piece of equipment out of my bag to review it, ensuring lenses are clean, batteries are charged and so on.

And how does the day usually unfold?

Every wedding is unique. I’ve done everything from a brief ceremony consisting of just the bride and groom – I was a witness, along with the taxi driver – to spending fourteen hours photographing a wedding with 300 guests.

Typically, though, a day will start with the bridal preparations, which is one of my favourite parts.

It’s an aspect of the wedding most people don’t see, and I feel very honoured to be involved.

102 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

Do you ever worry about being in the way?

Emotions can run high, so it’s vitally important to be sensitive. Divorced parents might be coming together for the first time in years for the sake of their child, for example. My experience as an occupational therapist in the health service, tuning in to clients’ needs, has really helped me here. Sometimes it’s better not to take the photo but to tiptoe away and give people their space.

And after the bride is ready?

For me, this can be the most stressful part of the day: driving to the wedding venue and getting parked! I need to arrive ahead of the bride, so it’s a tight schedule. And you can’t always rely on the sat nav! Often I’ll drive the route beforehand to check it out. Another thing I research in advance is what restrictions the wedding venue puts on photography.

Churches and registry offices can be quite strict.

One particularly firmly enforced rule is against photographing the couple while they’re signing the wedding register.

So can you relax a bit when you get to the reception?

No, not at all. There’s lots to cram into a short time, and I don’t want to be responsible for meals being spoiled or angry chefs! At this point, of course, people are winding down a bit, and it’s an opportunity to capture family groups enjoying themselves, and all those joyful congratulations and hugs. I also like to get the couple alone for a few minutes – not posing, just being themselves.

The next big landmark for me is the speeches, another terrific chance to get pictures of people in a relaxed mood with a glass of fizz in their hand. Some couples ask me to stay on into the evening, others don’t.

And afterwards?

My top priority, the moment I get home, is to get all my pictures safely backed up onto hard drives. I also like to have a quick look to see

“As a documentary photographer I do my best to blend into the background so people can relax and forget they are being photographed�

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 103

what images I have got – even if, as is usually the case, I’m tired and emotionally drained by this point. It can be a very physically exhausting job, particularly if it has been a twelve- or fourteen-hour day. There’s heavy equipment to lug around, and times when you get incredibly hungry but don’t even take a break for a glass of water. With documentary photography you’re always on duty, because you don’t want to miss that unexpected special moment. And you need to be constantly adapting to the weather, the lighting conditions and the changing dynamics of the occasion.

You clearly love your work, but what aspects of it do you find frustrating?

As a documentary photographer I do my best to blend into the background so people can relax and forget they are being photographed.

The biggest obstacles to this are the ‘Uncle Bobs’ – well-meaning family members with

104 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

massive cameras who decide to take on the role of alternative photographer! I quite understand that people are keen to record their own images, but if there happen to be several Uncle Bobs on the day it’s easy for everyone to get terribly self-conscious. The same thing goes for people brandishing iPhones and iPads, which is one reason so many couples are opting for ‘unplugged’ weddings these days.

And the high points?

After all the champagne has been drunk and the cake eaten, the photographs are all you’re going to have to remember your wedding day by. And those photographs will go on to be treasured family memories for many years to come. It’s a massive privilege to be entrusted with the responsibility of creating them.

For more information about Olivia Brabbs Photography, visit oliviabrabbs.co.uk or call 01904 656956.

Sissons Gallery Helmsley

Saturday 4th June 2016 from 12.00 mid-day A ‘Design Debut’ Event Moorcroft’s Senior Designer, Rachel Bishop, with her special vase

Florian Revisited This is not an Event to miss as Moorcroft’s Senior Designer, Rachel Bishop, will be here in attendance. Her special vase for this day is the stunning ‘Florian Revisited’ which will carry the backstamp: Sissons Gallery Helmsley as well as Rachel’s signature under the glaze. ‘Florian Revisited’ can be purchased and signed on the day by Rachel, but pre-orders are essential – Moorcroft will only make what we order!

In the unfortunate circumstance you cannot attend, we will be taking orders for Florian Revisited that Rachel will sign for you on the day.

No orders sent till after 4th June Shape 80/9 £395 numbered edition

Posted within the UK at no extra cost.

Overseas at cost.

© W. Moorcroft

For further details contact: diana@sissonsgallery.co.uk Sissons Gallery, 23 Market Place, Helmsley YO62 5BJ 01439 771385 www.sissonsgallery.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 105

106 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

AUCTION ROOM HIGHLIGHTS

Prize Lot The Lot

A

century or two ago, virtually everyone in the average Dales household – men, women and children alike – would spend their free time knitting. Partly to make clothing for themselves, of course, but mainly to supplement their income by producing Maker socks and stockings for sale. The same was true of many other rural areas Unknown rural craftsmen, where sheep were farmed and local wool was readily available, including mainly from the Cumbria, Northumberland, Scotland and Wales.

North of England For these semi-professional knitters, a knitting sheath – also known as a knitting stick – was an essential piece of kit. One end of the sheath was tucked Date into the knitter’s belt or waistband at their right hip, and the sheath set at an Late seventeenth to late angle. A double-ended knitting needle would then be inserted into a hole in nineteenth centuries the haft at the opposite end. This secured the knitting needle, enabling the knitter to knit with their left hand while their right hand remained free.

Size A good knitter could work at a prodigious speed, even whilst walking or Mostly 15cm to attending to some other task with their right hand. Swaledale lead miners, for 20cm long example, would regularly knit as they trekked to and fro between their homes and the mine workings up on the moors.

Auction estimate “The majority of knitting sheaths were made of wood, by hand,” says £80 to £500 each, Sarah White, vintage costume and textile expert at Tennants Auctioneers in depending on age, Leyburn. “That said, you sometimes come across examples made of leather, condition and rarity metal, bone, straw or quills. They’re fascinating pieces of social history. Often they were given as love tokens, and incorporate hearts, inlay, chip carving, For sale at painted decoration, dates and inscriptions into the designs.

Tennants Auctioneers, “The collection that we will be selling from April onwards was put together by a Leyburn couple from Hartlepool. It brings together more than fifty sticks of differing styles The sheaths and dates, the earliest being late seventeenth century. The majority of them were will be auctioned bought in the North East of England, including colliery areas such as Ryhope and individually at Sunderland. Some designs are specific to particular regions. For example the ‘goose selected auctions wing’ or ‘gull wing’ knitting sheaths on the right- and left-hand sides of the group in from 29th April the photograph were favoured in Dent and the Yorkshire Dales.

2016 onwards “By far the best knitting sheath in the set is a chip-carved stick dated 1775 and initialled ‘MN’. It has a chain hanging on each side, and a cage in the top incorporating Contact a wooden ball. It was carved from a single piece of fruitwood, and is expected to realise tennants.co.uk between £300 and £500 at auction.

01969 623780 “The elaborately chip-carved peg stick with a shell-type design is inscribed ‘Jane Pile Aug 12th 1847’ and carries an estimate of £200 to £300, as does the carved fish, which is probably from a northeastern coastal town. The ‘goose wing’ sticks, whilst still very charming, are a little more affordable; I am expecting them to go under the hammer for between £80 and £120 each”.

An extensive collection of treen knitting sheaths

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 107

THE HOME OF BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

DIRECT 108 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

A family-run business with over 25 years of experience.

We offer the best possible prices, the most superior quality bathrooms and generous discounts, whilst maintaing the highest level of after- sales care.

sales@bathrooms-direct.net www.bathrooms-direct.net 01677 425788 John H Gills Yard, 1 Leeming Lane, Leeming Bar DL7 9AB

shooting star John Gillman brushes up his gun skills with aspiring Olympic shooter Ross Elgie The sun is shining and it’s a grand day to be out and about in the rolling countryside of lower Wensleydale.

But I’m not here to admire the scenery, delightful though it is. I’ve arranged to meet champion skeet shooter and Olympic hopeful Ross Elgie at Warren Gill Shooting Ground in Fearby, west of Masham. And, with a bit of luck, I’ll be able to pick his brains for a few tips to help me hone my somewhat rusty shooting skills.

Shooting is in Ross’s blood. His parents, Dave and Ann Elgie, are both passionate, and very accomplished, clay pigeon shooters. Several years ago they set up Warren Gill as a state-of-the-art clay pigeon shooting facility, offering practice facilities and expert tuition to shooters of all ability levels.

Ross became a CPSA-qualified instructor in 2004, but it wasn’t until relatively recently that he started shooting competitively. He soon developed an all-consuming interest in skeet shooting. Skeet is a form of competitive clay pigeon shooting that originated in the USA. It has been an Olympic event since 1968.

Although he came into the sport comparatively late, Ross has already eclipsed many more experienced shooters. Last year he was selected to represent England in the British Skeet Clay Pigeon Team. He also won the Scottish Open Skeet Championship and The Yorkshire Skeet Open Competition. His next ambition is to secure a place in the British Olympic team. And shooting in Tokyo in 2020 is clearly no idle dream. Ross is an exceptionally highly motivated – you might even say driven – sportsman. So far he has achieved every sporting goal he has set himself.

Calling the Shots The secret of Ross’s winning performances? Well for one thing he has immense stamina and confidence.

“Doing well at skeet shooting is mainly to do with mental preparation,” he says. “Most good shooters tend to fade after they’ve made a hundred straight shots, and it’s at that point that they start making errors. I’ve trained myself to maintain my level of concentration and to finish as strongly as I started.”

What’s more, it’s obvious that Ross – a walking encyclopaedia when it comes to shooting matters – treats his chosen sport very much as a scientific discipline. Instead of relying on conventional wisdom he has spent hours watching other shooters, carefully analysing what they’re doing right and wrong. On the basis of his meticulous research he has developed his own finely-honed recipe for success.

It’s this talent for close observation that makes Ross such a good teacher. He starts by sizing me up, concentrating on my stance, footwork and how I am holding the gun. Within a couple of Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 109

minutes he has got my measure. For every shot I miss, he can tell me precisely where I went wrong.

And, more importantly, how to do better next time.

You might think that being assessed by a professional would be rather nerve-racking, and indeed I am a bit daunted at first. After all, noone likes being judged. My worries, though, are quickly dispelled. Ross is an admirably patient and reassuring teacher. He makes the whole experience fun, highlighting the positives even when I don’t get things quite right. It’s a refreshing contrast to many of the lessons I have taken in the past, which have been overly technical and distinctly frustrating.

The Fast Track One of the most important things I learn from Ross is to ignore the barrel of the gun and concentrate on the target. “What do you look at when you’re playing tennis or batting in cricket?” he asks. “The ball, of course! And it’s the same with clay pigeon shooting. Put your head on the gun and keep your eye on the target. A lot of shooters try to ‘measure’ the gap between the end of gun and the target. But you can’t look at two things at once, it’s just not possible.”

His other crucial – and closely related – piece of advice is to fire confidently and promptly. “People tend to track the target for far too long. Just get your gun up and shoot! The longer you follow the target, the more your gun slows down, and the bigger the likelihood that you will make a mistake.”

This is advice that pays dividends in my case, because after little more than an hour with Ross my shooting has improved by several notches. I imagine that even someone who has been shooting for a number of years would take plenty away from a session at Warren Gill. Equally it would be an excellent place for a beginner to get to grips with the art. And of course beginners wouldn’t have the disadvantage of having to unlearn what Ross regards as bad habits.

I leave Warren Gill feeling genuinely inspired

by Ross’s conception of shooting. By challenging received ideas and cutting out what he sees as needless distractions he has evolved his own unique, and very efficient, approach to the sport.

Let’s hope he does indeed make it to the Olympics – and that he uses the skills he has refined here in a quiet corner of the Yorkshire Dales to achieve sporting success on the other side of the globe.

110 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

To find out more about Warren Gill Shooting Ground visit www.warrengill.co.uk or call 01765 689232.

Personal Advice in an Impersonal World

Property & Rural Law

Estate Planning • Wills & Probate • Estate Administration • Powers of Attorney • Care Home Fees • Tax Planning • Estate Disputes

• Property Sales & Purchases • Landlord and Tenant Matters • Agricultural Land • Leases and Tenancies • Rights of Way • Sporting Rights & Purchases • Wind Farms

Family • Adoption • Separation • Divorce • Contact with Children or Grandchildren • Civil Partnership Dissolution

We provide legal advice and assistance using old-fashioned values in a friendly and modern way

McGarry & Co. S O L I C I T O R S

21 Galgate, Barnard Castle, Co. Durham DL12 BEQ 01833 600160

Market Place, Hawes, North Yorkshire DLB 3QS 01969 667000

7 Main Street, Sedbergh, Cumbria. LA10 5BN 01539 622340

office@mbmcgarry.co.uk • www.mbmcgarry.co.uk Authorised and regulated by The Solicitors Regulation Authority Number 606950

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 111

WARREN GILL

Clay Pigeon Shooting Ground

Simply the Best‌ Clay Pigeon Shooting in beautiful countryside

From complete beginners to advanced shooters

Corporate Events Private tuition Game coaching Fully qualiďŹ ed CSPA coaches Gift vouchers available 01765 689232 info@warrengill.co.uk www.warrengill.co.uk

Your local friendly chartered architects

Designing dreams

RBCARCHITECT Domestic and commercial architectural and planning services New build | Extensions | Conversions | Refurbishments

T: 01609 751668 E: hello@rbcarchitect.co.uk Evolution Business Centre, 6 County Business Park, Darlington Road, Northallerton DL6 2NQ

www.rbcarchitect.co.uk 112 | Dales Life | Spring 2016 Dales life_RBC Architect_14.indd 1

23/06/2014 17:57:01

A world of experience PACKAGE HOLIDAYS • TAILOR-MADE ITINERARIES • CRUISES • RAIL FERRIES • FLIGHTS • FAMILY HOLIDAYS • CITY & UK BREAKS • HONEYMOONS SAFARIS • LONG-HAUL HOLIDAYS • AIRPORT HOTELS PARKING & LOUNGES • THEATRE TICKETS

Robert Sturdy, 10 Market Place, Leyburn, DL8 5BG 01969 623486 robert.sturdy@speartravels.net www.speartravels.net/leyburn Other Spear Travels branches in Boroughbridge, Northallerton, Skipton, Helmsley and Stokesley RETAlL AGENTS FOR ATOL HOLDERS - ABTA L8041

£1

off admission with this advert FREE For Children www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 113

AUSTIN BROOKS

Tancred Wells, Raskelf

ÂŁ695,000

A stunning, individually designed, modern, detached, 5 bedroom, family home situated in the lovely, rural village of Raskelf just 2 miles from the thriving market town of Easingwold and 15 miles North of the historic city of York.

This fantastic property, which has far reaching country views, includes approximately three acres of beautifully maintained land and gardens; a driveway with parking space for 6+ vehicles; a detached double garage with an electric door and a well-kept stable with a barn, tack room and land to graze.

01904 227992 | sales@austinbrooks.co.uk | www.austinbrooks.co.uk 114 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

2013 | Dales Life |

1

Choose Marilyn Stowe and her Yorkshire team, part of the UK’s largest specialist Family Law firm Marilyn Stowe is the senior partner at Stowe Family Law leading her handpicked team of talented lawyers at the UK’s largest specialist family law firm.

The firm specialises in all areas of family law, including divorce, children issues, finances, cohabitation disputes, grandparent’s rights, pre and post-nuptial Agreements. The firm has a Wills and Probate department which also deals with disputes over estates.

Divorce / Finances / Child Arrangement Orders /Cohabitation Disputes / Tracing Hidden Assets / Marital Agreements Grandparents Rights / Wills / Probate

Marilyn Stowe: ‘First Class’ for family law.

“Regarded as one of the most formidable and sought-after divorce lawyers in the UK.”

The Legal 500

The Times If you need family law advice, early support can be essential. Stowe Family Law can help.

For more information contact chantal.wilkinson@stowefamilylaw.co.uk or call 01423 532600 Harrogate Office Old Court House, Raglan Street, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1LT 01423 532600 www.stowefamilylaw.co.uk

Leeds Office Portland House, 5 Portland Street, Leeds LS1 3DR 0113 224 0580

Wetherby Office Oakgate House, Market Place, Wetherby LS22 6LQ 01937 543904

Ilkley Office 68 The Grove, Ilkley LS29 9PA 01943 600788

www.marilynstowe.co.uk Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 115

AUSTIN BROOKS I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Spain: San Javier / Santiago de la Ribera starting from €270,000 HIGH SPECIFICATION LUXURY VILLAS in the process of being built, buyers have choice of internal finishing.

• Price for private pool €12,000 low density building • Close to beach, restaurants & bars • 10 minute transfer San Javier, Murcia airport

• Regular low cost flights from most UK airports (2.5hr) • Villas starting from €270,000 (£192,000 at 1:4 exch rate) • Layouts can be changed. 2/3/4 bedrooms possible

01904 227992 | sales@austinbrooks.co.uk | www.austinbrooks.co.uk

116 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

AUSTIN BROOKS I N T E R N AT I O N A L rt ge Pa han ble c la Ex vai A

La Residence De Chavirat

€250,000

La Residence De Chavirat is a traditional farmhouse dating back to around the 1800’s and is packed with original features. The property comprises: 4 double bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms as well as a swimming pool and is surrounded by beautiful, easy to manage gardens. There is oil fired central heating and open fires.

rt ge Pa han ble c la Ex vai A

Les Coussiras

€290,000

Les Coussiras is a tastefully converted traditional barn with attractive gardens and a private driveway. The comprehensive upgrades were complete in 2004 and the lovely property still retains period features such as exposed beams. The home comprises: 4 en-suite bedrooms over two floors, 2 spacious reception rooms and has its own pool, along with 2-3 hectares of adjoining land and a barn.

When considering buying a property overseas, flying from a local airport is a major factor. With regular flights from Leeds Bradford to Limoges, travelling to Champagnac De Belair couldn’t be easier.

01904 227992 | sales@austinbrooks.co.uk | www.austinbrooks.co.uk Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 117

C HAR T E R ED S UR V EY OR S • ESTATE AG ENTS • PROPERTY A UCT I O N E E R S • V A L UE R S • L A N D A G E N T S

Thorntree Farm | Busby, Stokesley Thorntree Farm is an outstanding Grade II listed five bedroom farmhouse residence (5000 sq ft approx). Stunningly appointed accommodation. Standing in beautiful gardens and grounds with uninterrupted panoramic views of the Cleveland Hill’s. First class modern agricultural building (6,000 ft²). 23 acres of land in a compact ring fence. A hidden gem in a secluded yet accessible rural location. Viewing strictly by appointment.

Guide Price £1.5m

Bedale 01677 425950 | Dales LifeLife | XX | Dales | Spring 2016 2 118

robinjessop.co.uk

Leyburn 01969 622800

C HA R T ER ED S UR V EY ORS • ESTATE AG ENTS • PROPER T Y A UCT I O N E E R S • V A L UE R S • L A N D A G E N T S

The Old Forge | Little Fencote, Northallerton

Lupat Manor | Palace Road, Ripon

A newly refurbished residential smallholding standing in 1 Acre of land. Immaculate four double bedroom family accommodation. Large double garage. Gardens and grounds.

Superb edge of village location overlooking open countryside at the rear. Chain free. EPC rating D. Viewing by appointment.

An exceptional architect designed barn conversion with 1.95 acres of gardens, grounds and grass land. Situated in the highly desirable area of Palace Road, Ripon. Stunning first class accommodation with 3 double bedrooms. Chain free. EPC rating B. Beautiful views. Viewing by appointment.

OIEO £560,000

£695,000

P ROPE R T I E S R E Q U I R E D TO S ATIS F Y DEMAND Contact Tim Gower

Finley House | Harmby, Leyburn

Warwick Lodge | Middleham, Leyburn

An immaculately presented detached family house. Spacious three double bedroom accommodation. Off street parking.

Gardens. Stunning views over the dales. Excellent rural village location close to local amenities. EPC rating C. Viewing by appointment.

An outstanding smallholding with detached substantial three bedroom bungalow. Attached two bedroom apartment. Range of stabling. Two outside rings and one horse walker. General purpose farm building. 3.5 Acres grass land. EPC rating D. Stunning rural location. A rare opportunity in Middleham.

Viewing by appointment.

OIEO £255,000

Bedale 01677 425950

OIEO £550,000

robinjessop.co.uk

Leyburn 01969 622800 1 Spring 2016 XX | Dales Life | 119

On the market

Our regular round-up of beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire.

£194,950 3 Silver Street, Thornton Steward A pleasantly located well proportioned traditional terraced cottage with open aspect. Lounge, kitchen/dining room, pantry, bathroom/wc, 3 bedrooms, parking for one car to front, front patio garden, solid fuel central heating, UPVC double glazing. EER E39.

Contact Norman F Brown on 01969 622194 normanfbrown.co.uk

£450,000 The Black Horse Inn, Seaton Ross A great opportunity to take on a family owned business as the current owner is now retiring. The property was re-built in 1822, according to William Watson’s 1848 book of properties in Seaton Ross, and has been used as a Blacksmith, an Ale Kitchen and a Public House.

Contact Austin Brooks on 01904 227992 austinbrooks.co.uk

£155,000 23 Hill Close, Reeth A well presented south facing first floor flat in a pleasant cul-de-sac close to the village green. Entrance hall, lounge/dining room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bathroom/wc, garage, parking, night storage heating, UPVC double glazing.

Contents available by separate negotiation. No forward chain. EER D67.

Contact Norman F Brown on 01748 822473 normanfbrown.co.uk

£400,000 - £585,000 Barn 1, 2 & 2a, Village Farm, Alne Village Farm is an exciting new development opportunity located in a quiet cul de sac in the centre of the historic village of Alne. This is a rare opportunity in Alne to purchase an attractive barn conversion, ready for occupation circa June 2016.

Contact Austin Brooks on 01904 227992 austinbrooks.co.uk

£189,950 Charlies Stable, Reeth A spacious well-presented semi detached barn conversion In a tucked away location near Reeth village green, with parking and garden. Currently a holiday let. Entrance hall, lounge/dining room, kitchen, large double bedroom, en-suite bathroom/wc, 2 parking spaces, patio garden, oil fired central heating, double glazing. No forward chain. EER D66.

Contact Norman F Brown on 01748 822473 normanfbrown.co.uk

£725,000 Residential Development, Main Street, Barmby Moor A residential development site in Barmby Moor on the outskirts of Pocklington. The land measures approx. 0.6 acres and has planning permission* for two 5-6 bedroom detached properties on plots measuring approx. 2000 sq ft, and eight 3 bedroom semi-detached properties on plots measuring approx 900 sq ft. *Conditions to be finalised.

Contact Austin Brooks on 01904 227992 austinbrooks.co.uk

120 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

NORMAN F. BROWN

Building Plot, Redmire,

A rare opportunity to purchase a building plot with outline planning permission for a detached house with associated vehicular access on the edge of this desirable dales village. EER N/A

£140,000

Leyburn Office

Ivy Cottage, Healaugh

A well presented spacious semi detached south facing cottage in this desirable dales village. Entrance porch, lounge, kitchen, dining/breakfast room, rear porch, shower room/wc, 2 double bedrooms, en-suite bathroom/wc, outside store with utility room/wc, front and side gardens, parking, night storage heating, double glazing. Contents available by separate negotiation. EER D56. £239,950 Richmond Office

CH NO AI N

CH NO AI N

Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Lettings Selling and letting property since 1967

High Oxnop House, Gunnerside

In an idyllic half-acre Swaledale setting, this spacious detached cottage has stunning views across Oxnop Ghyll.

Current 4 star gold holiday let. Entrance porch, lounge , study, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, downstairs shower/wc, 4 double bedrooms, first floor bathroom/wc, first floor shower/wc, parking, streamside garden, oil fired CH, DG, borehole water, extra land at back. £469,000 Richmond Office

14 Queens Road, Richmond • 01748 822473 6 Bridge Street, Bedale • 01677 422282 25 Market Place, Leyburn • 01969 622194

Images courtesy of chequeredchicken.co.uk

LAWYERS IN LOCATIONS YOU LOVE T: 0800 160 10 10 E: info@coles-law.co.uk W: www.coles-law.co.uk Offices also in… York, Thirsk, Yarm, Guisborough, Market Weighton & Beverley Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 121

122 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

BUILDING

High quality workmanship from an experienced team

Extensions, renovations, barn conversions, traditional stonework and roofing All trades covered ★ Project management from planning to completion T: 01969 640457

★ M: 07803 735000 ★ E: frank@stonescapes.com www.stonescapes.com

Oak House CONSTRUCTION Friendly, reliable builders with 30 years’ experience of providing high quality construction work

New builds Extensions Conversions General building work

Oak House Construction

Covering the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding areas 07875 161302 or 01969 622260 jonhbarnes@hotmail.co.uk Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 123

If you have a licence to drive, and are fit to drive, keep driving!

Try not to become over-dependent on your partner’s driving because as traffic conditions change it can be very hard to take up driving again after several years off. It’s better to stay in practice on the roads you frequently use.

Refreshing your skills really can make all the difference to your confidence, building on your experience with driving tips, techniques and advice.

W ES KS T HI R

For residents of North Yorkshire, 95 Alive are currently offering a free 1 hour refresher drive with an approved driving instructor, for drivers over 50.

For more information email 95alive@northyorks.gov.uk call 01609 798120 or visit our website www.roadwise.co.uk

This offer is only available to North Yorkshire residents

124 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

Spring 2016

FREE

es Dal re Yo r k shi

Ha we Re Ric et h s Ba m h Are youG an As i nb kr on ay rid ig l e older driver?

M ge g L d id B dl e A R e l ys l eto W e e d y rb ga es m M t Bur rth W ire bu y BromSkee M n Tya id ton W ens rn pto by oult s l on es dl no t W ey Ne n wt Pa H Ki eh itt on tr un rk Swa on Le ick ton by am Fl le W Br ee N Just Desserts ill om M th Fe Th o am o ws pt ar as o on

by S rn h na ton B Refreshing Your Skills a pe W e m COLLECT at da Aind YOUR W la es W ss le erb tFROM: COPY Ta ell Gr Ri ewelt Nor nfield T hi po horp th St rs n Bi e ainle k Ri y s h S p ANTIQUES

|

FOOD

INTERIORS |

|

WILDLIFE

|

GARDENING

Wild and Wonderful

Hare Today

ORCHIDS OF THE YORKSHIRE DALES

BRITAIN’S FASTEST MAMMAL

Snap Happy

Hot Shot

A DALES PHOTOGRAPHER AT WORK

SHOOTING WITH A YORKSHIRE CHAMPION

Health-conscious puds from HENRIETTA INMAN

Booths of Ripon

Tennants of Leyburn Milners of Leyburn

ley

The Co-Op, Masham

op

To p

The Black Sheep, M Masham

on

Ea

Wensleydale Creamery, k Hawes

Bo

to

n SNew ta Jersey, Bedale Theve Mulberry Bush, Hawes ley

ro u

ow

cli

br

id

Yo r

www.daleslife.com 01904 629295

by

gw

Ravensworth Nurseries, Richmond New collection points will be added, please see website for further details.

er

sin

Brookes Farm Shop, Richmond

gh

ffe

k

ge

o

Bedale Dental Practice We offer one of the most competitive Dental Plans in the area only £11.42 Please see our Website or talk to one of our Receptionists for further information We offer free NHS treatment for all Children Come and join our Dental Practice We are dedicated to patient care and offer a wide variety of specialist dental services including implants and orthodontics Botox® also available 18 Sussex Street Bedale DL8 2AL Tel 01677 422865 www.bedaledentalpractice.co.uk

I f y ou r mo bil ity af f e c ts e v e ryd a y ta s k s

Its time to get a little help

rs ote S c or o m F 95 £8

ne cli Re a i r s ch om Fr 99 £5

St a

irl

ift

s

m Fro 00 4 1 £

---------------

- - - - - - -- - -- -- - - -- - - - - -- - - - - - - - -- - -- -- -

--------------

An ex tra 1 0 % o f f every thi n g w i th thi s vo ucher

Name:_________________________________________________________

01609 781333

East Road, Northallerton, DL7 1ND, www.onecaremobility.co.uk

Address:______________________________________________________

__________________________________________ Postcode____________

Email:__________________________________________________________

www.onecaremobility.co.uk

10% OFF

01609 781 333

Telephone:___________________________________________________ *Bring form with you*

- - - - -- - - - - -- - -- - - -- - - - - -- - -- -- - - - - - - --

Parkway House, East Road, Northallerton, DL7 1ND

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 125

Do you have pain?

Back pain Headaches Neck pain Frozen shoulder Sports injuries Pregnancy issues Stress relief Osteopathy - Acupuncture - Massage www.bedaleosteopaths.co.uk

01677 425858

126 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

Premiere Care

North East Ltd.

We are a Leyburn-based agency offering high quality care services to our Clients.

Our experienced team supports the various needs of vulnerable people to remain as independent as possible in their home. We provide hourly, day/night and live-in-care.

Testimonial

’Exceedingly high quality ladies, honest, caring and totally trustworthy’ Premiere Care has been awarded by the CQC the highest possible rating on their last inspection in 2009 which confirms the quality of service that we supply.

For an information pack please contact: Premiere Care (NE) Ltd Thornborough Hall, Leyburn DL8 5AB 01969 622 499 www.premiere-care.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 127

128 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

TO DINE FOR Great places to eat and stay in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.

THE SANDPIPER INN Chef Jonathan Harrison and his wife Janine have owned The Sandpiper Inn since 1999, during which time they have won numerous accolades for their unique take on modern British cooking. The Sandpiper’s cosy traditional bar serves local real ales, fine wines and an extensive range of whiskies.

The stylish 40-seater restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday inclusive, and there are two tasteful boutique-style ensuite double bedrooms for overnight guests.

HENDERSONS BAR & RESTAURANT Set in the idyllic riverside surroundings of Westholme Estate in Bishopdale, Hendersons is a bright, stylish, relaxed bar and bistro-style restaurant with a contemporary feel. Our talented chef has created a mouthwatering seasonal menu using fresh local and seasonal produce. The restaurant is open all day for lunch, light bites and beverages. Dinner 5.30pm to 8.45pm every day except Tuesday. Sunday lunch 12–4pm.

T: 01969 622206 sandpiperinn.co.uk

T: 01969 663268 westholme-estate.co.uk

THE BURGOYNE HOTEL

THE STAVELEY ARMS

Overlooking Reeth village green, The Burgoyne Hotel is a luxurious home-from-home set in an elegant Georgian mansion. It has eight spacious and beautifully appointed rooms — the panoramic views from some of them have to be seen to be believed. There’s an emphasis on friendly service and fine food, with generous breakfasts and a fourcourse dinner menu focusing on fresh local produce sourced from the Dales and the Yorkshire coast.

Set in the beautiful village of North Stainley, The Staveley Arms is a charming village pub and restaurant serving meticulously prepared, delicious food. Relaunched at Easter following a complete refurbishment, The Staveley Arms is the perfect place to meet, eat and drink, whether it’s for lunch and a glass of wine, a pint of real ale or a threecourse meal.

T: 01765 635439 staveleyarms.com

T: 01748 884292 theburgoyne.co.uk

STONE HOUSE HOTEL

THIRTEEN

Stone House Hotel is an elegant country residence just a short drive from the bustling market town of Hawes. With its cosy bar, library-cum-billiard room and panelled Oak Room, Stone House is the perfect place to relax. Enjoy delicious, locally sourced traditional food from breakfast through to dinner, and choose from an extensive list of fine wines. There are three spacious, romantic fourposter suites, and five ground-floor conservatory bedrooms opening directly onto the lawns.

Thirteen is a smart, comfy restaurant in the centre of Leyburn, owned and run by husband and wife team Michael and Sarah McBride. The menu is based around fresh, seasonal Yorkshire ingredients, offering beautifully presented modern British cooking with a Continental twist. Ideal for family celebrations; children’s menu available. Thirteen is open for lunches on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and for dinners on Monday nights and from Wednesday to Saturday inclusive. Space is limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.

T: 01969 667571 stonehousehotel.co.uk

T: 01969 622951 thirteenatleyburn.co.uk

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 129

THE WHITE BEAR The White Bear is situated in the beautiful market town of Masham. A team of talented chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, seasonal dishes. Enjoy your meal in the charming dining room or the traditional bar; open fires create a cosy atmosphere throughout. An extensive wine list complements the menu. Accommodation is available in fourteen individually designed rooms, all en-suite.

T: 01765 689319 thewhitebearhotel.co.uk

THE BLACK SHEEP BREWERY The Black Sheep Brewery Visitor Centre – situated in Masham, is the ideal place for a great day or evening out. You can take a tour of the Brewery, have a meal in the Bistro, and taste their award-winning beers at the ‘Baa…r’.

You can also buy lots of goodies from the wellstocked Sheepy Shop. It offers a ‘ewe-nique’ venue for corporate entertaining, product launches, parties and weddings.

T: 01765 680101 blacksheepbrewery.com

THE BRUCE ARMS, WEST TANFIELD THE BRUCE ARMS, MASHAM A comfortable and characterful 18th century coaching inn, ideally situated in the picturesque village of West Tanfield, The Bruce Arms has a glorious sun terrace for summer evenings and comforting log fires in the winter. It serves a regularly changing menu of fine food with a local emphasis, and keeps an extensive selection of gins, whiskies, wines, cask ales and bottled craft beers.

T: 01677 470325 thebrucearms.com

THE RICHARD III HOTEL The Richard III Hotel has been a warm and welcoming presence for locals and visitors alike for the past 300-odd years. Located in the town’s marketplace, it is in a superb position if you want to visit the castle or explore the local shops. It serves lovingly prepared home-cooked food and has a well-stocked bar, along with six lovely rooms.

T:01969 623240 richard111hotel.com

The Bruce Arms sits just off Masham market square and boasts the best and largest beer garden in Masham, with views over the river and dale beyond. It’s a cosy little pub, with friendly staff and locals plus a real fire, real ales, real food and real chips! In the summer months, weather permitting, there’s live music in the beer garden.

T: 01765 689372 brucearmsmasham.com

THE CORNER CUPBOARD The Corner Cupboard at Birdforth, near Easingwold, is a licensed day-time restaurant serving mouth-watering scones and tea cakes, light lunches and more substantial meals, all home-made using top-quality local produce. Peak lunch times can be busy, so advance booking is advisable. Having eaten your fill, there’s the added bonus of a charming shop carrying a beguiling selection of gifts, jewellery and home furnishings.

T: 01845 501495 thecornercupboard.co.uk

THE SADDLE ROOM RESTAURANT THE QUEEN’S HEAD New to the Dales is The Saddle Room Restaurant situated in the heart of Coverdale on the Tupgill Park Estate near Leyburn. Grand honest food from local suppliers prepared and cooked to perfection by our award-winning chef Tom Morrell.

Accommodation available on the estate for a onenight-stay or longer in our beautifully appointed cottages. For that special event we can cater up to 350 people on the grounds of Tupgill Park Estate or up to 50 in our function room ‘The Hayloft’. Our wine cellar has been beautifully restored and is the ideal setting for a private dinner.

T: 01969 640596 thesaddleroom.co.uk

130 | Dales Life | Spring 2016

The Queen’s Head is a charming, characteristic country inn dating from the 1700s, set in the attractive village of Finghall, near Leyburn. It offers comfortable modern accommodation and a traditional, cosy bar. Owner and head chef Ian Vipond has devised a fresh, new menu for the restaurant, based around tasty local and seasonal produce. Traditional bar snacks are also available.

With original oak beams and a dining room that looks out over the woods, The Queen’s Head combines great food with a genuinely warm welcome.

T: 01677 450259 queensfinghall.co.uk

Eccles Heddon LLP Solicitors

For your legal ease For help and legal advice call Bedale 01677 422422 Ripon 01765 601717 Thirsk 01845 522324 www.eccles-heddon.co.uk

Family Law (Divorce, Family & Children) Property Law (Residential & Commercial) Business Advice Employment Law Wills, Probate and Family Trusts Estate Planning Lasting Powers of Attorney Advising the Elderly Farming & Agriculture Dispute Resolution

FAMILY LAW CLINIC We also run a family law clinic once a week at our Bedale and Ripon offices.

Please telephone Jane Midgley at Bedale or Liz Kidd at Ripon to book a FREE 30-minute consultation.

Spring 2016 | Dales Life | 131

KITCHEN COLLECTION The Laura Ashley Kitchen Collection is now available to view at:

Appointed Stockist for the Laura Ashley Kitchen Collection VISIT OUR SHOWROOM HOLME DESIGN LIMITED, UNIT 1, THE CRAFT YARD, THE STATION, BEDALE, NORTH YORKSHIRE DL8 1AW CALL 01677 424669 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE A FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION WWW.HOLMEDESIGN.COM