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THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR LINCOLNSHIRE

NOV 2026 £7.99

I N S I D E : H O M E S • F O O D • S T Y L E • M OTO R I N G • T R AV E L • P R O P E RT Y

WELCOME TO PRIDE’S 25TH YEAR

here’s a particular kind of luxury that becomes available to us at this time of year: the luxury of having time. Early autumn can be busy, but there comes a point when the temperature falls, the evenings close in and the diary begins to look less demanding. The festive season, with all its pleasurable bustle, is waiting just around the corner, but it has not quite arrived. For a few welcome weeks, we are permitted to slow down. We don’t seem to resent the darker evenings nearly as much as we imagine we will. Once the curtains are drawn and the fire gets going, there’s something comforting about knowing that the day’s errands are over. An evening at home no longer feels like an evening without plans; it becomes the plan itself. This is the month to rediscover the sofa and the type of drowsy heat that only an open fire can provide, to open the book that has waited patiently on the side table, and to prepare something that can cook slowly on a low heat, all day, while we do very little. I can think of very few things better than being inside, when you really wouldn’t want to be outside! And there are pleasures beyond the fireside, too.

P RIDE MAGAZINES 2

Here in Lincolnshire, the change of pace feels especially pronounced. After the activity of harvest and the brightness of early autumn, the countryside settles into quieter colours. Farmers can await the frosts and catch up on jobs around the yard, familiar landscapes become more atmospheric and home itself feels like somewhere to enjoy rather than somewhere from which we are forever rushing. Modern life encourages us to regard busyness as a virtue, as though an empty space in the diary must be filled. But I reckon genuine luxury is the freedom to leave the pages in your diary empty: to read, think, cook, listen, talk or simply sit for a while without feeling that we ought to be elsewhere. There will soon be invitations to answer, gifts to find and celebrations to arrange. For now, though, we can enjoy this gentle pause before Christmas gathers momentum. I hope this month’s Pride is the perfect companion for the quieter, slower moments. Our very best wishes for a wonderful, and hopefully a relatively sedate month!

Julian Wilkinson CEO & Founder, Pride Magazines 3

November 2026

LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

LOCAL NEWS ‘Good News’ stories from across Lincolnshire including HRH The Princess Royal receiving an honorary Doctorate from the University of Lincoln.

THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS 2026 This month we continue our search for the county’s best restaurants, coffee shops and food & drink producers.

THE GUIDE Live music and events for November plus the latest films, books and music releases.

RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH Autumn dining at Hough on the Hill’s two-AA rosette Brownlow Arms.

FARMING With Andrew Ward MBE.

WEDDINGS Theresa and James enjoy their Lincolnshire wedding at Doddington Hall.

LINCOLNSHIRE RESTAURANTS Our comprehensive guide to the best local restaurants, cafés, bistros, food producers and suppliers.

RECIPES French cuisine from Lyon courtesy of Henry Harris.

WINE Our wine and spirit recommendations for November.

Portfolio NOVEMBER 2026

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND

FASHION - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS

TRAVEL

FASHION

Eastern Promise

On the Silk Road MOTORS

BENTLEY

Long Coats and Quality Tailoring for Winter Warmth

SUPERSPORTS

WILDLIFE

MEN’S FASHION

November

Quality in Heritage

Nature An autumn almanac in the natural world

Private White VC

LUXURY BRAND

LUXURY AUTUMN FRAGRANCE COURTESY OF PENHALIGONS

HOMES & GARDENS

PORTFOLIO

WELCOME HOME A stunning contemporary property perfect for families on the East Coast, this month we take a tour of Skegness’s Five Acres.

FASHION Style and warmth with full-length coats for autumn and winter plus soft shades of blue.

HOMES Style for your home, the timeless contrast of monochrome.

STYLE FOR MEN Private White VC.

AUTUMN WARMTH Fires and fireplaces for autumn and winter.

LUXURY BRANDS The sweet scent of success with perfumier Penhaligon’s.

GARDENING Advice for November with Mark Lane.

TRAVEL Full of Eastern promise, take the Silk Road for a trip of a lifetime.

MOTORS Bentley’s bold Supersports.

LUXURY HOMES Executive and rural homes across Lincolnshire.

NATURE Local wildlife in autumn.

ALMANAC Facts and trivia.

READ FREE ONLINE: visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire TO SUBSCRIBE: visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/subscribe

Professionally delivered to the region’s wealthiest households THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR LINCOLNSHIRE

Pride Magazines engage with over 60,000 readers across print and digital. Each edition is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, directly into the wealthiest households – exclusively those in council tax bands F, G and H, typically valued at £500,000+. We are the only local magazine delivered by Royal Mail directly to letterboxes. We never rely on paperboys or bulk drops. Every copy is placed with precision, ensuring your brand reaches a discerning, aﬄuent audience.

NOV 2026

Our circulation is further extended through carefully selected placements in premium venues including luxury dealerships, private hospitals, golf clubs, fine dining restaurants, and boutique hotels – keeping Pride highly visible across the region’s most influential spaces.

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I N S I D E : H O M E S • F O O D • S T Y L E • M OTO R I N G • T R AV E L • P R O P E RT Y

Discover Something Special in Every Issue There’s something special about holding a beautifully printed magazine, turning each page and enjoying every story and image at your own pace. A subscription to Lincolnshire Pride or Rutland & Stamford Pride ensures you never miss an issue, with complimentary Royal Mail delivery direct to your door every month.

Alongside this unrivalled distribution, Pride also leads the way online, with over 36,000 discerning social media followers – more than any other local magazine. Our editions are also available via our website, app, and on Readly and Issuu, allowing readers to enjoy every issue online. Each issue blends engaging editorial, striking design, and features that celebrate luxury living – the perfect setting to showcase the region’s finest businesses. To promote your business in Pride, call 01529 469977, email sales@pridemagazines.co.uk, or download our media pack at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

Discover the very best restaurants, fashion, events, homes, people and places across our counties. A subscription also makes a thoughtful gift and costs just £5.99 per month, saving 25% compared with the £7.99 single-issue price. To subscribe, call 01529 469977, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, or email subscriptions@pridemagazines.co.uk. We look forward to welcoming you as a subscriber soon.

Pride Magazines Ltd PO Box 337, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 1HA Telephone: 01529 469977. Web: www.pridemagazines.co.uk. Email: sales@pridemagazines.co.uk.

Legal Disclaimer By supplying editorial or advertising copy to Pride you accept in full the terms and conditions which can be found online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk. In the event of an advert or editorial being published incorrectly, where Pride Magazines Ltd admits fault, we will include an advert of equivalent size, or equivalentsized editorial, free of charge to be used in a future edition, at our discretion. This gesture is accepted as full compensation for the error(s) with no refunds available. Selected images in our content may be sourced from www.shutterstock.com.

Enjoy Pride Magazines on your tablet or computer You can enjoy Pride Magazines free each month by visiting www.pridemagazines.co.uk, or by downloading our app: simply search for Pride Magazines on Apple’s App Store or Google Play. Alternatively, enjoy us via Readly, the online newsstand. Readly is a downloadable app for your phone and tablet enabling you to view all of the pages in over 8,000 magazines, with all back issues of magazines available to view too. Magazines appear in high resolution, you can zoom in or view in reader mode. You can also receive notifications when a new edition is published so you’ll never miss an edition! See gb.readly.com to begin your free twomonth trial. Available in print, via our app, and on Readly, the online newsstand. Don’t forget to follow us on social media too...

Local News

HRH THE PRINCESS ROYAL VISITS LINCOLN

HRH The Princess Royal has oﬃcially opened a pioneering Geothermal Glasshouse at the University of Lincoln’s Riseholme Campus, where researchers and businesses will develop crops, technologies and growing systems for more sustainable food production across the United Kingdom. The firstofitskind facility uses deep boreholes to provide geothermal heating and cooling, oﬀering a lower carbon alternative to conventional systems. Its independent compartments will allow several research and development projects to take place, helping innovations progress from early trials to practical agricultural use.

During her visit, The Princess Royal viewed work by the Lincoln Institute for AgriFood Technology. Projects included autonomous robots capable of navigating polytunnels, imaging and artificial intelligence designed to improve strawberrypicking productivity, and technology that creates detailed 3D models of strawberry plants to help breeders identify promising varieties more quickly. Her Royal Highness also received an honorary Doctor of the University degree, recognising her contribution to public life and longstanding commitment to agriculture and rural communities.

ViceChancellor Professor Neal Juster said: “The glasshouse will enable ideas to be developed and tested alongside farmers and industry,” he said, “supporting improved productivity, food security and highvalue employment.” The glasshouse forms part of ambitions to establish Riseholme as a nationally significant centre for agritech research, innovation and commercialisation. Its opening came during the University of Lincoln’s 30th anniversary year and marked The Princess Royal’s return following her opening of the Engineering Hub in 2012.

Historic Boston building will be brought back to life Blackfriars Arts Centre is bringing a longempty Boston landmark back into use after receiving £250,000 from Boston Borough Council’s Pride in Place funding. The arts centre is purchasing 20 South Street, widely known as the former Cheers building, with exterior improvements already transforming the Grade IIlisted property. Internal work will create a community hub for local organisations, including Boston 400 Group, Boston School of Mosaics and the Crafty Coﬀee Club, alongside a popup museum. Meanwhile, Boston Guildhall Museum achieved an outstanding 90% in its latest VisitEngland quality assessment, up from 82% in 2025, with perfect scores for cleanliness and retail.

Rosegarth Square oﬃcially opens Staying in Boston, Rosegarth Square opened in September, creating a modern, accessible gateway to the town centre. The regenerated space celebrates Boston’s heritage with The Wave artwork, restored Five Lamps, amphitheatre seating and Boston Buoys. Supported by government and partnership funding, it provides residents and visitors with a meeting place and somewhere that live community events can be hosted to bring the town together.

Send your Lincolnshire news stories or press releases to editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

8,000 turn out for Tour of Britain Lincolnshire welcomed some of the world’s leading cyclists as the opening stage of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men brought elite racing and a festival atmosphere to the county. An estimated 8,000 spectators gathered across Lincoln for the event, lining the streets to cheer on more than 100 riders as they tackled a 113.4mile route. Beginning in Castle Square, the peloton headed into the Wolds, passing through Market Rasen and Caistor before returning to the city for five challenging laps featuring the steep Michaelgate climb. Lewis Askey, riding for NSN Cycling Team, claimed the stage victory in four hours, two minutes and 44 seconds, crossing the finish on Newport after an afternoon of racing. Away from the sporting action, Lincoln Castle’s Tour Village oﬀered a big screen, local food and drink and free cycling activities, while the Cornhill Activity Zone featured health and wellbeing attractions. The race was broadcast in Britain and internationally, showcasing Lincolnshire’s landscapes and communities to a wide audience.

Grantham EuroMillions winner considers train purchase

Pipistrelle bat stows away at RAF Coningsby

Grantham train driver and

at about 20mph, but not

lifelong railway enthusiast Pete

Dunlop, that’s way too slow for

Thursby celebrated a

him. Recently discovered on

£164,357.70 EuroMillions win

the undercarriage of one of

after matching five numbers

RAF Coningsby’s aircraft, the

and one Lucky Star. Pete briefly

little fellow decided to save his

considered buying his own

wings, and hitch a ride at rather

diesel locomotive, but

more ambitious speeds.

maintenance costs and practicalities put him on a diﬀerent track: a nice car. Nonetheless, the father of three still hopes to enjoy more railway adventures, including a journey aboard Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer.

Return of Mayor’s Great Exhibition Lincolnshire’s Combined County Authority Mayor, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, is looking forward to the return of her Great Exhibition, after the inaugural event was a success in 2025. The event will bring together businesses, agricultural producers and technical innovators across three themes: We Feed, We Power and We Protect. The event is a way to bring

A pipistrelle bat generally flies

The bat, named by engineer Max Searis who works on the RAF’s Typhoons, was clearly not perturbed by the 150dB takeoﬀ sound of one the aircraft, nor the prospect of travelling at Mach 2... which is

Lincolnshire’s Purely Treats proves wellbeing need not mean giving up life’s little luxuries. Founded by Estera

about 1,550mph.

Sutton, the brand creates

Paula Haworth, the station’s

Bon Bons and Protein Squares

Environmental Protection Oﬃcer, dropped Dunlop oﬀ at Lincolnshire Bat Rescue, just in

handcrafted Beauty & Wellness using functional ingredients. The Bon Bons oﬀer benefits.

time for Halloween!

Silk combines dark chocolate

Mrs Smith’s Cottage enjoys museum status

collagen, biotin, vitamin C and

Mrs Smith’s Cottage in Navenby has regained Museum Accreditation from Arts Council England, marking another milestone in its revival.

together businesses, investors,

The museum, preserved as

and strategic partners to serve

former resident Hilda Smith left

as a showcase for the county’s

it in 1995, reopened in 2020

industrial and agricultural

following extensive

base with interactive

conservation work.

demonstrations and talks.

Lincolnshire entrepreneur Estera launches new range of healthy treats

The achievement follows its

and toasted almond with zinc to support normal hair and skin. Tropical Glow features pineapple, coconut and lime alongside collagen and hyaluronic acid, while banana and tart cherry Calm includes magnesium, glycine, chamomile and Ltheanine for an evening ritual. Bon Bons cost from £9.99 for three. The range includes Focus, an espresso and chocolate Protein Square, plus Peanut for active lifestyles, each priced at £4.49. Products are handcrafted in

The event will take place at the

2025 VisitEngland Hidden

Lincolnshire Showground’s Epic

Gem accolade and recognises

Centre on Wednesday 21st

the dedication of the North

Discover the collection

October, for more details see

Kesteven District Council

and order online at

greaterlincolnshirecca.gov.uk.

team and volunteers.

www.purelytreats.co.uk.

small batches.

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THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS 2026

GOOD FOOD GUIDE

AWARDS

2026

Cast Your Vote

in The Good Food Awards 2026

nce again, we’re asking for our readers’ help in recognising Lincolnshire’s best restaurants, pubs, cafés and food and drink producers. Each month in Lincolnshire Pride, we recommend restaurants that have impressed us with their commitment to creating and presenting imaginative dishes that make the most of our finest local produce. In addition, our food and drink listings provide the county’s best guide to places where you can enjoy dining out while supporting local businesses across the hospitality sector. Each year, though, we go further by recognising six local businesses in our Good Food Awards. We invite our readers to cast their votes across our categories before announcing Lincolnshire’s most highly regarded businesses in our January edition. Showing your support Hospitality is one of Britain’s largest employers and a major contributor to the economy, but the sector is under severe pressure. In March 2025, the UK had 176,685 hospitality businesses, including around 51,000 to 52,000 restaurants, approximately 45,000 pubs and almost 9,800 hotel enterprises. Together, the industry supports about 2.6 million jobs, equivalent to 7.1% of UK employment, and generates £69.5 billion in direct economic output each year. Some 99.6% of hospitality businesses are small or medium-sized enterprises. They face energy bills that have increased by between 70% and 90%, as well as food inflation that has raised the cost of essential ingredients. Higher minimum wage rates, increased employer National Insurance contributions and business rates have reduced profit margins to 2% or less for many operators. At the same time, customer numbers are reported to have fallen by around 15%, with overall spending down by 20%. Given such challenging trading conditions, we believe we should offer as much custom, positive publicity and recognition as possible to a sector that deserves to be appreciated and celebrated. So, let’s join together to recognise some of the county’s best businesses, changing the narrative from ‘challenging times’ to ‘champions of food and drink.’ How to vote There are two ways to cast your vote: either by completing the form over the page or by filling in our online form at www.pridemagazines.co.uk. We would like you to vote in each category, and we ask that you do not have a commercial interest in any business you nominate. Most importantly, you can vote for any business in Lincolnshire, not just our advertisers. As ever, we are keen to ensure that our awards are unbiased by advertising commitments, reader-led and comprehensive, covering the whole county and reflecting our readers’ opinions. Over the page, we reveal our six categories...

THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS 2026

OUR SIX CATEGORIES Restaurant of the Year This award recognises the finest restaurant or quality pub dining in Lincolnshire. We are looking for restaurants that combine excellent food with skilled cooking, quality ingredients, attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. From acclaimed dining rooms to independent neighbourhood favourites, this category celebrates establishments that deliver consistently high standards and give diners a compelling reason to return. Café, Coﬀee Shop, Bar or Bistro of the Year Whether it is breakfast, brunch, lunch or coffee and cake, daytime dining is an important part of Lincolnshire’s hospitality scene. This award celebrates cafés, bistros and tearooms offering goodquality food, accomplished baking, excellent drinks and friendly service. We are seeking venues that create an enjoyable, relaxed setting and maintain high standards throughout the day. Restaurant with Rooms This category recognises venues that combine memorable dining with comfortable, well-appointed accommodation. They may be country inns, restaurants with bedrooms or boutique hotels, but each should offer guests a complete experience. Excellent evening meals, thoughtful hospitality, a restful stay and a high-quality breakfast should all contribute to a destination worth visiting in its own right.

GOOD FOOD GUIDE

AWARDS

2026 Once again, we’re asking for our readers’ help in recognising the area’s best restaurants, pubs, cafés and food and drink producers...

Best International Dining Lincolnshire offers an increasingly varied choice of international cuisine. This award celebrates restaurants that represent global food traditions with quality, skill and authenticity. From Indian, Italian and Thai cooking to Mediterranean, Asian and Spanish dishes, we are looking for establishments that use excellent ingredients, understand their cuisine and deliver distinctive flavours with consistency and care. Food Producer/Retailer of the Year This award recognises the farmers, bakers, butchers, fishmongers, makers and independent retailers behind some of Lincolnshire’s finest food. Nominees might include a family-run farm shop, an artisan bakery, a skilled butcher or a specialist food retailer. Quality, provenance, sustainability, expertise and customer service will all be important, alongside a clear commitment to supporting the county’s food economy. Drinks Producer of the Year From breweries and distilleries to vineyards, cider makers and producers of alcohol-free drinks or tea and coffee, this category celebrates Lincolnshire’s growing drinks industry. We are looking for producers creating distinctive, high-quality products with skill and consistency. Strong local identity, responsible production, innovation and a clear understanding of their craft should all help the winning business stand apart.

Doddington Hall’s Freya Hermes, Alex De La Perrelle, Head Chef Chris Drury, Belle Manley, manager Claudio Dalanaj is seated. Last year’s Café & Bar of the Year winners.

GOOD FOOD GUIDE

AWARDS

2026

The Pride Magazines Good Food Awards

How to Vote

You’re free to vote for whichever Lincolnshire businesses you choose; they don’t have to advertise in this edition. You can also vote online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/vote

IT’S FREE AND EASY TO VOTE ONLINE Simply use your mobile phone’s camera to scan the QR code opposite and your internet browser will take you straight to our voting form. Alternatively, you can visit our website and navigate to our page, or type www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/vote straight into your browser. Voting is completely free of charge and you can nominate whichever business you want, they don’t have to be an advertiser in Pride.

ALTERNATIVELY, FILL IN THIS FORM AND VOTE BY POST ! !

Your Nominations: Restaurant of the Year: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Café, Coﬀee Shop, Bar or Bistro of the Year: ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... International Cuisine: ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ‘Restaurant with Rooms’: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Local Food Producer: ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Local Drinks Producer: .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Name: ..............................................................................................................................................................................

Postcode: ................................................................................................................................................................

Address: .......................................................................................................................................................................

Telephone: ................................................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cut out this page and send your nominations to:

..................................................................................................................................................................................................

Pride Magazines Good Food Awards 2026, Pride Magazines, PO Box 337, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 1HA.

..................................................................................................................................................................................................

Please note our closing date is 2nd November 2026.

..................................................................................................................................................................................................

The small print: Multiple entries (e.g.: photocopied forms) will not be counted. You must not be personally or professionally allied with nominations. The Editor’s decision as to our competition winners is final.

Your Details:

Food & Drink RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH

The Brownlow Arms at Hough on the Hill Thank goodness for that. It’s not just nostalgia on my part. There’s nothing worse than remembering something enjoyable with fondness and revisiting it, only to discover the experience in question is not quite as good as memory would suggest. Disappointing is an accusation that could never be levelled against the Lincolnshire Poacher Cheese Soufflé served at The Brownlow Arms, even against the bar that nostalgia sets: it’s every bit as delicious as I remember. Same goes for the rest of their dishes.

Paul and Lorraine Willoughby say that the soufflé is such a favourite among diners that if they ever took it off the menu, there would be a revolt. Regular diners (of whom this quality pub restaurant has many) would mass outside brandishing placards and pitchforks. They’d demand the rich, creamy, cheesy starter with its ethereal core, sweet leeks and its crispy onions be immediately reinstated. The couple renovated and reopened the place in 1979, and it has remained one of Lincolnshire’s most treasured

pub restaurants ever since. It feels wonderfully cosy and welcoming, just as a rural pub restaurant should. But it also serves food the likes of which you’d have to travel far and wide to match, with a smart restaurant setting, lovely service and canny wine pairings. The pub’s interiors look lovely, with wood panelling in a dark blue shade, traditional white table linen, chunky oak chairs upholstered in light fabric with blue ticking stripes, open fires and candles. The building is rich in character too, built from local limestone in 1852, Grade II listed, with bay windows and stone-mullioned windows. Paul, Lorraine and a brigade of chefs, led by David Newton, utilise local ingredients such as Gelston lamb,

ABOVE Panfried sea trout with crushed new potatoes, confit leeks, peas and cider beurre blanc, £32.

Lincolnshire-reared high-welfare beef and free-range pork, plus fish landed at Grimsby, which is delivered to the restaurant daily. Seasonal fruit & veg is sourced from Lincolnshire’s fields and bread is from Hambleton Bakery. The Brownlow Arms serves food on Tuesday to Saturday evenings and at its popular Sunday lunch service. An à la carte menu changes seasonally and features a choice of six starters and eight main courses, including fillet steak and a chateaubriand for two. There’s a choice of five home-made desserts plus ice creams and sorbets from Jude’s (the best ice cream Paul has ever tasted, he reckons), whilst

Kirton Lindsey’s No12 Chocolatier provides hand-made truffles served with coffee. Paul has also curated a wine list which is rather wonderful, with some reasonably priced but well-chosen examples designed to pair well with the chefs’ dishes. The Brownlow Arms is recognised in Harden’s and by the AA with two rosettes for its dining and five stars for its accommodation. ‘Old-fashioned country hospitality,’ and ‘exceptional dishes,’ says its website. We can’t argue. Since 1979, the place has been one of the most consistently excellent and most well-respected quality pub restaurants in which to enjoy proper hospitality and great dishes in a lovely environment.

Find Out More: The Brownlow Arms, Grantham Road, Hough on the Hill, Grantham NG32 2AZ. Call 01400 250234, or see www.thebrownlowarms.com.

ON THE MENU

Starters Heritage beetroot, whipped goats’ cheese, dill oil £12.25. Brownlow twicebaked Lincolnshire poacher cheese souﬄé, creamed leeks, crispy onion, £15.95. Panfried scallops, sweetcorn purée, chorizo, charred corn, £15.95. Main Course Panfried chicken supreme, pressed dauphinoise potatoes, £27.95. Slowcooked pork belly, creamed potatoes, buttered cabbage, £29.95. Prime English chargrilled 14oz chateaubriand (for two), £84. Desserts Dark chocolate and orange parfait, Grand Marnier gel and mixed nut praline, £11.50. Lemon cheesecake, raspberry coulis, raspberry sorbet, £11.50. NB: Dishes subject to availability & change.

GOOD FOOD GUIDE THE LOCAL GUIDE TO DINING OUT

OUR GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNERS

Each year we ask our readers to vote for their favourite restaurants, coﬀee shops and food producers, revealing our winners in our January editions. We’ve high lighted our winners in orange to make sure they’re easy to see!

Promote your business in our Good Food Guide for just £15 + VAT per month! Get in touch with our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email us at sales@pridemagazines.co.uk to find out more. Help us keep Lincolnshire Pride up to date: If you notice a change to any restaurant, pub or café featured, we’d love your help to ensure our listings are comprehensive and up to date... email any updates to editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

BOSTON THE BALL HOUSE

A familyfriendly pub with a cosy atmosphere, oﬀering traditional British fare. Known for its Sunday carvery and extensive menu that includes options for vegetarians, vegans, and glutenfree diners. Wainfleet Road, Boston, PE21 9RL. Call 01205 364478 theballhouseboston.co.uk.

MEET & MEAT

A distinctive fusion of Mediterraneaninspired cuisine with a modern touch, including a good selection of steaks, pizza and pasta. West Street, Boston PE21 8QN. Call 07723 237070 or see www.meetandmeat.co.uk.

THE MILL INN

A popular pub known for its warm ambience and classic British pub dishes and Italian dishes too. Spilsby Rd, Boston, PE21 9QN. Call 01205 352874 or see www.themillboston.co.uk.

MONKEY & I

Conveniently located in Church Street, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine. Church Street, Boston PE21 6NW. Call 07808 590203 or see www.monkeyandithai.co.uk.

THE ROPERS ARMS

Traditional 19thcentury Lincolnshire pub, converted into an Italian bistro serving authentic dishes, overlooking the Maud Foster river and its mill. Horncastle Road, Boston PE21 9BU. Call 07572 456110.

THE WHITE HART

Part of the Coaching Inn Group, set within a charming 19thcentury hotel, this restaurant provides a varied menu focused on British cuisine. The riverside views make it an ideal spot for a memorable meal. Sister venue to the Admiral Rodney in Horncastle, afternoon tea available too. High Street, Boston, PE21 8SH. Call 01205 311900 or see www.whitehartboston.com.

YE OLDE RED LION

An awardwinning country pub that prides itself on producing satisfying dishes. This former smuggler’s den now provides a cosy atmosphere in the winter, with low beams and logburning fires. For great summer dining there’s also a relaxing beer garden. Try the Lincolnshire Tapas, but the Red Lion is also a great option for those seeking Sunday lunch. Bicker, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE20 3EF. Call 01775 821200, www.redlionbicker.co.uk.

GRANTHAM ANGEL & ROYAL

Reputedly England’s oldest inn, with the Kings Room Restaurant and Bertie’s Bistro and Bar. High Street, Grantham, NG31 6PN. Call 01476 565 816 or see www.angelandroyal.co.uk.

BELTON WOODS

Bar & Grill with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Oﬀering an inviting selection of flavourful grilled dishes. Spa, golf course and fourstar accommodation on site. Gonerby NG32 2LN. Call 01476 593 200 or see www.beltonwoods.co.uk.

BROWNLOW ARMS

In the heart of a picturesque village in Lincolnshire, the Brownlow Arms is a 19th century country inn formerly owned by Lord Brownlow. Hough on the Hill, NG32 2AZ. Call 01400 250234 or see www.thebrownlowarms.com.

THE CHEQUERS

Seasonal dishes from longstanding favourites to monthly changing dishes, from a team passionate about creating the tastiest and most interesting food they can. Woolsthorpe by Belvoir, NG32 1LU. Call 01476 870701 or see www.chequersinn.net.

THE GREEN MAN

A traditional British pub oﬀering hearty meals in a friendly setting, specialising in steaks and classic pub fare. High St, Ropsley, NG33 4BE. Call 01476 585897 or see the-green-man-ropsley.com.

HARE & HOUNDS

17thcentury public house promises good dining, and a friendly atmosphere. Fulbeck, Grantham NG32 3JJ. Call 01400 273322 or see hareandhoundsfulbeck.com.

PLOUGH, WILSFORD Exceptional pub restaurant home to Paul Reseigh, formerly of the George of Stamford. Good à la carte menu of satisfying dishes. Wilsford, NG32 3NS. Call 01400 664037 or see theploughinnwilsford.co.uk.

RESTAURANT JERICHO Fine dining in the Vale of Belvoir courtesy of this fascinating 20course tasting menu based restaurant, with just 12 covers a night. Orchard Farm, Plungar NG13 0JA. Call 01949 728288 or see www.restaurantjericho.com.

LINCOLN RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2025

ANTLERS AT THE WHITE HART

Lincolnshire Pride’s Restaurant of the Year for 2025, as voted for by our readers. Antlers serves seasonally inspired à la carte lunch and dinner menu. For those who are looking for a perfect way to celebrate, Antlers also serves a full Afternoon Tea menu and classic cocktails as well as oﬀering private dining. Bailgate, LN1 3AR. Call 01522 526222 or see whitehart-lincoln.co.uk.

THE BOTANIST

Mezze and tapas, à la carte dishes and sharing options in Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter. Cocktails and brunches too. Exchange Square LN5 7ET. Call 01522 446000 or see www.thebotanist.uk.com.

THE COSY CLUB

A chain of restaurants rather than an independent, but quite characterful. Located in Cornhill Quarter, it’s decent enough for brunch or lunch with friends whilst shopping. Sincil St, Lincoln LN5 7ET, 01522 401157, or see www.cosyclub.co.uk. COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR 2025

GRAIN STORE CAFÉ, RESTAURANT & BAR Delicious breakfast and lunch served daily, with evening dining Friday and Saturday, showcasing seasonal estategrown produce, rare breed Lincoln Red beef and the finest local ingredients. Doddington Hall, Lincoln, LN6 4RU. Call 01522 243189 or see www.doddingtonhall.com.

HARBOUR LIGHTS BAR & KITCHEN

Waterfront restaurant on the marina at Burton Waters oﬀering enticing dishes including seafood and steaks. Burton Waters, LN1 2TU. Call 01522 808233 or see www.harbourlights.uk.com.

HOBBSONS

Formerly Browns Pie Shop & Restaurant. A ‘Best of British’ restaurant. The team produce all food from starters to puddings inhouse including its flagship traditional pies. Steep Hill, Lincoln, LN2 1LU. Call 01522 527330 or see www.hobbsons.co.uk.

MARCO PIERRE WHITE AT DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

Steakhouse on the fifth floor of Brayford’s Doubletree by Hilton. Grill and à la carte classics with excellent views. Brayford Wharf, LN1 1YW. Call 01522 565182 or see www.mpwrestaurants.co.uk.

NO.38 AT THE TOWER

3 AA star hotel oﬀering exceptional dining for nonresidents, delivering satisfying à la carte dishes. 38 Westgate, Lincoln LN1 3BD. Call 01522 529999 or see www.thetowerlincoln.com.

THE OLD BAKERY

The Old Bakery is the county’s only notforprofit restaurant, serving as a finishing school for Lincoln College, with students working under the watchful eye of Head Chef, Phil Cooke. 26-28 Burton Road, Lincoln, LN1 3LB. Call 01522 244646, www.theold-bakery.co.uk.

OLÉ OLÉ

Familyrun authentic Spanish restaurant set in the heart of Lincolnshire’s historic Lawn, great for summer dining outdoors but equally satisfying in the cooler months. The Lawn 3 Ingleman Place, Union Rd, Lincoln, LN1 3BU. Call 01522 534222 or see www.oleolelincoln.co.uk.

THE PALE

Robbie Dowdall’s familyrun restaurant oﬀers a range of seafood dishes with an Irish twist, and an ethos of comfort food and quality, influenced by Robbie’s childhood in Howth, Dublin. Robust breakfast menu too, with traditional Irish scones... sweet or savoury! West Parade, Lincoln, LN1 1JT. Call 01522 646801 or see www.thepale.co.uk.

THE THOROLD ARMS

Paul Vidic, renowned Lincolnshire chef, took over the running of a community pub in 2021 to provide excellent food and drink in a relaxed and beautiful setting in Harmston. High Street, Harmston LN5 9SN. Call 01522 722788 or see thoroldarmsharmston.co.uk.

LOUTH & RASEN ADVOCATE ARMS

Awardwinning restaurant serves fabulous meals created from local ingredients. Awarded two rosettes for its dining by the AA. Queen Street, Market Rasen LN8 3EH. Call 01673 842364 or see www.advocatearms.co.uk.

AUCTION HOUSE

Gareth Bartram welcomes you to Restaurant Auction House. Oﬀering a menu using the finest produce available in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Cornmarket, Louth, LN11 9PY. Call 01507 311805 or see auctionhouserestaurant.co.uk.

NORTH & NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE FOREST PINES

Spa, hotel and golf estate with restaurant near Brigg oﬀering bistro dining. Brigg, DN20 0AQ. Call 01652 650 770 or see www.forestpineshotel.co.uk.

HOPE & ANCHOR

Fantastic Michelin Bib Gourmand lauded pub restaurant run by Slawomir Mikolajczyk. South Ferriby, DN18 6JQ. Call 01652 635334 or see thehopeandanchorpub.co.uk.

WINTERINGHAM FIELDS

Lincolnshire’s only Michelin starred restaurant, oﬀering à la carte and tasting menus. Winteringham DN15 9ND. Call 01724 733096 or see www.winteringhamfields.co.uk.

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SLEAFORD THE BARGE AND BOTTLE

Newly refurbished and under new ownership, this is a canalside pub with a relaxed ambience, and a wide range of satisfying food, including a good provision of Sunday lunch. Outdoor seating area with heaters. Carre St, Sleaford, NG34 7TW. Call 01529 303303 or see www.thebargeandbottle.co.uk.

THE BUSTARD INN

Beautifullypresented Grade II listed quality pub restaurant, whose awards include two AA rosettes and a Travellers’ Choice award. Exceptional dining in a beautiful rural setting with private dining room and bar with flagstone floor and open fires. Main Street, South Rauceby Lincolnshire, NG34 8QG. Call 01529 488250 or see www.thebustardinn.co.uk.

THE CARRE ARMS

The subject of a complete refurbishment in early 2026, charming Edwardian hotel and restaurant renowned for quality service & fabulous food. An eclectic mix of modern English and Mediterranean dishes. Mareham Lane, Sleaford NG34 7JP. Call 01529 303156 or see carrearmshotel.co.uk.

THE MALLARDS RESTAURANT

Classic British cuisine in a cosy setting, known for its Sunday roasts and welcoming service. Eastgate, Sleaford, NG34 7DJ. Call 01529 413758.

THE SOLO BISTRO

Bistro bar and hotel with traditional dishes presented in a contemporary style making the most of local ingredients. Market Street, Sleaford NG34 7SF. Call 01529 303200 or see www.thesolo.bar.

TABLEZ BISTRO

Awardwinning café bistro. With indoor and outdoor seating as well as a fantastic balcony, a great place to pop in for breakfast or lunch. Southgate, Sleaford NG34 7RZ. Call 01529 300922.

The Green Man, Ropsley.

THAI SABAI

Contemporary Thai restaurant specialising in dishes that are expertly prepared on the premises by Thai chefs using only the finest ingredients. Millstream Square, Sleaford NG34 7RZ. Call 01529 413333 or see thaisabaisleaford.co.uk.

WATERGATE YARD

An allday and latenight bar and kitchen in the heart of Sleaford. With world beers, cocktails and artisan gins. Water Gate, Sleaford NG34 7PG. Call 01529 413489 or see www.watergateyard.co.uk.

SPALDING THE BLACK BULL

Quality pub restaurant oﬀering a wellcurated menu packed with hearty food. Market Place, Donington, Spalding, PE11 4ST. Call 01775 822228 or see theblackbulldonington.co.uk.

JASHIR INDIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

A culinary destination that oﬀers unforgettable Indian dishes made with the finest ingredients and spices. 11 Double Street, Spalding PE11 2AA. Call 01775 423001 or see www.jashir.co.uk.

THE PARLOUR

Authentic, Edwardianstyle restaurant for lunch and afternoon tea, overlooking Springfields’ Festival Gardens. Camelgate, Spalding PE12 6EU. Call 01775 760949 or see www.springfieldsoutlet.co.uk.

STAMFORD THE BULL & SWAN

Everything a traditional English inn should be, with gastro food and real ales, on the magnificent Burghley Estate. High Street St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 766412 or see www.thebullandswan.co.uk.

CROWN HOTEL

This historic former coaching inn is now a wellregarded restaurant and hotel. A warm atmosphere and dishes with quality local ingredients. All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 763136 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

MILLY’S BISTRO

Located within the Georgian William Cecil Hotel, Milly’s oﬀers a homely vibrant feel and an inspired menu. St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 750070 or see www.millysbistro.co.uk.

THE OAK ROOM AT THE GEORGE OF STAMFORD

An elegant, historic venue built in the 14th century, and now oﬀering a fine dining experience with classic British cuisine. Located in The George Hotel, The Oak Room restaurant features candlelit tables and oakpanelled walls, ideal for special occasions. Specialities of The Oak Room include Dover Sole and sirloin of beef carved at the table. Meanwhile, The Garden Restaurant oﬀers a more relaxed feel. St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LB. Call 01780 750750 or see georgehotelofstamford.com.

THE SIX BELLS

Village pub with bedrooms serving locally sourced, seasonal dishes, seven days a week. Founded by Jim & Sharon Trevor, formerly of Jim’s Yard and now coowned by son and daughter Lauren & James. Awarded the coveted Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide, look out for stunningvalue auberge menu on selected Monday evenings. Witham on the Hill, Bourne PE10 0JH. Call 01778 590360 or see www.sixbellswitham.co.uk.

WOODHALL SPA, HORNCASTLE AND CONINGSBY ADMIRAL RODNEY

200yearold coaching inn oﬀering daytime and evening dining as well as comfortable accommodation. Part of the awardwinning Coaching Inn Group which also includes Boston’s White Hart Hotel. North St, Horncastle, LN9 5DX. Call 01507 523131 or see www.admiralrodney.com.

THE DOWER HOUSE

Elegant country house hotel providing a range of freshly cooked dishes in a Victorian country house. Woodhall Spa, LN10 6PY. Call 01526 352588 or see www.dowerhousehotel.co.uk.

KITCHENETTA

Deli and coﬀee shop providing freshly baked cakes and daytime favourites. Broadway, Woodhall Spa LN10 6ST. Call 01526 268008 or see www.kitchenetta.co.uk.

Magpies.

THE INN AT WOODHALL SPA

Relaxed dining in the bar or restaurant, Sunday carvery. Woodhall Spa, LN10 6ST. Call 01526 353231 or see theinnatwoodhallspa.co.uk.

THE LEAGATE INN

Quality dining pub, run by the Dennison family since 1983 with Harry & Laura oﬀering delicious seasonal dishes. Leagate Rd, Coningsby, LN4 4RS. Call 07957 756495 or see www.theleagateinn.co.uk.

MAGPIES

Small familyrun restaurant with rooms set in a row of 200yearold cottages in Horncastle serving a menu of fine dining dishes created by Andrew Gilbert with Caroline Gilbert at front of house. East Street, Horncastle, LN9 6AA. Call 01507 527004, www.magpiesrestaurant.co.uk.

PETWOOD HOTEL

Serving delicious and creative food with an AA rosette award for quality and consistency. Restaurant and terrace bar, popular classic afternoon tea provision, historic links to the Dambusters Squadron which once counted the Petwood as its home, and handsome Petolandscaped grounds. Also renowned for Sunday lunches, and a popular wedding/events venue. Woodhall Spa, LN10 6QG. Call 01526 352411 or see www.petwood.co.uk.

ZUCCI BISTRO

Established in 2011 as a Mediterranean bistro with culinary influences. Tapas and sharing dishes as well as stonebaked pizzas, pasta and al forno dishes. Station Road, Woodhall Spa, LN10 6QL. Call 01526 354466 or see www.zucci.org.

FOOD & DRINK LINCOLN TEA & COFFEE COMPANY

Multiawardwinning and passionate about supplying roasted coﬀee, fine leaf tea, barista training & equipment with excellent customer service. Proud sponsors of The Red Arrows, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Typhoon Display Team. Products include the iconic Lincolnshire Tea. A true fresh approach. www.thelincolnteaand coﬀeecompany.co.uk.

TIPPLEMILL LONDON DRY GIN

Gin grown in harmony with nature on this Lincolnshire family farm! Tipplemill London Dry Gin, dry gin with locally milled wheat, juniper and bittersweet citrus and elderflower. See www.tipplemill.com.

Tipplemill Distillery Gin grown in harmony with nature on our fifth-generation Lincolnshire family farm Perfect to enjoy with family and friends this festive season

THE IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT, WITH FREE DELIVERY AND FREE GIFT-WRAPPING EXCLUSIVELY FOR PRIDE READERS Made with Lincolnshire wheat and distilled with 10 botanicals including elderflower, sweet fennel, sundried orange, grapefruit and bay leaves

Order online at www.tipplemill.com - Use code PRIDE for free gift-wrapping and delivery For trade/wholesale enquiries contact lily@tipplemill.com

Recipe

SERVES 6–8 6–8 duck legs (about 350 g/12 oz each) 2 kg (4 lb 8 oz) duck fat 1 large bulb of garlic 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 2 sprigs of rosemary a nice little bundle of fresh thyme tied up with string coarse sea salt n Weigh the duck legs and calculate 2.5% of their weight for the salt. Rub the salt all over the legs, place in a dish, cover and refrigerate for 24 hours. n The next day, rinse oﬀ the salt, cover the legs again and return them to the refrigerator for a further 24 hours. n Preheat the oven to 140°C fan (325°F). Warm the fat in a deep ovenproof dish until melted, then add the duck legs, garlic, peppercorns and herbs. Heat gently until the fat reaches 90°C or just begins to bubble. Cover the surface with greaseproof paper and cook in the oven for 3–4 hours, until the meat is very tender and a skewer slides in easily. Take care when moving the hot fat.

CONFIT DE CANARD

n Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 1 hour. n If using within a few days, lift the legs onto a wire rack to cool, then refrigerate. For longer storage, place the legs in a heatproof container, strain over enough fat to cover completely, cool and refrigerate. When ready to use, leave at room temperature until the fat softens enough to remove the duck. n To serve, preheat the oven to 180°C fan (400°F). Heat a heavy roasting tin over a mediumhigh heat, add the duck legs skin side down until sizzling, then transfer to the oven for 20–30 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden. n Carefully lift the duck legs from the tin with a fish slice and serve with sautéed potatoes or seasonal veg.

SERVES 6–8 5 egg whites 175 g (6 oz) ground almonds 225 g (8 oz) caster sugar For the toasted almonds a teacupful of flaked almonds (you’ll need enough for a good layer that will stick to the top of the cake) For the coﬀee buttercream 225 g (8 oz) unsalted butter 450 g (1 lb) icing sugar, sifted 50 ml (1¾ fl oz/3½ tablespoons) cold strong black coﬀee, or to taste n Before you start the whole thing, you need to toast some flaked almonds in the oven. Preheat the oven to 130°C fan (300°F) and spread out the almonds on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 20 minutes. When you toast them, you want a good brown colour without burning them. Remove from the oven and leave to cool.

ALMOND CAKE

n Preheat the oven again, obviously, 160°C fan (350°F) in an electric oven. I assume about a gas mark 5; we never had a gas oven. (Note from author: it is gas mark 4.) Grease two 15 cm (6 inch) or 20 cm (8 inch) nonstick cake tins. n Whisk the egg whites in a bowl until completely stiff. Mix the ground almonds and sugar together in a bowl and then fold into the whites. Divide the mixture between the prepared tins. Put straight in the oven and cook for around, well, sort of 20 minutes to an hour. You need to make sure they don’t burn on the top. Once baked, remove from the oven and leave to cool in the tins, then turn the cakes out onto a wire rack and, once cold, peel off the baking paper. n In the meantime, make the buttercream. Beat the butter and sugar together in a bowl to create a smooth buttercream, then beat in the cold coffee slowly and briskly (do it so it doesn’t split).

ON SALE NOW Extracted from The Racine Eﬀect by Henry Harris (Quadrille, £40) Photography © Sam Folan

n When the cakes are cold, place one cake upside down on a serving plate and then cover with half the buttercream. Put the other cake on the top the right way up and cover that with the remaining buttercream. Scatter with the flaked almonds, then place in the refrigerator to set. n You can also serve it with a quenelle of whipped cream (or not), but don’t serve it straight from the refrigerator; bring it out half an hour before you wish to serve it.

WINE OF THE MONTH

VELVET SPICE

Villa Massa Amaretto, £27.50, 70cl, 30% ABV www.villamassa.com.

Cloudy Bay Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc, £49, 75cl, 13.5% ABV, cloudybay.co.nz.

Villa Massa Amaretto combines sweet Italian almonds with rich marzipan notes and gentle warming spice for a beautifully indulgent liqueur. Smooth, aromatic and wonderfully versatile, delicious served over ice, added to coﬀee or enjoyed in a classic cocktail.

WINE & SPIRITS A curated selection of wines, spirits and refined nonalcoholic alternatives for autumn entertaining, from warming reds and elegant whites to luxurious serves and sophisticated alcoholfree choices for seasonal celebrations

Three Fine Wines for Every Occasion Villa Maria Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, passion fruit, fresh herbs and citrus notes. £18, 75cl, 13% ABV, www.villamariawines.com.

La Rioja Alta Viña Alberdi Reserva, ripe cherry, vanilla and gentle oak notes. £22, 75cl, 14% ABV, www.riojalta.com.

Graham Beck Brut Rosé, strawberry, raspberry and delicate floral notes. £18, 75cl, 12% ABV, www.grahambeck.com.

An exceptional expression of Marlborough Sauvignon, crafted with elegance, depth and remarkable complexity. Rich yet refined, it oﬀers layers of citrus, tropical fruit, subtle oak and a beautifully creamy finish. The perfect choice for special occasions, luxurious dining and autumn entertaining.

A BRITISH BOTANICAL APERITIF Botivo Aperitif, £32, 50cl, 0% ABV, www.botivodrinks.com. Botivo is a handcrafted nonalcoholic aperitif combining bitter orange, rosemary, honey, herbs and spices for a complex and beautifully balanced serve. Bright, aromatic and gently bitter, it is perfect topped with tonic, plenty of ice and a slice of orange for a sophisticated alternative to traditional drinks. Our featured wines are available from local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary.

THE GUIDE

I N S I D E : W H AT ’ S O N • T H E AT R E

• FILMS • BOOKS • MUSIC • 29

Lincolnshire

5th Nov An Overview of Coastal Command Part of the International Bomber Command Centre’s Lecture and Supper series, this event looks at the origins of Coastal Command after the First World War and its roles in peace and war up to the present day. From 6.30pm, International Bomber Command Centre, Canwick, call 01522 514755, www.internationalbcc.co.uk.

7th Nov

What’s On

Strictly Come Murder at Tolethorpe Hall

31st Oct

A Night at the Opera by Candlelight

London Concertante brings the drama, romance and grandeur of opera to Lincoln Cathedral for a memorable candlelit performance. Four accomplished soloists, comprising soprano, mezzo soprano, tenor and baritone, will join the ensemble for an evening of celebrated arias and ensembles. Highlights include the irrepressible Largo al factotum from Rossini’s The Barber of Seville and the triumphant Toreador Song from Bizet’s Carmen. Audiences can also enjoy Mozart’s serene Soave sia il vento from Così fan tutte and Verdi’s dramatic Bella figlia dell’amore from Rigoletto. Saturday 31st October from 7.30pm, call 01522 561 644 or see www.lincolncathedral.com.

1st Nov

Paul Merton & Suki Webster’s Improv Show Following critically acclaimed seasons in London and Edinburgh, Paul Merton and Suki Webster, two of the UK’s leading improvisers, present an evening of wonderfully unscripted cuttingedge comedy. Expect a show full of fast, fabulously funny improvised games, scenes, stories and laughoutloud surrealism as these two masters of comedy Improvisation join forces with their very special guests to create cascades of laughter and joyful silliness. Shortform improvised games, scenes, stories, and surrealism created entirely on the spot using suggestions from the audience. Sunday 1st November, doors 7pm, £30, 01522 519999 or newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk.

Enjoy a devious murder mystery evening with fine dining at the stunning Orangery within the parish of Little Casterton and the grounds of Tolethorpe Hall. The longrunning TV series, Seriously Dancing, is now into its 14th contest. Hailed as bringing ballroom dancing back into the average viewer’s dining room, Seriously Dancing, hosted by the popular presenter Bruce Falseteeth, has been a surprising hit and the judges themselves have become household names. However, this evening the show has been called to an abrupt halt. Bruce has been found murdered backstage! And it definitely wasn’t nice to see him to see him, dead! 7pm for 7.30pm start, a welcome drink, threecourse meal and a devious mystery. Over 18s only, £75/person. Prebooking essential. For more information call 01780 917240 or see www.tolethorpe.co.uk.

10th Nov

Carmen

7th/8th Nov Lincolnshire Wellbeing Show

Widely regarded as being one of the country’s best health and wellness events. 60 talks and presentations, 100 stallholders, workshops, sound therapies, colour healing, yoga studio, holistic healing, tai chi, cosmetics and supplements. Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground, 10am-4pm, call 01522 522900 or see lincolnshireshowground.co.uk.

7th Nov

Fireworks with Lancaster Night Run

Satellite screening of Bizet’s opera from the Royal Ballet and Opera House at Stamford Arts Centre. Under the oppressive heat of the Spanish sun, the fiercely independent Carmen attracts the attention of Don José. She warns him not to fall in love with her, but his obsession knows no bounds. Damiano Michieletto’s searing production returns, with lust, violence and destructive desire. An allstar cast brings this whitehot drama to life, with Ginger CostaJackson in the fiery title role, alongside Russell Thomas as the jealous and despairing Don José. Following his 2023 debut, Sesto Quatrini returns to the RBO to conduct Bizet’s electrifying and sensual score. Sung in French with English subtitles. Stamford Arts Centre, 7pm, tickets £16, 01780 763203, www.stamfordartscentre.com.

10th Nov Eric & Ern

Morecambe & Wise were always a staple part of everyone’s festive season, their muchloved Christmas specials remaining as familiar as mince pies and mistletoe. Now Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens recreate the sunshine and laughter of Eric and Ernie in this aﬀectionate, Olivier Awardnominated homage. The acclaimed duo performs a generous selection of classic routines, sketches and songs, capturing the timing, warmth and gentle mischief of the two. Expect favourite moments including Grieg’s Piano Concerto, Mr Memory and, inevitably, a cry of “Arsenal!”, alongside a special musical guest. Family friendly nostalgic entertainment for longstanding admirers. Grimsby Auditorium, Tuesday 10th Nov, 7.30pm, call 0300 300 0035.

12th Nov Lincoln BIG City Fashion Show Following its sellout debut, Lincoln’s BIG City Fashion Show returns with more designers, creativity and catwalk spectacle. Local retailers, independent designers and emerging creatives will present newseason looks, exclusive collections and bold showcases, modelled by a diverse local lineup. Visitors can gather styling inspiration, browse popup shops and discover winter and partywear ideal for forthcoming celebrations. Combining runway glamour with Lincoln’s community spirit, the evening will place local fashion talent firmly in the spotlight. VIP experiences available. The Drill, Lincoln, from 7pm, tickets from £8-£17 for VIP, call 01522 534160 or see www.lincolndrill.co.uk.

East Kirkby’s Aviation Heritage Centre hosts one of the county’s biggest firework displays with a twist: it also includes taxy runs with Avro Lancaster NX611 at noon, 3.30pm and 7pm. The Mosquito will also be taxying at 3pm, 5pm and 7pm. East Kirkby Aviation Heritage Centre, 01790 763207 or see www.lincsaviation.co.uk.

8th Nov

Annual Service of Remembrance The International Bomber Command Centre’s Annual Service of Remembrance at the Memorial. The service will include hymns with the IBCC Orchestra and Choir, poetry readings and a Roll of Honour. 10.30am, call 01522 514755, www.internationalbcc.co.uk.

12th Nov Agriculture Raceday at Market Rasen Racecourse Bringing together the agricultural community of Lincolnshire and a day at the races at Market Rasen Racecourse this November. This popular event combines racing with a day of insight, inspiration, and invaluable networking for farmers. Featuring an expert panel from across the sector, you’ll hear a thoughtprovoking conversation examining how innovation and emerging technologies are transforming the agricultural industry.

Below: G4 at Christmas.

From improving productivity and eﬃciency to enhancing sustainability and supporting the future of farming, the expert panel will discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, while

sharing their own experiences and insights from across the industry. The discussion will once again be hosted by Sean Dunderdale, BBC Radio Lincolnshire presenter and host of BBC Farmwatch, who will lead the conversation with an outstanding panel of industry experts: Belinda Clarke OBE – CEO, Agri TechE, George Hoyes – Partner, Ceres Rural, and Neave Anderson – Head of AgriTech and Innovation, Hartpury University. Whether you’re a farmer, landowner, student, agribusiness professional or simply interested in the future of agriculture, this engaging discussion oﬀers a unique opportunity to hear from leading voices at the forefront of innovation before enjoying an afternoon of racing. Call 01673 843434 or see www.thejockeyclub.co.uk.

18th Nov Motherhood A moving and hilarious look at the bizarre and the downright unbelievable aspects of family life. Actress and writer Elli Mackenzie explores the highs and lows, the frustrations, the joy, the bizarre and downright unbelievable aspects of raising children whilst running a family business. Tickets include a free glass of house wine, house beer or soft drink. Wednesday 18th November, from 7.30pm, tickets £18, call 01205 363108 or see blackfriarsartscentre.co.uk.

18th Nov Edith Smith Talk Grantham native and senior police leader, Deputy Chief Constable Chris Davison has a special interest in the history of policing in Lincolnshire. He is proud to celebrate the legacy of Edith Smith, the first female police constable in the United Kingdom with full powers of arrest. Guildhall Arts Centre, 7pm, Wednesday 18th November, call 01476 406158 or see www.guildhallartscentre.com.

20th Nov Noel Fitzpatrick’s Medicine & Music Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, the star of The Supervet on Channel 4, presents a completely new show combining his passion for both animals and music. An evening of live entertainment you will never forget, he’ll be mixing anecdotes from his life as a vet with his favourite music. Stamford Corn Exchange, 7.30pm, tickets from £35, call 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.

24th Nov

26th Nov

Burghley Christmas Fair

G4 Christmas Celebrated vocal quartet G4 returns to Lincoln Cathedral with its muchloved Christmas tour, bringing an evening of glorious harmonies and seasonal music to one of the county’s most atmospheric settings. First rising to fame on ITV’s The X Factor, G4 became known for combining classical voices with imaginative interpretations of popular songs. More than two decades later, the group continues to attract audiences with its accomplished performances, engaging showmanship and distinctive vocal arrangements. This festive concert will take listeners on a musical journey through traditional carols, sacred contemplations, classical favourites and modern Christmas hits. The programme is set to include Silent Night, O Holy Night, Walking in the Air, When a Child is Born, All I Want for Christmas and The Twelve Days of Christmas. With the cathedral providing a magnificent backdrop, it promises an opportunity to pause amid the bustle of Christmas preparations and enjoy the pleasure of voices raised in harmony. Expect familiar melodies, moments of reflection and plenty of festive spirit to share with loved ones. The popular tour returns year after year, visiting Lincoln Cathedral this month, whilst the group will also appear in Boston’s St Botolph’s Church, The Stump, on Friday 18th December. Both events promise an enchanting evening of live music during the festive season.

26th Nov Viennese Christmas Spectacular at Lincoln Cathedral Lincoln Cathedral will provide a magnificent candlelit setting for an enchanting evening of classical music performed by London Concertante. Inspired by the grandeur of Vienna’s celebrated concert halls, the programme brings together sparkling polkas, elegant

waltzes and muchloved festive favourites. Audiences can expect music by Johann Strauss, Tchaikovsky and Brahms, including the graceful Blue Danube, the lively TritschTratsch Polka and enchanting excerpts from The Nutcracker. A wonderfully uplifting beginning to the Christmas celebrations. Tickets from £25-£48. VIP also available, from 7.30pm, see www.londonconcertante.com or call 01522 561 644.

The region’s largest and most magical Christmas Fair. Spend the day finding the perfect presents for loved ones, including stocking fillers, handmade decorations, clothes and beautiful homewares. Be sure to take a break from the shopping to enjoy the delicious festive treats from the very best food and drink producers. From traditional mulled wine and indulgent hot chocolate to warming raclette and tempting sweet and savoury crêpes. Run in association with the Angel Committee to raise funds for the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough. Tickets £15/adults, from 9.30am-4pm. Call 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.

27th Nov

Step Into Christmas Begin the festivities at Grimsby Auditorium with a sparkling concert packed with favourite Christmas classics. Returning for 2026, Step Into Christmas combines uplifting seasonal anthems and heart warming ballads with dazzling performances, colourful festive visuals and the energy of a sensational live band. Friday 27th November from 7.30pm, tickets from £30.50, call 0300 300 0035 or see grimsbyauditorium.org.uk.

For more information on ticket prices and availability see www.g4oﬃcial.com.

Beyond Lincolnshire

Entertainment 34

Oct/Nov The Bayeux Tapestry For the first time in almost 1,000 years, the Bayeux Tapestry is returning to the country in which it was probably created, forming the centrepiece of a landmark exhibition at the British Museum. Measuring nearly 70 metres, this remarkable 11thcentury embroidery tells the story of the struggle for the English throne, culminating in William the Conqueror’s victory over Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Its succession of scenes depicts kings, soldiers, ships, horses, feasts and warfare, while its borders teem with animals, creatures and enigmatic details.

Despite its familiar name, the work is not technically a tapestry but an embroidery, with coloured wool stitched onto linen. It is widely believed to have been commissioned by William’s halfbrother, Bishop Odo of Bayeux, and probably made in England, perhaps at Canterbury. At the British Museum, the work is displayed flat in one continuous length, allowing visitors to appreciate its scale and narrative detail. Digital interpretation and selected objects place its story within the wider world of Anglo Saxon and Norman England. These include charters connected with Edward the Confessor and William I, an illuminated AngloSaxon manuscript and the Chew

Valley Hoard of coins issued during the reigns of Harold and William. Prebooked entry only, tickets £33/adults. The British Museum, Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG, call 020 7323 8181 or see www.britishmuseum.org.

7th Nov

Christmas at Chatsworth House

Constantinople to Istanbul: One City, Two Empires The V&A’s major exhibition opening in November 2026 that will explore 1,600 years of extraordinary artistic production in one of the world’s most influential cities. Spanning AD 330 to 1922, it will bring together remarkable works of art, design and architecture to reveal the enduring creative legacy of an imperial capital that shaped the Mediterranean world and far beyond. The first exhibition in the UK to tell this story in full, it oﬀers a compelling new perspective on a city defined by artistic excellence across more than a millennium. The city once called Constantinople, now Istanbul, was the imperial and religious capital at the heart of two successive empires: the Byzantine (AD 330–1453) and the Ottoman (1453–1922). This exhibition will explore their distinct yet connected traditions of art and design, plus the lasting impact the region’s creative output had on Christianity and Islam. Grand Beginnings will explore Constantinople’s refounding in AD 330 as the capital of a unified Roman Empire under Constantine the Great. Heaven and Earth will explore how art and architecture were put into service of Christianity. Power and Reach will examine how the Ottoman court projected authority in peace and war. Finally, Life in the City will explore the city as a cosmopolitan centre of diverse languages, faiths and artistic traditions. V&A, South Kensington, see www.vam.ac.uk.

4th Nov Opera North: Rigoletto and Eugene Onegin Tchaikovsky’s most popular opera is a heartbreaking tale of love, regret and missed chances... in Opera North’s new production, the story is reimagined in 1980s Russia, and presented at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal on Sat 7th Nov and Theatre Royal Nottingham on Wed 18th Nov and Saturday 21st Nov. Meanwhile Rigoletto is opera at its most gripping: a thrilling tale of power, devotion and revenge. Unforgettable music will include La donna è mobile sung by Leonardo Sánchez in the role of the Duke of Mantua, Wed/Thurs 4th/5th Nov at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal; Thurs/Fri 19th/20th at Theatre Royal Nottingham. See www.operanorth.co.uk.

5th8th Nov The Luxury Travel Fair

London’s Olympia hosts over 80 luxury travel brands. From untouched rainforests and secluded desert islands to grand European châteaux and fivestar ski retreats. 5th-8th November, W14 8UX. www.luxurytravelfair.com.

13th15th Nov Norfolk Festive Gift & Food Show

Christmas shopping begins in earnest at the Norfolk Festive Gift & Food Show, held at the Norfolk Showground, Norwich from 13th to 15th November. Hundreds of stalls will oﬀer local artisan gifts, handmade decorations and seasonal food and drink, alongside exclusive oﬀers, festive entertainment and mulled wine. See norfolkfestiveshow.co.uk.

Christmas brings splendour to Derbyshire country pile and pretendPemberley, Chatsworth House, from 7th November, when the estate’s house, garden and farmyard are transformed for the festivities. Inside the house, decorated rooms provide a setting for Christmas, with this year’s theme due to be revealed as Pride goes to press. Outside, Christmas in the Garden presents an interactive light and sound trail through the landscape. Taking around 45 to 60 minutes, the illuminated route is especially atmospheric after dusk. The Christmas Market returns from 7th November to 13th December, bringing together more than 100 stalls filled with decorations, gifts and seasonal treats. Visitors can combine browsing with the decorated house and garden trail for a festive day out. Celebrations continue into December with Chatsworth’s Winter Pride and Prejudice Ball on 4th, 10th and 11th December. Guests begin with drinks and canapés in the Painted Hall before exploring the decorated north wing. A threecourse dinner and Regencystyle dancing follow in the Grade I listed Stables. The Painted Hall and Sculpture Gallery appeared in Joe Wright’s 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, making the evening evocative for Jane Austen admirers. Entry to Christmas Market free. Entry to Christmas house £40/adults, £12/junior. Derbyshire DE45 1PP. Call 01246 565300 or see www.chatsworth.org.

13th Nov

19th Nov

The Festive Gift Fair 2026

Classic Motor Show The UK’s largest indoor celebration of motoring heritage returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 13th to 15th November, bringing together more than 3,000 classic cars and motorcycles across seven halls. The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show covers everything from prewar rarities and elegant prestige marques to popular family cars, sporting icons and emerging modern classics. More than 320 motoring clubs will take part (the world’s largest gathering of vehicle clubs) alongside specialist dealers, restorers, parts suppliers and the UK’s largest indoor autojumble. The 2026 theme, Débutant, will introduce hundreds of vehicles never previously displayed at the event. Visitors can also browse more than 600 classics oﬀered for sale, including around 500 appearing in the Iconic Auctioneers Super Auction. Live attractions include expert talks, restoration demonstrations, celebrity appearances, the Meguiar’s Club Showcase and the Pride of Ownership competition, in which visitors can vote for their favourite cherished vehicle. NEC, Birmingham B40 1NT, 13th-15th November, tickets £44.25/adult, £28.75/junior, www.necclassicmotorshow.com

14th Nov Middlemarch, Parts One & Two George Eliot’s study of provincial life comes to the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Swan Theatre in Stratford uponAvon throughout November. Adapted by Nina Raine and directed by Jeremy Herrin, Middlemarch is presented as a sweeping play in two parts, which can be

enjoyed together in a day or on separate visits. Nia Towle plays Dorothea Brooke, with Rory Alexander as Will Ladislaw, Andrew Richardson as doctor Tertius Lydgate and Amanda Root appearing as George Eliot and Mrs Cadwallader. The story should look familiar to local audiences: Stamford’s Georgian streets were used extensively to represent the fictional town in the 1994 BBC adaptation. See www.rsc.org.uk.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, the Festive Gift Fair returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 19th to 22nd November with 325 stalls dedicated to Christmas shopping. Visitors can browse gifts, decorations, jewellery, fashion, home accessories and seasonal food and drink, with plenty of opportunities to find unusual presents from independent makers and specialist retailers. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by live music and entertainment throughout each day, including singers, musicians, costumed characters, Father Christmas and a giant snow globe. Also at the NEC this month and ideal for the festive season, The Creative Craft Show and Sewing for Pleasure winter show takes place from 5th to 8th November, alongside Simply Christmas. One ticket provides access to crafting demonstrations, workshops, materials and festive shopping. Cake International and Bake International join the event from 6th to 8th November, showcasing remarkable sugarcraft, lifesize cake installations, competitions and demonstrations by leading bakers and decorators. 19th-22nd Nov, £11/adult, £3/child, 9.30am-5pm, www.festivegiftfair.co.uk.

21st22nd Nov

21st Nov

Cambridge Winter Literary Festival

Van Eyck: The Portraits

Cambridge Literary Festival returns for its Winter Festival on 21st and 22nd November, presenting 30 events across some of the city’s most historic venues. This year’s wideranging programme encompasses fiction, poetry, politics, history, science, economics, nature and biography. Among those appearing are broadcaster Laura Kuenssberg, crime writer Lynda La Plante, historian David Kynaston and former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo. Other highlights include Sathnam Sanghera discussing the cultural significance of George Michael, and Jonathan Bate considering humanity’s 4,000 year quest to create the perfect garden for readers. Various venues, for the event’s full programme see cambridgeliteraryfestival.com.

Bringing together all nine of Jan van Eyck’s known painted portraits for the first time. Running at London’s National Gallery from 21st November 2026 to 11th April 2027, the exhibition celebrates the artist’s revolutionary realism. Through watchful eyes, stubble, wrinkles and flushed cheeks, Van Eyck made sitters from six centuries ago feel vividly present. Featuring craftsmen, merchants and relatives rather than royalty, the show also explores a moment when access to portraiture widened dramatically across society. Ticket price TBC, members free, www.nationalgallery.org.uk.

26th29th Nov The Good Food Show

The Festive Good Food Show returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 26th to 29th November, bringing together more than 350 independent food and drink producers. Visitors can sample and purchase everything required for Christmas entertaining, while leading chefs demonstrate seasonal recipes and share advice in the Big Kitchen and Festive Kitchen. Workshops cover subjects including festive cheeseboards, and stylish Christmas tables, with inspiration available from specialist producers. See www.goodfoodshow.com.

27th Nov

in Blue, while his literary achievements earned him the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature.

Bob Dylan returns to Britain this autumn, appearing at Sheﬃeld’s Utilita Arena on Friday 27th November as part of a tendate tour. One of the most influential songwriters of all time, Dylan has spent six decades reshaping folk, rock and popular music. His catalogue encompasses songs including Blowin’ in the Wind, Like a Rolling Stone and Tangled Up

The Sheﬃeld performance continues the acclaimed live chapter associated with his 2020 album Rough and Rowdy Ways.

Bob Dylan

Famous for continually rearranging his material, Dylan ensures that even familiar songs can assume unexpected new forms in concert. Utilita Arena Sheﬃeld, S9 2DF, Tickets from £122, available from www.bobdylan.com.

28th Nov

York Minster Christmas Tree Festival

Experience York Minster’s popular Christmas Tree Festival, set inside the medieval Minster, with 100 trees on display in the cathedral’s stunning Nave, North Transept, Chapter House and Lady Chapel. As part of your visit, enjoy exploring shopping in the streets of the 14thcentury Shambles, and a festive afternoon at Bettys. www.visityork.org, www.shamblesyork.co.uk, www.bettys.co.uk.

THE GUIDE

NOVEMBER BOOK RELEASES

Is it too late to make a run for it? Dame Judi Dench

Dame Judi Dench tells us of her life on the stage, on the screen, and, above all, behind the scenes... You might think you know Judi Dench. In a sevendecade career, she’s been a spymaster, an Oscar winning queen and has starred in musicals, blockbusters, tragedies and comedies. But what makes her tick? How did she become so successful and for so long? Funny, intimate, surprising, moving and over ninety years in the making. On sale now, 388 pages, £25.

Pay Attention

Swan Song

Laura Kuenssberg

Charles Spencer

Morning morning... Laura Kuenssberg’s unmissable first book is what you need to make sense of a confusing world. The UK used to pride itself on being sensible, its politics, a little bit dull. But with yet another Prime Minister booted out of Number 10 that reputation is in tatters. Politics has become a brutal soap opera. With clarity, humour, authority and urgency, Kuenssberg pays attention to the forces, impulses and personalities that have brought us to this point. 5th Nov, 320 pages, £25.

In September 1997, Charles Spencer stood in Westminster Abbey before a watching world and shared his grief at losing his beloved sister, Diana. Now, nearly thirty years later, he tells the astonishing story of his life with Diana and the tragic week of her death. Writing with tenderness and insight, Charles Spencer delivers the definitive account of Princess Diana’s extraordinary life and death, from childhood memories to her enduring legacy in this unique and powerful biography promising intimacy and honesty. On sale now, 384 pages, £28.

NOVEMBER MUSIC PICK

Love Dust oﬀ the dungarees... Dexys Midnight Runners return with their new studio album, the seventh in the band’s history. Love draws together stories from across Kevin Rowland’s life into a deeply personal set of songs about family, friendship, romance and growing older. Spanning ideas written decades apart and songs completed more recently, it moves through memories

Dexys Midnight Runners of an Irish immigrant childhood, reflections on parents and grandchildren, and the shifting realities of love across a lifetime. Recorded under the Dexys Midnight Runners name for the first time since Don’t Stand Me Down, the album features Rowland’s songwriting framing a collection of songs that feels reflective, direct and deeply human. Out late Nov, £22.99/vinyl.

Gardener’s Almanac Greg Loades Information, inspiration, tips and trivia to help you make the most of your gardening year in 2027. Packed with new features and advice, the 2027 edition of this guide is a perfect gift for any gardener. Month by month, there’s timely gardening advice and information from the National Trust, together with inspiring writing and beautiful illustrations. Includes month bymonth weather charts, tasks, and pruning guides plus projects to enhance your garden. On sale now, 224 pages, £9.99.

THE GUIDE

November Cinema Releases

I Play Rocky

Focker in Law

American Doctor

Sylvester Stallone wrote the screenplay for Rocky (1976) and starred as Rocky Balboa. The film earned him Oscar nominations for both writing and acting. I Play Rocky dramatises the remarkable true story behind Sylvester Stallone’s breakthrough. Anthony Ippolito stars as the unknown, struggling actor who writes Rocky, then risks everything by refusing to sell his screenplay unless he can play boxer Rocky Balboa himself. Directed by Green Book filmmaker Peter Farrelly, it also stars Matt Dillon.

The fourth comedy in the Meet the Parents series, directed by John Hamburg. Greg and Pam Focker face a generational reversal when their son brings home Olivia, an FBI hostage negotiator played by Ariana Grande. Suspicious Greg begins treating her much as Jack Byrnes once treated him, while Jack unexpectedly embraces the newcomer. Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Teri Polo, Owen Wilson and Blythe Danner return. The film opens on 25th November 2026.

American Doctor is a 2026 vérité documentary directed by Poh Si Teng. It follows three American physicians, Palestinian American Thaer Ahmad, Jewish American Mark Perlmutter and Zoroastrian American Feroze Sidhwa, as they volunteer in Gaza’s devastated hospitals. Bound by their medical oath despite diﬀering backgrounds, they treat severely wounded patients. The film follows their advocacy in the US, where medicine, politics and personal conscience increasingly collide.

Heysel 85

Wild Horse Nine

One in a Million

Tense historical drama directed by Teodora Ana Mihai. Set during the 1985 European Cup Final between Liverpool and Juventus, it portrays the stadium disaster that killed 39 people through two fictional witnesses: Marie, the Brussels mayor’s daughter and press attaché, and Luca, an Italian journalist. Violet Braeckman and Matteo Simoni lead the cast. Blending recreated scenes with archival footage, the film examines panic, institutional failure, divided loyalties and collective human responsibility.

Wild Horse Nine is a dark comedy written and directed by Martin McDonagh. Shortly before Chile’s 1973 coup, CIA agents Chris and Lee are sent from Santiago to Easter Island by their chief, MJ. Surrounded by statues, the partners confront buried histories and conspiracies, while Chris befriends two rebellious students who destabilise their mission. John Malkovich, Sam Rockwell and Steve Buscemi lead a cast including Tom Waits and Parker Posey.

One in a Million is a 2026 documentary directed by Itab Azzam and Jack MacInnes. Filmed across ten years, it follows Israa from age eleven as she and her family flee war in Syria, seek safety in Germany and confront displacement, adolescence and ideas of home. The intimate comingofage portrait explores exile’s emotional consequences without reducing its subject to refugee statistics. It won the World Cinema Documentary Audience Award at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.

How to Rob a Bank

The Faith Tour

Ebenezer

How to Rob a Bank is an actioncomedy thriller directed by David Leitch. Nicholas Hoult leads a technologically savvy robbery crew that broadcasts heists online, turning its members into viral celebrities. Their growing fame attracts a veteran FBI agent and a brilliant software engineer, who form an unlikely partnership to track them down. Zoë Kravitz, Anna Sawai, Rhenzy Feliz, Pete Davidson, Christian Slater and John C. Reilly costar.

George Michael: The Faith Tour is a restored concert film capturing the singer at Paris’s Palais Omnisports de Paris Bercy during two 1988 performances. Filmed with fourteen cameras on 35mm, the unseen footage presents Michael at the height of his first solo tour. Longtime collaborators Andy Morahan and David Austin directed the restoration. Screenings also include Mary McCartney’s short Finding Faith, featuring unseen photographs and behindthescenes material. Reaches cinemas 6th November.

Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol is a forthcoming gothic reimagining of Charles Dickens’s classic, directed by Ti West. Johnny Depp plays miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, whose supernatural journey through his past, present and future oﬀers a final chance at redemption. The supporting cast includes Andrea Riseborough, Daisy Ridley, Rupert Grint, Sam Claflin and Ian McKellen. Produced by Paramount Pictures, scheduled for a theatrical release on 13th November 2026, promising a darker seasonal ghost story.

Fjord

Hexed

Fjord is a 2026 social drama written and directed by Cristian Mungiu. Sebastian Stan and Renate Reinsve play Mihai and Lisbeth, a devout RomanianNorwegian couple who move with their five children to her remote Norwegian hometown. Their friendship with progressive neighbours gradually exposes deep conflicts over religion, parenting, personal freedom and state authority. This morally complex film examines how care can become control. It won the Palme d’Or at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival.

Walt Disney Animation adventure directed by Fawn Veerasunthorn and Jason Hand. Impulsive, unconventional teenager Billie discovers hidden magical abilities that propel her from suburbia into Hexe, a realm of witches. Forced to cooperate with her cautious mother, Alice, Billie begins uncovering family secrets capable of transforming the magical world. Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones voice the pair, alongside Tracey Ullman and Stephen Fry. Opens in cinemas on 25th November.

Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint British festive comedy directed by Jack Spring. John Bradley plays Aubrey, a reclusive modelsoldier painter who hates Christmas and is sentenced to community service at a struggling retirement home. Roped into staging a chaotic production of A Christmas Carol, he confronts painful memories while forming unexpected friendships. Celia Imrie and Richard E. Grant lead the ensemble supporting cast.

HOMES

INSIDE: HOMES • INTERIORS • GARDENS • LUXURY PROPERTY • 43

WELCOME HOME

N EASTVIEW SKEGNESS

ever say never... that’s one of the lessons from the story of this month’s featured property. The other is to persist until your vision comes to fruition, even if the end result relies a little bit on luck, as well as good judgement. The owners of Eastview on Skegness’s Five Acres Crescent had always loved the plot. Little wonder, given that it’s part of a nice private community, on the edge of town, with plenty of open farmland to the east. “You’ll never get planning there,” said a friend, and so the family began their first new build project elsewhere. But when a developer did secure planning permission a few years later and agreed to release some of the land for the creation of Eastview, it was an opportunity to bring to life a vision of a modern country home that’s been designed with forensic detail and an impeccable choice of materials and technology as well as a knack for knowing what works well in a family home. It wasn’t easy, though, as the four architects, three planning applications, two committee meetings and nine years it took to create Eastview can all attest. Worth it though? Oh yes.

WELCOME HOME

The property is constructed in Northern Buff brick, with a slate roof. The property itself has a generous 8,500 sq ft of living space and is arranged over three floors, set within three-quarters of an acre. That’s about right for those seeking a decent amount of space but not the arduous upkeep of a large plot of land. The vision was a family home that neatly integrated technology to help a family function day-to-day. Initial plans were for an ‘ecohouse,’ but that wasn’t what the family wanted. Instead, they were able to specify a more classically styled property with the number, size and placement of rooms all carefully considered. An openplan layout was favoured with lots of natural light, and Eastview was eventually designed as a collaboration between the family and Andrew Clover. On the ground floor, a large entrance hall with lots of white marble and a graceful sweeping staircase leads to a galleried landing. Beyond the entrance hall is a very substantial open-plan living and dining kitchen 40ft in length and incorporating bi-fold doors and a dining wing with glazing to three aspects. The kitchen was sourced from Leicht, a German company specialising in contemporary kitchens using materials like Eastview’s mixture of walnut veneers and natural stone. An illuminated marble splashback, plus granite surfaces with inset sink and Quooker tap are complemented by Gaggenau appliances. These include a built-in coffee maker, warming drawers and induction cooking surface as well as a wine cooler, and a hidden pantry. The open-plan area also features an integrated TV in its own recess plus Amina speakers concealed within the plasterwork. Speaking of technology, the house also incorporates a Niko home control system which integrates heating, lighting, TV, audio and the blinds. Mechanical ventilation, with a heat recovery system, ensures fresh air, whilst rainwater harvesting and solar panels with battery storage on the property’s roof also underwrite the property’s environmental credentials. The living space also leads to a snug, and to the wing of the property which incorporates a good-sized study, gym, utility and a plant room adjacent to the double garage. On the first floor of the property there are six bedrooms, five with an en suite, another feature that the family were adamant is essential for life with teenagers. The master has a large dressing room and shares access with the guest suite to one of two glassbalustraded balconies overlooking the gardens. An upstairs laundry room was another stipulation, and has proven a godsend for processing family-sized quantities of laundry, whilst the second floor incorporates a games and cinema room.

Beyond the property’s entrance hall is a very substantial open-plan living and dining kitchen 40ft in length and incorporating bi-fold doors and a dining wing with glazing to three aspects...

WELCOME HOME

All of the bathrooms, meanwhile, feature contemporary fittings from brands like Artelinea, Bagnodesign, Villeroy & Boch and Porcelanosa. Outdoors, there’s a dedicated pool house with both a hot tub and a swim spa, plus a separate glazed outdoor kitchen, an aluminium gazebo with dining area, and a further seating area adjacent to the house. Composite decking and sandstone, with porcelain tile accents and resin driveways, ensure low-maintenance exteriors. “The kids (and their friends) loved it growing up,” say the vendors. “Now they’re older and more independent we’ve concluded that putting Eastview on the market will enable us to downsize, and to begin a new project. It’ll be an emotional sale, though; we’ve put heart and soul into designing it, and it does work well day-to-day, but above all, it genuinely has been our dream home!”

Eastview

Five Acres Crescent, Skegness Location: Skegness 1.7 miles, five minutes. Spilsby 11.5 miles, 18 minutes. Accommodation: Arranged over three floors with large openplan living/dining kitchen, living room, snug and second floor games/cinema room. Six bedrooms with five en suites, dressing room and balcony to master. Study. Gym, outdoor kitchen and pool suite with bar. Double garage. Guide Price £2,300,000. Find Out More: Currently marketed by Rosie Pennicott at Hortons, call 07884 173745 or see www.hortons.co.

Peterborough’s Premier Carpet Retailer 11 Victor Way | Bourne Lincolnshire | PE10 9PT | 01778 424294 50

enquiries@crowlandcarpets.co.uk www.crowlandcarpets.co.uk

3 The Precincts | Market Deeping Lincolnshire | PE6 8FG | 01778 341827

TIMELESS CONTRAST Elegant monochrome designs bringing texture, balance and sophistication to every room TOP ROW: Graphic Craftsmanship: Handcrafted Italian wood inlay tray with striking black and white geometric marquetry for timeless contemporary styling, £176, www.abask.com. Modernist Monochrome: Plush New Zealand wool rug with striking geometric design and Scandinavian architectural influence, £845, www.nordicknots.com. Shadow Glow: Sculptural black and white ceramic tealight holders creating atmospheric illumination with contemporary elegance, £49, www.just-delights.co.uk. SECOND ROW: White Leather Serenity: Sculptural king size bed in luxurious white leather with refined Italian styling and contemporary elegance, £4,705, www.inhausinteriors.co.uk. Sculptural Shadow: Artisanal floor lamp with stacked marble and volcanic stone spheres, finished with a luxurious white bouclé shade, £4,218, www.maisonflaneur.com. Noir et Blanc Elegance: Sophisticated monochrome abstract artwork with a light wood frame creating a refined contemporary focal point, £80, www.olivias.com. THIRD ROW: Monochrome Grandeur: Contemporary console table combining black satin veneer, crisp white detailing and refined brass accents for sophisticated interiors, £1,907, www.liangandeimil.com. Carrara Contrast: Premium retro-style kettle combining Porsche design heritage, crisp white finish and bold black accents, £299, www.shop.smeguk.com. Sculptural Noir: Contemporary matte black concrete coffee table with rounded detailing, £549, www.rowenhomes.com. FOURTH ROW: Italian Opulence: Iconic porcelain décor featuring tonal Barocco motifs and the signature Versace 90s Vintage Logo, £220, www.versace.com. Op Art Sophistication: Modernist black and ivory glass cabinet with polished brass detailing and glamorous sculptural finish, £2,399, www.uk.jonathanadler.com. Textural Contrast: Sculptural ceramic bowl with glossy black glaze and cream bubble detailing for a striking monochrome tabletop accent, £75, www.abigailahern.com.

HOMES & GARDENS

The New Hearth Barbas Box 75 60, a dramatic, minimalist inset fire designed to become part of the architecture of a room, £4,374, www.bonfire.co.uk.

HOMES & GARDENS

Top row from left: Stovax County 5, £1,389, www.stovax.com. Charnwood Skye E700, £3,749, www.charnwood.com. RAIS QTee 2, £1,911. www.rais.com Clearview Solution 400, £2,274, www.clearviewstoves.com. Bottom row from far left: Chesneys Beaumont 8, £2,159, www. chesneys.co.uk. Onyx Avanti, £2,095, www.inspirationalfires.co.uk. Morsø 7443, £2,510, www.hotboxstoves.co.uk.

Gardening

GARDENING with MARK LANE

Dr Mark Lane is a multiawardwinning garden designer, horticulturalist and TV gardening presenter (BBC Morning Live, BBC Gardeners’ World, the RHS Flower Shows, Channel 5). Mark is the author of The Thrifty Gardener (Quarto), Royal Gardens of the World (Kyle Books), and the Future of Gardens (Melville), see www.marklanedesigns.com.

Words & Images: Mark Lane.

ovember is a month for protecting plants and structures, but wet days oﬀer time to plan next year’s garden. Browse plant, bulb and seed catalogues, make a shortlist, then choose those you cannot do without: a little ‘November naughtiness’. Photographs taken throughout the year help identify gaps, plants needing relocation and combinations worth repeating. Keep notes alongside them to guide your purchases. Consider the style you want for your garden, balcony or patio before buying. Winter gardening once meant cutting everything back. Naturalistic planting has encouraged us to leave more plants standing, appreciating their textures, contrasting shapes and seed heads. Brown belongs in the garden, and decay is part of its cycle. Log piles, fallen leaves and fading plants provide winter shelter for insects, amphibians, beetles and small mammals. Exploring Winter Explore Lincoln Arboretum, Whisby Nature Park and Boultham Park, or visit Donna Nook National Nature Reserve during the grey seal pupping season in November and December. Wilder Doddington’s winter birdwatch on 15th November welcomes beginners, with expert birders helping visitors spot snipe, lapwing, jack snipe, skylark, yellowhammer and reed bunting. I design gardens with winter in mind. Flowering shrubs include Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’, Viburnum ×bodnantense ‘Dawn’, sweet box (Sarcococca confusa), wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox), witch hazel (Hamamelis ×intermedia ‘Pallida’) and winter honeysuckle

(Lonicera ×purpusii ‘Winter Beauty’). Camellia sasanqua oﬀers red, pink or white flowers, while Camellia ×vernalis ‘Yuletide’ has red blooms with golden anthers. Seek inspiration at Petwood Gardens in Woodhall Spa, or autumn colour at Aubourn Hall near Lincoln and Woodlands in Louth. Eryngium agavifolium produces stems reaching two metres, with candelabralike flowerheads that withstand wind and rain, often lasting until late January. I also retain ornamental grasses and their faded flowerheads: fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’), Korean feather reed grass (Calamagrostis brachytricha), feather reed grass (Calamagrostis ×acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’) and moor grass (Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea ‘Transparent’). Korean feather reed grass works particularly well alongside the faded flowers of burnet (Sanguisorba ‘Tanna’). Moor grass ‘Transparent’ has feathery spikelets that shimmer in the slightest breeze. Other perennials with strong winter silhouettes include Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium maculatum (Atropurpureum Group) ‘Purple Bush’), giant ironweed (Vernonia arkansana or Vernonia crinita ‘Mammuth’), Aster umbellatus (now Doellingeria umbellata), culver’s root (Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Fascination’) and bergamot (Monarda ‘Scorpion’). Leaving architectural stems and seedheads provides structure and helps wildlife. Allowing some flowers to selfseed introduces natural variation, although even naturalistic gardens need management. Wind and Rain Some perennials need tidying before heavy rain and strong winds damage their dying growth. Windrocked stems can damage crowns and roots. Herbaceous geraniums cut back in summer for a second flowering may still carry leaves, but these can become sodden.

Gardening The same applies to nepeta, or catmint, coreopsis, helenium, campanula and artemisia. Cut back collapsed growth to ground level, or just above any fresh basal shoots. Removing deteriorating material helps reduce fungal problems and hiding places for slugs and other pests. Grimsthorpe Castle’s long herbaceous borders oﬀer planting inspiration. Houseplants Houseplants provide greenery when outdoor gardening becomes less appealing, particularly where space or mobility is limited. Tropical Plants UK in the Spalding area is a British family nursery growing tropical houseplants. These bring colour and sometimes scent indoors, and can be moved around as needed. Water according to each plant’s requirements, avoiding waterlogged compost. Some can be watered from below using a saucer. Outside, clear fallen leaves from lawns and paths, where wet foliage can be slippery. Collect deciduous leaves, including oak, hornbeam and alder, to make rich, crumbly leaf mould for mulching or incorporating into planting holes. Shredding speeds decomposition; store leaves in a leaf bay or suitable bags. Leave some undisturbed piles elsewhere for wildlife. November is a good time to plant tulips and finish planting any remaining spring bulbs. Choose a position with good drainage. For spring displays of bluebells, anemones, daﬀodils and other bulbs, remember Doddington Hall and Gardens, Easton Walled Gardens,

Gunby Hall Gardens, Dole Wood, Burghley House’s Private South Gardens and Goslings Corner Wood. Raise pots and containers on bricks or pot feet to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging. Insulate vulnerable pots with hessian secured with garden twine. Potterton’s Nurseries, Pennells Garden Centre and Lincolnshire’s other nurseries and garden centres oﬀer ideas for container planting. More Advice Lift tender dahlias, begonias and gladioli where winter protection is needed, removing dead or frostblackened foliage before storage. Allow them to dry, then store in frostfree conditions suitable for each plant. Dry lifted dahlias upside down. Their tubers can be stored in barely damp sand or spent compost; avoid leaving them wet enough to rot. If the ground is neither frozen nor waterlogged, divide suitable herbaceous perennials. Established clumps can lose vigour after three to five years, and division provides free plants for other borders or pots. Replant at the original depth and mulch to help protect the roots through winter. Then take a moment to enjoy your November naughtiness. For early Christmas gifts, look out for Mark’s books: The Thrifty Gardener, Royal Gardens of the World and The Future of Gardens. Find further inspiration at www.marklanedesigns.com.

NOVEMBER IN THE GARDEN Rake fallen leaves from lawns and paths, using them to make leaf mould for future use. Clear diseased foliage, but leave sound seed heads and hollow stems as shelter for wildlife. Raise containers onto feet, check drainage holes and move frosttender plants into a greenhouse. Plant bareroot trees, roses, fruit bushes and hedging whenever the ground is unfrozen and workable. Plant tulip bulbs now, plus any forgotten daﬀodils, crocuses and alliums, before winter weather arrives. Shorten long rose stems to prevent wind rock, but leave the main pruning until late winter.

Prune established apple and pear trees after leaf fall, but leave stone fruits until summer. Harvest leeks, kale, parsnips, swedes and Brussels sprouts, protecting remaining brassicas from hungry pigeons. Plant garlic in welldrained soil; on heavy clay, start cloves in modules under cover instead. Clean tools, pots and canes, check tree ties, service the mower and plan next year’s crops. Clear greenhouse gutters and water butts, secure sheds and fences, and remove slippery algae from paths before winter arrives.

Luxury Homes

Crawford House Crowland Tucked behind a private wrought-iron gate in Crowland’s conservation heart, Crawford House serves as a seamless blend of history and contemporary comfort. Guide price £1,175,000 Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk.

The Old Rectory Scampton An impressive Grade II listed period residence with striking limestone elevations. Internally, the house has been carefully styled, with understated, elegant décor that successfully complements original architectural features. Guide price £1,500,000 Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com. 65

Peter Jackson Cabinet Makers Ltd Devereux Way, Horncastle LN9 6AU

Tel: 01507 527113

W: www.peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk E: info@peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk

LUXURY HOMES

Woodgate Lane

Brauncewell Lodge

Lincoln

On the edge of the charming village of Beckingham, where the pace of life softens and the landscape begins to breathe a little deeper, this extraordinary barn conversion offers a superb property and good-sized grounds.

Tucked away in a private position in this quiet hamlet, this splendid country house offers spacious living of generous proportions, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and versatile outbuildings.

Offers over £1,000,000

Guide price £850,000

eXp UK East Midlands 03304 609968 or see www.exp.uk.com.

Mount & Minster 32 Eastgate, Lincoln LN2 1QA. Call 01522 716204 or see www.mountandminster.co.uk.

St Margaret’s House

Masons Lodge

Withern

Throckenholt

A truly outstanding opportunity to acquire an exquisite Grade II listed former church that has been sympathetically transformed into an exceptional family residence.

Tucked away at the end of a peaceful country lane and enjoying far-reaching views across the surrounding farmland and Fens, this exceptional home offers an immediate sense of privacy and tranquility.

£800,000

£875,000

Choice Properties 16 South Market Pl, Alford LN13 9AE. Call 01507 462277 or see www.choiceproperties.co.uk.

Hockeys Crofters Lodge, West Walton, Wisbech, PE14 7ES. Call 01945 429 842 or see www.hockeys.co.uk. 67

FLAT ROOFS? WE’VE GOT THEM COVERED

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Call 07825 381878 or see www.firstrateflatroofing.co.uk No Pressure Selling • Free, No Obligation Quotes • 25 Year Guarantee 68

LUXURY HOMES

Eagle Moor

Rother Cottage

Lincoln

Brant Broughton

Executive five bedroom family home plus a self-contained annexe occupying a generous plot (approximately 0.8 acres STS) within the semi-rural hamlet of Eagle Moor.

An extended 19th-century house, stands in 2.9 acres with a fenced paddock, garden and a range of domestic outbuildings and stables. The property stands on the outskirts of Brant Broughton.

Guide Price £1,050,000

£900,000

Martin & Co 33 Forum, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 8HW. Call 01522 503727 or see www.martinco.com.

Richard Watkinson & Partners Kirk Gate, Newark NG24 1AD. Call 01636 358891or see www.richardwatkinson.co.uk.

Hill House

Cottesford Place

Corby Glen

Lincoln

Space, privacy and a lifestyle already created: Hill House is a fully finished family home set behind electric gates within approx. 0.56 acre of established gardens, with protected land to the rear preserving its open outlook.

A four-bedroom detached house with contemporary styling and attractive private gardens, in the heart of Lincoln’s historic and vibrant city centre.

Guide price £900,000

Guide price £995,000

Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk.

Savills Olympic House, 995 Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3SE Call 01522 508908 or see www.savills.co.uk. 69

01205 361694

www.poyntons.com sales@poyntons.com

CHARTERED SURVEYORS & ESTATE AGENTS

MOUNT PLEASANT WINDMILL NORTH CLIFF ROAD | KIRTON-IN-LINDSEY | GAINSBOROUGH | DN21 4NH

LONDON ROAD BOSTON ǀ LINCOLNSHIRE ǀ PE21 7HG

• Working Historic Windmill, Bakery and Tearooms

• Luxurious Four Bedroomed Detached House

• Set in 0.75 Acres, Gardens, Customer Parking • Family Home with 3 Reception Rooms 4 Bedrooms, 3 En-Suites and Family Bathroom • Spectacular Views Over the Trent Valley

FOR SALE FREEHOLD WITH VACANT POSSESSION

£875,000

Subject To Contract

• Located in a Popular Area on the Edge of Town • High Standard of Internal Finish with Private Patios and Gardens

FOR SALE FREEHOLD WITH VACANT POSSESSION

£750,000

Subject To Contract No Onward Chain

CHARTERED SURVEYORS • ESTATE AGENTS • COMMERCIAL

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• Spacious and Highly Adaptable Family Home, Offering Versatile Options for Modern Family Life FOR SALE • Luxurious Family House with Detached Residential FREEHOLD WITH Annexe and Commercial Yard in Half an Acre • Currently Arranged as a 3 Bedroomed Family Home, VACANT POSSESSION Gardens, Detached Annexe, Builder’s Yard & Workshops • Unique Opportunity to Buy a Mixed Use Site with Excellent Long-Term Flexibility as Family Needs Evolve Subject To Contract

£495,000

• Large Private Gardens and Heated Indoor Swimming Pool

OUR SOUTH STREET OFFICE

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LUXURY HOMES

The Fairways

Orchard Barn

Torksey

Elsham

An outstanding opportunity to acquire one of Lincolnshire’s most impressive contemporary homes, beautifully positioned within an exclusive gated development adjoining Lincoln Golf Club.

Orchard Barn is an exceptional barn conversion in the sought-after village of Elsham, offering over 4,500 sq. ft. of spacious, high-spec living.

£1,100,000

Guide price £800,000

Haart Silver St, Lincoln LN2 1EH. Call 01522 217126 or see www.haart.co.uk.

Beercocks 8 Kingston Rd, Willerby, Hull HU10 6BN Call 01482 656789 or see www.beercocks.com.

Dunston

Ashbourne House

Lincoln

Pickworth

An innovative and high-quality family home, this exceptional four-bedroom detached property combines traditional Lincolnshire stone and heritage-style brickwork with elegant contemporary styling.

An exceptional detached village home, thoughtfully designed and constructed in attractive stone under a traditional pantile roof. Combining timeless architectural character with modern comforts.

£850,000

Guide price £750,000

TAUK Call 01636 555 631 or see www.theagencyuk.com.

Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com. 71

ON THE FARM

FARMING

This month we’re finding out what’s happening in the fields of Lincolnshire with farming correspondent Andrew Ward MBE

hilst farming is an enjoyable vocation, it’s also a profession in which so many of the decisions we have to make are rooted in financial returns (or in recent times, lack of same), literally in the case of sugar beet. This knobbly, oversized root resembles a large parsnip and it’s used to produce about 60% of the sugar that we consume in this country. It’s sold under the Silver Spoon label, unlike sugar produced by Tate & Lyle, which is refined from imported sugar cane. It’s with a heavy heart that I’ve made the decision that this will be our last year of growing sugar beet. It’s a shame. My father grew it, and I remember riding in his singlerow harvester as a youngster. Today we use six-row and nine-row machines, and the whole job, along with its costs, has changed. To get to the root cause, you only need to dig one up. On our heavy land the ground is still dry and cracked as of late September, and the crop is yellowing, partly from an aphid-borne virus that seed treatments used to control before they were banned. A healthy beet weighs a kilogram or two, but some of ours are barely bigger than a parsnip. We had virtually no rain from 11th June to 15th August, and only around 140mm since drilling at the end of March, less than half the norm. Recent showers have prompted fresh leaf growth, but that uses up sugar, and we’re paid on sugar content. On our heavy soils, we’d normally hope for 85 to 90 tonnes per hectare; this year I think 55 to 65 is realistic. Now for the sums. Seed, fertiliser, chemicals and machinery come to about £1,600 per hectare, plus £550 of overheads, making £2,166 (roughly £876 an acre). With this

year’s contract averaging £28.20 a tonne, I need 76.8 tonnes per hectare just to break even. Growing beet has become bittersweet. Then there’s next year’s crop. NFU Sugar and British Sugar can’t agree a 2027 price, so the matter has gone to arbitration, with a decision expected towards the end of October. That’s far too late as I need to plan my planting. Talk is of being paid in the early to mid £20s, yet two years ago we received £40 a tonne. Other factors weigh on my mind too. Beet lorries damage our farm roads, costing thousands to repair, and late lifting impacted the following crops: one field of wheat yielded three-quarters of a tonne an acre less than the rest, while another couldn’t be drilled until spring. Finally, our new contracting partners, James and Michael at Porters Somerton Farms, also have no beet experience, which makes things difficult when I’m away from the farm. I do want to stress that I’ve always had a very good working relationship with British Sugar, and have visited its factories. Once Cantley in Norfolk closes in February 2027, just three will remain: Newark, near us, Wissington and Bury St Edmunds. Homegrown sugar beet travels an average of just 28 miles from field to factory, which makes it arguably better in terms of food miles than consuming sugar made from imported cane, so I’d like that to continue. It’s also a good break crop in between cereals. But the decision must be made with the head, not the heart. So instead, our heavy land will go into continuous wheat, with maize grown for a local anaerobic digester as a break crop on the lighter heath land. I won’t rule beet out in the long term, but for now, I can’t see it.

Watch Wardy’s Waffle: Our farming correspondent Andrew Ward MBE is an arable farmer in Leadenham growing wheat, barley, beans and oats. Andrew has his own YouTube channel, Wardy’s Waffle, which is enjoyed by over 23,700 subscribers. Watch his updates Wednesday evenings from 7pm and Sunday mornings at 8am. Search YouTube for @WardysWaffleAndrewWard.

Real Weddings

Written Forever For Theresa and James, their wedding day was a celebration of everything that makes them who they are as a couple: funny moments, laughter, friendship, family and plenty of personality. From a meaningful ceremony in the heart of Lincoln to an elegant English cottage garden inspired celebration at Doddington Hall, every detail reflected their journey together. Both Lincoln born and raised, their love story began long before they became husband and wife. The pair appeared together in a school production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. James would tease Theresa slightly and joke that she was part of his ‘fan club.’ Years later, fate brought them back together through an online dating website and this time the connection was undeniably instant. Theresa still laughs that she can now turn the joke back on him: “Who’s laughing now? You married me!” The story even resurfaced years later when

a friend discovered an old Facebook message to James saying: “Stop being mean to Theresa!” Naturally, it became a highlight of the best man’s speech. After university took Theresa to Sunderland, where their relationship blossomed, the couple spent four years managing a long-distance relationship before she returned to Lincoln. They eventually bought their first home just minutes from James’ mum, proving they were never destined to move too far away. After six years together, James proposed in December 2024 with a wonderfully personal evening at home. A talented cook, he prepared a threecourse meal filled with Theresa’s favourite dishes, selected a special outfit for her and played the songs that meant the most to them. Although Theresa suspected a proposal was coming, James waited until the very end of the evening before getting down on one knee. Their ceremony was always going to be at St Hugh’s Church in Lincoln, a

place that had been part of Theresa’s life for many years. For their reception, Doddington Hall was the perfect choice, with its beautiful gardens, historic surroundings and locally sourced food. After meeting wedding co-ordinator Justine, they knew it was the one, especially when a shooting star appeared as they walked back to their car, which they took as a special sign from Theresa’s late mother, Tara. Inspired by the surroundings, the couple chose an English cottage garden-inspired theme with soft pastel wildflowers creating a romantic and elegant atmosphere. Their floral arrangements by Nicola Hughes Floral Design were one of the highlights of the day, with Theresa’s bouquet combining beautiful colours and textures. Theresa found her dream dress at Bellamme Bridal in Lincoln, choosing a beautiful Justin Alexander gown after trying several different styles. Her bridesmaids, childhood best friend

IMAGES: CHLOE GELS PHOTO & VIDEO, 07578 037221, WWW.CHLOEGELSPHOTOVIDEO.CO.UK

Emily and sister Olivia, wore elegant butter-yellow satin dresses, while Rachel Bray created the bridal makeup and Sarah Sage styled the hair. James looked effortlessly stylish in a bespoke dark green three-piece suit created by Lincoln-based tailor Andrew Musson, complemented by stone suits and dark green ties for his best man and father. Personal touches made the day even more meaningful. Theresa carried a bouquet charm featuring a photograph of her mother, while James’ auntie gifted her a traditional blue horseshoe for luck. Suppliers including Back Garden Bakery, Select Limos and Richie Phillips helped bring their vision together. Photography by Chloe Gelsthorpe of Chloe Gels Photo and Video and videography by George Hughes Films captured the day beautifully. Having known both since school, Theresa always knew they would be the perfect people to document such an important occasion. The day was filled with memorable moments, including Theresa’s lastminute decision to provide handheld fans during the unexpected heat, only for her own electric fan to become tangled in her hair during the wedding breakfast, resulting in guests rushing to help and a story they will never forget. For their first dance, the couple chose Praise You by Fatboy Slim, a fun and energetic choice that perfectly reflected their personalities. Rather than a traditional slow dance, they started together before inviting everyone onto the dancefloor. Theresa says the highlight was seeing everyone they loved gathered together, celebrating with them. Their advice to other couples is simple: make your wedding your own. Ignore every tradition and focus on creating a day that truly reflects you as a couple.

Wedding Suppliers Wedding Venue: Doddington Hall, 01522 812501 www.doddingtonhall.com/weddings. Photographer: Chloe Gels Photo & Video, 07578 037221, www.chloegelsphotovideo.co.uk. Wedding Dress: Bellamme Bridal, Lincoln, 01522 700187, www.bellammebridal.co.uk. Groomsmen’s Tailoring: Andrew J Musson, Lincoln, 01522 520142, www.andrewjmusson.com. Bridal Hair: Sarah Sage, 07950 974296. Makeup Artist: Rachel Bray Makeup Artistry, 07969 382389, rachelbraymakeupartistry.com. Floristry: Nicola Hughes, nicolahughesfloraldesign.com. Transport: Select Limos, 01472 322293, selectlimos.co.uk. Music: Richie Phillips Music, www.richiephillips.co.uk. Video: George Hughes Films, georgehughesfilms.com.

Your Health Our Priority Committed to excellence in holistic healthcare, working alongside your NHS GP, providing prompt access to care, diagnosis and treatments NEW: Hepatitis B Vaccination: For Individuals or Employers looking for the vaccination for their staff, look no further. Contact us for flexible injection course options and prompt appointment arrangements. Private GP services: Blood tests, private prescriptions, wellness check Ear, nose and throat: Consultations, diagnostics and treatment Orthopaedics & Physio: NHS and Private Musculoskeletal clinic Injectables: Steroid, Hyaluronic acid, PRP, Vitamin B12 injections Aesthetics: Dermal filler, Botox, skin hydration, B12infusion Book your appointment today at

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Good for Your Health Personalised private healthcare services across Lincolnshire, with HS Health Group Access to timely healthcare has never been more important. While the NHS continues to provide comprehensive care free at the point of use, many people are choosing to complement NHS services with private healthcare, allowing quicker access to appointments, investigations and treatment. For more than 15 years, HS Health Group has provided NHS-commissioned physiotherapy services across Lincolnshire, working with over 45 GP practices since 2011. From its Read House Clinic in Boston, the organisation now offers private GP appointments, ENT services, phlebotomy, musculoskeletal care, diagnostics and other specialist treatments under one roof. Hepatitis B Vaccination HS Health Group has recently introduced a new Hepatitis B vaccination service for those whose work or lifestyle places them at increased risk of infection. Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection spread through contact with infected blood and certain bodily fluids. Vaccination is recommended for healthcare professionals, care workers, emergency service personnel, laboratory staff and others who may come into contact with blood or sharps. It is also suitable for travellers visiting higher-risk countries. Each patient receives a pre-vaccination assessment by registered clinical staff before beginning either the standard three-dose course over six months or an accelerated schedule where earlier protection is required. The service is also available to businesses wishing to protect employees at occupational risk. Private GP Services Private GP appointments continue to grow in popularity, offering prompt access to medical advice alongside NHS primary care.

Patients remain registered with their NHS GP while benefiting from same-day, virtual or pre-booked appointments. Longer consultations allow more time to discuss symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Private GPs can prescribe medication, arrange investigations and refer patients to NHS or private specialists, with records shared with NHS practices where appropriate and with patient consent. ENT and Phlebotomy HS Health Group provides assessment and treatment for a wide range of ear, nose and throat conditions, including hearing problems, tinnitus, vertigo and persistent ear discomfort. Diagnostic services include microscopy, endoscopy, laryngoscopy and microsuction. The clinic also offers comprehensive phlebotomy and laboratory blood testing, including cholesterol, diabetes, liver and kidney function, prostate health, allergy testing and general health screening. Vein Finder technology helps make blood collection quicker and more comfortable. Musculoskeletal Care and Other Services The multidisciplinary musculoskeletal team provides diagnosis and treatment for joint pain, arthritis, sports injuries, back and neck pain and other conditions affecting muscles, bones, ligaments and tendons. Patients referred through their GP can also access NHS-commissioned physiotherapy, with waiting times typically under two weeks. Additional services include Vitamin B12 injections, occupational health assessments and professionally delivered aesthetic treatments, reflecting HS Health Group’s commitment to providing accessible, highquality healthcare across Lincolnshire.

HS Health Group’s Read House Clinic in Boston is an independent, Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered healthcare provider offering prompt access to a range of services via self-pay and medical insurance-funded pathways. Call 0333 014 7700 or see hshealthgroup.co.uk.

Purveyors of Luxury Eyewear Since 1979

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Portfolio NOVEMBER 2026

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND

FASHION - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS

TRAVEL

FASHION

Eastern Promise On the Silk Road MOTORS

BENTLEY

Long Coats and Quality Tailoring for Winter Warmth

SUPERSPORTS

WILDLIFE

MEN’S FASHION

November

Quality in Heritage

Nature An autumn almanac in the natural world

Private White VC

LUXURY BRAND

LUXURY AUTUMN FRAGRANCE COURTESY OF PENHALIGONS

FASHION

LONG Coat Season F

Words & Product Selection: Mandy Bray

rom classic camel and timeless black to rich burgundy and winter white, the long coat is the ultimate cold-weather essential. Choose tailored wool, cosy oversized shapes or belted styles for effortless

elegance. Layer over knitwear, dresses or jeans and finish with boots, a scarf and leather gloves for polished winter style.

Get the look: see over the page.

Above: Kelly overcoat, ebony herringbone, £799. Elle Scarf, black, £79. Winchester shirt, £99. Highwaisted straight trousers, chalk pinstripe, £299. Regency holdall, black, £199. Regency midheel ankle boot, black suede, £279. HC square luxury cuﬀ link, black bold, £69. All available from www.hollandcooper.com.

Hampton Coat, £399, www.saintandsofia.com.

Fulllength Regency coat in dark camel by Holland Cooper, £799, www.hollandcooper.com.

Camel hair long polo coat, £2,395, www.ralphlauren.co.uk.

>> Below: Wool maxi city coat, £272, www.jigsawonline.com. Audrey bouclé belted coat, £745, www.reallywildclothing.com. Regularfit coat in wool blend, £429, www.hugoboss.com. Right: Herringbone wool tailored coat, £595, www.broraonline.com. Ingrid belted wool trench coat, dark olive, £389, www.baukjen.com. Kate tweed coat with Toscana shearling fur collar, £825, www.reallywildclothing.com.

Livia wool coat, £379, www.hobbs.com.

Neutral wool blend doublebreasted coat, £240, www.hmintvelvet.com.

FASHION

SAHARA

Autumn dressing comes naturally to Stamford’s Sahara, with its expressive prints, generous shapes and enthusiasm for colour... Familiar to shoppers through its boutique in Stamford’s Red Lion Square, the brand brings a distinctive personality to the season’s wardrobe. A family business led by women, Sahara has spent more than 45 years creating designs inspired by travels around the world. Beginning with a shop in Covent Garden, it has built relationships with independent artisans and small companies, many owned by women, bringing their creativity to a wider audience. That independent spirit is matched by clear priorities. More than half of Sahara’s clothes are produced by UK manufacturers, supporting British craftsmanship. The company also supports charities and organisations worldwide, while its approach to production includes limiting surplus stock and reusing leftover fabrics in future collections. For autumn, the New Romantics collection explores the possibilities of texture. Corduroy, brushed knitwear, crinkled fabrics and substantial jersey bring depth to conker, russet and bronze shades, balanced by marine blue, plum and softer neutrals. Bubble and barrel trousers, boxy jackets and easy dresses create relaxed silhouettes with considered shaping. There are stories within the prints, too. Heirloom Damask reinterprets a hand-painted nineteenth-century upholstery design discovered in a Belgian archive, giving historic pattern a setting on cotton. Alongside these decorative pieces, knitwear and versatile separates offer plenty of scope for layering as temperatures fall. It is an autumn wardrobe with warmth, comfort and character, reflecting Sahara’s belief that clothes should express the individuality of the woman wearing them.

Left, top: Midnight Garden Dress, fitted top flowing to full skirt and Vneck, £195. Left: Conker pinwale cord shirt dress, £179.

Monochrome batik print tunic with fit and flare silhouette, £155.

FASHION

Top Row: Ecru jumbo cord caban jacket, £195. Conker merino wool cowl neck jumper, £139. Quilted coat in charcoal, £249. Crinkle check boxy top, £125. Bottom Row: Heirloom damask relaxed fit jacket in multicolour denim, £179. Avocado ribbed wool blend button jumper, £169. Artisan wool blend stripe coat in red/multi, £325. Conker merino wool cowl neck jumper, £139. Stretch denim blue bubble trousers, £145.

Sahara is now open on Red Lion Square, Stamford PE9 2AQ. Call 01780 408 549 or see saharalondon.com.

CASHMERE COMFORT

£299, poetry fashion.co.uk

Wrap yourself in luxurious cashmere knitwear in beautiful shades of blue and turquoise. Soft, timeless and eﬀortlessly elegant, these refined layers bring warmth, colour and understated sophistication to every wardrobe. £239, wraplondon. co.uk

£345, joseph fashion.com

£215, lilysilk .com

£198, charli.com £445, brora online.com

£118, anthro pologie.com

£325, npeal.com

BLUE BRILLIANCE

Celebrate November’s signature gemstones with elegant topaz and blue opals, chosen for their captivating colours and timeless beauty.

£686, naomierichard.com

£1,950,

£1,950, tomfoolery london.co.uk

daintylon don.com

£320, astridand miyu.com £530, dior.com

£325, atolyestone.com

£150, sansmatin .co.uk

£225, anoncph.co.uk

£110, calvinklein.co.uk

£180, michaelkors.co.uk

SOLE

£810, dior.co

BLUE

£220, axelarigato.com

CARRY BLUE

Complete your look with elegant crossbody bags in beautiful shades of blue. Stylish, practical and eﬀortlessly chic, they bring timeless sophistication to everyday outings or special occasions.

£820, miumiu.com

Refresh your everyday wardrobe with stylish trainers in shades of blue. Blending comfort with contemporary design, they oﬀer eﬀortless versatility for relaxed weekends and smart casual dressing.

£2,420, uk.louisvuitton.com

£1,200, paulsmith.com

£270, nrby clothing. com

£595, reallywild clothing .com

£1,500, celine.com

£325, aspinaloflondon.com

Velvet Elegance

£700, temperley london.com

£875, bellafreud.com

Rich velvet blazers in striking shades of blue bring eﬀortless sophistication to your wardrobe. Perfectly tailored, beautifully textured and ideal for elevating both daytime and evening looks.

£475, mulberry.com

A Legacy Of Craftsmanship

STYLE FOR MEN

Private White V.C. has been crafting exceptional British clothing in Manchester for generations, with a heritage rooted in quality, craftsmanship and enduring design. For November, its collection of jackets and coats provides the perfect inspiration for colder days, combining luxurious fabrics, timeless silhouettes and practical warmth. From refined outerwear to relaxed layers and even a perfectly cut pair of jeans, each piece reflects the brand’s commitment to understated style and exceptional quality. This is menswear designed not simply for one season, but to become part of a wardrobe for years to come. Opposite: The Admiral’s Great Coat, navy, £1,895. The Cashmere Submariner rollneck in crimson, £595. The Shadow parka, black, £1,995. The Flight Jacket in ink, £895. Below: The Persuader, £2,995. The Permanent Style overcoat, £1,195. The Field jacket, £795. The Marine jeans, £295. All available from www.privatewhitevc.com.

LUXURY

Fit for a King BRITISH FRAGRANCE HERITAGE: PENHALIGON’S HAS BEEN A ROYAL WARRANT HOLDER SINCE 1903

enhaligons: few luxury brands tell a story quite as beautifully as Penhaligon’s. With its distinctive bottles, whimsical packaging and unmistakably British character, the fragrance house has spent more than 150 years creating perfumes that capture moments, personalities and places. More than simply a perfume maker, Penhaligon’s represents craftsmanship, tradition and the enduring appeal of individuality. Founded in 1870 by William Henry Penhaligon, the brand began in the heart of Victorian London. A talented barber and perfumer, William Penhaligon opened his first shop on Jermyn Street, a location already associated with gentlemen’s tailoring, refinement and style. His creativity soon established him as one of London’s most respected fragrance makers, attracting a loyal following among the city’s fashionable society. William Penhaligon’s first major success came with Hammam Bouquet, created in 1872 and inspired by the luxurious Turkish baths of Victorian London. Rich, distinctive and unlike anything else available at the time, the fragrance captured the imagination of a society fascinated by travel, discovery and exotic influences. Its success established the foundations of a fragrance house built around storytelling and character. The brand’s reputation continued to grow, and Penhaligon’s became a favourite among British aristocracy. In 1903, the company was awarded a Royal Warrant from Queen Alexandra, recognising its excellence and craftsmanship. This connection with British royalty helped cement Penhaligon’s reputation as a creator of exceptional fragrances designed for discerning customers. A Signature Style Penhaligon’s fragrances are instantly recognisable, blending classic perfumery techniques with a playful and imaginative approach. The brand’s collections range from elegant florals and fresh citrus notes to deeper woody and spicy

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LUXURY BRANDS

compositions, ensuring there is a fragrance to suit every mood and occasion. Some of its most iconic creations have become modern classics. Luna offers a fresh, romantic interpretation of citrus and florals, while Halfeti combines rich rose, oud and warm spices to create a more dramatic and luxurious scent. Quercus, inspired by the English countryside, delivers a crisp, elegant freshness, while The Favourite celebrates femininity with a beautiful blend of violet, musk and floral notes. Perhaps one of Penhaligon’s most recognisable fragrances is Blenheim Bouquet, created in 1902. Named after Blenheim Palace, it reflects a distinctly British sense of elegance with its combination of citrus, pine and woody notes. A favourite among generations of customers, it remains a wonderful example of the brand’s ability to create timeless fragrances. The Art Of Storytelling What makes Penhaligon’s particularly special is the way each fragrance feels like part of a larger story. The names, packaging and descriptions invite curiosity, often with a touch of humour and imagination. The brand has become known for its beautifully

illustrated bottles, complete with silk ribbons and distinctive labels. These details reflect the craftsmanship behind each creation, transforming a bottle of perfume into something to treasure long after the fragrance itself has been enjoyed. In recent years, Penhaligon’s has introduced collections that celebrate characters and personalities, including The Portraits Collection. Inspired by a fictional aristocratic family, these fragrances combine luxury with a sense of theatre, allowing customers to discover scents through storytelling and imagination. Each perfume represents a different personality, from the charming and adventurous to the mysterious and unconventional. British Craftsmanship Today Although Penhaligon’s has evolved significantly since its Victorian beginnings, the brand remains rooted in its British heritage. Its fragrances continue to be developed with a focus on quality ingredients, expert blending and traditional perfumery skills. The house has expanded internationally, gaining admirers around the world while maintaining its distinctly British identity. Its boutiques continue to offer an experience rather than simply a purchase, with knowledgeable specialists helping customers

LUXURY BRANDS

discover fragrances that reflect their style and personality. Although Penhaligon’s is deeply connected to tradition, its success has always been driven by creativity and a willingness to look beyond convention. William Penhaligon understood that fragrance was more than a finishing touch; it was an invisible expression of personality. His creations captured the spirit of Victorian London, where travel, culture and discovery were inspiring new tastes and experiences. That same curiosity continues to shape the brand today. Modern Penhaligon’s fragrances often draw inspiration from unexpected places, combining rare ingredients and surprising contrasts to create scents that feel both familiar and distinctive. A delicate floral note may be paired with rich woods, while fresh citrus can sit alongside warm spices, creating fragrances with depth and character.This balance between heritage and imagination is one of the reasons Penhaligon’s has remained relevant for generations. It appeals to those who appreciate craftsmanship and quality, but who also want something individual rather than simply following the latest trend. More Than A Perfume Bottle A Penhaligon’s fragrance is designed to be enjoyed as an experience from the very first moment. The elegant bottles, distinctive labels and beautifully presented packaging reflect the care and attention that goes into every creation. The brand’s stores are an extension of this philosophy, offering a refined and welcoming environment where customers can explore different fragrance families and discover scents that suit their own personality. The Perfect Gift Luxury fragrance has always held a special place in the world of gifting, and Penhaligon’s has mastered the art of creating presents that feel personal and considered. From beautifully wrapped bottles to discovery collections allowing recipients to explore different scents, every detail adds to the sense of occasion. A Fragrance For Every Chapter Penhaligon’s enduring success comes from its ability to balance heritage with creativity. It honours the traditions of classic British perfumery while continuing to embrace imagination, innovation and modern luxury. Whether choosing a signature scent, searching for a thoughtful gift or simply enjoying the ritual of beautifully crafted fragrance, Penhaligon’s offers something beyond perfume. It offers a story, a feeling and a connection to more than a century of British artistry. For more information on Penhaligon’s, see www.penhaligons.com.

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

T THE SILK ROAD

here are holidays where you return with a suitcase full of souvenirs, and there are journeys where you return slightly different from the person who left. Uzbekistan belongs firmly in the second category. Although thankfully it does not require climbing a mountain, sleeping in a tent for three weeks or learning to communicate entirely through hand gestures, it does ask you to slow down and look properly. At the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan sits along the ancient Silk Road, the legendary trading route that connected China with the Mediterranean for centuries. Today, its turquoise domes, intricate tilework, bustling bazaars and vast desert landscapes offer one of the most captivating cultural journeys still available to the curious traveller.

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

Arriving in Tashkent, the country’s modern capital and gateway through TAS (Tashkent International Airport), the contrast is immediate. This is a city of wide boulevards, grand Soviet architecture and lively markets, but the real magic begins as you travel west towards the historic cities that made Uzbekistan famous. Samarkand is the showstopper. Few places announce themselves quite so dramatically as Registan Square, where three enormous madrasas covered in blue mosaics frame a space that once welcomed scholars, merchants and travellers from across the known world. Visit at dusk and the crowds thin, the sandstone glows, and if you are lucky, a lone musician may provide the soundtrack. It is the sort of moment that makes you wonder why more people are not talking about Uzbekistan over dinner. Bukhara offers a different kind of charm. Less theatrical but equally captivating, its ancient streets are filled with mosques, trading domes and hidden courtyards where craftsmen still work using techniques passed down through generations. This is a place designed for wandering, preferably without a strict timetable. After all, the Silk Road traders did not have to rush to catch a connecting flight. Further north lies Khiva, a beautifully preserved walled city that feels almost impossibly intact. Walking through its narrow lanes, surrounded by sand-coloured buildings and blue-tiled towers, it is easy to imagine caravans arriving after months crossing the desert. Of course, Uzbekistan is not without its realities. Summer temperatures can be fierce, reaching levels where sightseeing becomes less about cultural discovery and more about finding the nearest shaded tea house. Distances between some destinations are considerable, and the journey from the UK is not a quick hop across the Channel. But those willing to make the effort are rewarded with a country that feels authentic, welcoming and wonderfully different. For travellers who have already explored Europe’s great capitals and are searching for somewhere with genuine stories to tell, Uzbekistan offers something increasingly rare: the feeling of discovery. This is not a destination you visit simply to tick landmarks from a list. It is a place to sit beneath ancient arches, share tea with locals, admire craftsmanship that has survived centuries and appreciate the quiet beauty of a country that has been connecting worlds for generations.

Where merchants once crossed continents for silk and spices, today’s travellers arrive in search of something rarer: a place that still feels undiscovered 28

Getting there: The journey is part of the story Uzbekistan is not quite a case of stepping onto a plane and arriving by lunchtime, but the journey is part of the adventure. From the East Midlands area, the most straightforward route is usually via East Midlands Airport to Heathrow, followed by an international connection to Tashkent International Airport (TAS). Airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Emirates and Qatar Airways offer routes via Istanbul, Dubai or Doha. Expect the journey to take around 10–14 hours depending on connections, with return flights typically around £550–£900 per person, depending on season and how far ahead you book. The best months to visit are April to May and September to October, when temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing. Spring brings blossom and fresh landscapes, while autumn offers warm days and excellent conditions for exploring ancient cities. July and August can be extremely hot, particularly around Bukhara and Khiva, where temperatures can exceed 40°C. This is not the moment for heroic sightseeing schedules. Even ancient traders probably stopped for a sensible cup of tea. A private transfer between major cities can be arranged, although Uzbekistan’s highspeed trains make travelling between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara surprisingly comfortable.

Where to stay: Samarkand: Silk Road by Minyoun A contemporary luxurious hotel combining modern comfort with traditional influences, offering excellent facilities and a peaceful base after days exploring ancient monuments. Expect to pay: around £150–£250 per night.

Bukhara: Komil Hotel A characterful boutique stay housed within a historic 19th-century mansion, offering beautifully decorated rooms and a more intimate experience. Expect to pay: around £80–£150 per night.

Khiva: Farovon Khiva Hotel A stylish modern hotel with traditional touches, ideal after exploring the atmospheric streets of the old city. Expect to pay: around £100–£180 per night.

Tashkent: Hyatt Regency Tashkent A sophisticated five-star hotel in the heart of the capital, with spacious rooms, excellent restaurants, an indoor pool and a luxurious spa. Expect to pay: around £125–£200 per night. For a truly memorable trip, many visitors choose a combination of luxury hotels and smaller historic properties, allowing each city to offer a different experience.

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

DELICACIES Uzbek cuisine is wonderfully generous. Portions are rarely delicate, and this is not a destination where anyone leaves the table wondering where dinner went.

PLOV Uzbekistan’s national dish of rice, lamb, carrots and spices, traditionally cooked slowly in a large pot.

What you must see and do Watch sunset at Registan Square, Samarkand: The defining image of Uzbekistan, Registan is breathtaking at any time of day but particularly magical as the evening light transforms the tiled façades. Private evening visit or guided experience: around £50–£100 per person. Explore the ancient streets of Khiva: A walking tour through Itchan Kala, the city’s UNESCO-listed old town, reveals mosques, palaces and hidden courtyards. Guided tour: around £30–£60 per person.

Discover traditional crafts: Uzbekistan is famous for ceramics, textiles and embroidery. Visiting workshops allows you to meet artisans keeping ancient skills alive. Workshop experiences: around £25– £75 per person. Explore Tashkent’s ornate metro: Far more than a transport system, Tashkent’s metro is an underground gallery of marble, mosaics and chandeliers. Highlights include Kosmonavtlar and Alisher Navoi stations. Guided tour: around £25–£50 per person.

Visit the Ark Fortress, Bukhara: This enormous historic fortress once served as the residence of rulers and offers fascinating insight into Uzbekistan’s royal past. Entry and guide: around £20–£40 per person. Spend a night near the desert: For those wanting something different, a stay near the Kyzylkum Desert offers camel rides, traditional meals and spectacular stargazing. Experience packages: around £100–£200 per person.

Top: Famous trading domes, the main market of Bukhara. Above: The only way to travel in Uzbekistan.

SAMSA Golden pastry parcels filled with meat, onion and spices, baked in traditional clay ovens.

LAGMAN Hand-pulled noodles served with vegetables, meat and a rich, warming sauce.

NON BREAD Round, beautifully decorated bread baked fresh daily and central to Uzbek hospitality.

SUPERSPORTS

BENTLEY

Motors

BENTLEY SUPERSPORTS BELOW Bicolour theme continues inside the cabin with a red driver’s seat and a black passenger seat. Some creature comforts are retained; some driver aids have been deleted.

There are two types of Bentley driver. The first favours a more subtle exterior colour, a more understated expression of their car’s performance credentials and perhaps walnut or piano black veneer in the cabin rather than brushed aluminium or carbon fibre. This is not the Bentley for that driver. The second type of Bentley driver, the one to whom the Supersports will appeal, is the one seeking to leave nobody in any doubt as to the brand’s ability to produce GTs with serious power. The Supersports is based on the Continental GT, but this version forgoes its association with that model’s luxury and comfort and is branded independently in order to be different. And speaking of being different...

ABOVE The Supersports is powered by Bentley’s 4.0litre twinturbo V8 engine. It’s rearwheel drive, unlike the allwheeldrive Continental GT.

The vehicle in our photos features one of three Design Themes by Mulliner, with either Dragon Red or Electric Blue paint fading into black, or Brodgar (a sort of matte silver) fading into a darker shade of the same tone. Gloss black and diamondmachined, the car’s alloy wheels are 22 inches in size, and there is carbon fibre everywhere. Only 500 examples of the Supersports will be produced, and as well as being more aggressively styled, the car is designed to offer a lighter, more stripped-back and sharper driving experience, akin to Porsche’s 911 GT3 RS. For weight-saving reasons, the Supersports has just two seats rather than the four offered by the Continental GT, and it’s offered with just a single engine choice: a V8.

The 4.0-litre engine is good for 657bhp and 800Nm of torque, driving the rear wheels via an eightspeed automatic gearbox with an electronic limited-slip differential and torque-vectoring system to keep all of that power in order. On a track, the car will reach 60mph in 3.4 seconds and 199mph flat out.

Motors with ROB DAVIS

The aural equivalent of the car’s daring exterior appearance is a characterful sound courtesy of the Supersports’ Akrapovič exhaust. Extensively exploiting carbon fibre, losing the rear seats and all of the other weight-saving measures have ensured the Supersports weighs in at under 2,000kg, making it the lightest Bentley in 85 years. And with optional Trofeo RS tyres, plus 300kg of extra downforce thanks to its rear wing and its 48V anti-roll control system, the car can see 1.3g in the corners, and turns 30% faster than a Continental GT Speed. Three bespoke driving modes for the Supersports change the car’s setup from Touring mode to Sport mode via the ‘Bentley’ setting for increasingly aggressive performance.

“The Supersports weighs in at under 2,000kg, making it the lightest Bentley in 85 years...”

ABOVE Only 500 examples of the Supersports will be produced, with prices from £342,900.

The bi-colour theme can continue in the cabin if you wish, with a red driver’s seat and a black passenger seat. Still not sure how I feel about that, personally. However, the seats are bespoke to the car, designed to be lightweight while retaining electric adjustment and heating. Eschew the Design Themes by Mulliner and you can still choose between 24 standard paint colours, 22

main hide colours, 11 secondary hides, different finishers and colour splits... in fact, Bentley has worked out that there are no fewer than 2,000 different ways to spec your Supersports, not that ubiquity is an issue for a car that will be produced in such a limited volume of 500 examples. Other luxuries include Apple CarPlay and navigation, a heated steering wheel and climate control. The Supersports therefore can hardly be considered pared-back and light, but neither does it offer the cosseting luxury of its sister car. Our conclusion? The Supersports is certainly striking, but a more humble expression of Bentley, like the Continental GT, is likely to offer a better balance of performance and comfort, more faithful to the brand’s familiar luxury grand touring remit.

LOCAL BUSINESSES

EXPRESSIVE AUDIO

As close to the live experience as possible Expressive Audio is a family-run specialist in HiFi, home cinema and multiroom audio, with a showroom at Moorby, near Boston.

matching, room requirements, positioning, turntable servicing and suitable upgrade paths for an existing setup.

Established in 2017, the business moved its main operation to Lincolnshire in 2021 and now serves customers seeking straightforward advice, quality equipment and professionally installed home entertainment systems.

They also host free monthly ‘Bring Your Own Music Night’ events at The Red Lion, Revesby. Guests are invited to bring some of their favourite music in vinyl, CD or digital form to share it with fellow audiophiles on the curated HiFi system for the night. These systems often showcase popular or new products, and sometimes they focus on specific comparisons.

The company supplies a wide range of audio and visual products, including amplifiers, loudspeakers, turntables, CD players, streaming equipment, headphones, televisions, projectors, subwoofers, cables and specialist HiFi furniture. Its portfolio includes a wide range of established brands, with a focus on championing British brands like Arcam, Cyrus Audio, Chord Company, D’Von Audio, Fyne Audio and Rega Research. Customers can visit Expressive Audio’s

showroom to see (and more importantly, hear) a new system, compare equipment or arrange home demonstrations. Expressive Audio can design and install bespoke systems in the home, from traditional two-channel HiFi to dedicated cinema rooms or discreet multiroom audio. The team works with both analogue and digital sources, so systems can be created around vinyl, CDs, streaming services or a combination. Advice can cover equipment

Whether the requirement is accessible, jargon-free advice or a complete audiovisual installation, Expressive Audio combines specialist retail with practical design, setup and installation services. Call 01507 499047, email humans@expressiveaudio.com or see www.expressiveaudio.com.

TALLINGTON LAKES

A new luxury lodge design exclusive to Tallington Lakes fitted storage and an elegant four-piece en suite bathroom. A second double bedroom also benefits from bi-fold doors, whilst the third bedroom offers excellent flexibility as either additional guest accommodation or a comfortable home office.

Contemporary, elegant and beautifully designed, the new Omar Oasis represents a fresh approach to luxury lodge living. Exclusive to The Goodlife Lodge Company at Tallington Lakes, this striking new model combines exceptional design with practical comfort, creating a home that is every bit as impressive inside as it is from the outside. Available in two distinctive layouts, either side-facing or end-on, the three-bedroom Omar Oasis has been designed to make the very most of its surroundings. Clean architectural lines and an impressive frontage featuring four sets of bi-fold doors allow natural light to flood into the home whilst creating a seamless connection between the interior and the outdoors. Attention to detail is immediately apparent, from brushed chrome light switches and sockets, many incorporating convenient USB charging points, to the coordinated curtains and blinds fitted throughout. Contemporary recessed spotlights provide subtle, stylish lighting, enhancing the lodge’s bright and welcoming atmosphere.

At the heart of the home is a beautifully appointed open-plan living space. The contemporary fitted kitchen features integrated appliances, ensuring everything needed for day-to-day living is discreetly incorporated within the sleek cabinetry. Adjacent, the generous dining area comfortably accommodates family meals and entertaining, whilst two spacious L-shaped sofas create a relaxing sitting area perfectly positioned to enjoy the surrounding views. The principal bedroom offers a luxurious retreat, complete with a king-size bed, bi-fold doors opening onto the outside, extensive

Set within more than 300 acres of beautiful lakeside countryside, Tallington Lakes has become one of the region’s most desirable destinations for luxury lodge living. Many of the homes enjoy stunning waterfront views, creating a peaceful environment that feels a world away whilst remaining conveniently located for Stamford, Rutland and the surrounding counties. Visit us for a personalised guided tour and enjoy a relaxed, no-pressure welcome from The Goodlife Lodge Company’s experienced sales team, whose philosophy is simple: finding the right home for the right people. Find Out More: Discover the Omar Oasis, exclusive to Tallington Lakes near Stamford. Call 0800 564 2266 or email info@goodlifelodge.com for your personal tour, seven days a week from 9am5pm.

NATURE

N AN AUTUMN ALMANAC

ovember has a quiet confidence about it. The fiery brilliance of October softens into russet woodlands, silver mornings and wide skies filled with migrating birds. Trees stand increasingly bare, revealing landscapes hidden throughout summer, while frosts begin to dust fields and hedgerows with sparkling crystals. It is a month that rewards slower walks and careful observation, for although nature appears to be settling into winter, there is remarkable activity all around. Woodland Encounters Ancient woodland becomes wonderfully atmospheric during November. Fallen oak, beech and sweet chestnut leaves create thick carpets beneath towering trees, while shafts of pale sunlight filter through branches stripped almost bare. Mosses glow emerald green against damp bark and clusters of fungi continue to thrive on fallen timber before colder weather finally takes hold. Wildlife is often easier to spot now. Great spotted woodpeckers drum loudly across the woodland, while nuthatches and treecreepers work methodically along trunks searching for insects hidden within the bark. Long-tailed tits travel in lively family groups, their constant chatter giving away their presence long before they come into view.

This is also one of the finest months to glimpse deer. Fallow bucks continue the last stages of the autumn rut, while roe deer emerge cautiously from woodland edges during the early morning and late afternoon to feed quietly in open clearings. Hedgerows Alive Although many leaves have fallen, hedgerows remain full of life. Glossy holly berries, crimson rose hips, orange spindle fruits and deep purple sloes provide valuable food for birds preparing for winter. Redwings and fieldfares arrive from Scandinavia and Iceland in growing numbers, feasting on berries before moving across the countryside in loose flocks. Blackbirds, mistle thrushes and song thrushes compete for the same rich harvest, while robins become increasingly vocal as they establish winter territories. One of the busiest birds at this time of year is the jay. Brilliant flashes of pink, black and blue can often be seen as they carry acorns away to bury beneath leaves. A single jay may hide several thousand acorns during autumn, unknowingly helping countless new oak trees to grow. Open Fields & Wide Skies Across farmland, the harvest has left freshly cultivated fields stretching towards distant horizons. Winter cereals begin their first fresh green growth, creating beautiful contrasts against rich soil. Brown hares are visible during crisp mornings, while kestrels hover almost motionless above grassy verges searching for voles. Large flocks of lapwings wheel across open fields with remarkable precision, their black and white wings flashing as they twist through the air. Starlings also begin gathering in ever larger numbers, hinting at the spectacular murmurations that become one of winter’s greatest wildlife spectacles. Wetlands & Winter Arrivals Few habitats change as dramatically in November as wetlands. Lakes, reservoirs and marshes welcome

thousands of winter visitors escaping harsher conditions further north. Elegant whooper swans glide across still waters, their bugling calls echoing through cold morning air. Geese pass overhead in noisy V-formations, while wigeon, teal and pintail gather in increasing numbers on sheltered pools. Grey herons stand patiently along reed fringes while kingfishers continue their dazzling electric-blue flights over rivers now made more visible by the loss of surrounding vegetation. Lucky visitors may even catch sight of an elusive otter moving silently along quiet waterways during dawn or dusk. Gardens Preparing For Winter Even the smallest garden remains surprisingly busy in November. Robins sing confidently from favourite perches while blue tits, coal tits and great tits investigate nest boxes that may become next spring’s homes. Hedgehogs are now searching for safe places to hibernate beneath log piles or compost heaps, making undisturbed corners especially valuable. Grey squirrels also remain active whenever the weather allows. As nights lengthen, tawny owls begin calling frequently across woodland and farmland, while foxes become increasingly active under the cover of darkness. The Beauty Of Stillness November encourages us to appreciate quieter moments. Mist drifts across rivers at sunrise, cobwebs shimmer beneath delicate frost and low afternoon sunlight bathes the countryside in rich shades of gold and amber. It is easy to think that nature is winding down, yet November tells a different story. Birds are arriving from distant countries, mammals are preparing for winter, woodlands continue to shelter countless species and every hedgerow provides food for the months ahead. For those willing to venture outdoors wrapped against the chill, November offers some of the year’s most rewarding encounters, proving that the countryside never truly falls asleep.

ABOVE Grey squirrel (sciurus carolinensis), hedgehog (Erinaceus Europaeus) and a cheerful robin.

Nature

November brings quiet beauty, where golden leaves, crisp mornings and rich wildlife reward every walk

LOCAL BUSINESSES

PRECISION LANDSCAPES The solution for slipfree surfaces, with no loose dust or stones. This winter, Precision Landscapes invites you to commission a lowmaintenance driveway or surface that’s smart, safe and built to last

First impressions count, and a smart driveway creates a welcoming introduction to your home. As winter approaches, however, its practical benefits become just as important. Loose gravel can lodge in wet shoes and travel indoors, standing water is troublesome, and moss, frost and ice can make flagstones and tarmac dangerously slippery. A professionally installed resin-bound driveway offers an attractive way to address several of these frustrations. Precision Landscapes combines decorative stone with resin to create a firm, even surface that holds the aggregate securely in place. With a suitable permeable base and drainage design, rainwater passes through, helping prevent puddles. A textured finish provides grip, and reducing standing water can lessen the risk of ice forming, although

resin surfaces still need care in freezing conditions. Routine maintenance is simple too; sweep away fallen leaves and debris, then wash as required. Regular cleaning helps discourage moss and preserves the finish, while a choice of natural aggregate blends allows the driveway to complement traditional stone, warm brick or contemporary architecture. Based in South Luffenham, Precision Landscapes is a family-run business serving Rutland, Stamford and Lincolnshire, with a track record spanning more than a decade. Its portfolio includes work on an Adam Frost-designed garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and paving at Burghley House’s Garden of Surprises. That experience is supported by customer testimonials praising reliable

communication, thoughtful design advice and careful workmanship. Projects begin with a free consultation to discuss ideas and assess the site. The team considers the proposed design, measurements and levels, helping homeowners choose an appropriate layout and finish. A detailed estimate sets out the materials and costs before work begins. For resin-bound driveways, installation includes thorough site preparation, a suitable base, on-site mixing of resin and aggregates, and careful laying and finishing. With expertise extending across garden design and construction, Precision Landscapes can consider how a new driveway connects with paths, planting and the rest of the property. The result is a smarter entrance, easier upkeep and practical improvements to enjoy throughout the year.

Precision Landscapes specialises in designing and creating hard landscaping, planting schemes and garden buildings, as well as creating resin-bound driveways and surfaces. For a free, no-obligation quote and advice, call 01780 721 174 or 07921 572 100, or see www.precision-landscapes.co.uk.

ALMANAC JAN

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Nov Zodiac: Scorpio until 21st November, then Sagittarius, associated with determination, curiosity and an adventurous outlook. Birthstone: Topaz, symbolising love, wisdom and good fortune. Notable Dates: 5th Nov: Bonfire Night. 8th Nov: Remembrance Sun. 11th Nov: Armistice Day. In The Garden: Plant spring bulbs, lift and store tender tubers, rake fallen leaves, prune climbing roses and protect vulnerable plants from frost. Seasonal Table: Apples, pears, beetroot, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, pheasant, venison and pumpkin. On The Farm: Sugar beet and late potato harvesting continue, livestock are brought indoors, winter cereals establish and hedgerows provide valuable food for wildlife.

SOUND & VISION ON THE AIRWAVES IN HISTORY

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Folklore: November has long been associated with remembrance, reflection and the changing of the seasons. In rural Britain, it marked the end of the agricultural year, as fields fell quiet and communities prepared for the months ahead. Bonfire Night, celebrated on 5th November, has its roots in the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, with beacons and bonfires becoming enduring symbols of the occasion. St Martin’s Day, observed on 11th November, was once regarded as the traditional end of the harvest season, with feasting and country fairs held across the countryside before winter truly arrived. Folklore also tells of longer nights when the boundary between the natural and supernatural worlds grew thinner, encouraging people to keep their hearths burning brightly and welcome visitors with warmth and hospitality. Though many customs have faded, November remains a month rich in history, tradition and quiet seasonal charm, reminding us of Britain’s enduring connection to the land, the changing seasons and centuries of rural life.

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IN OTHER WORDS

“Happiness is simply your commitment to appreciating all that is good in life.” “If you see someone without a smile today, give ’em yours.” Dolly Parton, singer, songwriter, activist, 19th January 1946 – 25th August 2026.

WEATHER WATCH November sees daytime highs of 9 to 11°C and overnight lows of 3 to 5°C. Rainfall averages 65mm. Sunrise is around 7.30am, sunset near 4.15pm, with around eight hours 45 minutes of daylight.

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MOMENTS OF QUIET SIGNIFICANCE November is a month of transition, when the landscape retreats into a gentler, more reflective rhythm. The vibrant colours of autumn begin to fade, replaced by bare branches, misty mornings and the quiet beauty of the countryside preparing for winter. There is something comforting about November’s slower pace. Fires are lit, kitchens become gathering places and seasonal dishes bring warmth to the table. Across the countryside, farmers turn their attention towards winter preparations, while hedgerows and woodlands provide a final display of autumn’s richness. It is also a time for remembrance and reflection. As the year draws to a close, November encourages us to pause, appreciate traditions and find beauty in quieter moments. Whether walking through frosted fields, enjoying the warmth of home or gathering with loved ones, it oﬀers a sense of calm and connection.

IN THE CHARTS

ON YOUR TV

AT THE CINEMA

Nov 1967: The Beatles’ Hello, Goodbye was released. Nov 1977: Wings’ Mull of Kintyre. Nov 1981: The Human League’s Don’t You Want Me. In Nov 1996, dance act Prodigy released their rather disturbing Breathe.

Nov 1963: Doctor Who debuted with An Unearthly Child & William Hartnell. Nov 1970: The Goodies. Nov 1982: The Young Ones. Nov 1990: House of Cards. Four enduring programmes made their television debuts.

Nov 1967: Cool Hand Luke. Nov 1975: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest reached cinemas with Jack Nicholson. Nov 1989: The Little Mermaid. Nov 1995: GoldenEye saw the debut of new Bond Pierce Brosnan.

TRIVIA, FOLKLORE AND HISTORY FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL IN NOVEMBER WHAT’S COMING UP

HATCHED, MATCHED & DISPATCHED Hatched: Winston Churchill born 30th November 1874 at Blenheim Palace. King Charles III was born on 14th November 1948. Matched: Princess Elizabeth married Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten on 20th November 1947 at Westminster Abbey, in a ceremony watched by millions around the world. Dispatched: Freddie Mercury died 24th November 1991. Former Beatles guitarist George Harrison died 29th November 2001 aged 58.

ARMISTICE DAY

ON THIS DAY NOVEMBER IN HISTORY 5th November 1605 The Gunpowder Plot is uncovered after Guy Fawkes is found guarding explosives beneath the Houses of Parliament, leading to the annual tradition of Bonfire Night across Britain.

11th November 1918 The First World War comes to an end as the Armistice is signed, bringing four years of conflict to a close and creating the tradition of Remembrance Day observed each year.

22nd November 1963 US President John F. Kennedy is assassinated in Dallas, Texas, shocking the world and becoming one of the most significant political events of the twentieth century.

9th November 1989 The Berlin Wall falls after decades dividing East and West Germany, becoming a powerful symbol of freedom, unity and the end of the Cold War era.

22nd November 1990 Margaret Thatcher announced her resignation after more than 11 years as Prime Minister.

FIREWORKS Fireworks originated in ninthcentury China. In England ordinary people were letting them oﬀ at celebrations by the C17th. Britain imports roughly 6,200 tonnes of fireworks in a typical year. A fuse ignites a lifting charge, propelling the shell upwards; a timed charge then bursts it, lighting pellets called stars. Chemical salts determine the colours: strontium produces red, sodium yellow, barium green, copper blue and calcium orange, while magnesium, aluminium or titanium create brilliant white or silver sparks.

19th November 1994 The first National Lottery draw was broadcast live on BBC One.

The Armistice between the Allies and Germany was signed after 5am on 11th November 1918 in a railway carriage at Compiègne. It took eﬀect at 11am, hence the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. It stopped fighting but was not the peace settlement; the Treaty of Versailles followed on 28th June 1919. Britain held its first national twominute silence on 11th November 1919 at King George V’s request. Armistice Day is fixed on 11th November; Remembrance Sunday falls on the second Sunday in November. Remembrance now honours British and Commonwealth personnel from both World Wars and later conflicts. At the Cenotaph, the monarch lays a wreath; veterans march past. Canadian doctor John McCrae’s 1915 poem In Flanders Fields helped inspire the remembrance poppy. American Moina Michael and French campaigner Anna Guérin promoted it for remembrance and fundraising. The Legion sold nine million in 1921, raising over £106,000.

In 1922 Major George Howson opened the Poppy Factory, employing disabled former servicemen. Today 40,000 volunteers distribute 40 million Royal British Legion poppies. Introduced in 2023, the standard plasticfree version uses red and green paper made by James Cropper in Cumbria. Half its fibre comes from coﬀeecup production waste; more than four miles of paper are used annually. Rolls go to Aylesford, Kent, where automated machines cut, crimp and assemble the poppies before packing and distribution. They can be recycled with household paper. Nowadays Scotland’s four petalled, leafless poppy is mechanically produced at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh. Founded in 1926, it makes over five million yearly and employs disabled veterans.

ST ANDREW’S DAY IN SCOTLAND Celebrated on 30th November, St Andrew’s Day honours the patron saint of Scotland and is a celebration of Scottish culture, heritage and traditions. Across Scotland and beyond, the day is marked with music, dancing, storytelling and gatherings centred around food and friendship. From traditional ceilidhs to modern celebrations, it oﬀers a chance to recognise the rich influence of Scottish customs and the enduring connections between communities.

The last word ROB DAVIS

have never blazed the trail when it comes to

something which I agree with, don’t get me wrong,

fashion. I was never any good (even when I

but on screen the statement that ‘the customer is

was younger) at looking ‘cool.’ The very

CLEARLY over 21’ did leave me wishing for a little

concept of being on-trend is anathema to me, and

ambiguity. Perhaps it could be reworded: ‘I reckon

I habitually retreat to suits or tweed jackets, not to

the customer is over 21... but in fairness... they’re

‘dress up,’ just because it’s easier to excel at

looking darn fine for their age.’

looking unremarkable but relatively smart than to

Not a week later my wife and I were walking around town trying to dodge a young child riding one of those irritating little scooters, slightly ahead of his mother and paying a sub-optimal degree of attention to his direction of travel.

risk failure by aiming for fashionable and missing the mark. An egotist might reference Coco Chanel who mused that ‘fashion fades but style remains.’ Alas, the truth is I am neither fashionable, nor stylish. Even so, last month was a new low for me. On annual leave I had taken the family to North

MATURE

Yorkshire’s Eden Camp, a modern history museum in a former prisoner of war camp where each former Nissen hut is dedicated to a different topic: the Blitz, U-boats, women at war... Standing in one of the huts in a knackered old tweed jacket and wearing my flat cap, I turned around and made the man next to me jump out of his skin in surprise. “Oh, I’m really sorry,” he exclaimed. “I thought you were one of the exhibits.” Ouch. Evidently he had mistaken me for a mannequin. And given that some of Eden Camp’s rather less recently updated

representations

aren’t the most flattering or even lifelike, I could really only conclude that as well as lacking basic fashion sense I must, in addition, require

preparation

emergency of

“Watch out for the old man!” she implored to the child, to which I replied that I was only 46, not quite having the advance warning that a moment was about to occur when it’d be better to just smile and bite my tongue. As we walked off, under my breath I muttered something about both the child and the parent, describing each of them using some fairly Anglo-Saxon terminology. Mrs Davis, ever-supportive, pointed out that following my recent birthday I am in fact 47, not 46. Apparently she didn’t get the message about biting her tongue either. And then there are the targeted adverts. Among the many advantages of print advertising is the knowledge that ‘it’s nothing personal,’ and that an advert is shown to the publication’s entire readership.

I’m happy to wear my years, but there are signs that my boyish good looks have faded like the Bayeux Tapestry...

some

industrial-strength formula of anti-ageing face cream. None of us are getting out of this life young, thin or pretty, but there are increasing signs that my boyish good looks have faded like the Bayeux Tapestry. Time for a new wardrobe then? Not a chance. That evening, the Eden Camp incident drove me to pick up a bottle of cheap and nasty supermarket wine, with which to raise a glass to sulky self-loathing. Sure enough, the attendant came over to ratify my age-restricted purchase as per the retailer’s Challenge 21 policy,

Online it’s a different story, with some search engine all of a sudden deciding that I need to see adverts for exercise programmes for what Americans charmingly term ‘seniors,’ and recently ‘premium hair replacement systems.’ That’ll be wigs, to you and me. As though I’m vain enough to leave work hairless on Friday then walk into the office on Monday morning having suddenly sprouted long thick locks of hair, expecting nobody to question this sudden change. I really don’t mind ageing. It’s natural after all, and with age comes wisdom. Nor have I any desire to be young, or pretty or fashionable. I’m happy to wear my years. I do wish, however, those around me weren’t so keen to make it quite so obvious that it’s... well... quite so obvious.

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