Lincolnshire Pride October 2026

THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR LINCOLNSHIRE

OCT 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

S

ome of life’s happiest conversations take place around a table. A meal with friends gives us permission to catch up properly, enjoy one another’s company and experience the pleasure of being looked after for a few hours. The food matters, of course, but so do the welcome, the setting and the people sharing it with us.

That is why we are delighted to launch this year’s Lincolnshire Pride Good Food Awards. They are an opportunity to celebrate the restaurants, dining pubs, cafés, farm shops, food producers and hospitality businesses that make eating and drinking in Lincolnshire such a pleasure.

Good food begins long before a plate reaches the table. Lincolnshire has an extraordinary community of farmers, growers and specialist producers whose knowledge and hard work provide our chefs with exceptional ingredients.

Many of the county’s farmers have faced an especially demanding harvest following the unusually warm weather of early summer. Their resilience deserves our admiration, as does the contribution they make to both our economy and our reputation as one of Britain’s great foodproducing counties.

P RIDE MAGAZINES 2

With such excellent ingredients close at hand, it is little wonder that Lincolnshire has developed such a strong and varied dining scene. Across the county, talented chefs continue to surprise us with their creativity, while thoughtful front-of-house teams demonstrate that memorable hospitality is as much about warmth and generosity as culinary skill.

Crucially, our awards are decided by you.

Readers may vote for any eligible food or drink business in and around Lincolnshire; nominees do not have to be Pride advertisers. That independence is important to us.

By inviting votes from across our entire readership, we hope the results will provide a comprehensive and genuinely representative picture of the places Lincolnshire people value most.

You can cast your vote online using the QR code in this edition or complete the voting form later in the magazine. Whether you nominate a celebrated restaurant, a favourite village pub, an independent café or the producer whose food is always on your table, we would love to hear from you.

Our best wishes for a wonderful month!

Julian Wilkinson CEO & Founder, Pride Magazines 3

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October 2026

GOOD FOOD GUIDE THE LOCAL GUIDE TO DINING OUT

AWARDS

2026 Image: Andrew Scott/Visit Lincoln.

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LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

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LOCAL NEWS ‘Good News’ stories from across Lincolnshire, including an ‘out of this world’ visitor to Lincoln.

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

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THE GUIDE Live music and events plus new cinema, music and book releases for October.

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UPHILL LINCOLN Autumn in the city of Lincoln offers history, culture, shopping and dining out.

RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH Lincolnshire’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Winteringham Fields.

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FARMING Agriculture in autumn and countryside affairs with farming writer Andrew Ward MBE.

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

Portfolio OCTOBER 2026

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND

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WELCOME HOME The Old Rectory at Scampton, with plenty of space for family life, ten minutes from Lincoln.

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FASHION Effortlessly flattering, burgundy takes centre stage.

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TIMBER WINDOWS Kerb appeal.

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STYLE FOR MEN 250 years of tailoring with Gieves & Hawkes.

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GARDENING Advice for October with Mark Lane.

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LUXURY BRAND Chanel.

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PROPERTY Agricultural land and investment with Brown & Co.

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TRAVEL An unmatched trip of a lifetime to Machu Picchu.

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LUXURY HOMES Executive and rural homes across Lincolnshire.

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MOTORS Mitsubishi’s Outlander.

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NATURE October’s autumn hues.

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ALMANAC Trivia and folklore.

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

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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.

OCT 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 46 99 77, 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.

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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...

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Local News

MEET ‘THE SPIRIT OF LINCOLN’ THIS SEASON

British astronaut Tim Peake is due to touch down in Lincoln as Pride goes to press, with an appearance at The Engine Shed on the University of Lincoln’s campus on 29th September.

Visitors to Lincoln Museum will be able to meet The Spirit of Lincoln when the site reopens this season following a complete renovation. The Lincoln Museum was formerly known as The Collection and is located next to The Usher Gallery, its sister site.

“The tour will showcase the extraordinary endeavour of human spaceflight,” he says.

“That includes the excitement, the drama, the highs and lows, right from the early days of the 1950s, through to the current Artemis programme to return to the Moon, and beyond that to the first human mission to Mars.

Now in the final stages of work, Lincoln Museum’s new major installations have been installed including a lime pilaster with a female figure ‘The Spirit of Lincoln’, one of the finest examples of stone sculpture from Roman Britain.

Discovered in the Roman cemetery on Monks Road, the graceful female figure is classically draped and holds a cornucopia – a horn of plenty.

Tim is a former Apache pilot, flight instructor, test pilot and European Space Agency astronaut, who has flown more than 3,000 hours in over 30 different types of helicopter and fixed­wing aircraft in operations worldwide.

It’s anticipated that the museum will reopen in late September or early October.

190­year old Grade II* listed Horkstow Bridge from ruin.

In December 2015, having joined the European Space Agency, he became the first British ESA astronaut to visit the International Space Station and conduct a spacewalk during his six­month mission.

He retired from the ESA in 2023 and now inspires adults and youngsters to take an interest in space and science.

The EA has made a bid for Heritage Lottery funding to help with the multi­million pound cost of repairing the

He has also since written about his career in two books, Limitless: The Autobiography, and Space, The Human Story.

Race begins to save Horkstow Bridge North Lincolnshire Council and the Environment Agency are in a race against time to save the

early Victorian suspension bridge, in need of urgent repair.

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Tim Peake to provide an ‘out of this world’ experience for Lincoln audience

See www.timpeake.com.

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

Sir Jonathan Van­Tam donates iconic Covid­Era suit to Boston’s Guildhall Museum Boston Guildhall Museum has received a unique donation from one of the town’s best known residents, Sir Professor Jonathan Van Tam. The former Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England has donated the pin­striped suit he wore during many of the Government’s Covid­19 press briefings, together with one of the ties worn during those appearances and one of his distinctive Boston United ties.

Born and raised in Boston, Sir Jonathan became a familiar face during the Covid­19 pandemic, helping millions understand complex scientific issues through his clear and reassuring public briefings.

JVT said he remembered visiting the Guildhall Museum as a child and wanted the suit to return to his hometown.

The donation will feature in a new exhibition celebrating famous Bostonians. Museum representatives say it reflects their commitment to preserving not only Boston’s rich heritage but also more recent events and local people.

Pools win brings welcome boost A grandfather from Mablethorpe has celebrated an unexpected £65,000 win on The Pools after correctly matching five numbers.

Gary Archer, who has been living with cancer for the past five years, initially thought the call telling him he had won was a prank, having forgotten he still played through a monthly direct debit. The self­employed gas engineer says the prize has come at the perfect time, as ongoing treatment has limited the amount he can work.

Mr Archer plans to enjoy a family holiday. He described the win as a huge boost, saying it had brought welcome peace of mind during a challenging period for his family.

Tourism nears £1 billion for East Lindsey Tourism generated a record £994.5 million for East Lindsey’s economy in 2025.

A study found that almost 4.8 million people visited East Lindsey during the year, with particularly strong growth in overnight stays. The visitor economy also supported 6,814 jobs, reflecting tourism’s importance to local businesses and communities.

Both the Lincolnshire Wolds and the county’s coastline enjoyed increased visitor numbers and higher economic impact, with the coast contributing more than £750 million and the Wolds almost £282 million.

Grantham Parks Retain Prestigious Green Flag Status Grantham’s three parks have once again been recognised among the country’s best after retaining their prestigious Green Flag Awards.

Wyndham Park, Queen Elizabeth Park and Dysart Park, all managed by SKDC achieved the internationally recognised standard for well maintained public green spaces. Wyndham Park also retained its Green Heritage Site Accreditation for its historic features, marking its 15th Green Flag Award.

The awards recognise parks that are welcoming, safe, clean and environmentally well managed, while providing valuable spaces for recreation and wildlife. Council leaders praised the staff and volunteers, whose work ensures the parks remain such attractive destinations.

Sand, sun and Sleaford on Sea as beach returns to market town Sleaford’s popular pop up beach returned to the town’s Market Place at the end of summer for an extended four week run, following the success of last year’s inaugural event. Known as Sleaford on Sea, the event transformed the town centre with real sand, deckchairs and family activities, in a special seaside themed celebration organised by North Kesteven District Council, to boost town centre footfall.

Government publishes plans for reorganisation of Lincolnshire in April 2028 The Government has announced its decision on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Greater Lincolnshire.

The plans will see the creation of a new Lincoln City unitary council which will cover an extended area incorporating some parts of West Lindsey and North Kesteven.

A ‘greater’ Lincolnshire unitary council will combine the remaining four district council areas including those areas not consolidated into the Lincoln City authority.

North Lincolnshire Council and North East Lincolnshire Council will remain as they are.

There will be no imminent changes to council services, or day‑to‑day operations.

Each council will now prepare for elections to the new authorities during 2027, with the changes expected to take place in April 2028.

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Christmas at

DODDINGTON HALL

Christm mas Party

Celebrate Christmas in the beautifull Coach House at Doddington Hall, perfect for corpporate parties, festive get-togethers and end-of-yearr celebrations.

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GOOD FOOD GUIDE T H E LO C A L G U I D E TO D I N I N G O U T

AWARDS

2026

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THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS 2026

GOOD FOOD GUIDE

AWARDS

2026

Cast Your Vote

in The Good Food Awards 2026

O

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...

>>

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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.

Coffee Shop/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.

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One of last year’s winners, Horncastle’s Myers Bakery was the county’s Best Food Producer.

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 Magazine.

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

Your Nominations: Restaurant of the Year: .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Café, 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.

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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.

!

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Your Details:

Food & Drink RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH

Winteringham Fields Well that’s unusual. I’m normally the only photographer in the kitchen during our restaurant photo shoots.

In fact, I’m rarely in the kitchen at all, and more commonly found set up in a dining room as a brigade of chefs prepare their dishes and bring them out, one at a time, to be photographed.

and dispatched) is Colin McGurran, chef-patron of Winteringham Fields, Lincolnshire’s only Michelin-starred restaurant.

On this occasion, though, I’m taking pictures in the middle of a live service, and I’m set up in the kitchen.

On the pass (the area of the kitchen where dishes are presented, checked

As service progresses, there’s a slightly more focused feel, but everyone is still united, with hushed calls for ‘service,’ barely audible to my mind, but attended to nonetheless.

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The best kitchens are always the ones with the calmest and friendliest teams, and as service begins, everyone in the kitchen is in good spirits.

The calmness and sense of mutual support is obvious. Here is a team invested in the joy of producing excellent dishes. Everything runs like clockwork... and a good thing too, as Winteringham Fields’ open kitchen layout ensures diners can see and hear everything that’s going on.

It’s fascinating, and it encourages guests to come up to the pass to ask Colin for a photograph together, or for an autograph... five times, I reckon, it happened that day!

The restaurant was founded in 1988

by Germain Schwab, who ran the place with a bit of an iron fist until 2005, when Colin and Bex purchased it. Today’s Winteringham Fields is not at all huffy; it’s just about giving the customer a great experience and making them feel very welcome.

ABOVE Winteringham Fields is Lincolnshire’s only Michelin starred restaurant and this month chef patron Colin McGurran returns to the kitchen.

Some diners with their camera phones in hand are repeat visitors, keen to say hello to Colin, who divides his time between Winteringham Fields and his other restaurants in Antigua.

One or two diners are celebrating a birthday and say they wanted to dine somewhere exceptional. Others just count the place as a familiar favourite.

As well as its star, Winteringham Fields has four AA rosettes for its dining and five-star accommodation.

At front of house is Bex, Colin’s wife, and the couple have a really lovely team behind them.

Colin’s return from the Caribbean has seen new autumn menus introduced, with traditional tasting menus now accompanied by à la carte dining

options which are very fairly priced relative to the quality and complexity of the dishes: cooking at this level requires time and technical skill.

SAMPLE MENU

The place has its own kitchen garden and everything on the menu is made by the team in house, from bread to cultured butter to amuse-bouches, palate cleansers or pre-desserts.

Sommelier wine selection: £75/daytime, £99/evening.

With recognition by Michelin comes the burden of expectation. But as well as creating exceptional dishes, Colin, Bex and the team acknowledge the need to also preserve the heart, the soul and the sheer joy of dining out.

Winteringham Fields is a happy environment in which to champion good food, and it looks after its customers very well indeed.

Violet artichoke & peach, rose harissa, goats’ cheese

Find Out More: Winteringham Fields, North Lincolnshire, DN15 9ND. Call 01724 733096 or see www.winteringhamfields.co.uk.

£75/à la carte three­course lunch. £85/tasting menu during lunchtime service. £149/person evening tasting menu.

Canapés & Bread followed by Starters Hand­picked Cromer crab with cucumber kohlrabi Tomato chawanmushi, Thai basil, BBQ tomato consommé Main Course Pan­roasted quail breast, confit leg, cauliflower purée Pan­roasted veal, wrapped in pancetta, with bacon foam Roasted sea bass, onion Lyonnaise, saffron, mussel velouté Desserts Vanilla custard tart, tonka bean and brown butter sorbet Lemon sponge, pineapple salsa, white chocolate ganache Selection of cheese with pickles and chutney (£5/supp) NB: Dishes subject to availability & change.

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Tipplemill Distillery Gin grown in harmony with nature on our fifth-generation Lincolnshire family farm The perfect tipple to enjoy with friends and family all summer long!

PREMIUM, SUSTAINABLE AND REFRESHING 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 20

For trade/wholesale enquiries contact lily@tipplemill.com

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 19th century 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 log burning 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 17th­ 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.

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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.

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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 in house 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

LOUTH & RASEN ADVOCATE ARMS

Award winning restaurant serves fabulous meals created from local ingredients.

The restaurant has been awarded two stars for its dining by the AA. Queen Street, Market Rasen LN8 3EH. Call 01673 842364 or see www.advocatearms.co.uk.

Family­run authentic Spanish restaurant set in the heart of Lincolnshire’s historic Lawns, 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.

AUCTION HOUSE

THE PALE

Fantastic food and drink in the family­friendly Fairways Restaurant and Keepers Bar. Kenwick Park, Louth LN11 8NR. Call 01507 608806 or see www.kenwick-park.co.uk.

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.

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.

KENWICK PARK

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.

VOTE ONLINE

GOOD FOOD GUIDE

AWARDS

2026

www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/vote

SLEAFORD THE BARGE AND BOTTLE

Newly refurbished and under new ownership, this is a canal­side pub with a relaxed ambiance, 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 Traveller’s 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.

Hope & Anchor, South Ferriby.

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 Michelin Guide, look out for stunning value auberge menu on selected Monday evenings.

Witham on the Hill, Bourne PE10 0JH. Call 01778 590360 or see www.sixbellswitham.co.uk.

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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.

Admiral Rodney, Woodhall Spa.

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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 family run 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 at 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 locally­milled wheat, juniper and bittersweet citrus and elderflower.

See www.tipplemill.com.

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26

THE GUIDE

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

• FILMS • BOOKS • MUSIC • 27

What’s On

Lincolnshire

4th October

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Apple Day at Gunby Hall

Apple Day at Gunby Hall is a wonderful celebration of the season, taking place on Sunday 4th October in the beautiful surroundings of this National Trust­owned country estate near Spilsby.

For more than 250 years, Gunby Hall was the seat of the distinguished Massingberd family, later known as the Montgomery Massingberd family through marriage.

Renowned for their service in public life and the military, they gifted the house, its collections and much of the surrounding estate to the National Trust in 1944.

1st ­3rd Oct

3rd October

Burghley House takes on an unforgettable atmosphere as Burghley by Twilight returns from 1st to 3rd October, offering a rare chance to explore one of Britain’s finest stately homes after hours.

Celebrate the colours and flavours of autumn at the Spalding Pumpkin Festival on 3rd October, a family friendly event that pays tribute to South Holland’s rich horticultural heritage. The town centre comes alive with seasonal entertainment, artisan food and gift stalls, arts and crafts, live performances and plenty of pumpkin themed fun for all ages. Expect colourful displays, harvest celebrations and a warm community atmosphere that reflects the area’s proud farming traditions.

With free entry and a packed programme of attractions, it is a wonderful way to enjoy the changing season in Spalding.

Burghley House

by Twilight

As dusk falls, the magnificent State Rooms are transformed with soft lighting and candlelight, creating an enchanting backdrop for an evening of classical music and historic splendour.

Guests can wander through the beautifully illuminated interiors while enjoying live performances, before rounding off the experience with a glass of Prosecco.

It is an elegant and memorable autumn event that perfectly captures the romance and grandeur of Burghley House.

See www.burghley.co.uk.

The Spalding Pumpkin Festival

From 11am-3pm, Ayscoughfee Hall, Spalding, see www.sholland.gov.uk.

Apple Day visitors can discover more than 50 varieties of apples grown in the gardens and orchards, from familiar favourites to unusual heritage cultivars, making it a fascinating day for gardeners, food lovers and anyone with an interest in Lincolnshire’s rural traditions.

The event also features a Makers Market with more than 25 local craft and trade stalls offering handmade gifts and artisan produce.

Knowledgeable apple experts will be on hand to answer questions about growing and caring for fruit trees, while visitors can also explore the elegant country house, stroll through eight acres of gardens and enjoy the latest exhibition in the Orchard Gallery.

An ideal autumn day out for families, couples and anyone keen to enjoy the colours, flavours and traditions of the harvest season.

Gunby Hall, Spilsby, £12/adults, £6/child, from 10am-4pm, call 01754 890102 or see nationaltrust.org.uk.

6th October Tracy Borman’s Tudors on Tour One of Britain’s best known historians returns to her home county when Tracy Borman: Tudors on Tour comes to the New Theatre Royal on Tuesday 6th October. Born in Lincoln and raised in the nearby village of Scothern, Tracy also serves as Chancellor of Lincoln Bishop University, making this a particularly special homecoming. Chief Historian at Historic Royal Palaces, bestselling author and broadcaster Tracy Borman OBE has spent her career uncovering the truth behind the Tudor court, and this engaging live production reveals the people behind the crowns with all the intrigue, ambition and scandal that made the dynasty so unforgettable.

Far more than a traditional history lecture, the show combines storytelling with film, music, costumes, props and striking visuals to transport audiences into the world of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I and the extraordinary figures who shaped sixteenth century England. Along the way, Tracy separates fact from fiction, revealing surprising details about court life, political intrigue, espionage and the personalities behind some of history’s most iconic monarchs.

6th­10th Oct

8th October

14th October

One of the greatest British musicals ever written comes to Grimsby Auditorium from Tuesday 6th to Saturday 10th October. Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers tells the story of twin brothers separated at birth, who grow up on opposite sides of society before fate brings them together with devastating consequences.

Set in Liverpool, this powerful and deeply moving production explores family, friendship, class and destiny through an acclaimed score featuring songs such as Marilyn Monroe, Bright New Day and Tell Me It’s Not True. Blending humour, warmth and heart wrenching drama, the musical has earned its reputation as one of the most celebrated productions ever to grace the British stage.

Grimsby Auditorium, call 0300 300 0035 or see grimsbyauditorium.org.uk.

The International Bomber Command Centre continues its acclaimed Lecture and Supper Series on Thursday 8th October with The Dams Raid: Remembrance and Reconciliation. Official No. 617 Squadron historian Dr Robert Owen explores how the famous 1943 operation has been remembered in both Britain and Germany over the past 80 years, and how its legacy has evolved from wartime heroism towards reconciliation and peace. The evening begins with a hot supper in The Hub Café before this fascinating illustrated talk, offering a thoughtful and balanced perspective on one of the Second World War’s most celebrated missions.

Established in 1995, the Antiques & Home Show is an unmissable event for collectors, interior designers, independent retail buyers, set­ designers, prop buyers, landscape architects, restaurateurs and those passionate about creating a stylish living space. It offers visitors everything from fine antiques, art, pretty vintage, salvage, industrial, jewellery, curios, militaria, glassware, china to the unusual. www.asfairs.com.

Blood Brothers

The Dams Raid: Remembrance and Reconciliation

Arthur Swallow Antiques & Home Show

From 6.30pm, £15.50, see www.internationalbcc.co.uk.

Lincoln New Theatre Royal, 7.30pm, £30.50, call 01522 519999 or see newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk.

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14th October Of Mice and Men John Steinbeck’s timeless masterpiece Of Mice and Men comes to the Guildhall Arts Centre in Grantham on Wednesday 14th October, bringing one of the most powerful stories in modern literature to the stage. Set during the Great Depression, the play follows George and Lennie, two travelling labourers who dream of owning a small farm and building a better life together.

As hope begins to blossom, a tragic chain of events threatens to shatter their ambitions forever.

This acclaimed adaptation captures the novel’s enduring themes of friendship, loyalty and sacrifice.

Grantham Guildhall Arts Centre, 7.30pm, tickets £16, call 01476 406158 or see www.guildhallartscentre.com.

16th October RAF Swing Wing in Concert

The superb musicians of the Royal Air Force Swing Wing take to the stage at the Terry O’Toole Theatre in North Hykeham on Friday 16th October for an evening of outstanding big band music.

Based at nearby RAF Cranwell, this acclaimed 18 piece ensemble performs regularly at State occasions and ceremonial events across Britain and around the world.

Their concert features the unmistakable sounds of the swing era alongside modern favourites, all while raising funds to support the wider Armed Forces community.

An uplifting evening of musicianship from one of the country’s finest military bands.

Terry O’Toole Theatre, North Hykeham, from 7.30pm, £20, see www.heartoflincs.com

17th October The Burghley Halloween Trail

Enjoy some spooky seasonal fun at The Burghley Halloween Trail, running from Saturday 17th October to Sunday 1st November in the beautiful Sculpture Garden at Burghley House. Families are invited to follow a ghostly trail through colourful autumn leaves, searching for hidden clues before claiming a tasty reward at the finish. With its enchanting surroundings, playful Halloween atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for little ones to dress up, it is a magical half term adventure for children and grown ups alike. Burghley’s magnificent parkland and gardens, of course also provide the perfect setting for an autumn walk.

Burghley House, £11/adults, £8.50/children, see www.burghley.co.uk.

21st October Michael Portillo: A Life of Two Halves

Broadcaster, historian and former Cabinet minister Michael Portillo brings A Life of Two Halves to the New Theatre Peterborough on Wednesday 21st October.

Michael reflects on an extraordinary life that has taken him from the heart of British politics to becoming one of the nation’s favourite television personalities.

Blending humour, insight and fascinating anecdotes, this engaging evening explores his family history, political career and adventures around the world, great for fans of history, travel and politics!

New Theatre, Peterborough.

Tickets from £38.99, see newtheatre-peterborough.com.

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28th October

23rd­24th Oct

An Evening of Eric and Ern

Céline Dion and The Music of ABBA

by Candlelight Lincoln Cathedral provides a spectacular setting for two unforgettable evenings of music this October, as the magnificent building is illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight.

On Friday 23rd October, Céline Dion by Candlelight celebrates the music of one of the world’s greatest vocalists.

Acclaimed tribute performer January Butler, accompanied by a live band, will perform many of Céline’s best loved hits, including My Heart Will Go On, Because You Loved Me, The Power of Love and All By Myself.

The following evening, on Saturday 24th October, the spotlight turns to Sweden’s greatest pop exports with The Music of ABBA by Candlelight.

Featuring leading tribute act ABBA Reunion, audiences can expect a joyous celebration packed with favourites including Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, Voulez Vous, Thank You for the Music and many more. It is an uplifting concert that combines sing along moments with the unique atmosphere of Lincoln Cathedral, making for a wonderfully entertaining autumn night out.

Both events 7.30pm, ticket prices vary, for details see www.lincolncathedral.com.

24th October The FM Songbook Fleetwood Mac’s timeless catalogue is celebrated when The FM Songbook comes to Grantham Guildhall on Saturday 24th October. This acclaimed six piece tribute band recreates the unmistakable sound of one of rock’s greatest groups, performing classics from every era, from the blues of Peter Green to the chart topping

success of Rumours and Tango in the Night. Expect favourites including Dreams, Go Your Own Way, The Chain, Everywhere and Don’t Stop, delivered with outstanding musicianship and superb vocal harmonies performed live.

Eric and Ern arrives at Lincoln’s New Theatre Royal on Wednesday 28th October, celebrating the enduring brilliance of Britain’s best loved comedy partnership.

Created by Olivier Award nominated performers Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens, the production pays affectionate tribute to Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise, recreating the warmth, wit and unmistakable chemistry that made them household names.

New Theatre Royal, Lincoln, 7.30pm, £30, call 01522 519999 or see newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk.

A wonderful celebration of one of the most influential bands in popular music history.

Grantham Guildhall Arts Centre, 7.30pm, £24/adults, call 01476 406158 or see www.guildhallartscentre.com.

31st October Jimmy Nail: Songs & Stories

Acclaimed actor, singer and songwriter Jimmy Nail takes audiences on a nostalgic journey through an extraordinary career with an intimate evening of music and conversation. Best known for television favourites including Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, Spender and Crocodile Shoes, Jimmy reflects on seven decades in entertainment, sharing personal memories, behind the scenes stories and songs that have defined his remarkable career.

Plowright Theatre, Scunthorpe, 7.30pm, tickets from £40, see www.scunthorpetheatres.co.uk.

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Beyond Lincolnshire

1st­31st Oct Bloomsbury Festival

The Bloomsbury Festival returns this October, celebrating the creativity and heritage of one of London’s most historic districts.

Through an inspiring programme of art, music, literature, theatre, science and public talks, the festival transforms streets, squares and cultural venues into vibrant spaces for discovery, offering visitors a fascinating blend of contemporary creativity and intellectual exploration. Over 100 events throughout October at around 50 venues across Bloomsbury, celebrating the art and culture festival’s 20th anniversary.

For a full programme of events see bloomsburyfestival.org.uk.

24th­27th Sep

Entertainment

The British Art Fair 2026 Presenting British art since 1988, British Art Fair is the UK’s only fair dedicated exclusively to Modern and Contemporary British Art. Set within the iconic Saatchi Gallery in the heart of London’s vibrant Chelsea, the British Art Fair brings together leading specialist dealers, exceptional works.

The Fair offers visitors the opportunity to explore and collect paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography, prints, and ceramics from Britain’s most celebrated artists, alongside a curated programme of events and conversations.

Thursday 24th September to Sunday 27th September, see www.britishartfair.co.uk.

10th Sep to 15th October Don Giovanni Mozart’s enduring masterpiece Don Giovanni returns to the Royal Opera House throughout October in Kasper Holten’s acclaimed production, a visually stunning interpretation that combines psychological drama with breathtaking stage design.

Featuring an outstanding international cast, the opera follows the notorious libertine whose reckless pursuit of pleasure ultimately leads to a chilling reckoning.

Blending unforgettable music with themes of desire, power and redemption, this spectacular Covent Garden production is an essential experience.

Tickets £12-£255, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, call 020 7304 4000 or see www.rbo.org.uk.

2nd­4th Oct

Grand Designs Live Based on the TV series with Kevin McCloud, Grand Designs Live Birmingham returns to the NEC this month bringing together the latest innovations in home design, self­build, renovation, interiors and gardens. Hundreds of exhibitors, new products, and live talks from experts to gain practical advice for every stage of your project.

General admission from £8£26. From 2nd-4th October, NEC, Birmingham, see www.granddesignslive.com.

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7th­11th Oct Horse of the Year Show

The Horse of the Year Show returns to Birmingham’s NEC from Wednesday 7th to Sunday 11th October, bringing together the very best of British equestrian sport for five days of world class competition and entertainment.

Widely regarded as the grand finale of the showing season, HOYS welcomes the nation’s finest horses and riders alongside leading international show jumpers competing for prestigious championship titles.

Alongside elite competition, visitors can enjoy crowd favourites including the spectacular Puissance, the fast paced Pony Club Mounted Games, the Dressage Future Elite

Championship and a host of thrilling displays.

The extensive retail village offers everything from country clothing and equestrian equipment to artisan food and luxury lifestyle brands, making it a destination in its own right. New for 2026 are the Agility Nexus Hunter and Gather Dog Agility Grand Prix and the Veteran Horse Society Veteran Horse of the Year Championship, adding even more variety to an already outstanding programme.

Whether you are a lifelong equestrian enthusiast or simply appreciate the finest horsemanship, Horse of the Year Show remains one of the highlights of the British sporting and social calendar, combining exceptional competition with an unmistakable atmosphere.

NEC, Birmingham, tickets from £42 to £145, call 02476 858 205 or see www.hoys.co.uk.

9th­18th Oct Cheltenham Literary Festival The Cheltenham Literature Festival returns from Friday 9th October to Sunday 18th October, once again bringing together many of the world’s leading writers, historians, broadcasters, politicians and cultural figures for one of Britain’s most prestigious literary celebrations.

Founded in 1949, it is the oldest literature festival in the world and continues to attract tens of thousands of visitors to the elegant Regency spa town each autumn.

Over ten days, the festival presents around 400 events featuring more than 500 speakers, offering an extraordinary programme of author talks, debates, interviews and book signings.

Subjects range from history, current affairs and politics to science, travel, biography and fiction, with audiences enjoying the opportunity to hear directly from many of today’s most influential thinkers and storytellers.

Beyond the festival venues, Cheltenham itself provides the perfect backdrop for an autumn escape. Tree lined promenades, Georgian architecture, independent bookshops, galleries, cafés and restaurants all contribute to a lively atmosphere where visitors can meet fellow book lovers.

For more information see www.cheltenhamfestivals.org.

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8th October

14th­18th Oct

Curated by fashion industry game changer Edward Enninful OBE, brings together photography, fashion, art and design, including iconic images by photographers alongside the work of artists like Steve McQueen and Damien Hirst, as well as fashion film and music culture, including collections by decade defining designers Vivienne Westwood, and Alexander McQueen.

Examining a defining period in which a groundswell of creativity changed the face of British culture.

Tate Britain, Millbank, £22/non-members, see www.tate.org.uk.

Frieze London and Frieze Masters return to Regent’s Park from Wednesday 14th to Sunday 18th October, reaffirming the capital’s position as one of the world’s leading centres for art.

Together, the two internationally acclaimed fairs bring almost 300 galleries from 48 countries to London, presenting everything from cutting edge contemporary works to masterpieces spanning thousands of years of art history.

Frieze London showcases today’s most exciting emerging and established artists, while Frieze Masters offers a remarkable journey through antiquity, Old Masters and twentieth century art, creating a fascinating dialogue between past and present.

Alongside the exhibitions, visitors can enjoy curated talks, special installations and Frieze Sculpture, a free outdoor exhibition of monumental works set among the trees of Regent’s Park.

Whether you are a seasoned collector, an enthusiastic art lover or simply curious to discover the latest ideas shaping the international art world.

See www.frieze.com.

The 1990s: Art & Fashion

Frieze London & Frieze Masters

13th­18th Oct Motorhome & Caravan Show They say it’s better to travel than to arrive... if you’re seeking to disappear for a month or two, perhaps over the whole of winter to explore Europe on your own terms, this is the show for you.

Discover luxury motorhomes campervans and caravans, with over 1,000 examples on show.

10­11th Oct The Norfolk Antiques Fair

The Norfolk Antiques Fair at the beautiful Norfolk Showground has become a popular highlight of the IACF calendar. Bursting with antiques, unique finds, and rare treasures, it’s the perfect day out for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys discovering something special.

With a wide variety of stalls, both indoors and outdoors, and supported by excellent on­site facilities, the Norfolk Antiques Fair is an unmissable event for lovers of antiques and vintage items.

See www.iacf.co.uk.

Taking place at Birmingham’s NEC, if you’ve ever thought about ownership but you’ve never fully explored the idea, this is a good way to get to grips with what’s on offer.

Naturally travel specialists and tour companies are at the show to suggest some of the world’s best destinations and you’ll find loads of practical accessories to make life easier and more comfortable. £14.95/adv, NEC, Birmingham, see www.mcshow.co.uk.

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23rd October

30th October

River of Light

Liverpool’s spectacular River of Light returns this October, transforming the city’s famous waterfront into an open air gallery of illuminated art.

Internationally renowned artists take the River Mersey and Liverpool’s iconic skyline as their inspiration, providing a dramatic backdrop. Along the route, familiar landmarks take on a magical atmosphere after dark, encouraging visitors to experience the city from a fresh perspective.

See www.visitliverpool.com

23rd October Professor Brian Cox: Emergence Professor Brian Cox brings his spectacular new Emergence World Tour to London’s O2 on Friday 23rd October, inviting audiences on an awe inspiring journey through the mysteries of the Universe. Following the global success of Horizons, seen by almost half a million people, the renowned physicist and broadcaster combines cutting edge science with breathtaking visuals, music and immersive technology to explore how extraordinary complexity emerges from the fundamental laws of nature.

From galaxies and black holes to snowflakes and the human brain, Emergence celebrates the beauty of scientific discovery in an engaging and accessible way. Thought provoking, visually stunning and intellectually inspiring, it promises an unforgettable evening with one of Britain’s finest science communicators.

O2 Arena, London, from 6pm, ticket prices from £55, VIP available, see www.theo2.co.uk.

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Tosca

29th October Carmen

Bizet’s passionate masterpiece Carmen returns to the Royal Opera House from Thursday 29th October in Olivier Award winning director Damiano Michieletto’s acclaimed contemporary production.

Set against a striking modern backdrop, this powerful interpretation explores obsession, desire and freedom through one of opera’s most

compelling heroines.

Featuring an outstanding international cast and Bizet’s unforgettable score, including the famous Habanera and Toreador Song, the production combines dramatic storytelling with exceptional musical performances.

Staged in the magnificent surroundings of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.

Thursday 29th October to Saturday 21st November, 7pm, £60, see www.rbo.org.uk.

Puccini’s gripping masterpiece Tosca returns to the London Coliseum from Friday 30th October, as English National Opera unveils a powerful new production directed by Olivier Award winner Annilese Miskimmon. Reimagined in an unnamed European state torn apart by civil conflict, this contemporary staging places the story’s themes of love, oppression and political resistance firmly in today’s world, while remaining faithful to Puccini’s thrilling score.

Internationally acclaimed soprano Axelle Fanyo makes her ENO debut in the title role, alongside tenor Chaz’men Williams Ali as her lover Cavaradossi and Christopher Purves as the sinister police chief Scarpia. Under the baton of conductor Ben Glassberg, audiences will experience some of opera’s most celebrated music, including the soaring Vissi d’arte and the haunting E lucevan le stelle.

Performed in English, as is ENO’s tradition, Tosca offers an accessible introduction for newcomers while providing seasoned opera lovers with a bold and thought provoking interpretation of one of the repertoire’s greatest works.

Staged in the magnificent London Coliseum, one of the capital’s grandest Edwardian theatres, the production benefits from an auditorium renowned for its superb acoustics and impressive scale, providing a fitting home for Puccini’s unforgettable score.

Combining breathtaking music, compelling drama and striking contemporary staging.

Tickets from £25, see English National Opera’s website at www.eno.org.

THE GUIDE

OCTOBER BOOK RELEASES

Journey Across Japan

The Goddess Queen

Chris Broad

Alice Roberts

Stephen Graham

From the author of the Number one bestselling Abroad in Japan. The country is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with millions flocking there every month to follow the same cookie­cutter itinerary. On his quest to show the world that there’s so much more to Japan than Tokyo and Kyoto, Chris Broad takes us with him on an epic adventure that spans every corner of the country.

Written not just with page­ turning flair but professional expertise, the debut adult novel from Dr Alice Roberts captures Cleopatra on the verge of forging an alliance which could save both Egypt and Rome. Ancient history, high politics, sex and power collide in this dramatic story of the Egyptian queen who confronted and contested the power of Rome. Cleopatra and Antonius as you’ve never seen them before, in the first novel from historian Alice Roberts.

448 pages, late Sept, £22.

We were all shocked by Stephen Graham’s TV drama Adolescence, featuring an astonishing performance by 16 year­old Owen Cooper.

Now, the writer teams up with psychology lecturer Orly Klein to collect letters from fathers from all walks of life to their sons. Full of hope, fear, shame and pride, Letters to Our Sons is a raw and extraordinary outpouring of the sometimes messy, often joyful, and always complex realities of modern fatherhood.

304 pages, 24th Aug, £22.

480 pages, released 24th Oct, £22.

Letters to Our Sons

A Carol and a Killing Richard Coles Book six in the bestselling Canon Clement Mystery Series from author, broadcaster and cleric Reverend Richard Coles.

Christmas in Champton, and Daniel and Neil Vanloo are reluctantly conscripted into the Cathedral’s choir.

The town is buzzing with preparations, festive merriment prevails.

A warbling soloist steps forward: and falls to his death before he can finish the note.

And Daniel suspects it wasn’t a fall, but a push...

160 pages, 22nd Oct, £15.

OCTOBER’S MUSIC PICK

The Age of Everything You’ll know him as the chord jangling

Johnny Marr

thoughtful lyrics. The album balances

moments, showcasing the melodic flair that has defined his career for more than four decades. Marr’s distinctive playing remains front and centre, while his songwriting continues to evolve with quiet assurance.

Elegant, intelligent and unmistakably his own, this is another rewarding chapter from a true British musical icon.

driving anthems with more introspective

2nd October, £11.99/CD, £27.99 vinyl.

guitarist of The Smiths, but Johnny Marr has long since established himself as one of Britain’s most inventive solo artists. The Age of Everything finds him in confident, reflective form, blending shimmering guitars with atmospheric production and

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THE GUIDE

October Cinema Releases

Verity

Digger

The Social Reckoning

Based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling psychological thriller, Verity promises an unsettling blend of mystery, obsession and suspense. Struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh is hired to complete a bestselling series after its author, Verity Crawford, played by Anne Hathaway, is left incapacitated following a mysterious accident. As Lowen uncovers a disturbing unpublished manuscript, she begins to question everything she thought she knew about Verity and her husband, as dark secrets and unexpected twists emerge.

Tom Cruise takes on one of the most unexpected roles of his career in Digger, the latest film from Academy Award winning director Alejandro González Iñárritu. Leaving behind the action heroes that made him famous, Cruise plays eccentric oil tycoon Digger Rockwell, a man who triggers a global catastrophe before embarking on a desperate mission to convince the world that he alone can save it. Blending dark comedy, satire and spectacle, Digger promises a bold and unpredictable cinematic experience.

Gripping drama inspired by the true events behind The Facebook Files. Rather than revisiting Facebook’s creation, the film explores the social media giant’s global influence and the whistleblowing revelations that exposed its inner workings. Mikey Madison stars as former Facebook engineer Frances Haugen, alongside Jeremy Allen White as journalist Jeff Horwitz and Jeremy Strong as Mark Zuckerberg. Bringing corporate drama, investigative journalism and real world controversy to the big screen.

Wife and Dog

Sense & Sensibility

The Death of Robin Hood

Guy Ritchie returns to the world of privilege, power and deception with Wife and Dog, a sharp black comedy thriller boasting an exceptional British cast.

Benedict Cumberbatch, Rosamund Pike and Sir Anthony Hopkins lead the film, joined by James Norton, Paddy Considine and Cosmo Jarvis. Set within the ruthless world of the British aristocracy, the story follows a bitter battle for succession that unleashes greed, betrayal and murder among the influential Fairbank family.

Stylish direction, razor sharp dialogue.

Elegant new adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel directed by Georgia Oakley and brings fresh life to one of English literature’s most enduring stories. Daisy Edgar­Jones stars as the passionate Marianne Dashwood, alongside Esmé Creed­Miles as her sensible sister Elinor.

Following the death of their father, the sisters must navigate love, heartbreak and social expectations in Regency England.

With a distinguished supporting cast and sumptuous period settings, the film captures Austen’s wit and romance.

Director Michael Sarnoski presents a dark and thoughtful reimagining of the legendary outlaw. Hugh Jackman stars as an ageing Robin Hood, haunted by a lifetime of violence and poor choices.

After suffering grave injuries, he finds refuge with a mysterious woman played

by Jodie Comer, who offers him a chance of redemption. Also starring Bill Skarsgård as Little John, the film explores guilt, mortality and the burden of legend, delivering a gritty and emotional farewell to one of folklore’s greatest heroes.

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Whalefall

Ghosts: The Possession of Button House

The Uprising

Based on Daniel Kraus’s acclaimed bestselling novel, Whalefall is an intense survival thriller directed by Brian Duffield.

Austin Abrams stars as Jay Gardiner, a young scuba diver searching for the remains of his late father, played by Josh Brolin, when he is swallowed alive by a giant sperm whale. Trapped deep beneath the ocean with only minutes of oxygen remaining, Jay must battle fear, grief and impossible odds to escape.

Edge of your seat suspense with a deeply emotional story of family and loss.

Fans of the much loved BBC comedy Ghosts can look forward to a big screen adventure as Ghosts: The Possession of Button House arrives in cinemas this October. The film reunites the original cast, with the writers also returning to pen a brand new story. Expect another witty and supernatural visit to Button House, where its eccentric collection of ghosts are joined by new faces for one final hauntingly funny adventure.

Written and directed by Paul Greengrass.

Set during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, the historical action drama stars Andrew Garfield as a ploughman who becomes the leader of a ferocious rebellion against the tyranny of King Richard II. As conflict spreads across England, he raises an army of ordinary people to fight for justice and survival. Featuring an impressive supporting cast including Jamie Bell, Stephen Dillane, Tom Hollander, Cosmo Jarvis, Thomasin McKenzie, Jonny Lee Miller and Katherine Waterston.

Heart of the Beast

Pressure

Lady

Brad Pitt stars in this intense survival thriller. James Belmont is a former Special Forces soldier whose aircraft crashes deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Stranded far from civilisation, his only companion is Odin, a loyal retired combat dog that served alongside him during his military career. Together they must battle extreme weather, dangerous terrain and packs of wolves in a desperate fight for survival.

Combining action and emotion, the film explores resilience, friendship and the bond between a man and his dog.

The untold story of the D­Day landings.

Based on the acclaimed stage play by David Haig, Andrew Scott stars as meteorologist James Stagg, the man tasked with advising Allied commanders on the weather conditions that would determine the success or failure of D­Day. Brendan Fraser portrays General Dwight D. Eisenhower, with Kerry Condon, Damian Lewis and Chris Messina also starring. 72 hours before the Normandy landings, the film frames a crucial historical decision as a high­stakes race.

Lady arrives in cinemas this August as an eccentric British comedy­drama blending sharp satire with surreal humour. Starring Fleabag actress Sian Clifford alongside Juliet Cowan and Laurie Kynaston, the film follows aristocratic socialite Lady Isabella, who hires a documentary crew to capture her glamorous life — only for events to spiral into increasingly bizarre territory. Directed by Samuel Abrahams, the film explores fame, loneliness and privilege with wit and warmth.

Stylish, offbeat and distinctly British!

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STEEP HILL AND BAILGATE

Exhausting... but satisfying. Just like at the end of every rainbow there’s a pot of gold, at the summit of Steep Hill there’s Uphill Lincoln.

The area can keep visitors or locals alike very busy with lots of history to discover, some of Lincolnshire’s finest independent businesses and, best of all, with plenty of places to enjoy a rest with a drink and perhaps a bite to eat after navigating that one in seven (14%) gradient.

Exploring Lincoln’s Historic

Steep Hill and

Bailgate

Steep Hill is officially England’s fifth steepest inhabited street, after Bristol’s Vale Street, North Wales’s Ffordd Pen Llech, Worcestershire’s Old Wyche Road and Sheffield’s Blake Street.

Roman Lincoln is Conquered The presence of the Romans in AD60 is thanks to the settlement’s strategically advantageous position, overlooking the Witham. Lindum Colonia, or more specifically Upper Lindum Colonia was established during the reign of Emperor Nero, shortly before the establishment of Lower Lindum Colonia, the area we now know as Brayford.

Words: Rob Davis.

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A keen property developer, William the Conqueror arrived in 1068, much to the annoyance of Harold Godwinson, and the Anglo Saxons. The Castle was created with a motte-and-bailey on the

site of an old Roman fort, with construction of the Cathedral opposite starting in 1072.

At the end of Bailgate, Newport Arch, the oldest Roman arch still used daily by traffic, is about 1,700 years old whilst Pottergate and Priory Arch are a C13th archway restored in 1884 and an 1816 replica of a C14th gatehouse.

Other evidence of the Romans includes The Mint Wall just off West Bight, visible remains of the East Gate on, er, Eastgate, and The Well at St Paul in the Bail. Exchequer Gate in Castle Square was a later addition, added in the C14th.

Lincoln’s Jewish Heritage On The Strait, at the foot of Steep Hill, are Jews House and Jews Court. Only five medieval Jewish houses remain in Britain following the expulsion of the Jews in 1290 by King Edward I. Leading Jewish figures in Lincoln’s history include Aaron of Lincoln who was believed to be the wealthiest man in Norman England, and Rabbi Berechaiah of Nicole, a leading C13th Tosafist.

History Set in Stone And on the subject of Uphill Lincoln’s notable buildings, on the corner of Steep Hill and Michaelgate is 40 & 42 Michaelgate. Affectionately known as the Wonky House, the 16th century Grade II building is currently undergoing a careful programme of restoration, thanks to fundraising of more than £450,000 by Heritage Lincolnshire. It’s hoped The Wonky House will begin a new life as holiday accommodation, the revenue from which will preserve it, and the Harlequin next door, for years to come.

Banking on a place in history On Castle Hill itself, Lincoln’s Visitor Information Centre is now located within Leigh-Pemberton House. The Grade II*-listed, half-timbered building was built in 1543 for a merchant but the building served as a bank from 1899 to 1979.

The National and Provincial Bank operated from 1833, one of a number of banks set up following the Country Bankers Act of 1826 which fixed a number of problems in the banking system and essentially facilitated the creation of the retail banking sector.

National, Provincial and Westminster banks and a number of other banks merged and in 1968 the bank went by the name of National Westminster, as NatWest is still known today.

Leigh-Pemberton House in which the bank was based was gifted by Robin Leigh-Pemberton, Chairman of the bank and later Governor of the Bank of England from 1983-1989 to the City of Lincoln in 1979, whereupon it became a visitor information centre.

Making tracks Another historical footnote for Uphill Lincoln was written in the late summer of 1915 when Britain sought a machine capable of crossing trenches, mud and barbed wire.

In the White Hart Hotel’s Tank Room, William Ashbee Tritton, managing director of Lincoln agricultural engineers William Foster & Company, Image: Andrew Scott/Visit Lincoln.

met naval engineer Walter Gordon Wilson and Foster’s chief draughtsman, William Rigby, to develop secret proposals for a tracked armoured vehicle.

Their ideas were turned into metal at Foster’s Wellington Works, where the experimental Lincoln No. 1 Machine, later nicknamed Little Willie, became the world’s first tank prototype.

On 9th September 2025, Lincolnshire engineer and television presenter Guy Martin brought his full size replica Mark IV tank, Deborah II, to the White Hart. Parked outside the hotel, it provided a spectacular backdrop as plaques commemorated the Tank Room’s place in history and its recognition as a World Origin Site and Transport Heritage Site.

A few famous visitors Guy Martin is just the latest in a succession of famous people to admire Uphill Lincoln. In the 1920s RAF College Cranwell was home to T.E. Lawrence ‘Lawrence of Arabia,’ who lodged on Steep Hill in what is now Hobbsons Pie Shop. He would often be seen racing his Brough motorcycle against Bristol Fighter aircraft on the A15 and worked on his best-known work, Seven Pillars of Wisdom, living incognito as T. E. Shaw until his identity was discovered whereupon he left Lincoln.

Not to be confused with T. E Lawrence, T. S. Eliot also visited Uphill Lincoln in 1935, giving an address at the Lincoln Diocesan Conference as a guest of Bishop Nugent Hicks, staying at the Medieval Bishop’s Palace.

Queen Elizabeth II also visited Lincoln in June 1958, enjoying a tour of the Cathedral. And only last year, The Duke of Edinburgh was welcomed to the building and invited to see the Lincoln Imp. And some haunting figures too Uphill Lincoln’s ancient streets are rich in ghostly tales.

STEEP HILL AND BAILGATE

Greestone Steps form an ancient pedestrian route from Lindum Road towards the Cathedral Close. The Grade I listed pathway and its arch date principally from the late thirteenth century, with a fourteenth century section of the Close wall alongside, creating one of Uphill Lincoln’s most atmospheric medieval passages.

The steps are said to be the most haunted place in the whole county, with a cleric, a spectral woman carrying a baby and even Saint Hugh’s severed head. Nearby, at Hobbsons, a child has reportedly been seen running through otherwise empty rooms.

Haunting Lincoln Castle’s former Victorian prison, meanwhile, is the so called White Woman, believed to be the spirit of a former female inmate.

Accounts describe a woman climbing

the steps towards the old gallows.

Jangling keys and disembodied cries are said to echo through the empty cells and prison chapel.

Art and history in Uphill Lincoln As well as ghosts, Uphill Lincoln is also rather popular with artists and craftspeople. Architectural illustrator Matt Wright’s Papestry celebrates Uphill Lincoln with remarkable precision.

Over nine months, he painstakingly drew every building on the eastern side of Bailgate and Steep Hill, capturing windows, rooftops and individual bricks across a work almost six metres long.

Completed in early summer, it was displayed at the Usher Gallery into July. Following a well earned break, Matt plans to begin again, recording the western side of the quarter.

Nearby, Lincoln Museum, formerly The Collection, is approaching its reopening on Danes Terrace following a major redevelopment. New displays will reinterpret thousands of years of Lincolnshire history, bringing important archaeological objects into fresh, accessible galleries.

The adjoining Usher Gallery remains an essential destination for art lovers, with paintings, sculpture, silver, watches, porcelain and changing exhibitions, including works connected with artists such as George Stubbs and Joshua Reynolds. Uphill Lincoln also rewards smaller discoveries.

The Little Red Gallery on Bailgate presents contemporary original art and prints, while Harding House Gallery showcases ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles, paintings and prints within a beautiful historic building.

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HOMES

INSIDE: HOMES • INTERIORS • GARDENS • LUXURY PROPERTY • 45

WELCOME HOME

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THE OLD RECTORY, SCAMPTON, LINCOLN

he Old Rectory in Scampton is a substantial Grade II listed country house offering extensive family accommodation, a self contained annexe and established gardens extending to about 1.93 acres.

Built in limestone beneath a pantile roof, the property has an imposing yet balanced exterior, with sash windows, tall chimneys and a distinctive curved bay overlooking the grounds. It is offered through Savills with a guide price of £1,500,000.

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WELCOME HOME

The house has been carefully updated while retaining the architectural details that give it its character. Decorative cornicing, ceiling roses, fireplaces, exposed structure and well proportioned rooms sit comfortably alongside a neutral decorative scheme and modern fittings.

Large sash windows bring in natural light, while the restrained interiors allow the scale and workmanship of the original building to remain evident. Across the main house and annexe there is approximately 6,851 square feet of internal accommodation, with two detached garages adding a further 1,234 square feet.

At the centre of the ground floor is an L shaped kitchen, dining and sitting room designed for everyday use and entertaining.

The kitchen is fitted with Shaker style cabinetry, integrated appliances, a range cooker and a central island.

The dining area has space for a generous table, while the adjoining sitting area includes a cast iron open fireplace. Double doors open directly onto the south facing rear garden, linking the room with the terraces and lawns beyond.

The formal drawing room is a notably elegant space, with decorative cornicing, a ceiling rose and a crescent shaped bay incorporating French doors to the garden. A further reception room provides a more informal setting, distinguished by its double height ceiling and log burning stove.

Together, the principal rooms give the house considerable flexibility, with space for larger gatherings as well as quieter family life. A utility room and supporting service areas complete the practical ground floor accommodation.

The principal bedroom occupies the first floor and has an en suite bathroom together with an adjoining dressing room, which could instead be used as a further bedroom. The remaining accommodation is arranged across the first and second floors, providing up to ten bedrooms in the main house, served by additional bathrooms and a shower room. The layout allows rooms to be assigned as guest suites, studies or hobby spaces according to the needs of its next owners.

Adjoining the house is a self contained annexe arranged over two floors. Its ground floor provides an open plan kitchen, dining and sitting room, while upstairs are two en suite bedrooms. This creates useful independent accommodation for extended family, guests or staff, without separating it entirely from the main residence.

A long driveway leads directly to a paved courtyard and two substantial detached garages. The grounds combine sweeping lawns with mature trees, established borders and areas of woodland that provide shelter and privacy.

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WELCOME HOME

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Paved and gravel terraces offer several places for outdoor dining, while the heated swimming pool is positioned close to the house and surrounded by a broad paved terrace.

Scampton lies about six miles north of Lincoln, placing the house within straightforward reach of the city while preserving the space and privacy of village life.

The Old Rectory is a house of genuine scale, but its appeal lies equally in the way its rooms, annexe and gardens can support everyday family life.

It now awaits new custodians who will value its listed architecture, make full use of its generous accommodation and enjoy summers around the pool, gatherings in the open plan kitchen and quieter days within its mature gardens.

The Old Rectory Scampton, Lincoln

Location: Scampton. Lincoln 6.7 miles.

Wragby 13.6 miles. Gainsborough 13.2 miles.

Accommodation: Four reception rooms currently arranged as open plan living kitchen, drawing room, family room and living room. 10 bedrooms with dressing room and en suite to master and five further bathrooms/shower rooms.

Over 1.9 acres of grounds, swimming pool.

Guide Price £1,500,000.

Find Out More: Currently on the market with Savills of Lincoln, call 01522 508900 or see www.savills.co.uk.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Timber Windows THE SECRETS OF KERB APPEAL

H

as your home got the look? Walk down any street in England and you can tell, almost instinctively, whether the doors and windows of a home really suit the structure of the building. When the windows are wrong it is blindingly obvious – but when they have been chosen well, or the original windows and doors preserved, the effect is often simply beautiful.

So, what should you consider when investing in new Timber Windows?

For many homeowners, restoring the integrity of the original structure is paramount. Choosing windows and doors that faithfully replicate the appearance of the building in its heyday, but with 21st century performance, is now achievable with the Timber Windows range.

Whilst some customers follow the conservation route, for others the opportunity to blend traditional and contemporary styles is a serious temptation. Pairing a stunning contemporary front door with beautiful box sash windows may give the individuality that your home has been longing for. Rest assured that any investment in Timber Windows will help to restore the real value of your home!

Time was when every window frame in sight was white, or unsightly aluminium.

Today the choice of factory applied colours and finishes available for all timber windows & doors adds a level of choice our predecessors would envy. With natural timber finishes, subtle shades of green, blue and grey, as well as pristine white and elegant black, the Timber Windows colour palette can help to highlight or to blend in.

And finally let’s not forget your neighbours, those passing by and even future purchasers. Style, colour and your choice of windows and doors all have a part to play in how your home is regarded – but rest assured that any investment in Timber Windows will help to restore the real value of your home.

Visit our showrooms in Caythorpe, Market Harborough and Stamford, and a member of our expert team will be happy to advise how you can enhance the value and beauty of your home.

For more information visit Timber Windows of Lincoln at The Old Barn, Elms Farm, Frieston Heath, Caythorpe, NG32 3HD or call 01400 272 538. Timber Windows of Stamford is based on Belton Street, Stamford, PE9 2EF, call 01780 322 538. Timber Windows of Market Harborough is based on Northampton Road, Market Harborough, LE16 9HB, call 01858 450928. See www.timberwindows.com.

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

Tel: 01507 527113

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

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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.

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really love this time of year, not only because it is my birthday month, but because of the smell of bonfires, shorter days and cosy evenings by the fire. October is one of the busiest and most rewarding months in the garden. Lift and divide overcrowded herbaceous perennials, collect seed, continue cutting flowers for the house, plant up winter containers and start planting spring flowering bulbs. Not everything needs tidying. Many herbaceous perennials provide winter structure, food for wildlife and visual interest long after flowering has finished.

Brown is still a colour. Seed heads of Achillea, Echinacea, Agastache and Rudbeckia deserve to remain in place throughout winter. If you want to collect seed, cut a few stems, hang them upside down over a paper bag and save the seed for sowing next spring.

Looking Beyond Colour When gardeners think of October, autumn colour usually dominates. Fiery maples, golden birches and crimson foliage are spectacular, but texture is what gives a garden depth and character. As flowers fade, texture becomes one of the most important design elements.

Look at ornamental grasses glowing in low sunlight, dew covered seed heads, peeling bark and evergreen foliage.

A useful trick is to squint slightly while looking across a border. Fine textures appear soft and airy, while coarse textures become bolder, quickly revealing areas where planting lacks variety or contrast.

One of the easiest ways to improve texture is to introduce plants that perform across several seasons rather than for just a few weeks. Evergreen shrubs provide a constant backdrop, ornamental grasses offer movement from late summer into winter, while plants with attractive bark or colourful stems continue to earn their place long after flowering has finished. Aim for a mixture of fine, medium and bold textures within each border so that every plant has something different to play against.

Leave Some Plants Standing Many gardeners still cut back herbaceous perennials as soon as flowering finishes. Yet spent flowers and seed heads often provide the most attractive features of the autumn garden. Echinacea, sedum, Rudbeckia and teasel all develop striking architectural forms that persist well into winter while providing food and shelter for wildlife.

Instead of clearing everything away, leave a selection of perennials standing until late winter. Choose three or four varieties this year and see how they perform before deciding whether they deserve a permanent place in your borders.

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Gardening The Value of Contrast Ornamental grasses are autumn’s texture champions.

Miscanthus, Deschampsia and Pennisetum all add movement and softness, often becoming more attractive as the season progresses. Their flower heads catch frost and shimmer in low sunlight.

Plant grasses where they can be backlit by the rising or setting sun and combine them with plants that have bold leaves or strong forms. Texture always works best through contrast. Pair feathery foliage with glossy leaves, smooth bark with rough stone or large leaved Bergenia alongside finely divided foliage. When choosing new plants, ask yourself not what colour they are, but what texture they contribute.

Looking Ahead to Winter October mornings often provide some of the year’s finest displays. Dew clings to spider webs, seed heads and grasses, while the first frosts outline every stem with sparkling crystals. Plants with intricate structures create the greatest effect, making this another reason not to over tidy the garden.

Before cutting back a perennial, ask whether its ageing structure still contributes visually. Fading hydrangea flowers, opening seed pods and curling leaves all add seasonal character. The best October plants continue performing well through the colder months, with upright seed heads, attractive stems and evergreen foliage maintaining interest after flowers have disappeared.

Trees, Stone and Autumn Light Trees contribute far more than autumn colour. Silver birch trunks create elegant vertical rhythm, mature oaks provide rugged bark and multi stemmed trees add layers of shadow. Fallen leaves beneath evergreen groundcover or ornamental grasses create another attractive layer of texture.

October is also an excellent month to review the garden honestly. Make a note of borders that feel empty once summer flowers have faded and consider where ornamental grasses, evergreen shrubs or winter flowering plants could strengthen the display next year. Good gardens are planned across all four seasons, and thoughtful additions this autumn will pay dividends into spring.

Hard landscaping also comes into its own during October. Weathered timber, old brickwork, natural stone and gravel become more noticeable as herbaceous planting dies back, while rain deepens colours and reveals surface detail. Combining contrasting materials with planting creates interest throughout the year.

Perhaps October’s greatest lesson is simply to slow down and observe. The garden is quieter now, inviting closer inspection. A frosted grass plume, a weathered seed head or peeling bark can be every bit as beautiful as a summer flower. Look beyond autumn colour and focus on texture. Once you begin to notice it, your planting decisions will never be quite the same again.

OCTOBER IN THE GARDEN Sow sweet peas in pots in a greenhouse or on a bright windowsill for early flowers next year.

Order spring bulbs and bedding plants, and plant winter containers.

Plant herbaceous and tree peonies. Herbaceous types need full sun with buds 3 to 5cm below soil level.

Clear fallen leaves from lawns and paths, composting them separately to make valuable leaf mould.

Tree peonies prefer sun or dappled shade and should be planted with the graft 10 to 15cm below soil level.

Turn compost heaps to improve airflow and encourage beneficial microbes.

Plant out hardy annuals and biennials sown earlier in the year.

Prune climbing and rambling roses after flowering, tying in new stems before autumn winds arrive.

Continue cutting late flowering annuals such as cosmos, nicotiana and sunflowers for indoor displays.

Sow winter salads, clear greenhouse crops, plant garlic.

Remove straw from around strawberry plants to improve air circulation.

Aerate lawns with a garden fork.

Lift and divide congested herbaceous perennials to rejuvenate plants and create free new stock.

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SPRINGFIELDS, SUDBROOKE, LINCOLN An exceptional family residence individually designed and constructed in 2017 by renowned local developer Millcroft Development as their family home. Six bedrooms, outstanding open-plan kitchen and dining space, 4,300 sq ft living space, in one of Lincoln’s most sought-after villages.

Guide Price £1,500,000

James Mulhall Lincoln james.mulhall@brown-co.com 07919 694 232

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SECURING THE FUTURE OF RURAL BUSINESS WITH BROWN&CO As taxation, planning, agricultural support and environmental policy continue to evolve, Brown&Co considers the pressures facing Lincolnshire’s rural economy and explains why strategic planning, diversification and adaptability will be essential for farming families, landowners and rural businesses WORDS: CHRIS SHELDON - PARTNER, AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS CONSULTANCY, BROWN&CO. For generations, Lincolnshire’s countryside has been shaped by a

overwhelming majority of MPs represent urban and suburban

connection to the land and the rural way of life. Today, however, rural

communities. As a result, farming and rural issues can struggle to compete

businesses are facing one of the most significant periods of change in

for attention against priorities affecting larger population centres.

recent memory. With Andy Burnham leading a Labour government

Despite these challenges, opportunities continue to emerge. Demand for

backed by a substantial parliamentary majority, decisions made in

land is increasingly being driven by renewable energy projects,

Westminster are continuing to influence how farmers, landowners and

biodiversity initiatives, natural capital markets and environmental

rural businesses plan for the future.

schemes alongside traditional food production.

From taxation and agricultural support to planning, housing and

Many businesses are exploring how these opportunities can complement

environmental policy, the direction of travel is becoming clearer. The

existing farming operations and provide additional income streams.

challenge is understanding what those changes mean for investment,

Succession planning is also high on the agenda for many farming families.

profitability and long-term business resilience.

Open conversations and clear plans can help businesses adapt to change,

At Brown&Co, we work with clients across every part of the rural economy.

protect family relationships and avoid costly disputes. In an increasingly

Through our agri-business, land agency, planning and development,

complex tax and policy environment, planning ahead has never been

residential, commercial and valuation teams, we help clients take a

more important.

strategic view of their assets and opportunities. Bringing these services

The recent Farming Profitability Review led by Baroness Minette Batters

together under one roof gives us a unique perspective on the challenges

challenged policymakers to rethink how agriculture’s contribution is

and opportunities facing rural Lincolnshire.

measured. Farming is often described as contributing just 0.6% of UK GDP,

One of the most contentious issues has been Labour’s changes to

yet the wider agri-food sector supports around £150 billion of economic

Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR). The

activity and more than 400,000 jobs. The review argues that the value of

Country Land and Business Association (CLA) and National Farmers’

farming goes far beyond economics alone, encompassing food security,

Union (NFU) have both expressed concern that increased inheritance tax

environmental stewardship and the health of rural communities.

liabilities could limit investment in family farms and rural enterprises,

For rural businesses, the greatest challenge is not change itself but the

reducing the capital available for growth, diversification and

pace of change. Those best placed to succeed will be the businesses that

environmental improvements.

remain adaptable, embrace new

The implications extend far beyond farming. Rural businesses support local

opportunities and take a long-term

jobs, village services, tourism, renewable energy projects and environmental

view. Lincolnshire’s countryside has

management. Yet there remains a perception within the sector that the

always evolved, and with the right

countryside is often overlooked when national policy is developed.

support, investment and policy

That concern is understandable. According to Defra, only 11% of

framework, it will continue to do so for

England’s population lives in majority rural constituencies, meaning the

generations to come.

Brown&Co provides a full range of rural land agency, agricultural and business consultancy services plus architectural and planning residential and commercial property agency services. The firm was established in 1993 and has 12 offices across the UK including one on Lincoln’s Oakwood Road. To find out how the company can help you, call 01522 457800, email lincoln@brown-co.com or see www.brown-co.com.

LEAKE’S MASONRY LTD TRADITIONAL STONEMASONS SINCE 1840 New granite and marble memorials, additionals and cleaning work undertaken.

EVE STREET | LOUTH | LINCS | LN11 0JJ T: 01507 604 828 E: leakesmasonry@aol.com

www.leakesmasonry.co.uk

66

Luxury Homes

Legbourne Abbey Louth A charming and private country residence set within a ring-fenced holding on the edge of the stunning Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape.

Guide price £1,425,000 Savills Olympic House, Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3SE. Call 01522 508908 or see www.savills.co.uk

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 67

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

HIGH ROAD WESTON | SPALDING | LINCOLNSHIRE | PE12 6JU

• Luxurious and Spacious Well Appointed Four FOR SALE Bedroomed Detached Bungalow FREEHOLD WITH • Desirable Location Close to Amenities and VACANT POSSESSION Good Transport Links • Large Double Garage Workshop, Potential for a Separate Annexe, Significant Loft Storage Subject To Contract • Integral Solar Panels (4KW), Dual Room 8KW Log No Onward Chain Burner, Solar Boost for Hot Water

£595,000

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• Large Private Gardens and Heated Indoor Swimming Pool

OUR SOUTH STREET OFFICE

POYNTONS 24-28 SOUTH STREET PREMIER PROPERTY MARKETING & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

LUXURY HOMES

The Grove

Beagle Cottage

Lincoln

Boothby Pagnell

A substantial detached dwelling set in 0.25 of an acre in one of the most prestigious streets of the Cathedral Quarter. The expansive accommodation has been used as a family home for many years.

A refined country home, quietly positioned within mature grounds in the sought-after village of Boothby Pagnell.

Dating back to 1897, the house has been reimagined to create a warm and characterful family home.

Guide Price £895,000

Guide price £900,000

Brown&Co 5 Oakwood Rd, Lincoln LN6 3LH. Call 01522 457800 or see www.brown-co.com

Parry & Grace Luffenham Rd, Lyndon, Oakham LE15 8TY. Call 01572 453144 or see www.parryandgrace.co.uk

Heydour House

Oak Dene

Grantham

Cleethorpes

A handsome Grade II listed former rectory with seven bedrooms, an annexe and stunning gardens, in a picturesque and peaceful village location.

A timeless Edwardian masterpiece nestling between Oxford Street and Bradford Avenue, set within a third of an acre of beautiful and private landscaped mature gardens.

Offers in excess of £1,500,000

£1,250,000

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

Martin & Co 4-6 Abbey Walk, Grimsby DN31 1NB. Call 01472 311000 or see www.martinco.com 69

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

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LUXURY HOMES

Willowside

Binbrook House

Sudbrooke

Market Rasen

An exceptional detached family home originally set on two individual building plots occupying a beautiful double plot in a prestigious village setting including an extensive range of outbuildings.

Binbrook House is a substantial detached house that features more than 4,500 square feet of accommodation, while the converted farm outbuildings house five separate holiday cottages.

Offers over £1,300,000

Offers in excess of £999,950

Winkworth 3 North Gate, Sleaford NG34 7BH. Call 01529 303377 or see www.winkworth.co.uk

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

Grainthorpe

Acorn House

Louth

Witham On The Hill

This immaculate five-bedroom detached house is offered for sale in a rural setting of Grainthorpe, on the outskirts of Louth, combining extensive accommodation with substantial grounds and outbuildings.

Enjoys breathtaking views, located on the outskirts of Witham on the Hill, a picturesque village nestled in the rolling countryside of Lincolnshire, offering a serene and idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle.

Offers in Excess of £1,190,000

Guide price £1,400,000

YOPA Call 0330 808 7966 or see www.yopa.co.uk

King West 13 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk 71

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

72

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

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

LUXURY HOMES

James Street

Wellsyke Farm

Lincoln

Kirkby on Bain

A fine four-bedroom detached house in an exclusive Uphill Lincoln position, featuring south-facing gardens and unrivalled views of Lincoln Cathedral.

A ring-fenced highly versatile arable farm with large period house in close proximity to the sought after former spa town of Woodhall Spa.

Offers in excess of £1,500,000

Guide price £3,430,000

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

Robert Bell & Company Old Bank Chambers, Horncastle, LN9 5HY. Call 01507 522222 www.robert-bell.org

The Old Hall

Elms Farm

Fenton

Spridlington

Stunning Grade II listed detached country residence situated in the heart of this popular village. The idyllic gated approach, with an in and out drive and private pond, leads to this delightful spacious home.

A contemporary Grade II listed barn conversion home with five bedrooms and elegant, minimalist modern styling throughout, in the charming rural village of Spridlington.

Guide Price £1,450,000

Offers in excess of £1,250,000

Alasdair Morrison & Mundys Middle Gate, Newark, NG24 1AL. Call 01636 700888 or see www.amorrison-mundys.net

Savills Olympic House, Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3SE. Call 01522 508908 or see www.savills.co.uk 73

74

LUXURY HOMES

Eagle Moor

The Shaws

Lincoln

Hough-on-the-Hill

Executive five bedroom family home plus a self contained annexe occupying a generous plot within the semi-rural hamlet of Eagle Moor. Benefits include but not limited to a quadruple garage.

A stunning detached renovated farmhouse with outbuildings and bespoke interiors, set within an idyllic rural setting with exceptional far-reaching views, approx. 6.2 miles from Grantham.

Guide price £1,075,000

Offers in excess of £1,395,000

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

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

The Old Wood

Horncastle Road

Skellingthorpe

Woodhall Spa

Tucked away within The Old Wood, Skellingthorpe, and surrounded by mature woodland, this remarkable home offers a lifestyle that is genuinely hard to replicate.

A rare opportunity to acquire a property backing close to the first green and second tee of the world-famous Hotchkin Golf Course, widely considered one of the absolute finest inland courses in the United Kingdom.

Offers over £1,350,000

£1,200,000

Walters Cromwell House, Tritton Road, Lincoln LN6 7YT. Call 01522 512 513 or see www.walters-property.com

Robert Bell & Company Station Rd, Woodhall Spa LN10 6QL. Call 01526 353333 www.robert-bell.org 75

ON THE FARM

76

FARMING

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

O

ctober is one of the most important months in the farming calendar.

The dust and pressure of harvest have passed, but there is little opportunity to pause. Instead, attention turns almost immediately towards establishing next year’s crops, caring for livestock through the change of season and making the most of the narrowing window of favourable autumn weather.

Across Lincolnshire, where cereals and other arable crops dominate the landscape, combines have long since returned to the sheds and cultivation equipment takes centre stage. Fields that only weeks ago carried wheat, barley or oilseed rape are now being prepared for winter drilling.

Depending on soil type and conditions, farmers may choose to plough, cultivate with discs or tines, or employ direct-drilling techniques that minimise soil disturbance whilst preserving moisture and improving soil structure.

October is the principal month for drilling winter wheat, Britain’s most important cereal crop. Timing is everything. Drilling too early can increase disease pressure and encourage weeds such as blackgrass, whilst leaving fields too late risks poorer establishment if heavy rain arrives. Farmers constantly watch both the weather forecast and soil conditions, often working late into the evening whenever conditions are right. Winter barley, rye and oats may also be drilled during the month, alongside cover crops that help improve soil health, reduce erosion and capture nutrients.

Lincolnshire’s vegetable growers are equally busy. The county remains one of Britain’s

most productive areas for brassicas, potatoes, onions, carrots and sugar beet. October sees sugar beet lifting gathering pace, with harvesters delivering thousands of tonnes to British Sugar’s factory in Newark.

Potato lifting continues wherever ground conditions allow, whilst carrots and brassicas are harvested daily to supply supermarkets and pumpkin patches open to families.

Livestock farmers are also preparing for colder weather. Autumn-calving dairy herds require close attention, whilst many beef cattle begin moving from pasture into winter housing as grass growth slows. Buildings are cleaned, bedding is laid and forage stocks are carefully assessed to ensure sufficient silage and hay are available throughout winter.

October is equally important behind the scenes. Machinery receives maintenance after the intense demands of harvest, grain stores are regularly inspected and marketed, and detailed plans are drawn up for fertiliser, seed purchases and crop protection programmes.

Many farms also continue environmental work, establishing wild bird seed mixes, maintaining hedgerows where permitted and creating habitats that support pollinators and farmland wildlife.

The wider farming community also comes together during October. On 15th October, the British Farming Awards return to the NEC Birmingham, celebrating excellence, innovation and resilience across every sector of British agriculture. The awards recognise outstanding farmers, family businesses and rural enterprises from across the UK, whilst the Young British Farming Awards shine a spotlight on the next generation of talented farmers whose ideas and enthusiasm will help shape the future of the industry.

Watch Wardy’s Waffle: Our farming correspondent Andrew Ward MBE is an arable farmer in Leadenham growing wheat, barley, sugar beet, 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.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Caring for your

Hearing New Audiology Services at O’Briens Meet Charan Mandeir. He solves arguments between couples. He’s not a relationship counsellor or a therapist. He’s an audiologist, and thanks to his work, patients and their partners emerge from Charan’s consultations finally being able to hear one another... without constantly having to repeat themselves!

Each year over 20 million sight tests are performed by optometrists, compared to just one and a half million hearing assessments. And yet, over 18 million people in Britain live with hearing loss, deafness or tinnitus, which in turn has been linked to social isolation and is thought to double the risk of developing dementia or cognitive decline in later life.

Usually the first indicator of hearing loss is a spouse observing that the TV or radio is loud, or that they have to repeat themselves. Others notice that it becomes difficult to discern a single voice in a crowded space like a restaurant. Hearing loss can be sensorineural in nature (caused by ageing, genetics or loud noise exposure) or conductive (when sound is blocked by earwax, fluid or physiology).

It can also be investigated by audiologists like Charan, who now offers hearing assessments and audiology services from O’Briens in Brigg. Since 1979 O’Briens has been providing the very best sight care with the latest diagnostic equipment under the leadership of Dr Sheeraz Janjua, a Fellow of the Royal College of Optometry and an expert in conditions such as dry-eye disease management, Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and photobiomodulation treatments.

O’Briens’ patients have repeatedly enquired whether the team can also offer hearing services, and so Sheeraz and the team welcomed Charan to the practice to broaden their services. Whilst High Street chains offer some audiology appointments, their technicians are usually hearing aid practitioners, often tied to a single brand of hearing aids. An audiologist is better qualified and, in Charan’s case, provides earwax removal and bespoke hearing protection services for professionals, as well as whole-market access to the latest hearing aids, which enhance the quality, not just the volume, of a user’s hearing.

These are all rechargeable and Bluetooth-compatible, with no fiddly batteries to replace, and they’re capable of enhancing mobile phone calls. Digital technology selectively amplifies the frequencies of sound that need to be boosted, and they can be adjusted by the user via an app on your phone. With behind-the-ear or in-ear designs from names like Phonak, Widex and Unitron, there’s unprecedented choice and Charan offers a trial period of a week or two so you can acclimatise to a hearing aid and have the settings tweaked before choosing to purchase one and have it professionally fitted, with full guidance on its operation.

As with O’Briens’ sight assessments and optical dispensing, customer care is exceptional and consultations are relaxed, with excellent aftercare, unprecedented knowledge and the latest diagnostic technology. For 46 years the practice has been helping patients care for their sight, and now, with its new audiology services, O’Briens can ensure you enjoy unprecedented care for your hearing too.

O’Briens Opticians & Hearing Care is based on Wrawby Street, Brigg, call 01652 653 595 or see www.obriensopticians.co.uk.

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82

Portfolio OCTOBER 2026

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND

FASHION - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS

MOTORS

MEN’S FASHION

Mitsubishi Outlander

250 Years of Tailoring

Gieves & Hawkes LUXURY BRAND

Plug­in hybrid SUV that’s ready for action

FRAGRANCE AND FASHION WITH

TRAVEL

CHANEL

MACHU PICCHU

WILDLIFE

Nature in

Exploring Peru’s World Heritage Site

Autumn Mist and Mellow Fruitfulness

FASHION

BURGUNDY TAKES CENTRE STAGE, AUTUMN COATS AND ACCESSORIES

2

FASHION

BURGUNDY Takes Centre Stage

R

Words & Product Selection: Mandy Bray

ich, sophisticated and effortlessly flattering, burgundy is the defining colour of the season. From sumptuous knitwear and impeccably tailored coats to flowing dresses and luxurious leather accessories,

this deep oxblood hue brings warmth and elegance to every wardrobe.

Equally striking for daytime or evening, it pairs beautifully with camel, charcoal and cream, creating timeless looks with understated confidence.

Get the look: see over the page.

3

Above: Ginevra leather jacket, £695; Harley leather belt, £115; Clever crêpe Adelaide cropped trousers, £185; Roche silk top, £165; Savona patent leather heels, £335; 18k yellow gold Mercy swirl earrings, £750. All available from www.thefoldlondon.com.

4

Check panel wool silk cardigan, £1,250; Check panel wool silk t­shirt, £1,050, www.uk.burberry.com.

5

Hampton waistcoat in mulberry tartan, £299. High­waisted straight trouser £299, blazer to match (not pictured) £399. Ariella blouse in oyster, £149, www.hollandcooper.com.

6

Dia Trench Coat, £450; uk.camillaandmarc.com.

7

Ribbed Jumper In Dark Burgundy, £490; Pressed Skirt In Dark Burgundy, £550; www.victoriabeckham.com.

8

Belted wool­blend wrap coat, £465, www.ralphlauren.co.uk.

9

>> Below: Sawyer self­tie Blouse, £328; www.veronicabeard.com.

Ashby jacket, £269; uk.saintandsofia.com.

Trinity coat, £799, www.hollandcooper.com.

Right: Petra textured leather oversized jacket, £498; www.reiss.com.

Maire hooded short down jacket, £1,400; www.moncler.com.

Padded, hooded gilet in water­repellent canvas, £475; gb.maxmara.com.

10

3 Red Lion Square Stamford, PE9 2AQ Tel: 01780 408 549

saharalondon.com

11

CAMEL CLASS

£320, calvinklein.co.uk

Timeless and effortlessly refined, camel coats in varying shades bring understated luxury to autumn and winter dressing. From soft sand tones to rich toffee hues, they offer a versatile staple that elevates both casual countryside wear and polished town looks with ease. £4,125, gb.max mara.com £799, holland cooper.com £348, reiss.com

£4,600, ralph lauren.co.uk

£750, thefold london.com

£420, welligogs .com

GREEN GLAMOUR

From soft sage to rich forest and deep emerald, green nail polish is this season’s beauty statement. These earthy shades complement autumn’s rich palette beautifully.

£12, essie.co.uk

£17, nailberry.co.uk

£30, chanel.com £30, dior.com

ABOVE: £47, hermes.com.

LEFT: £30, gucci.com.

£279, hollandcooper.com £1,345, gianvitorossi.com

£99, hollandcooper.com

FOREST TOUCH

£285, fairfaxandfavor.com

£1,450, ralphlauren .co.uk

TAN

STEPS

Rich green leather gloves bring a refined seasonal accent to autumn dressing. Supple and elegant, they add warmth and sophistication while pairing beautifully with neutral coats, tailored wool and everyday countryside chic.

£299, uk.saintand sofia.com

Effortlessly chic and wearable, tan ankle boots with heels bring a polished finish to autumn styling. In suede to leather finishes, they offer a flattering neutral base that works beautifully with dresses and tailored trousers.

£209, en.florence kooijman.com

£59, dentsgloves.com.

£275, toryburch.com

£145, aspinaloflondon.com.

£230, withnothingunderneath.com

£198, reiss.com

£169, wraplondon.co.uk

£139, 1861glovemanufactory.com.

Emerald Elegance

£145, desigual.com

From soft sage to deep emerald, blouses in plain and patterned designs bring sophistication to autumn wardrobes. Perfect with tailored trousers or skirts for smart occasions.

£195, pickett.co.uk.

13

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Rolex: Built for Generations A Rolex is never created for a single moment in time. From the first pencil lines of its design to the final inspection before it leaves the workshop, every step of its journey is guided by one uncompromising principle: quality. The result is a timepiece without an expiration date – built not just to be worn, but to be lived with, day after day, and passed from one generation to the next, carrying the stories of those who wore it before

That enduring legacy, however, relies on care as exacting as the standards by which the watch was made. With years often passing between services, a Rolex deserves the attention of experts who understand not only its intricate mechanics, but the heritage behind them. As a Rolex Authorised Service Centre, Hugh Rice offers that reassurance, bringing together deep experience, technical precision and respect for the brand’s legacy.

Hugh Rice is proud to be part of the worldwide network of Rolextrained watchmakers, carefully selected for their uncompromising professionalism and expertise. Following the Rolex Service Procedure, designed to ensure that every timepiece leaving a Rolex workshop complies with its original functional and aesthetic specifications.

Paul Rice, Managing Director at Hugh Rice, said: “We are immensely proud of our Rolex Authorised Service Centre. Our watchmakers are trained, assessed and regularly reviewed by Rolex, ensuring that every service – from a simple bracelet adjustment to a complete overhaul – is carried out with absolute professionalism. Customers can also enjoy added peace of mind knowing their timepiece remains on site throughout the entire process.”

Servicing begins with a meticulous total disassembly of the watch.

Every component is carefully examined for functionality and signs of wear, with any worn or faulty parts replaced to restore the watch to optimal condition.

Each timepiece then undergoes an ultrasonic clean before being expertly reassembled, lubricated and regulated to perform within precise tolerances.

The case and bracelet are also completely dismantled, with all metal components refinished and cleaned to restore their original lustre.

In the final stages, the case is subjected to rigorous waterproof testing before the dial and hands are fitted to the movement.

The movement is then secured within the case, followed by a series of final quality control and performance tests to ensure the watch meets Rolex’s exacting standards.

After a complete service, the watch is protected by a two-year Rolex Service Guarantee – a final mark of confidence in the craftsmanship and care provided. It is reassurance that, in the right hands, a Rolex is not simply maintained but preserved.

Hugh Rice’s accreditation as a Rolex Authorised Service Centre also enables the company to provide interim servicing between the recommended 10-year service intervals, including professional cleaning and polishing.

In addition, Hugh Rice is authorised to carry out warranty work on behalf of Rolex under the five-year international sales guarantee, ensuring every Rolex receives the care it deserves at every stage of its life.

For more information, or to book an appointment at the Rolex Authorised Service Centre at Hugh Rice Hull, call 01482 329 449 or email rolex@hughrice.co.uk. Hugh Rice is based at St Stephen’s Shopping Centre, Hull, HU2 8LN. See www.hughrice.co.uk.

14

>>

The Art of Tailoring

STYLE FOR MEN

16

FOR MORE THAN 250 YEARS, Gieves & Hawkes has defined the benchmark for British menswear from its historic home at No. 1 Savile Row. Blending exceptional craftsmanship with timeless design, each collection offers impeccably tailored suits, refined shirts, luxurious outerwear and beautifully made accessories. Whether investing in a sharp business wardrobe or elevating everyday style, every piece reflects understated confidence, enduring quality and effortless sophistication.

Opposite, large image: Stark Virgin Wool Twill Suit Black, £1,250. Marshall Luxury Leather Trim Suit Cover, £349. Carberry Silk Geometric Purple Tie, £155. Mawbey Cotton Twill Double Cuff Shirt Pink, £225. Tisdall Clint Sterling Silver Cufflinks Navy Sodalite, £225.

This page: Mawbey Cotton Twill Double Cuff Shirt White, £225. Maclean Leather Glove Black, £295. Bellerby & Co Globemakers Print Umbrella with Wooden Handle, £345. Kingsley Wool Cashmere Top Coat Charcoal, £1,295. Roberts Wool Suit Charcoal Marl, £1,250. www.gievesandhawkes.com

¬

17

LUXURY

C CHANEL

ommanding admiration and recognition worldwide, few fashion houses rival Chanel. Synonymous with effortless sophistication, impeccable craftsmanship and timeless style, it has remained at the pinnacle of luxury for well over a century. While trends come and go with remarkable speed, Chanel has never relied on fleeting fashions. Instead, it has built its reputation on creating beautifully made pieces that transcend seasons and generations, becoming treasured investments rather than temporary indulgences.

The story begins with Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, known to the world simply as Coco Chanel. Born in Saumur, France, in 1883, her childhood was far removed from the glamour that would later surround her name. After the death of her mother, she spent much of her youth in an orphanage where she learned to sew, a skill that would ultimately change the course of fashion history.

Before becoming a designer, Chanel worked briefly as a singer in cafés, where she acquired the nickname ‘Coco.’ It was during these years that she developed a keen appreciation for simplicity and practicality, qualities largely absent from women’s fashion at the beginning of the twentieth century. At the time, elaborate gowns, restrictive corsets and extravagant embellishments dominated wardrobes. Chanel believed women deserved clothing that allowed freedom of movement while retaining elegance, an idea that proved revolutionary.

In 1910 she opened her first boutique in Paris, initially selling stylish hats that quickly attracted fashionable clientele. Within a few years she expanded into clothing, introducing relaxed silhouettes crafted from jersey, a fabric previously reserved almost exclusively for men’s underwear. Her use of soft materials, clean lines and understated tailoring transformed the fashion landscape. Rather than dressing women as decorative figures, Chanel designed clothes for modern, independent lives.

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LUXURY BRANDS As the First World War reshaped Europe, practicality became increasingly important. Chanel’s uncomplicated designs reflected changing lifestyles and helped establish a new vision of femininity built upon confidence rather than ornamentation. Her suits, knitwear and sports-inspired separates offered comfort without compromising sophistication.

One of her greatest innovations arrived in 1926 with the introduction of what American Vogue famously described as ‘the frock that all the world will wear.’ Today it is simply known as the little black dress. Before Chanel, black was largely associated with mourning. She transformed it into the very definition of understated chic, creating one of the most influential garments ever designed.

Equally enduring is Chanel No. 5, introduced in 1921. Working alongside perfumer Ernest Beaux, Chanel sought something entirely different from the floral fragrances popular at the time.

The resulting perfume combined more than eighty ingredients with pioneering aldehydes to create a scent that was abstract, elegant and unmistakably modern. Presented in a minimalist bottle that reflected the clean lines of her fashion, Chanel No. 5 became an icon almost overnight.

Its reputation only grew throughout the twentieth century.

Marilyn Monroe famously remarked that she wore nothing to bed but a few drops of Chanel No. 5, helping to cement its place in popular culture. More than one hundred years after its launch, it remains one of the world’s most recognisable and best-loved fragrances.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s Chanel expanded her empire, dressing royalty, Hollywood stars and influential society figures.

Yet the outbreak of the Second World War forced the closure of much of her business. After years away from fashion, many believed her career had ended.

In 1954, at the age of seventy-one, Coco Chanel returned with a collection that initially divided opinion in Paris but received enthusiastic praise in Britain and the United States. Her now legendary tweed suit became the embodiment of refined elegance.

Constructed to move naturally with the wearer, the jacket featured practical patch pockets, decorative braid and a discreet chain sewn into the hem to ensure it always hung perfectly.

Decades later it remains one of fashion’s most recognisable silhouettes.

Alongside the suit came many of Chanel’s enduring signatures.

The quilted handbag, inspired partly by equestrian saddle blankets, debuted in 1955 and remains one of the most coveted accessories ever created. The practical shoulder strap allowed women to keep their hands free, while the distinctive quilting and elegant hardware elevated the bag into an object of desire. Pearls, camellias, monochrome colour palettes and two-tone slingback shoes all became unmistakable hallmarks of the house.

When Coco Chanel died in 1971, many wondered whether the brand could continue without its visionary founder. The answer arrived in 1983 with the appointment of Karl Lagerfeld as Creative Director. Widely regarded as one of fashion’s greatest creative talents, Lagerfeld understood that Chanel’s future

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depended upon respecting its past while embracing the present.

He revitalised the house by reinterpreting its classic codes rather than replacing them. Tweed jackets became lighter and more contemporary, pearls appeared in dramatic layered combinations, quilting extended into new accessories and the interlocking double C logo evolved into one of the world’s most recognisable luxury symbols. Under Lagerfeld’s leadership, Chanel expanded dramatically while preserving the elegance that had always defined it.

Following Lagerfeld’s death in 2019, Virginie Viard continued this philosophy before the appointment of Matthieu Blazy as Artistic Director in 2025, marking another significant chapter in Chanel’s history. Each creative leader has brought fresh ideas while remaining faithful to the house’s enduring principles of refinement, craftsmanship and timeless design.

Today Chanel is far more than a fashion label. It encompasses haute couture, ready-to-wear collections, fine jewellery, high watchmaking, fragrances, cosmetics, eyewear and accessories. Yet despite its global influence, many aspects of production remain rooted in traditional craftsmanship.

The House has invested heavily in preserving the specialist ateliers responsible for embroidery, feather work, pleating, millinery and costume jewellery. These independent workshops, many of which have centuries of expertise, continue to produce extraordinary pieces using techniques that cannot be replicated by machines. Through its subsidiary Paraffection, Chanel has helped safeguard these exceptional crafts for future generations.

Every haute couture garment represents hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of hours of skilled handwork. Fabrics are selected with extraordinary care, embroidery is completed stitch by stitch, and fittings ensure each creation achieves absolute perfection. Although only a small number of clients commission haute couture, the craftsmanship influences every aspect of the brand, from ready-to-wear collections to accessories. The same philosophy extends to Chanel’s watchmaking. The J12, first introduced in 2000, transformed perceptions of ceramic watches with its sleek, contemporary appearance and technical sophistication. Meanwhile, the Première collection pays tribute to the geometric lines of the famous Chanel No. 5 bottle, demonstrating how the house continually draws inspiration from its own remarkable heritage.

Its fine jewellery collections display equal artistry. Inspired by stars, lions, feathers and the camellia flower, each collection combines exceptional gemstones with elegant, wearable design.

Rather than overwhelming the wearer, Chanel jewellery is intended to complement personal style with quiet confidence.

Beauty remains another cornerstone of the house. From luxurious skincare and complexion products to richly pigmented lipsticks and timeless nail colours, Chanel continues to develop cosmetics that reflect its philosophy of natural elegance.

Fragrance also remains central to its identity, with creations such as Coco Mademoiselle, Bleu de Chanel and Chance joining Chanel No. 5 among the world’s most celebrated perfumes.

Gabrielle Bonheur ‘Coco’ Chanel.

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LUXURY BRANDS

Perhaps the greatest achievement of Chanel is its remarkable consistency. In an era increasingly dominated by fast fashion and constant reinvention, the House has remained steadfast in its commitment to quality over quantity and longevity over novelty.

Owning a Chanel jacket, handbag or watch is rarely viewed as following a trend. Instead, it is seen as acquiring an object of enduring beauty that can be appreciated for decades.

This philosophy reflects Coco Chanel’s enduring belief that true luxury is never excessive. It is found in exceptional materials, flawless construction and designs that continue to feel relevant long after they are first introduced. Her famous observation that “fashion fades, only style remains the same” continues to guide the House more than one hundred years after it first opened its doors.

That enduring sense of purpose explains why Chanel remains one of the world’s most admired luxury brands. The qualities that define Chanel have changed remarkably little: elegance without ostentation, innovation rooted in tradition. In a world where so much is temporary, Chanel continues to demonstrate that true style is not measured by the season, but by the passing of generations.

Above: Lagerfeld with Hermann Bühlbecker, Prince Albert II and Charlene, Princess of Monaco (2011).

For more than a century, Chanel has proved that true luxury is not about fashion, but timeless style and craftsmanship

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TRIP OF A LIFETIME

PERU, MACHU PICCHU, THE AMAZON’S EDGE AND ANDEAN SKIES

A

thin layer of mist clings to the Sacred Valley like a thought you half remember but cannot quite place. Somewhere below, a river argues with the rocks, unconcerned with the fact that visitors have flown halfway across the world to stand quietly and try not to look out of breath.

There is a particular moment, somewhere between landing in Lima and the slow climb towards Cusco, when Peru begins to feel less like a destination and more like a geological argument. The Andes do not so much rise as insist. They arrive without apology, filling the horizon in a way that makes even seasoned travellers briefly reconsider their life choices, or at least their choice of footwear.

Most journeys to Machu Picchu begin in Lima, a sprawling coastal capital that behaves like a continent of its own.

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TRIP OF A LIFETIME

From the UK, the sensible route is usually via East Midlands or Manchester into Heathrow, then a long-haul flight across the Atlantic and down the spine of South America. The numbers are not small.

Expect around 12 hours to Lima, sometimes more if the gods of aviation decide you need a longer conversation with Madrid or Amsterdam en route. From Lima, it is a further hop of roughly 1 hour 20 minutes into Cusco, the ancient Incan capital perched at altitude like it has always preferred the view from above.

Cusco itself sits at over 3,000 metres, which is the point where polite conversation becomes mildly effortful and stairs begin to feel like a personal challenge. Most travellers will tell you to take it gently. They are correct. It is also the point where a cup of coca tea is no longer a novelty but a practical negotiation with gravity.

And then there is the final leg. Not by road in any conventional sense, because Peru has never been especially interested in conventional senses, but by train into the Sacred Valley, where the landscape begins to soften, then tighten, then soften again until it finally reveals Machu Picchu itself. It does not announce itself dramatically. It simply appears, as though it has been waiting for you to catch up.

The site is smaller than most expect. That is the first surprise. The second is how something so familiar from photographs can still feel slightly unreal when you are actually standing inside it. Stone terraces step down the mountainside like careful handwriting.

Llamas wander with the quiet confidence of locals who know they are in every postcard ever printed.

There is a temptation to talk about spirituality at this point. The air does feel different, but that may also be altitude and mild dehydration. Either way, there is a stillness here that is difficult to manufacture elsewhere. When you finally stand above the clouds at Machu Picchu, there is a brief, quiet understanding that no photograph ever quite told the truth.

It does not arrive with fanfare.

It simply reveals itself, as though it has been waiting

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Belmond Hotel Monasterio, Cusco.

Getting there: Peru is not a quick dash destination, and it behaves accordingly. The journey begins in the UK, typically from regional airports such as East Midlands, connecting into Heathrow for the long-haul leg to South America.

From London, flights into Lima (via Jorge Chávez International Airport) take around 12 to 15 hours, usually non-stop or with a brief European stop in cities such as Madrid or Amsterdam.

Expect fares of around £850–£1,300 per person return, depending on season and how far in advance you commit. Peak months (May to September) tend to sit at the upper end, when the Andes are at their driest and most theatrically photogenic.

Shoulder months (April and September) often strike the best balance between weather and crowds.

Where to stay: Peru does not lack luxury, though it tends to express it quietly rather than flamboyantly.

Palacio Nazarenas, Cusco Elegant, understated and very Cusco in its confidence. A former palace with courtyards, heated outdoor pool and serious attention to detail. A place where even breakfast feels considered. From £500–£1,000 per night.

Belmond Hotel Monasterio, Cusco A former monastery turned refined sanctuary, where thick stone walls and cloisters meet

From Lima, you continue on a domestic flight to Cusco via Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Flight time is roughly 1 hour 20 minutes, with fares around £80– £180 return.

The final approach to Machu Picchu is not by air but by rail and road. Most travellers travel from Cusco or the Sacred Valley (notably Ollantaytambo) to Aguas Calientes, with scenic train journeys lasting between 1.5 and 3.5 hours. Expect £80–£250 per person return depending on service level.

Best times to travel May to September: dry season, crisp skies, busiest period. October to April: greener landscapes, but expect heavier rainfall and occasional disruption.

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Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel.

contemporary comfort. Oxygen-enriched rooms help with altitude adjustment, which feels indulgent until you try walking uphill.

From £350–£700 per night.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Set within cloud forest, this is as close as you can sleep to Machu Picchu without actually pitching a tent and regretting it at 3am.

Wooden walkways, orchids, hummingbirds, and a dreamlike quality at dusk. Five star luxury is an intimate Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, and whitewashed casitas.

From £400–£900 per night.

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

DELICACIES Peru is one of those rare places where the cuisine does not politely sit alongside the scenery. It competes with it.

CEVICHE Cured in citrus, sharp enough to wake up even the most jet-lagged traveller. Bright, acidic, served with sweet potato and corn.

What you must see and do Machu Picchu Guided Visit You cannot visit independently without planning, which is both frustrating and entirely sensible given the site’s fragility.

A guided tour is essential to understand what you are looking at beyond the obvious ‘this is very impressive’ reaction. £40–£120 per person (guides and entry depending on circuit and timing).

LOMO SALTADO Beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes and soy, a meeting of Peruvian and Chinese influences.

Comforting, familiar, distinctly Andean.

particularly atmospheric, with stone streets that still follow original Incan layouts. £60–£150 per person for guided day tour Andean Train Journey This is not transport so much as theatre.

Panoramic carriages, mountain curves, and a slow unfolding of landscape that rewards patience. £80–£250 per person depending on class.

CAUSA RELLENA Layered potato terrine filled with chicken or seafood. Cool, creamy and deceptively rich at altitude.

Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Hike For those who still believe knees are optional equipment. Steep, controlled access, and absolutely worth it for the aerial perspective over the citadel. £70–£90 per person (permit required, limited daily numbers).

Sacred Valley Exploration Villages, Incan terraces, and markets that feel unchanged by time. Ollantaytambo is

Above: Traditional Peruvian souvenir shops near the entrance of Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site.

PACHAMANCA Earth-oven cooking using hot stones.

A ritual as much as a meal, usually shared outdoors in the Sacred Valley.

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LOCAL BUSINESSES

CLASSIC FIREPLACES If you’re seeking to elevate the heart of your home with both elegance and warmth, look no further than Classic Fireplaces in Market Deeping. With over 40 years’ experience in design, manufacture and installation, this family-run specialist brings a wealth of craftsmanship knowledge to every project.

As well as bespoke surrounds, the company offers an extensive selection of premium fires and stoves. Each fireplace surround is made to order, allowing customers to choose the exact dimensions, materials and finishes that best suit their interior. This attention to detail ensures every installation is perfectly tailored, becoming a beautiful and enduring feature of the home.

Call 01778 347267 or see www.classicfireplaces.co.uk.

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LOCAL BUSINESSES

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Sometimes the best ideas happen when you step away from the desk. At the Lincolnshire Showground, we create experiences that help teams reconnect, recharge and rediscover their creativity.

Our corporate away days are designed to break the routine and give your team something truly memorable.

Set in the heart of Lincolnshire, the Lincolnshire Showground blends modern facilities with open green spaces, offering an inspiring environment for collaboration and fresh thinking.

Whether you are planning a strategy session, a team-building retreat, or simply want to celebrate success, we have the flexibility to make it happen.

From bright, spacious conference suites to acres of outdoor space, every detail can be tailored to your goals. We work with trusted partners to deliver activities that bring people together and spark energy.

Quick icebreakers like Beat Box and Human Bingo set the tone, while indoor challenges such as CSI Experience and Master the Task encourage problemsolving in a fun way.

Outdoors, you can take on Crystal Maze, Monopoly, or Squid Game, or try something completely different like falconry, archery or even have a go on a Segway. If you want to finish the day in style, we can provide a themed evening entertainment such as murder mystery

Call 01522 522900 or see lincolnshireshowground.co.uk.

dinners or vibrant parties like Calypso Carnival will keep the momentum going.

Our team takes care of everything from catering, AV support, breakout zones and activity coordination so you can focus on what matters most - your people.

We also offer special rates for mid-week and off-peak bookings December-March, making it easier to plan an unforgettable experience without stretching your budget.

The Lincolnshire Showground is more than a venue; it’s a place where ideas grow and teams thrive.

If you’re ready to break out of the office and give your team a day they’ll talk about for months, call our friendly team on 01522 522900 to discuss your requirements or book a site visit.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Personal and Adaptable Advice with Golden Oak Wealth Management “Your financial future is unique, so the advice you receive should be too. That is why we take a fresh, personal approach, creating recommendations that are tailored to you and presented in a clear, straightforward way,” says Amy Park, of Stamford’s Golden Oak Wealth Management. Ten years ago, the company’s founder Henry Metcalf wanted to change the industry for the better. Lasting financial success is about more than achieving today’s goals. It is about creating a future where your wealth continues to support the life you want to live and the legacy you hope to leave. That is why every relationship begins with understanding what matters most to you. Your ambitions, your family, your business interests, and your long-term aspirations shape the advice we provide.

Today, Henry and Simon-Luc Farrow, supported by an experienced and dedicated team, remain committed to making financial planning approachable, engaging, and easy to understand. They bring financial planning alive with visual cash flow modelling to ensure their clients ‘know their numbers’ and remain confident that they are in line with their Financial Plan.

“Next year we celebrate our 10th anniversary, and during that time we have witnessed significant changes in both legislation and the tax landscape,” says Amy. “That is why we believe financial planning should never stand still. We maintain regular dialogue with our clients, ensuring their financial plan evolves alongside changes in tax rules, market conditions, and, most importantly, their own objectives. There are many examples of this, but one of the most significant is the recent change to Inheritance Tax (IHT) legislation affecting pensions. From April 2027, many pension funds are expected to fall within the scope of Inheritance Tax, fundamentally changing the role pensions have traditionally played in estate planning. For individuals with substantial pension savings, this could mean that assets previously passed on tax-efficiently may now be exposed to Inheritance Tax at up to 40%. As a result, the balance between using pension savings to support your own retirement and preserving wealth for future generations may need to be carefully reconsidered. For many families, this represents one of the most important financial planning decisions they will face, making timely, personalised advice more valuable than ever.”

“The exact impact will depend on individual circumstances, including the size and structure of the estate, pension arrangements, beneficiaries and wider financial planning considerations. Suffice to say, it’s an aspect of financial planning which necessitates tailored, up-to-date advice and an examination of a client’s individual circumstances. It’s also just one example of why a good working relationship with a wealth management specialist is a really good idea to ensure your assets are utilised in the best way.”

As an independent practice, the advisers and the rest of the team offer whole market access to a range of savings and investment wrappers, from ISAs and onshore/offshore investment bonds to general investment funds and pensions. With no ties to specific companies, they provide unbiased, comprehensive advice that is holistic, adaptable and clear.

Golden Oak Wealth Management provides a range of services for those seeking to plan for the future, pass on wealth and ensure a secure retirement. Your first consultation is free of charge, with no obligation. The company is based on Stamford’s Broad Street, call 01780 723118 or see www.goldenoakwealthmanagement.co.uk.

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Motors

MITSUBISHI’S

OUTLANDER

RETURN OF THE ORIGINAL PLUG-IN SUV

MITSUBISHI ­ Outlander BELOW Luggage space when seats are folded is 1,710 litres. Nativa gets seven seats, plush Diamond is five­seat only. Decent ground clearance and clever deployment of traction.

They say absence makes the heart grow fonder. It’s certainly the case with Mitsubishi’s Outlander. Back in autumn 2021, Colt (the company that was Mitsubishi’s UK importer) made the decision to pull out of the British market, leaving customers unable to purchase the Outlander SUV or the rufty-tufty pick-up truck, the L200.

It was an odd decision, because the Outlander was popular: a proper fivedoor, five-seat SUV, it was decent off-road, with plug-in hybrid power, which was quite rare back then.

At a time when few plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) were on sale, this was a vehicle that was reassuringly usable and practical. The Outlander accounted for a quarter of all PHEVs sold in Britain at the time, which makes it all the more strange that its availability suddenly ceased.

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ABOVE Two trim levels are available, Nativa at £46,995 and Diamond at £49,995.

Both have a 2.4­litre petrol engine and PHEV electric drive.

Now the Mitsubishi Outlander is back, alongside the L200 pick-up, both of which are available to test drive at Chandlers in Belton near Grantham or Horncastle. Their rural customer base loved the brand and its vehicles, so Mitsubishi’s return was welcome.

International Motors is the new importer championing the brand, and the Outlander and L200 are both new-generation vehicles with all the latest tech, lots of standard equipment and a good blend of offroad capability and on-road civility.

It’s a good thing too, because these days, there are far more SUVs and many more plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicles on the market than ever. Competition, then, is tough.

But fortunately, when the going gets tough, Mitsubishi gets going.

The Outlander has a 2.4-litre, fourcylinder engine and electric motors on the front and rear axles of 85kW and 100kW. The vehicle can work in pure-EV mode, operating as an electric vehicle, drawing power directly from the battery. Alternatively, Series Hybrid mode uses the petrol engine as an on-board generator

Motors with ROB DAVIS

to power the electric motors, and Parallel Hybrid mode sees the engine taking over as the primary source of propulsion, which is generally more efficient on A-roads and motorways.

Whilst you can always override the Outlander’s choice of driving mode, the reality is you’re better off just leaving it to the vehicle, content in the knowledge that it knows how to optimise the available power.

An automatic gearbox, full-time allwheel drive and a 0-60mph time of 7.9 seconds mean the Outlander is responsive enough for all but the most impatient drivers. With an electric-only range of 53 miles, there’s plenty of scope to run the vehicle as an electric vehicle for day-to-day commuting and local journeys, and the Outlander is also a tax-efficient option for company car drivers.

“Outlander is practical, great value and probably one of the best plug-in hybrids on the market.”

ABOVE An electric only range of 53 miles, 0­60mph time of 7.9 seconds and lots of standard equipment make the Outlander a great all­rounder.

Boot space is a whopping 1,710 litres when the seats are folded. It’ll tow 1,600kg, and Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability is underwritten by an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

There are two trims with Nativa featuring seven seats, plus standard adaptive cruise control, heated vegan leather seats and a heated steering wheel, a power tailgate and wireless Apple CarPlay. Plusher Diamond models have five seats, but offer

nicer leather and a premium Yamaha hi-fi system among other treats.

The Outlander feels like a large car on the road, but good cameras make parking very easy. In town it’s whisper quiet, and on the open road, only a little tyre noise is audible in lieu of the sound of an engine. Fit and finish are also very good, and the driving position is really spot on.

It is, in fact, quite the all-rounder.

It’s large enough for kids, dogs and luggage. It’s practical, with decent off-road ability and low running costs when you’re just nipping into town too. In fact, it’s difficult to think of a scenario in which the Outlander wouldn’t serve as all the car you need.

Our Mitsubishi Outlander was supplied for our test drive courtesy of Chandlers of Belton near Grantham and Horncastle. Call 01476 590077 or see www.chandlers.co.uk.

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39

NATURE

S

AUTUMN’S QUIET ARRIVAL

eptember has gently surrendered to October, and with it comes one of the most beautiful transformations in the British countryside. The exuberance of summer has faded into something altogether more subtle.

Woodlands begin to glow with warm amber tones, mornings arrive cloaked in mist, and the air carries the unmistakable freshness that signals the changing season. It is a month that rewards those prepared to venture outdoors, offering landscapes rich in colour, wildlife preparing for winter and some of the year’s most atmospheric walks.

Woodland in Transition October is perhaps best known for its spectacular woodland displays. Deciduous trees gradually exchange vibrant greens for rich shades of gold, copper, russet and crimson. While every autumn is different, depending on rainfall, temperature and wind, the changing canopy creates one of nature’s most impressive annual spectacles.

Beech trees often hold onto their warm bronze leaves well into the season, while maples provide flashes of scarlet amongst the softer yellows of birch and ash. Oaks change more gradually, their sturdy leaves turning deep brown before finally carpeting woodland floors.

OPPOSITE The UK’s only native squirrel, the Red, has been rendered all but extinct since the North American Grey squirrel arrived here in the late 1800s. 90% of the population has been eradicated with just 287,000 red squirrels remaining. Heavily outnumbered by over 2.7 million invasive grey squirrels, the Red is now a protected species, under Schedules 5 and 6 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

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As leaves begin to fall, sunlight reaches previously shaded areas, illuminating moss-covered logs, delicate fungi and carpets of ivy.

Woodland paths become quieter too, disturbed only by the occasional rustle of squirrels gathering supplies or pheasants moving cautiously through the undergrowth.

The Season of Fungi Few months celebrate fungi quite like October. Damp woodland floors, ancient tree roots and fallen timber suddenly become home to an astonishing variety of species.

Fly agaric, with its vivid scarlet cap speckled in white, remains one of Britain’s most recognisable mushrooms and often appears beneath birch trees. Meanwhile, puffballs release clouds of spores when gently disturbed, continuing nature’s remarkable cycle of renewal.

While many fungi are fascinating to observe, accurate identification is essential before considering any foraging. Numerous edible species have poisonous lookalikes, making admiration with the eyes rather than the basket the wisest approach for most countryside visitors.

Hedgerows Rich in Colour

By October, hedgerows have become one of the countryside’s richest food stores. Scarlet rose hips, ruby haws, glossy black sloes and bright orange spindle berries create vivid displays against fading foliage.

These fruits provide essential nourishment for birds and mammals preparing for colder months ahead.

Blackbirds feast on berries while thrushes patrol hedgerows in search of late insects. The hedgerow itself becomes increasingly busy as small mammals forage beneath fallen leaves. Wood mice gather seeds while hedgehogs continue feeding whenever mild evenings allow, building valuable reserves before winter hibernation.

Wildlife Preparing for Winter October brings noticeable changes in wildlife behaviour. Red squirrels,

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where they survive, become increasingly energetic, while their grey cousins can often be seen carrying acorns high into the trees.

Bird migration is well underway.

Swallows and house martins have largely departed for warmer climates, replaced by winter visitors arriving from northern Europe. Large skeins of geese crossing broad autumn skies provide one of the season’s most memorable sights, their distinctive calls echoing across the landscape.

Many garden birds also become more visible as natural food supplies begin to diminish. Robins establish territories with renewed determination, while flocks of finches search stubble fields and seed-rich grassland.

Morning Mist and Golden Light October possesses a quality of light unlike any other month. Clear, crisp mornings often begin beneath drifting mist, particularly in river valleys and low-lying meadows. As the sun slowly rises, these silvery veils gradually lift, revealing landscapes glowing beneath soft autumn sunshine.

Photographers frequently describe this as the golden season. Lower sunlight creates longer shadows and warmer tones, bringing texture to ancient stone walls, mature trees and rolling countryside. Dew-covered spider webs become miniature works of art, sparkling like strings of tiny diamonds suspended between grasses and hedgerows.

A Season to Slow Down There is something restorative about October. The urgency of summer has passed, replaced by a quieter rhythm that encourages slower walks and closer observation. Nature is not winding down so much as preparing carefully for the months ahead.

Every fallen leaf enriches the woodland floor. Every acorn buried by a jay carries the possibility of future forests. Every berry left untouched may sustain wildlife through the hardest weeks of winter.

ABOVE Fly agaric mushrooms, haw and a Robin Redbreast.

Nature

October’s quiet beauty lies in golden woodlands, morning mist and nature’s gentle preparation for winter

43

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ALMANAC JAN

FEB

MAR

Oct Zodiac: Libra until 22nd October, then Scorpio, associated with balance, charm, intensity and emotional depth.

Birthstone: Opal, symbolising hope, creativity and protection.

Notable Dates: 4th October: World Animal Day. 10th October: World Mental Health Day. 25th October: British Summer Time ends.

31st October: Halloween.

In The Garden: Plant spring bulbs, clear summer bedding, mulch borders, collect fallen leaves, prune roses and prepare compost heaps for winter.

Seasonal Table: Apples, pears, pumpkins, mushrooms, game, blackberries and root vegetables.

On The Farm: Autumn ploughing continues, livestock are brought in earlier, silage is completed and preparations begin for winter housing and feeding.

SOUND & VISION ON THE AIRWAVES IN HISTORY

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APR

MAY

JUN

Folklore: October has long been associated with transition, reflection and the turning of the seasons.

The countryside takes on a quieter rhythm, with hedgerows heavy with berries, orchards full of apples and woodlands glowing in gold and copper tones.

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

October is the month when the countryside begins to draw itself inward. The fullness of harvest has passed and the landscape softens into richer, deeper tones.

“I stay on terra firma: the more firm, the less terror.”

“In politics there is no right answer... and no final answer.”

Trees shed their final leaves, hedgerows darken with berries and fields begin to rest after months of activity.

“There is such a thing as evil, and if you do not fight it, it will eventually triumph.”

It is a time of transition rather than abundance, where preparation quietly replaces production.

Politician Ann Widdecombe 4th October 1947 ­ 8th July 2026

Halloween, on 31st October, has its roots in ancient Celtic traditions of Samhain, when it was believed the boundary between the living and the spirit world became thin, and bonfires were lit to ward off wandering spirits.

There is a calmness to October that feels both reflective. Mornings arrive with a sharpness in the air, while evenings close in earlier, bringing a natural pause to the day.

Gardens are tidied rather than tended in full, bulbs are planted with future promise, and compost heaps are turned for the seasons ahead.

Superstition has long shaped October customs. It was once thought that seeing a bat at dusk brought good fortune, while falling leaves carried wishes from the year past.

And finally, October sees the Hunter’s Moon particularly bright and long in the sky, giving hunters the opportunity to stalk prey at night. Other names include the travel moon and the dying grass moon.

DEC

A SEASON OF QUIET CHANGE

IN OTHER WORDS

The old festival of Michaelmas, held on 29th September but echoed throughout early October, traditionally marked the end of the harvest season and the settling of rents, often accompanied by the famous Michaelmas goose.

NOV

WEATHER WATCH

At home, warmth becomes central again, with slower routines, comforting meals and a return to indoor living.

Yet within this quiet shift,

October sees daytime highs of 12 to 15°C and overnight lows of 6 to 9°C. Rainfall averages around 70mm. Sunrise is around 7.15am and sunset near 6.15pm, with approximately 11 hours of daylight as the nights draw in and autumn deepens.

October holds its own gentle richness, reminding us that rest is as important as growth in the rhythm of the year.

IN THE CHARTS

ON YOUR TV

AT THE CINEMA

Doris Day’s Que Sera Sera played in Oct 1956. In Oct 1966 Jim Reeves’ Distant Drums played and the Small Faces’ All or Nothing was charting. Abba’s Dancing Queen was released in 1976. In 1986 Madonna released True Blue.

In 1956 Hancock’s Half Hour was on TV. 1966 saw the US debut of Star Trek; it didn’t reach the UK until stardate 1969. In 1995 BBC Two premiered the drama This Life.

In 2006, David Attenborough premiered Planet Earth.

October 1966 saw the release of Georgy Girl. 1976 Logan’s Run reached the UK. In space in 1986, everybody screamed at Aliens. In 1996 we were watching Independence Day and The Nutty Professor.

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

HATCHED, MATCHED & DISPATCHED Hatched: Margaret Thatcher was born on 13th October 1925, later becoming Britain’s first female Prime Minister.

Matched: Princess Eugenie married Jack Brooksbank on 12th October 2018 at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, with senior members of the Royal Family attending.

Dispatched: Dad’s Army writer Jimmy Perry died age 93, 23rd October 2016.

Corrie’s Hilda Ogden actress Jean Alexander died age 90, 14th October 2016.

ON THIS DAY OCTOBER IN HISTORY 14th October 1066 William, Duke of Normandy, defeated King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings, one of the defining moments in English history.

25th October 1415 King Henry V led a vastly outnumbered English army to victory over the French at Agincourt during the Hundred Years’ War.

21st October 1805 Admiral Lord Nelson secured a decisive victory over the combined French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar.

24th October 1642 The first major battle of the English Civil War took place at Edgehill in Warwickshire. The conflict be­ tween King Charles I and Parliament would reshape Britain’s constitutional history.

18th October 1922 The British Broadcasting Company was founded before becoming the British Broadcasting Corporation under Royal Charter in 1927.

15th October 1926

NUTCRACK NIGHT Nutcrack (or Nutcracker) Night was an old British folk name for Halloween, during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Families gathered around the hearth to roast hazelnuts, celebrating the close of autumn and using them in playful fortune telling.

Sweethearts would name two nuts after themselves and place them side by side in the fire. If they burned quietly together, it was said they would enjoy a long and happy future. If one cracked, hissed or leapt from the flames, it was believed to foretell separation or an unlucky romance.

A. A. Milne’s Winnie­the­Pooh was first published, introducing readers to Pooh Bear, Piglet and Christopher Robin.

5th October 1962 Dr. No, starring Sean Connery as James Bond, premiered in London.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH UK

HALLOWEEN AND FOLKLORE

Black History Month was first celebrated in Britain in 1987, introduced by Akyaaba Addai­Sebo, a Ghanaian­born journalist, broadcaster, community activist and former coordinator of special projects for the Greater London Council. While inspired by the American initiative, the UK observance has always focused on Britain’s own Black history, recognising the contributions of Black people to the nation’s culture, science, politics, business and public life. It also provides an opportunity to acknowledge difficult chapters in our past, from the transatlantic slave trade to the Windrush generation, ensuring a fuller understanding of British history and encouraging greater appreciation of Britain’s rich cultural diversity.

Today, around 2.4 million people in England and Wales identify as Black, representing approximately four per cent of the population, making Black communities an important and growing part of modern Britain.

The 2026 theme, ‘Honouring Our Communities’, celebrates the volunteers, carers, teachers, entrepreneurs, artists and local leaders whose everyday efforts strengthen neighbourhoods across the country. It reminds us that history is shaped not only by famous figures, but also by ordinary people whose commitment and resilience enrich British society every day.

Many familiar Halloween traditions have surprising origins. Pumpkins are carved into lanterns to ward off wandering spirits, although people originally hollowed out turnips before pumpkins became widely available.

Black cats became associated with bad luck during the Middle Ages, when they were wrongly linked with witchcraft, though in some parts of Britain they are actually considered lucky. Trick or treating evolved from medieval souling, when poor families and children went door to door offering prayers for the dead in return for food. Toffee apples became popular in the early 20th century as a seasonal treat, coinciding with Britain’s abundant autumn apple harvest. Apple bobbing dates back hundreds of years and was once a game of fortune telling, with the first person to catch an apple believed to be the next to marry. Bats became Halloween symbols because they emerge at dusk, and the bonfires traditionally lit during autumn festivals attracted insects, which in turn attracted bats.

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The last word ROB DAVIS

P

lease let me state for the record that I

Clutter and disorder, to me, are inextricably linked

absolutely adore my wife. She’s fantastic

to stress and irritation (even a sense of fear), hard-

company, she’s a brilliant partner and

wired perhaps via a circuit that says if something

she’s my best friend. We’re compatible and happy

isn’t well ordered you’re not fully in control of your

in almost every way. I say almost because, for

life or destiny. Buddhism teaches that possessions inevitably lead to anxiety, fear of loss, and suffering...

the life of me, I can’t believe how diametrically

perhaps because the acquisition of stuff just leaves

opposed we are, despite being a couple, in our

us with full cupboards and a distracted mind.

approach to clutter or, in my case, the lack thereof.

And yet, despite feeling disorder quite viscerally,

I consider myself an inveterate purger. If there’s

it’s not something that ever causes an argument

a cluttered cupboard, a surface with stuff on it, papers left in the letter rack or piles of pending paraphernalia, it must be eliminated.

I have no ornaments, trinkets or photo frames on

CLUTTER

mantelpieces or windowsills. I like my kitchen worktops to be completely clear, lotions and potions to be put away in the bathroom cabinet, and nothing but the current book I’m reading on my bedside cabinet. At work there’s a computer screen, keyboard and mouse, as well as my office phone on my desk: nothing else.

Likewise, everything is filed away in folders on my computer, leaving my desktop devoid of icons. I don’t even have a desktop picture visible, just a plain grey background, the ultimate in minimalism.

between us. Perhaps it’s because I know that even if Anna clutters, I can de-clutter, or just the knowledge that if Anna didn’t clutter the place up, I’d be bored (at best, or redundant at worst).

43% of British couples think clutter causes arguments. 51% say clutter leaves them feeling stressed. 41% say they feel embarrassed about how cluttered their home is and 30% admit to judging friends and family when their homes appear messy or disorganised.

Furthermore, 31% of UK adults reckon they don’t have enough space to store all of their stuff, a number that rises to 42% among younger (25–34) respondents. Perhaps that’s because older couples have moved to a larger property,

If a surface can’t be dusted

or maybe because a tidier

or wiped without having to

mindset comes with age.

move something, it’s too

In any case, I like to travel

cluttered.

Every

single

shred of clothing is away, hung up in the wardrobe, and in my car there are no loose coins, sweets, maps or drinks bottles. Life, to me, can only be blissful

light in life, and I consider

Life, to me, can only be truly blissful when you live neat and travel light. Clutter is chaos.

when you live neat and

storing, displaying and then ultimately getting rid of possessions.

As Pride goes to press I shall annual leave. However, rather

But then into my perfectly

than planning a holiday,

ordered life sweeps Storm

I’m looking forward to an

Anna, a person who can war zone from a pristine kitchen.

when it comes to collecting,

be enjoying two weeks of

travel light: clutter is chaos.

turn order into anarchy, tidy into topsy-turvy, and fashion a lawless

myself very unsentimental

industrial-strength purge; cupboards, drawers, wardrobes... and my ultimate nemesis, the attic.

William Morris stated that you should ‘have nothing in your house

In our bedroom there’s make-up, her loose clothing strewn around

that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.’

plus at least one appliance to straighten hair but another to make it

Personally, I’ll even forgo beauty in favour of clear surfaces and that

curly again; this alone is something I’ve never completely understood.

blissful feeling of a good purge.

Here at Pride, we love to read your feedback... email us on any subject at robin@pridemagazines.co.uk.

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