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WELCOME TO PRIDE’S 25TH YEAR

here is a kind of luxury that becomes available to us at this time of year: the luxury of having time. Autumn may begin busily, but eventually temperatures fall, evenings draw in and the diary looks less demanding. The festive season, with all its pleasurable commotion, is waiting just around the corner, but has not quite arrived. For a few weeks, we have permission to slow down. Personally, we don’t seem to mind the darker evenings as much as we imagine we will. Once the curtains are drawn and the fire gets going, there’s something comforting about knowing that the day’s journeys are over. An evening at home no longer feels like an evening without plans; it becomes the plan itself. This is the month to rediscover the sofa and the type of drowsy heat that only an open fire can provide, to open the book or copy of Pride that has waited patiently on the side table, and to prepare something that can cook slowly on a low heat, all day, while we do very little. I can think of very few things better than being inside, when you really wouldn’t want to be outside!

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And there are pleasures beyond the fireside, too; little treats that feel all the more enjoyable for requiring neither a reservation nor advance planning. A walk around Exton Park has its own quiet beauty, while Stamford’s autumn streets and coffee shops seem especially inviting when there is no need to hurry. Rutland and Stamford lend themselves well to this gentler pace: compact enough to feel familiar, yet always offering another footpath, view or footnote in history to discover. Soon our festive rituals will begin. There will be a visit to Gates Garden Centre in search of new tree decorations, followed by the annual question of whether we need another bauble (we do). And in Oakham, the NSPCC Christmas Concert returns for its 20th year, a much-loved occasion that has become part of the area’s seasonal calendar. Before that activity gathers momentum, however, there is time to enjoy the pause: to read, walk, cook, talk or simply sit for a while without feeling we should be elsewhere. Bliss! I hope that this month’s Pride is a perfect companion for the quieter, slower moments. Our very best wishes for a wonderful, and hopefully a relatively sedate month!

Julian Wilkinson CEO & Founder, Pride Magazines

November 2026

LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

LOCAL NEWS ‘Good News’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford including an exciting victory for Gemma Stevens at this year’s Defender Burghley Horse Trials!

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

20 YEARS OF FUNDRAISING Margaret Wheeler on two decades of Oakham’s NSPCC Carol Concert.

DINING OUT Celebrating local dining at the award-winning Woodhouse Arms at Corby Glen.

THE GUIDE Live events across Rutland & Stamford plus cinema releases, books and music.

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

WINE Recommendations for November and the Rutland Vineyard.

Portfolio NOVEMBER 2026

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND

FASHION - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS

TRAVEL

FASHION

Eastern Promise

On the Silk Road MOTORS

BENTLEY

Long Coats and Quality Tailoring for Winter Warmth

SUPERSPORTS

WILDLIFE

MEN’S FASHION

November

Quality in Heritage

Nature An autumn almanac in the natural world

Private White VC

LUXURY BRAND

LUXURY AUTUMN FRAGRANCE COURTESY OF PENHALIGONS

HOMES & GARDENS

PORTFOLIO

WELCOME HOME A farmhouse from which to admire the natural world in Clipsham.

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

GARDENING Advice for November with Mark Lane.

STYLE FOR MEN Private White VC.

LUXURY HOMES Executive and rural homes across Rutland and Stamford.

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

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

MOTORS Bentley’s bold Supersports.

NATURE Local wildlife in autumn.

ALMANAC Facts and trivia.

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

Scan our QR code to get in touch today.

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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.

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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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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 Rutland & Stamford Pride or Lincolnshire Pride ensures you never miss an issue, with complimentary Royal Mail delivery direct to your door every month.

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

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

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

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

Local News

GEMMA TAKES THE PLATE AT BURGHLEY

A blossoming future for local coﬀee illustrator Imogen Joyce Stamford illustrator Imogen Joyce has seen her artwork appear on limitededition Nescafé Azera tins sold across Britain after being named one of six winners of the 2026 Nescafé By Design initiative, in partnership with The King’s Trust. The 25yearold’s design, Blossoming Futures, now adorns tins of Nescafé Azera Americano, which are available in shops while stocks last. Inspired by Imogen’s love of botany, the colourful artwork features flowers, leaves, art materials and a woman holding a paintbrush and cup of coﬀee.

Gemma Stevens punched the

socialising. Covering more than

Together, the sporting action

air in delight after securing her

530 acres, it brings around

and successful shopping village

first Defender Burghley Horse

£20m into Stamford and the

demonstrated Burghley’s

Trials victory aboard Chilli

surrounding area each year.

enduring appeal, bringing

Knight, providing a memorable sporting highlight during the event’s 65th anniversary year.

Alongside the main competition’s dressage, cross country and showjumping,

visitors and businesses together for one of the area’s most anticipated annual occasions.

A clear showjumping round on the

spectators enjoyed the Dubarry

The 2027 Defender Burghley

final day of this year’s competition

Burghley Young Event Horse

Horse Trials will take place from

sealed victory for the British

finals and LeMieux Pony Club

2nd to 5th September. See

combination, who finished 13.4

Team Jumping event.

burghley-horse.co.uk.

penalties ahead of their nearest

Burghley’s shopping village,

rivals and claimed the £120,000 first prize. HRH The Princess Royal attended and presented Gemma with the trophy. Held in Burghley House’s parkland since 1961, the event this year welcomed more than 160,000 visitors for worldclass competition, shopping and

featuring 600 trade stands, also celebrated its finest exhibitors. Churtopia Lemonade won Best Food Walk Stand, Anne Marie Designs was named Best Pavilion Stand, and art dealer Gladwell & Patterson took Best Large Stand. Lincolnshire’s Freckleface completed the line up, winning Best Small Stand.

“The design is a floral explosion,” said Imogen. “It links to The King’s Trust, where you blossom with the future and the opportunities, but also reminds people to slow down, enjoy their coﬀee and celebrate those quiet moments.” Imogen joined the other winners at Nestlé’s factory in Derbyshire, watching the first tins with her artwork leave the production line. She described it as a rare opportunity for young artists to be seen and take an important step into the creative industry.

Send your Rutland and Stamford news stories or press releases to editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

Local poet Tim releases new book

Oakham’s Victoria Hall to be sold by auction

Leicestershirebased writer Tim

Oakham’s historic Victoria Hall

Relf will publish his debut poetry collection, Not Even October, on 9th November. The book explores the easily overlooked moments that shape our lives, moving through hotel rooms, petrol stations, cafés, gardens, parks and country lanes. Tim’s poems consider love, friendship, memory, mortality, grief and home, finding unexpected magic and humour amid contemporary Britain’s everyday routines. The collection shifts deftly between heartbreak and wit, balancing the pressures of a turbulent, digitally distracted age with the restorative calm of nature. Actor Richard E. Grant has described Relf’s work as “incisive and moving,” while poet Luke Wright praises his “wit, heart and hardwon wisdom.”

was set to be sold by auction on

also have opportunities to speak with industry professionals, relax and enjoy a complimentary sports massage. Prebooking essential, see www.stevecramtraining.com.

The bell tolls for tower repairs at Wymondham

Rutland & Stamford’s Pub of the Year named

Commission, concluded that the

St Peter’s Church in

The Woodhouse Arms in Corby

historic hall was no longer

Wymondham is set to begin

financially viable as a standalone

urgent repairs after receiving a

community venue. The decision

£6,500 Wolfson Fabric Repair

followed the council’s July vote

Grant. The Grade Ilisted 12th

to withdraw from proposals

century church, which appears

intended to accommodate

on Historic England’s Heritage

council staﬀ while safeguarding

at Risk Register, has an unsafe

the landmark’s future as a

bell tower and leaking roofs that

community asset.

are damaging pews below. Work

as Pride goes to press, after plans for Oakham Town Council to manage and occupy the building collapsed. Trustees, working with the Charity

Olympian Steve Cram to host training camp for runners Friday 13th doesn’t usually bode well as the date to undertake a new hobby, but on

will include steel roof coverings, repointing stonework and safer tower ladders.

Glimmer of hope for Local Government Reorganisation

Glen has been crowned Rutland and Stamford’s Favourite Pub, following a public vote that attracted almost 2,500 responses from residents across the constituency. The oneoﬀ competition was launched by Alicia Kearns MP to celebrate the important part pubs play in village and town life, from providing a welcoming meeting place to supporting jobs and local suppliers. The Griﬃn Inn at Irnham and The Green Dragon in Ryhall were named joint runnersup. Announcing the result, Alicia

Tim’s book, Not Even

this occasion we’ll make an

Plans to reorganise local

congratulated the Woodhouse

October is from all good local

exception. If you’re keen to start

government across Rutland,

Arms and said it had been

book retailers including Walkers

running or to take your current

Lincolnshire and Leicestershire

wonderful to see how strongly

of Oakham and Stamford,

interest in running further, get

have been paused while

people valued their local pubs.

published by Salt, £10.00.

some expert help from former

ministers review new legal

athlete Steve Cram this month.

advice. As discussed in Pride’s

Steve will host an inspirational running weekend at Rutland Hall Hotel from 13th to 15th November. Suitable for runners of all abilities, the training camp will combine practical running sessions with expert guidance on sports nutrition, biomechanics, injury prevention, strength and conditioning, footwear, kit technology, breathing habits and sports psychology. Participants will

interview last month with Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns, opposition to a

Owner Amanda Clayton said the team was “absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud” to receive the title.

‘supercouncil’ absorbing Rutland

She added that the continued

into a large Leicestershire

support of customers meant

authority will continue. Should

more than ever as pubs faced

reorganisation eventually

challenging trading conditions.

proceed, a preferable solution would unite Rutland with Stamford, or the surrounding area currently governed by

We’ll meet Amanda and the team in this month’s Dining Out feature later in this edition!

South Kesteven, preserving the close historic ties between neighbouring communities.

Making IHT easy as ABC The importance of understanding Inheritance Tax with Buckles Law Inheritance Tax is, ordinarily, charged at the rate of 40% on the value of UK assets exceeding available Inheritance Tax allowances and not covered by certain exemptions (and non-UK assets if you are treated as a “long-term UK resident”). This includes assets owned in your name or jointly with somebody else. Any assets passing to a spouse, civil partner or registered charities are exempt for Inheritance Tax purposes. Assets qualifying for Business Relief or Agricultural Relief may also be entitled to relief, and it is important to seek specialist advice if such assets are held. Every individual is entitled to the “Nil Rate Band” allowance (which is currently fixed at £325,000 until April 2030). If you own a main residence and it is inherited by direct descendants, then you may be eligible for the Residence Nil Rate Band (which is currently fixed at £175,000 until April 2031). Additionally, any unused proportion of the Nil Rate Band or Residence Nil Rate Band of a predeceased spouse or civil partner can be transferred between spouses and civil partners.

If you are concerned about the amount of Inheritance Tax due on your death, and may wish to consider reducing that liability, you can consider the following options: n Lifetime gifts (eg: one-off gifts of capital, whether outright, or you could consider setting up a lifetime trust). Annual gifting exemptions. Gifts out of surplus income. n Ensuring your Will is structured in the most Inheritance Tax-efficient way (particularly if you are unmarried/not in a civil partnership; if the value of your estate exceeds or is close to £2,000,000 or if you hold business or agricultural assets). n Intergenerational Inheritance Tax planning. n Reviewing the ownership of any business or agricultural assets. n If you are due to receive an inheritance from somebody who has died within the last two years, you can consider post-death planning. n Speaking with an Independent Financial Advisor regarding Inheritance Tax-efficient investments and to ensure that any life assurance policies you hold are written into Trust.

Buckles Law Stamford, 3 St Mary’s Hill, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2DW. Call 01780 484570. Email StamfordEnquiries@buckleslaw.co.uk or see www.buckleslaw.co.uk.

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THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS 2026

GOOD FOOD GUIDE

AWARDS

2026

Cast Your Vote

in The Good Food Awards 2026

nce again, we’re asking for our readers’ help in recognising the area’s best restaurants, pubs, cafés and food and drink producers. Each month in Rutland and Stamford 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 area’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 the area’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 area’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 Rutland, Stamford or the immediate area, 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 area and reflecting our readers’ opinions. Over the page, we reveal our six categories...

THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS 2026

OUR SIX CATEGORIES Restaurant of the Year This award recognises the best restaurant or quality pub dining in Rutland and Stamford. We are looking for restaurants that combine excellent food with skilled cooking, quality ingredients, attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. From acclaimed dining rooms to independent neighbourhood favourites, this category celebrates establishments that deliver consistently high standards and give diners a compelling reason to return. Café, Coﬀee Shop, Bar or Bistro of the Year Whether it is breakfast, brunch, lunch or coffee and cake, daytime dining is an important part of the local 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 Rutland and Stamford offer 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 the area’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 local food economy. Drinks Producer of the Year From breweries and distilleries to vineyards, cider makers and producers of alcohol-free drinks, this category celebrates the area’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.

Last year’s winner of our Local Drinks Producer award was the Rutland Vineyard.

GOOD FOOD GUIDE

AWARDS

2026

The Pride Magazines Good Food Awards

How to Vote

You’re free to vote for whichever businesses you choose; they don’t have to advertise with us. You can also vote online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk/rutlandandstamford/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/rutlandandstamford/vote into your browser. Voting is completely free of charge and you can nominate whichever business you want, they don’t have to be an advertiser in Pride.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cut out this page and send your nominations to:

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

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

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

Please note our closing date is 2nd November 2026.

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

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

Your Details:

Food & Drink RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH

The Woodhouse Arms, Corby Glen “We knew what we wanted to be. We knew what we wanted to create,” says Amanda Clayton. “All we’ve done over the past 13 years is to be faithful to our original intention.” That might be true, but along the way, so many things have conspired to make hospitality one of the most demanding industries, deserving of respect but also acknowledgement of just what a rewarding but tough sector it is to work in. Let’s not be too downbeat though. Amanda says she wouldn’t be in any

other profession. She reckons she’s lucky to have her team and such great customers... Luck? Maybe. I reckon we all make our own luck. And few restaurants deserve success as much as The Woodhouse Arms. The popularity of the pub restaurant was recently underwritten by the team being named the winner of Rutland & Stamford’s Favourite Pub after MP Alicia Kearns invited votes from members of the public. Amanda recognises general manager Gemma Moore and the four chefs and

the three kitchen assistants who work really hard to keep diners happy. The whole team is invested in creating satisfying dishes in an environment that’s comfortable and relaxed but can still be held up as an example of a great pub restaurant you’ll happily travel to for an enjoyable experience. It’s a village pub for locals with open fires, beams, pine floors and bags of character, but also a very good restaurant for those coming from further afield... which they do. Three letting rooms are popular even with local diners who want to enjoy a drink without relying on taxis home. Friends often use the Woodhouse Arms as a meeting point, coming from Grantham, Bourne, Peterborough, Stamford and Rutland among others. At £140 including bed, breakfast and

ABOVE Chicken en croute with mushroom duxelles, creamy mash, fine beans, and grain mustard, £19.75.

a main course during dinner, it’s little wonder the place is popular with those seeking to enjoy a break without having to travel too far. The Woodhouse Arms has a main menu served during lunchtime and in the evening from Wednesday to Sunday. Ciabattas and sandwiches are also available at lunchtime, and there’s a dedicated Sunday lunch menu (it’s a very popular destination for a Sunday roast). Otherwise there’s a choice of seven starters, 12 main courses and seven desserts. Bread, the shortbread served with coffee and all desserts and sauces are made in-house. Local suppliers include butchers Owen Taylor and Mel Ward, and

Collins Fresh for vegetables. Fish is landed at Grimsby docks, delivered daily. Sausages are a notable highlight too, supplied by Grimsthorpe’s John Berry and made to his own recipe. “We’re a passionate team, and we enjoy what we do,” says Amanda. “Which is really important because it’s what keeps the team together.” “It helps us to make the experience special for customers and continue to offer the continuity of experience and the quality that we’re renowned for.” “We’re grateful for our recent award, but we’re never complacent and we’ll never take our success for granted. We want every diner to have a great experience, every time.”

Find Out More: The Woodhouse Arms, Corby Glen, NG33 4NS. Call 01476 552452 or see www.thewoodhousearms.co.uk.

ON THE MENU Starters Smoked haddock fishcakes with hollandaise & watercress, £8.95. Chorizo & Parmesan Scotch egg, £9.25. Rosemary & honey infused Camembert, £18.95 (to share). Main Course Chicken en croute with mushroom duxelles, creamy mash, fine beans, and grain mustard, £19.75. 8oz bavette steak with handcut chips, onion rings, £28.95. Woodhouse 6oz beef brisket burger with brioche bun, £18.25. Desserts Poached pear, vanilla brûlée, caramalised hazelnuts, £8.50. Pecan pie, caramel ice cream, £8.75. Toﬀee apple crumble, £8.85. NB: Dishes subject to availability & change.

GOOD FOOD GUIDE THE LOCAL GUIDE TO DINING OUT

OUR GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNERS

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

Promote your business in our Good Food Guide for just £15 + VAT per month! Get in touch with our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email us at sales@pridemagazines.co.uk to find out more. Help us keep Rutland and Stamford 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

RESTAURANTS THE BARNSDALE BRASSERIE – 1760

A relaxed yet elegant dining experience. Comforting, wellcrafted à la carte dishes throughout the day, grill options and classics, plus afternoon tea and private dining. Hotel and spa too. The Barnsdale, The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see barnsdalerutland.com.

BLOSSOMS AT RUTLAND HALL

A contemporary restaurant serving a seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients, with a beautiful lakeside setting overlooking Rutland Water. Four Roots spa, afternoon tea, and rooms and lodges set in 70 acres. Rutland Hall Hotel, Barnsdale, LE15 8AB. Call 01572 757901 or see www.rutlandhall.co.uk.

THE CROWN HOTEL

A lively pub, restaurant, and hotel in the heart of Stamford, serving a seasonal menu with local ingredients. Part of the Knead Pubs group: sister venue to Paten & Co next door, and the recently refurbished Tobie Norris. All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 763136 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

THE FINCH’S ARMS

An 18thcentury pub situated on the very pretty Hambleton Peninsula, providing stunning views over Rutland Water. Hambleton, LE15 8TL. Call 01572 756575 or see www.finchsarms.co.uk.

THE GEORGE INN OAKHAM

A charming 17thcentury coaching inn situated in the centre of Oakham, previously known as the WhipperInn. Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT. Call 01572 756971 or see thegeorgeinnoakham.co.uk.

HAMBLETON HALL

Hambleton Hall hotel and restaurant is situated on the peninsula above Rutland Water. Renowned for impeccable service thanks to over four decades of ownership under Tim & Stefa Hart. Michelinstarred restaurant with seasonal menus in a luxurious country house setting. Created in 1979 and opening soon after, the kitchen is headed up by Aaron Patterson who has ensured the restaurant has retained its Michelin Star longer than any other dining room in Britain. Enjoy a daily changing menu including ‘gourmet corner’ options. Hambleton, Oakham, LE15 8TH. Call 01572 756991 or see www.hambletonhall.com.

HITCHENS BARN

Featured in The Good Food Guide book of Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants in 2023, 2024 & 2025. Holders of two AA rosettes for culinary excellence. Burley Road, Oakham LE15 6DH. Call 01572 722255 or see www.hitchensbarn.co.uk.

JASHIR INDIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

A culinary destination that oﬀers unforgettable Indian dishes made with the finest ingredients and spices. 51-53 High Street, Oakham LE15 6AJ. Call 01572 368282 or see www.jashir.co.uk.

THE LAKE ISLE

Oﬀering a contemporary, intimate setting and friendly, attentive service, alongside exquisite flavour combinations via à la carte and set menus. High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PZ. Call 01572 822951 or see www.lakeisle.co.uk.

THE GURKHAS

Vibrant and authentic Nepalese and Indian culinary experience. One of the town’s standout dining destinations, known for rich, aromatic & classic dishes inspired by Himalayan cuisine. 11 Broad St, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Call 01780 917598 or 07414 185679, www.thegurkhasstamford.com.

MILLY’S BISTRO AT THE WILLIAM CECIL

Located at The William Cecil, Milly’s Bistro is a relaxed yet refined addition to the Stamford dining scene, serving dishes using local ingredients. St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 750085 or see www.millysbistro.co.uk.

NO.23 UPPINGHAM

A Mediterraneaninspired restaurant featuring a range of wines and cocktails. High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 303023, www.23uppingham.co.uk. RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS 2025

THE GEORGE OF STAMFORD

Refined fine dining featuring modern British cuisine. Highlights of the menu include Dover sole and sirloin of beef. George Hotel, High Street, Stamford, PE9 2LB. Call 01780 750750 or see georgehotelofstamford.com. RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2025

THE OLIVE BRANCH

An awardwinning gastropub oﬀering seasonal British cuisine in a gorgeous setting. Having celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024, the restaurant’s kitchen garden provides fresh herbs, fruit and veg, and local producers are really well represented. Clipsham, Rutland, LE15 7SH. Call 01780 410355 or see theolivebranchpub.com.

PATEN & CO

Located in a historic 18th century pub, Paten & Co serves a variety of small plates and larger dishes, with a special focus on its charcoal oven. All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 408647 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

SARPECH INDIAN RESTAURANT

Oﬀering a contemporary dining experience with a focus on topquality Indian cuisine. Burley Corner, Oakham, LE15 6DU. Call 01572 842888 or see www.sarpech.co.uk.

THE SLANTED DOOR

Lovely 16thcentury building with a modern bar, selling cocktails, an extensive fine wine list, draught beers and delicious small plates. Dine upstairs in the intimate restaurant with outstanding food. Large vegan menu. St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DS. Call 01780 757773 or see theslanteddoor.co.uk.

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.

ZADA

A beautiful Turkish restaurant in one of Stamford’s old stone buildings, oﬀering a menu packed with authentic Turkish dishes like kofte and baklava. St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP. Call 01780 766848 or see zadarestaurant.co.uk.

DINING PUBS THE ADMIRAL HORNBLOWER

Quality lunch and dining menus. Sister venue to The Finchs Arms on the Hambleton peninsula. High Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AS. Call 01572 723004 or see www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk

THE BERTIE ARMS

Gorgeous C17th thatched pub in Uﬃngton run by Katie and James Genever. Uﬃngton, PE9 4SZ. Call 01780 766400 or see www.thebertiearms.co.uk.

THE BLUE BALL AT BRAUNSTON

Cosy country pub with a focus on local produce, oﬀering traditional British dishes. Cedar Street, Braunston, LE15 8QS. Call 01572 722135 theblueballbraunston.co.uk.

THE BULL AND SWAN

A quirky pub oﬀering classic British dishes in a stylish, historic setting. Lovely kitchen garden. The Bull & Swan is the sister venue to William Cecil. High Street St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 766412 or see www.thebullandswan.co.uk.

THE CROWN

16thcentury coaching inn serving light lunch, comforting pub classics, handstretched stonebaked pizza. High St E, Uppingham, LE15 9PY, 01572 822302 or see www.crownuppingham.co.uk.

THE FALCON HOTEL

Historic hotel and pub oﬀering a variety of hearty British dishes and Sunday roasts. Its new restaurant, Fern, is a seasonal restaurant serving small plates, organic wines and British aperitifs. High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 823535 or see www.falcon-hotel.co.uk.

THE FOX

Cosy pub serving a mix of traditional British and international dishes. Founded by Jason Allen, with long standing head chef Richard Page providing greatvalue freshly prepared dishes. Pinfold Lane, North Luﬀenham, LE15 8LE. Call 01780 720991 or see thefoxrutland.co.uk.

GEORGE & DRAGON

Quintessentially English village pub at Seaton has undergone a complete transformation. Menus are focused on using the best of local and fresh produce. Two AA rosettes for culinary excellence. Main Street, Seaton, Oakham, LE15 9HU. Call 01572 747418 or see thegeorgeanddragonseaton.com.

THE HORSE & JOCKEY

Traditional pub located near Rutland Water, oﬀering pub classics and local ales. St Mary’s Road, Manton, LE15 8SU. Call 01572 737335 or see horseandjockeyrutland.co.uk.

THE KING’S HEAD

A quaint pub in the heart of Stamford, oﬀering hearty pub meals. Maiden Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AZ. Call 01780 753510 or see www.kingsheadstamford.co.uk.

THE LONDON INN

Oldworld pub oﬀering traditional dishes, including brunch and grill options. St John’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DB. Call 01780 754919.

THE LORD BURGHLEY A traditional British pub with a suntrap garden, serving a variety of pub classics. Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Call 01780 763426.

THE RED LION, WEST DEEPING

Exceptional pub restaurant headed up by Frazer and Emma, great dining, lovely feel and smashing service! A cosy pub serving elevated British cuisine, local, fresh and sustainable. West Deeping, Peterborough PE6 9HP, call 07421 977661, theredlionwestdeeping.co.uk.

THE TOBIE NORRIS

A historic 13thcentury pub with a cosy atmosphere, oﬀering traditional British dishes, woodfired pizzas, and a variety of local ales. Sister venue to Paten & Co and The Crown Hotel. St Paul’s St, Stamford, PE9 2BE. Call 01780 753800 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

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DAYTIME DINING THE BLONDE BEET

A plantbased restaurant with a creative menu that highlights seasonal ingredients, The Blonde Beet is run by Jo Kemp, who has brought her passion for vegan cuisine to the heart of Stamford. Expect inventive dishes that are both healthy and packed with flavour. St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE. Call 01780 766464 or see www.blondebeet.co.uk.

THE COSY CLUB

National chain in the town’s old postal sorting oﬃce with quirky look and feel, decent enough for a bite to eat, with good brunch menu, and burger/grill options. Horse Shoe Lane, Stamford, PE9 2RB, call 01780 767710 or see www.cosyclub.co.uk.

DON PADDY’S

A familyrun business since 2001 and somewhere to meet for brunch, lunch and dinner daily, or cocktails. Serving delicious, highquality food with local produce in a friendly, local space. Recently refurbished with brand new menu, sister venue to Uppingham’s Falcon Hotel. Market Place, Uppingham LE15 9QH. Call 01572 822255 or see www.donpaddys.co.uk.

GARDEN RESTAURANT

GATES GARDEN CENTRE The perfect place to eat and drink. Large 360seater restaurant within Gates Garden Centre, which also benefits from having an exceptional farm shop on site. Outdoor verandah for summer months and log burners for the cooler months. Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

LAMBERT’S BISTRO

Welcoming and comfortable environment in which to enjoy good coﬀee, brunch or lunch. Steve and Sally opened Lambert’s in 2016 after working in the hospitality sector for nearly 30 years. Cheyne Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AX. Call 01780 767063 or see www.lamberts-stamford.co.uk.

The Crown Hotel, Stamford.

‘THE VIEW’ AT RUTLAND NURSERY

A popular spot with stunning views of Rutland Water, oﬀering a range of light lunches and homemade desserts in a serene setting. Manton, LE15 8RN. Call 01572 498720 or see www.rutlandnursery.co.uk.

CAFÉS AND TEA ROOMS BARNSDALE GARDENS A delightful spot within Barnsdale Gardens, known for serving freshly made dishes. Enjoy the gardens created by BBC Gardeners’ World’s Geoﬀ Hamilton from 1983. The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 813200 or see www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk.

CENTRAL TEA ROOM AND CAFÉ

The oldest tea rooms in Stamford. The timberframed building is reputed to be part of a 15thcentury great wool house. Professes to oﬀer the ‘best breakfast in Stamford,’ as well as providing classic sandwiches, paninis, and homemade cakes to order. Red Lion Square, PE9 2AJ. Call 01780 763217.

THE DAIRY BARN CAFÉ Delightful tearoom with homemade cakes, sandwiches, and teas. Located on a dairy farm at Leesthorpe between Oakham and Melton, with 200 cows and its own ice cream parlour producing luxury ice cream from cow to cone. Whissendine Rd, Leesthorpe, Melton Mowbray LE14 2XJ. Call 01664 474461 or see www.ferneleysicecream.co.uk.

FIKA STAMFORD

Opened by brother and sister duo Tia and Ivo, Fika Stamford oﬀers a ‘vibey brunch café’ experience. With a warm atmosphere, good music, and friendly staﬀ. Pastries and baked goods to take away. High Street, Stamford PE9 2BB. Call 01780 723514 or see www.fikacafe.co.uk.

FROTHYS COFFEE SHOP, STAMFORD

A familyrun independent business oﬀering breakfast, brunch, light lunches, plus savouries, cakes & beverages. Welcoming and friendly. Menu is creative and imaginative with locally sourced produce where possible. Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL. Call 01780 751110 or see www.frothyscoﬀeeshop.com.

HAMBLETON BAKERY

Artisan bakery oﬀering a range of breads, pastries, and sweet treats created by Julian Carter and his team. A sister business to the exceptional Hambleton Hall. Cottesmore Road, LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk. COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR 2025

THE HAYLOFT AT HUNTERS

A stylish and inviting coﬀee shop with an adjacent interior design studio for inspiration. Excellent coﬀee, delicious homemade cakes, Hambleton Bakery bread and light lunches. Copthill Farm, Stamford PE9 4TD. 01780 753351 or see www.huntersinteriors ofstamford.co.uk.

MULBERRY CAFÉ AT BOSWORTHS GARDEN CENTRE

Mulberry café, with its airy orangery and views across the plant area, serves up a fresh, seasonally inspired menu featuring produce straight from the onsite kitchen garden. Elton Walled Garden, PE8 6SH. Call 01832 343104 or see www.bosworthsgc.co.uk.

FOOD & DRINK PRODUCERS DERWENT & DUNNE

Exceptional coﬀees & teas, with bespoke blends. Call 01780 723826 or visit www.derwentanddunne.co.uk.

GATES FARM SHOP

Farm shop with 12,000 sq ft retail space incorporating Hambleton Farms butchery. Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. FOOD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2025

HAMBLETON BAKERY

Handmade artisan bread and cakes free of additives available from seven shops including those in Exton, Stamford, and Oakham. Oakham LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see hambletonbakery.co.uk.

RENNET & RIND

Stamford’s goto destination for artisan British cheese. High St, Stamford PE9 2AL. Call 01480 831112 or see www.rennetandrind.co.uk. DRINKS PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2025

RUTLAND VINEYARD

Beautiful vineyard in Rutland producing stunning wines on Jurassic limestone soil. Tasting Barn, Barrowden Rd, Ketton, PE9 3RJ. See therutlandvineyard.com.

TIPPLEMILL GIN

Producers of Tipplemill London Dry Gin, with a flavoursome combination of bittersweet citrus and elderflower, £44/70cl. See www.tipplemill.com.

TWO CHIMPS COFFEE

Visit the Two Chimps roastery! Based on Pillings Road in Oakham, the company is home to Rutland’s own fresh, handroasted singleorigin coffee from around the world. Alongside some exceptional beans, the company offers premium looseleaf teas, artisan hot chocolates, and unique gifts. Pop in to the shop to see the full collection or join the team for one of their interactive coffee workshops. Oakham, call 01572 774389 or see twochimpscoffee.com.

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.

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

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

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

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

Heard it through the

GRAPEVINE

VELVET SPICE

Our monthly digest from Ketton’s Rutland Vineyard with Zoe & Tim Beaver

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

Harvest is in for another year! What a wonderful community we have. We are so incredibly grateful to all of the amazing volunteers who came out in force to help us bring in our 2026 harvest. Your hard work, enthusiasm and good humour made the experience so special!

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

Now, as the vines are ablaze with beautiful autumnal colours, they’re having one final, spectacular hurrah before settling down for their winter sleep. But while the vines take a well-earned rest, our tasting barn never does!

WINE & SPIRITS This month’s selection of wines and spirits including a warming Amaretto recommendation ideal for autumn puddings. Plus we catch up with Tim & Zoe Beaver at The Rutland Vineyard as they launch a brand new Rutland red...

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

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

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

We’re open all year round and there’s no better time to come and enjoy the changing seasons. Come and watch the weather roll across the vines, catch up with friends, and settle in with our delicious autumn cheese board, perhaps accompanied by a glass or two of our wines. Our much-loved Triple Tipple White and Rosé are joined by our brand new 2025 Red Wine. At 13%, it’s already showing all the promise and character of what could be an awardwinning vintage. Whether you’ve been part of the harvest, you’re discovering us for the first time, or simply fancy a cosy autumn afternoon among the vines, we’d love to see you. Visit The Rutland Vineyard’s tasting barn, Ketton, from Wed-Sat, therutlandvineyard.com.

OAKHAM’S NSPCC CAROL CONCERT

“We were only going to do it once,” says Margaret Wheeler. Twenty years and more than £350,000 later, that first NSPCC Christmas Carol Concert at All Saints’ Church in Oakham has become a much-loved fixture in Rutland’s festive calendar. For its founder, the anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate the people who have made it possible, and to consider what might come next. Margaret is stepping down as organiser after this year’s concert. With family commitments, including four grown-up children and ten grandchildren, she would like to reclaim some of the weeks that disappear into preparations each autumn. Her hope is that new people will come forward to help the event continue, bringing their own ideas to a tradition with a loyal following. A Rutland beginning Originally from Stockton-on-Tees, Margaret came to the University of Leicester to study French and German, later working as a lecturer at De Montfort University. Her introduction to Peter, the Leicester Tigers and England rugby player who would become her husband, came through her brother.

20 Years of Fundraising

In Fine

Voice

“I had a brother who played rugby and I went to watch him play and he was playing against Peter one day at Leicester Tigers,” she recalls. “So that’s how I met him.” Rugby was still amateur, and Peter combined playing with his work as an insurance broker. Following the game’s 1995 move into professionalism, he became chief executive of Leicester Tigers, bringing his experience in business and on the pitch to the role. The couple lived in Cossington and then Ragdale before moving to Cottesmore in 1999. With their children at school in Oakham, the move brought an end to Margaret’s lengthy school runs and established the family in a county they quickly came to love. Her involvement in church life and charitable work provided another connection to the community. She had also helped a friend organise three successful carol concerts at Leicester Cathedral, drawing on a format used for a Home-Start fundraising concert at the Guards’ Chapel in London.

When Rutland’s NSPCC supporters were considering a new fundraising event, Margaret suggested trying something similar in Oakham. There was already a successful format to follow, and she could see how it might work locally. The first concert took place in 2006. From the outset, she wanted to offer an evening for adults, with excellent music and readings, carefully positioned among the county’s other charitable events and Christmas celebrations. “I spotted a niche in the market for an adult carol concert,” she says. The concert was designed to sit alongside village services of Nine Lessons and Carols and school Christmas productions. Margaret was conscious that those occasions already had their own place in the calendar, and wanted the NSPCC evening to offer something distinctive while respecting the fundraising work happening elsewhere in the county. What began as an experiment soon became an occasion that people returned to, gathering friends together and making it part of their own Christmas traditions. An evening to enjoy The welcome begins with a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine. Inside Oakham’s All Saints’ seasonal decorations help set the scene for an evening combining choral music, brass, readings and plenty of opportunities for the audience to join in. Rowell Camerata and the Ratby Co-operative Brass Band provide the musical performances. Margaret has always placed great importance on their quality, recognising that a concert’s charitable purpose should be accompanied by entertainment people are keen to hear.

She credits choir director David Bevan with considerable help over the years, both through his musical contribution and his ability to suggest talented performers. Brass band conductor Chris Jeans has been another valued figure in creating the sound and character of the evening.

“Our readers are very, very loyal,” says Margaret. “I don’t even have to ask them. It’s already in their diary.” Much of what they read begins with Margaret herself. Over two decades, she has collected three substantial files of possible material, looking for passages that will bring something fresh to the evening. “I do a lot of work reading literature and all sorts of things, trying to collect readings that people won’t have heard before,” she explains.

There have been opportunities for soloists, too, including an oboist and a young singer from Oakham School whose performance of music from The Snowman remains a particularly happy memory for Margaret. Alongside the performances are familiar carols for everyone to sing. The evening’s famously raucous rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas gives the audience an especially enthusiastic role, adding to the sense that the 400 people gathered in the church are helping to create the occasion themselves. It is a very sociable evening with room for laughter, and that is entirely deliberate. “I think it’s possible to raise money for charity through enjoyment, really,” says Margaret. “You’re having a really good night out, but you are doing good for somebody else.” The concert is compered by Caroline Aston, the broadcaster and royal expert whose writing has appeared in Majesty magazine and The Daily Telegraph. As well as welcoming everyone, Caroline delivers the appeal towards the end of the evening, bringing attention back to the NSPCC and the reason for gathering. Margaret describes Caroline’s appeal as a “gentle reminder of the real purpose of the concert.” Further giving is voluntary, and the generosity of the retiring collection has repeatedly demonstrated how warmly audiences respond. Choosing the right words For many regular guests, the readings are among the evening’s greatest pleasures. Funny, reflective and occasionally touching, they offer different perspectives on Christmas, delivered by people whose personalities have become part of the concert’s appeal.

“One thing I would stress is how Rutland have got behind us, the county,” she says. “So many local businesses have been fantastic supporting us.” Readers over the years have included Mary Berry, Rosemary Conley, Anne Davies of BBC East Midlands Today, Antiques Roadshow expert Lars Tharp, hotelier Tim Hart and gardening writer Nigel Colborn. Local connections and friendships have helped bring people to Oakham, and many have returned repeatedly. Friends in high spirits Mary Berry first came through a friendship with a member of the committee, before The Great British Bake Off brought her to an even wider audience. Nigel Colborn contributed readings of his own, writing pieces for Margaret to consider as she assembled the programme. The ability to tell a story has always mattered. A more recognisable name may encourage someone to buy a ticket, but clear delivery and a feeling for the material make the reading work once the audience is seated.

For her final year as organiser, Margaret intends to revisit some favourites. It’s a fitting way to acknowledge the concert’s history through the words and performances that guests have particularly enjoyed. “There are some readings that people say, ‘I want to hear that again’,” she says. Although the structure is familiar, the contents change. New music and different readings mean that returning guests can anticipate the kind of evening they enjoy while still discovering something new. That careful balance helps explain why audience members and readers have remained keenly involved over so many Christmases. A county behind the concert Margaret is always keen to widen any conversation about her own contribution to include the committee, performers, supporters and local businesses. Sustaining the concert for two decades has required a considerable collective effort, with people contributing money, practical help and their time. “One thing I would stress is how Rutland have got behind us, the county,” she says. “So many local businesses have been fantastic supporting us. Generous people like the late Robert Wills supported us from the very beginning, for which we’re very grateful.” Gates Garden Centre helps with the church decorations and contributes to the hamper draw. Otters is another business Margaret singles out for its support, while donated hampers from companies like Harrods give guests the chance to take home something lovely for Christmas.

OAKHAM’S NSPCC CAROL CONCERT

Sponsors and programme advertisers make a substantial contribution to the fundraising total. With the church accommodating around 400 people, ticket sales have a natural limit, making the generosity of businesses particularly valuable. Margaret has spent many hours maintaining those relationships, alongside securing readers, choosing material and bringing the programme together. Other responsibilities, including refreshments, advertising and publicity, are shared among the committee. Ongoing support The strength of that support became especially apparent during the pandemic, when the concert could not take place. Donated hampers provided a way to continue fundraising, and Margaret contacted regular supporters to invite them to contribute what they would ordinarily have spent on tickets and enter the draw. Even during those years, without a concert, Margaret recalls raising around £8,000 to £9,000 each year, a remarkable response when there was no concert to attend. It demonstrated how much goodwill had grown around the event and its purpose. Her own contribution has also been recognised nationally with an NSPCC award presented by Sophie, now Duchess of Edinburgh, and Esther Rantzen. The charity’s work has mattered to her since she was a young mother, when reading about a child suffering appalling cruelty made a lasting impression. Looking at her own healthy baby, she felt strongly that she wanted to help children whose circumstances were very different. That concern has remained central throughout the concert’s history. In the programme, she makes space to explain the NSPCC’s work, including the changing risks children face online. Christmas brings the contrast between secure, happy childhoods and the experiences of vulnerable children into particularly sharp focus. “Any child that’s suffering cruelty anywhere, I would be very happy to support them,” she says.

This year’s anniversary therefore marks a considerable achievement: more than £350,000 raised, two decades of memorable evenings and a network of people willing to support the NSPCC through a local event. It also offers a moment to consider how that work could continue. The committee of eight is keen to see the concert carried forward, and Margaret hopes that fresh enthusiasm and additional help will make that possible. “I’m hoping to hand it on to somebody else so that the concert can continue,” she says. Its future has yet to be decided, so this year’s concert could be the last. There is, however, an established audience, considerable goodwill and a committee with experience to share. For anyone interested in getting involved, those are encouraging foundations. Margaret is open to the evening developing under new organisers, with responsibilities shared differently, and new people bringing ideas about sponsorship, publicity or the programme itself. Someone comfortable approaching businesses could help strengthen sponsorship. Experience in publicity, including reaching audiences online, would also be useful. Equally, practical organisation and a willingness to work with others have been essential throughout its history. The appeal invites people who have enjoyed the concert from a seat in the church to help shape what happens behind the scenes. For Margaret, Christmas now includes the commitments and pleasures of a large family, and the time has come to hand over an undertaking that occupies a substantial part of her autumn. After 20 years, there is every reason to appreciate what she has achieved and support her wish for the concert to find new energy. The 20th anniversary evening will be an opportunity to enjoy that achievement together, with music, laughter and familiar faces filling All Saints’ once again. A new team could help ensure that future Christmases bring more evenings to enjoy and more support for children who need it.

THE NSPCC IN RUTLAND

EVERY CHILDHOOD IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR Founded in 1884, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children has spent more than 140 years helping children grow up safely and feel heard. Today, the NSPCC supports families, helps children recover from diﬃcult experiences and campaigns for better protection. Its Childline service oﬀers young people free, confidential support, while its helpline advises adults concerned about a child. Through its ‘Speak Out. Stay Safe.’ programme, primary school pupils learn to recognise concerns and identify trusted adults they can talk to. Practical guidance also helps parents navigate online safety and everyday family challenges. Supported by volunteers, donations and events like Oakham’s carol concert, its work helps give children greater confidence, security and the chance to enjoy childhood.

This year’s Rutland NSPCC Concert will mark the 20th anniversary of the event. It takes place on Monday 7th December, from 7.30pm, at Oakham’s All Saints’ Church. Tickets £20, available from James Sellicks, Oakham and The Falcon, Uppingham.

Supporting success and lowering stress Oﬀering bespoke business and personal support services for over 20 years That’s in addition to dynamic tasks like organising and attending events in person both nationally and overseas, working accounting software in order to complete VAT Returns, minute-taking during meetings and interviews or arranging, booking and managing complex travel itineraries. All of which helps to leave you free to deal with the high-level tasks which define your business.

As the saying goes, if you want something doing, ask a busy person. The trouble is, when you are the busy person, extra support on your terms isn’t always available... unless, that is, you know of Penny Flute and the team at Miss MoneyPenny Business Support and PA Services. It’s not ‘What can THEY do?’ It’s ‘What do YOU need?’ Before IT penetrated the office infrastructure and prior to our smartphones’ permeating influences on our lives, busy folk had personal assistants to manage demanding workloads. Conventional wisdom is that your computer (or latterly, the smartphone) renders human help with business and life administration superfluous. But as any still busy person will acknowledge, technology is merely a tool to facilitate organisation, not a substitute for being organised itself. That’s where Miss MoneyPenny Business Support and PA Services comes in, not with a view to telling you what they can do for you and your business, instead asking, ‘What do YOU need?’ Flexible help Penny established her business two decades ago this year, having worked as a PA for business leaders with multi-million-pound turnovers and hundreds of members of staff. Traditionally, recruiting such an asset would mean a full-time role, with a full-time salary. Instead, Penny and her eight-strong team are drawn from backgrounds such as customer service, finance and business admin, HR, hospitality, sales and marketing as well as the more conventional secretarial or executive assistant roles to offer the help you need, when you need it, and to provide less or more support as your workload varies.

Behind the scenes Whether your business needs help with the general running of your office (either front of house or behind the scenes), business administration, bookkeeping, recruitment, marketing, special one-off projects such as researching and relocating offices, or being involved in the finer details of planning an event, the team can help. Their assistance with your business (or lifestyle management) can be relied upon on a daily basis too, with service offerings which include but are not exhaustive of call-answering, liaising directly with your customers or suppliers (seamlessly as if part of your team), email inbox management, appointment booking, diary management and tackling any tasks, be they personal or work-related, which can be delegated from your to-do list. At the very least, having somebody to take calls, record details and respond to emails leaves you better placed to provide informed support to customers and ensure you concentrate on performing your role, instead of spending time on administration.

Personal assistance too The team’s familiarity with their clients often means they end up going well beyond the role of providing business services, often becoming a trusted partner and confidante, in addition to performing the traditional duties of a PA with life administration; birthday reminders and gift sourcing, booking tickets and hotels, helping to arrange property maintenance and lettings, keeping on top of crucial jobs like car insurance renewals, finding cleaners or gardeners for the home and booking appointments with GPs, opticians and dentists. A bespoke service Among the benefits of Miss MoneyPenny Business Support and PA Services is the adaptability that comes with offering such a bespoke service. Being a team, when required, additional resource is on hand and readily available at a moment’s notice should the volume of work from clients increase or in order to assist with more specialist tasks, without your business having to justify a full-time role and a significant salary, or burdening an existing member of your staff with extra duties. Happily, there’s another way. Being able to outsource both your business and personal tasks to a trusted third-party means you can focus more effectively on what matters, thereby being released from the demands of your to-do list, and ensuring your life runs smoothly, day-to-day.

Miss MoneyPenny Business Support and PA Services is based on Stamford’s Broad Street and works with local, national and international clients, oﬀering bespoke business and personal support services. For a free, no-obligation discussion about your needs, call 01780 482918 or see www.missmoneypennypa.co.uk.

THE GUIDE

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

• FILMS • BOOKS • MUSIC • 37

Rutland & Stamford

6th Nov Lindisfarne Folkrock pioneers Lindisfarne return to form with a classic fivepiece lineup of longtime members fronted by original foundermember Rod Clements on vocals, mandolin and slide guitar. Enjoy a repertoire of unforgettable songs like Meet Me On The Corner, Fog On The Tyne, Lady Eleanor and Run For Home. Stamford Corn Exchange. From 8pm, tickets £34, call 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.

What’s On

7th Nov

Strictly Come Murder at Tolethorpe Hall

1st Nov Festive Music at Kilworth House Three accomplished acts bring festive dining and familiar hits to the Orangery at Kilworth House. On Sunday 1st November, Paul Metcalfe captures the unmistakable voice, style and showmanship of Rod Stewart. On select dates from Friday 20th November to Monday 28th December, Mark Daniels presents Ultimate Bublé with muchloved seasonal songs in the style of Michael Bublé. Completing the trio is Just Tina: Simply the Best Christmas, appearing on selected dates from Sunday 29th November to Wednesday 30th December, a highenergy celebration inspired by the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll. For ticket prices and details see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk.

4th Nov

Chris Packham’s World Of Wonder: Planet on the Edge For 40 years, Chris Packham has been the voice of nature in the UK. Through his groundbreaking work on The Really Wild Show, Springwatch, Inside Our Autistic Minds and Earth, Chris has devoted his remarkable life to engaging with the natural world, and urging us all to do the same. Join Chris at De Montfort Hall, Leicester, as he opens an encyclopaedia of stories from his lifetime of curiosity and conviction. Experience an evening alive with discovery, with the chance to see extraordinary specimens from Chris’s own collection up close, hear untold stories from behind the camera, and share in his infectious passion for nature. See www.demontforthall.co.uk.

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

10th Nov

7th Nov

Carmen

Uppingham School Concerts Uppingham School presents two contrasting concerts across Remembrance weekend, showcasing the breadth and quality of its musical life. On Saturday evening, the school’s Invitation Concert will bring gifted pupil musicians together with members of staﬀ and professional performers. Playing side by side, they will explore chamber music masterworks in a collaborative concert that oﬀers young musicians valuable experience while providing audiences with an accomplished and engaging performance. The following evening, attention turns to the School Chapel for Music for Remembrance. Uppingham’s musicians will lead a thoughtful programme combining music and readings, creating an opportunity for reflection within the chapel’s beautiful and historic surroundings. Carefully chosen words and music will commemorate those who served and sacrificed, concluding a significant weekend with dignity and contemplation. Invitation Concert from 7.30pm, Remembrance Concert from 7pm, events held in Uppingham School Chapel, see www.uppingham.co.uk.

7th/13th Nov

7th Nov

Festive Workshops

The Real Thing

Sally McRae hosts a series of workshops to make Christmas trees, snowflake decorations and wreaths using decorative transparent and opaque glass. Most people should be able to make two or three decorations during the workshop, £53/person.

Join founder members of The Real Thing Chris Amoo & Dave Smith to celebrate 50 years since You to Me Are Everything reached number one. Enjoy hits like Can’t Get By Without You, with support from Richie Sampson, formerly of The Foundations.

Lamport Hall, NN6 9HD, call 01604 686272 or see www.lamporthall.co.uk.

Sat 7th November, 7.30pm, £31.50, 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.

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

14th Nov

Christmas at Belvoir Castle

Belvoir Castle will be transformed for Christmas with festive experiences for visitors of every generation. From 14th November its grand rooms will be decorated around favourite carols for the seasonal Deck the Halls event. Younger visitors can follow the Three Mice through the displays using a trail sheet included with admission, before meeting Father Christmas in the Castle’s grotto and receiving a present. For a more leisurely treat, Festive Afternoon Tea will be served in the Aviary Tearoom, featuring festive patisserie. See www.belvoircastle.com.

17th Nov

Private Peaceful After captivating audiences worldwide, Private Peaceful returns to the stage with fresh energy and timeless power. From Michael Morpurgo, beloved author of War Horse, comes the unforgettable story of Tommo Peaceful. On the eve of battle, Tommo looks back over the events that shaped his life: the warmth of family, the innocence of first love, and the deep bond with his brother that carries him through the horrors of war.

Below: Burghley Christmas Fair.

19th Nov Festive Cooking Demonstration

19th Nov

Milen Manoj Piano Recital at Lamport Hall

In this acclaimed oneperson tour de force, adapted and directed by Simon Reade, a single actor conjures an entire world of characters, landscapes, and emotions. At once heartwarming and heartbreaking.

Prepare for seasonal entertaining with expert guidance from The Olive Branch’s head chef, Dean Carroll. Festive Cookery Demonstrations on 19th November and 3rd December oﬀer tuition, tips and recipes. Each begins with coﬀee before a twohour demonstration, followed by a threecourse lunch with wine. Alternatively, discover how to create stylish party food during the Christmas Canapé Making Demonstration on 26th November, with sessions at 10am and 6pm. Guests can ask questions, learn professional kitchen secrets and take home recipe sheets, ready to recreate the dishes throughout Christmas.

Milen arrives at Lamport Hall to perform in the beautiful classical surroundings of the High Room. A true prodigy, in 2024, Milen graduated from the Gnesin Russian Academy of Music with a FirstClass Honours in Piano Performance. In 2026, he completed the Master of Performance at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Milen is a recipient of scholarships from Steinway & Sons, the Leverhulme Arts Trust, and the Jesse Wakefield Bursary. Exact time and programme to be confirmed. Lamport Hall, NN6 9HD, call 01604 686272 or see www.lamporthall.co.uk.

Curve Theatre, 17th-19th Nov, see www.curveonline.co.uk.

Call 01780 410355 or see www.theolivebranchpub.com.

21st Nov

Wildfowl and Wader Day at Rutland Water This day is an excellent opportunity to see the wide variety of wildfowl passing through Rutland or arriving for winter. Previous highlights have included American Wigeon, Scaup, Eider and Great Northern Diver. Using cars and travelling around as a group, you will check likely sites around the reservoir and also walk out onto the reserve. Best of all, your guide for the day will be Terry Mitcham, a wellrespected birding expert who has written books and magazine columns and is the bird recorder for the local Natural History Society. £15/person, 9.30am-4pm, Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre, Egleton, see www.lrwt.org.uk.

21st Nov

26th Nov

Burghley Christmas Fair

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Curve Theatre Roald Dahl‘s magical and muchloved story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is spectacularly brought to life this Christmas in Curve Theatre’s thrilling new Made at Curve production. Join Charlie Bucket, Grandpa Joe, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Mike Teavee and the Oompa Loompas as we step through the gates of Willy Wonka’s marvellous chocolate factory into a world of pure imagination. From the banks of a scrumdiddlyumptious chocolate river to the dizzying heights of the Great Glass Elevator, nothing is quite as it seems in this wonderful Wonka wonderland. Directed by Curve Artistic Director Nikolai Foster and featuring songs including ‘The Candy Man,’ ‘The Oompa Loompa Song’ and of course, the unforgettable ‘Pure Imagination.’ this timeless classic is a dazzling mix of theatrical magic and sweet nostalgia for all the family, creating memories lasting longer than an Everlasting Gobstopper. Curve Theatre, from Saturday 21st November to Saturday 16th January. Call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

25th Nov

Uppingham Fatstock

Uppingham’s timehonoured agricultural showcase is proudly staged each year by a dedicated committee from the local farming community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the traditions of rural life up close – a true celebration of livestock, land, and local pride.

After a lapse of 10 years during the Second World War and following rationing the Uppingham Fatstock Show was revived by a committee of local farmers in 1949. There are fourteen classes in total: seven for cattle, four for sheep and three for pigs. Recent entries have comprised around 20 cattle, 200 sheep and 25 pigs.

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

For more information see www.discover-rutland.co.uk.

7th Dec The Rutland NSPCC Concert Wonderful music, enjoyable readings delivered by national and local names plus audience participation, all to raise money for the NSPCC. Features The Rowell Camerata and The Ratby Cooperative Brass Band. Tickets £20, from James Sellicks in Oakham or the Falcon Hotel, Uppingham. All Saints’ Parish Church, Oakham, from 7.30pm.

CHRISTMAS MARKET 5th & 6th and 12th & 13th December, 10am-4pm Run over two weekends, we're back bigger and better than ever! Jam-packed with a huge array of stalls, masses of entertainment and an apres ski bar, we can't wait to welcome you all!

FATHER CHRISTMAS IN THE TUDOR HOUSE 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 10th, 12th & 13th December 10am-4pm at weekends, 4pm-7:30pm in the evenings Soak up the atmosphere of the original Tudor part of the Hall with Father Christmas and his elves beside a warming log fire. Enjoy story time, find out if you're on the naughty or nice list, get a hand-picked and wrapped gift and post your letter to the North Pole.

CHRISTMAS SHOP AND CAFE 2nd-4th and 9th-11th December Shop open 10am-3pm, Cafe open 9:30am-4pm Fully stocked with Christmas decorations, gifts and stocking fillers for all the family, you're sure to find something to take home. The cafe will be open alongside the shop selling hot drinks, sausage rolls, light lunches and sweet treats.

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

Despite its familiar name, the work is not technically a tapestry but an embroidery, with coloured wool stitched onto linen. It is widely believed to have been commissioned by William’s halfbrother, Bishop Odo of Bayeux, and probably made in England, perhaps at Canterbury.

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

At the British Museum, the work is displayed flat in one continuous length, allowing visitors to appreciate its scale and narrative detail. Digital interpretation and selected objects place its story within the wider world of Anglo Saxon and Norman England. These include charters connected with Edward the Confessor and William I, an illuminated AngloSaxon manuscript and the Chew

Entertainment

Beyond Rutland & Stamford

OctJul 2027

7th Nov

Christmas at Chatsworth House

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

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

5th8th Nov The Luxury Travel Fair

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

13th15th Nov Norfolk Festive Gift & Food Show

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

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

13th Nov

19th Nov

The Festive Gift Fair 2026

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

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

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

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

21st22nd Nov

21st Nov

Cambridge Winter Literary Festival

Van Eyck: The Portraits

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

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

26th29th Nov The Good Food Show

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

27th Nov

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

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

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

Bob Dylan

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

28th Nov

York Minster Christmas Tree Festival

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

THE GUIDE

NOVEMBER BOOK RELEASES

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

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

Pay Attention

Swan Song

Laura Kuenssberg

Charles Spencer

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

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

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

NOVEMBER MUSIC PICK

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

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

Bridge + Friendship + Fun = Happy Life + Healthy Brain Rutland and Oakham Bridge Club We play Bridge every weekday. Daytime and Evening Beginner courses start in January 2027.

Visit our website for details: www.bridgewebs.com/rutland/

HOMES

INSIDE: HOMES • INTERIORS • GARDENS • LUXURY PROPERTY • 53

WELCOME HOME

H HOME FARM, CLIPSHAM

ome Farm’s owners, Terri & Martin, were looking for a garden that faces south, countryside views and a village pub when they found this Grade II listed house in Clipsham. Since moving in during December 2019, they have renovated the property and reshaped its grounds, creating a home with space for working life, family visits and their interests in gardening and wildlife. With origins in the 17th century and later additions, the former farmhouse offered plenty of space but needed attention. Renovation during the pandemic included electrical work, plumbing and redecoration, alongside work to the outbuilding roofs. Beulah Smith helped oversee the project and guided the interior decoration, choosing muted colours in consultation with the owners.

WELCOME HOME

The project also made the outbuildings secure and usable, allowing the family to make better use of the space beyond the main house. One significant change was relocating the kitchen into a room with windows and a door opening towards the garden. The Aga was repositioned, and the former kitchen became a substantial utility and dog room, keeping laundry, wet coats and muddy paws away from the main living areas. The kitchen combines dark green Shaker cabinetry with white quartz worktops, fitted around the room’s irregular angles and into the window recess. An Aga with two ovens is complemented by a separate hob on the central island, which also provides seating for informal meals. The sitting room has a Clipsham stone fireplace and mullioned windows overlooking the countryside. Windows at both ends bring daylight through the full depth of the room. A separate dining room doubles as an office, returning to its traditional purpose at Christmas and when the children come home. The third reception room, known as the garden room, occupies an older part of the house and retains an old bread oven. “You don’t feel like you’re on top of each other when they’re here,” says the owner, describing visits from the children. The couple also find the house comfortable when it is just the two of them, using all the rooms apart from the children’s bedrooms. Upstairs, four bedrooms include a principal suite with its own shower room and walk-in wardrobe. There is also a family bathroom, with a further shower room downstairs. The fourth bedroom is currently arranged as an office, providing another option for working from home. The detached granary offers further flexibility. Its upper room has light from both sides and previously served as the owner’s son’s art studio. There is also a garage, carport and gated parking for up to six vehicles, plus separate storage for bicycles, logs and garden equipment. The grounds extend to approximately an acre, with lawn and flower beds nearest the house. Beyond the driveway, a rewilding project has introduced a different character, with mature trees, hedging and four wildlife ponds created during 2025 and 2026. The layout was designed by TJ Kennedy, with the ponds created by Harry Kelsey of Wild Water Ponds. The owners have seen bats, butterflies, a weasel and a grass snake, while winding paths and seating areas provide places to enjoy the grounds. A decked seating area overlooks the water and the countryside beyond.

Four different wildlife ponds created by specialist landscaper Harry Kelsey have created an incredible place to enjoy nature...

WELCOME HOME

The garden’s outlook across neighbouring fields was a major attraction when the couple bought Home Farm. The Olive Branch also more than met their requirement for a good local, providing regular opportunities to meet neighbours as well as somewhere to eat. The owners are now planning a move to a property with equestrian facilities as retirement approaches. Home Farm has proved comfortable for two, with room for family to return and plenty of space for their hobbies. “We’ll miss the place a great deal,” say the family. “At the moment we can’t imagine life beyond the house but hopefully when we find somewhere we like, we’ll feel ready to move on and let another family enjoy Home Farm as much as we have!”

Home Farm

Main Street, Clipsham Location: Clipsham, Rutland. Oakham 9.5 miles, 16 mins. Stamford 10 miles, 13 mins. Rooms: Three, currently arranged as sitting room, dining room and snug. Four bedrooms en suite and family bathroom. Detached Granary. Guide Price £1,250,000. Find Out More: Currently on the market with James Sellicks, call 01572 724 437 or see www.jamessellicks.com.

Image courtesy of James Hare Limited

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Sarah Harding Interiors (@sarahhardinginteriorsltd)

Specialising in all flat roofing work, from garage roofs to conservatory conversions. We can replace old conservatory roofing – too hot in the summer, too cold in the winter – with a fully insulated roof and skylight system for comfort and an improved appearance Commercial & Domestic Roof Repairs Guttering, Fascias & Soffits Conservatories and Balconies

Call 07825 381878 or see www.firstrateflatroofing.co.uk No Pressure Selling • Free, No Obligation Quotes • 25 Year Guarantee 62

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.

ovember brings plenty of practical jobs, but wet days oﬀer time to plan next year’s garden. Browse plant, bulb and seed catalogues, then shortlist a few favourites: your ‘November naughtiness’. Review photographs of borders and containers to identify gaps, plants needing relocation and combinations worth repeating before buying. Leave something standing Resist cutting everything back. Strong stems and seed heads give winter gardens structure, while log piles, fallen leaves and fading plants shelter insects, amphibians and small mammals. Brown belongs in the garden, and decay is part of its cycle. I choose plants with winter interest, including Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’, Viburnum ×bodnantense ‘Dawn’, sweet box (Sarcococca confusa), wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox), witch hazel (Hamamelis ×intermedia ‘Pallida’) and winter honeysuckle (Lonicera ×purpusii ‘Winter Beauty’). Camellia sasanqua oﬀers red, pink or white flowers. Camellia ‘Yuletide’ produces red blooms with golden anthers. Eryngium agavifolium reaches two metres, its candelabra like flowerheads often lasting until late January. Ornamental grasses worth retaining include fountain grass ‘Hameln’, Korean feather reed grass, feather reed grass ‘Karl Foerster’ and moor grass ‘Transparent’. The latter’s feathery spikelets shimmer in the breeze. Korean feather reed grass pairs well with the faded flowers of burnet ‘Tanna’. Joe Pye weed ‘Purple Bush’, giant ironweed ‘Mammuth’ (Vernonia crinita), Aster umbellatus (now Doellingeria umbellata), culver’s root ‘Fascination’ (Veronicastrum virginicum) and bergamot ‘Scorpion’ provide strong winter silhouettes. Cut back selectively Some perennials need tidying before heavy rain and strong winds damage deteriorating growth. Windrocked stems can damage crowns and roots. Herbaceous geraniums cut back in summer for a second flowering may still carry leaves, but these can become sodden, as can catmint (nepeta), coreopsis, helenium, campanula and artemisia. Cut collapsed stems to ground level, or just above fresh

basal shoots. Removing decaying material helps reduce fungal problems and hiding places for slugs. Clear fallen leaves from lawns and paths, where wet foliage can be slippery. Collect deciduous leaves, including oak, hornbeam and alder, for leaf mould to use as mulch or in planting holes. Shredding speeds decomposition; store leaves in a leaf bay or suitable bags. Retain some undisturbed piles for wildlife. Protect and prepare November is a good time to plant tulips and any remaining spring bulbs. Choose a position with good drainage. Raise containers on bricks or pot feet to prevent waterlogging, and insulate vulnerable pots with hessian secured with twine. Lift tender dahlias, begonias and gladioli where winter protection is needed. Remove dead or frost blackened foliage, allow plants to dry and store in frostfree conditions suited to each type. Dry dahlias upside down, then store their tubers in barely damp sand or spent compost, avoiding conditions that encourage rot. When the ground is neither frozen nor waterlogged, divide suitable herbaceous perennials. Established clumps can lose vigour after three to five years; division produces free plants for borders or containers. Replant at the original depth and mulch to protect roots through winter. Indoors, houseplants oﬀer greenery where outdoor space or mobility is limited, bringing colour and sometimes scent. Water according to each plant’s requirements, avoiding waterlogged compost. Some can be watered from below using a saucer. For early Christmas gifts, look out for Mark’s books: The Thrifty Gardener, Royal Gardens of the World and The Future of Gardens. Find further inspiration at www.marklanedesigns.com.

Jobs for November n Rake leaves and make leaf mould. n Plant tulips and bareroot stock. n Protect tender plants; check drainage. n Harvest vegetables and net brassicas. n Clean tools and check tree ties.

HUNTERS INTERIORS

F U L L I N T E R I O R D E S I G N S E R V I C E / C U R TA I N S ROMAN BLINDS / ROLLER BLINDS / SHUTTERS R E U P H O L S T E RY / F U R N I T U R E / L I G H T I N G H O M E AC C E S S O R I E S

THE STABLES, COPTHILL FARM, UFFINGTON, STAMFORD PE9 4TD

info@huntersinteriors.co.uk • huntersinteriors.co.uk • 01780 757946

Guide Price £425,000

Offers In Excess Of £400,000

Broadgate, Great Easton

Main Street, Lyddington

A characterful Grade II listed home with a thatched roof, open countryside beyond the garden and a wonderfully ﬂexible arrangement of living space.

A Grade II listed, double-fronted ironstone property requiring complete renovation throughout. Offering three bedrooms two bay-windowed reception rooms, a south-east-facing garden and a substantial stone workshop to the rear.

Guide Price £350,00

Guide Price £250,000

Owston Road, Knossington

Cedar Close, Uppingham

A charming and deceptively spacious, two-bedroom character cottage with a private rear garden, ideally located at the heart of the popular village of Knossington.

A two-bedroom detached bungalow on Cedar Close in Uppingham, with a single garage, driveway parking and a private rear garden, offering an exciting renovation opportunity for the next owner.

Luxury Homes

Station Road South Luffenham An exceptional opportunity to acquire three beautifully renovated homes as one remarkable property: Rutland House, Old Mill Duplex and Attic View Apartment. £2,000,000 Nest Estates 8-9 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA. Call 01780 238110 or see www.nestestates.co.uk

St Mary's Street Stamford Situated on prestigious St Mary's Street, this Grade II* listed Georgian townhouse offers a rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully preserved five-bedroom period home in Stamford town centre. Offers in Excess of £2,000,000 Willow & Stone Properties 2 Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PB. Call 01780 431218 or see willowandstoneproperties.co.uk. 69

LUXURY HOMES

Hall Lane

Compton House

South Luffenham

Uppingham

An elegant, beautifully proportioned late 17th-century Grade II* listed country house of exceptional character, set in stunning gardens, with indoor pool and extensive outbuildings.

A beautifully renovated, four-bedroom period townhouse offering versatile accommodation across four floors, filled with natural light and combining elegant original character features with refined contemporary styling.

Offers in excess of £3,000,000

Guide price £950,000

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

James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com

Church Farm Close

Owl Barn

Exton

Morcott

A family home on the edge of Exton, where the garden gives way to open farmland at the back. Four principal bedrooms, a fifth reached via a second staircase off the snug, and a garden running from lawn to stream.

Tucked away in the peaceful village of Morcott, Owl Barn, Church Lane is an exceptional home blending character with contemporary living.

Offers in excess of £1,250,000

Offers in excess of £900,000

James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com

Hurfords 21 High St E, Uppingham, Oakham LE15 9PY. Call 01572 821777 or see www.hurfords.co.uk 71

LUXURY HOMES

Lambley Lodge Road

High Street St Martins

Belton-in-Rutland

Stamford

Positioned in open undulating countryside is this substantial period home which has a stunning rural location with extensive gardens and paddock land extending to approximately 5.5 acres.

A distinguished listed town house with medieval origins, west-facing walled garden, parking and a two-bedroom cottage, set on one of Stamford’s most admired historic streets.

Guide price £1,100,000

Guide Price £1,950,000

Richardson Sheep Market House, Stamford PE9 2RB. Call 01780 762433 or see www.richardsonsurveyors.co.uk

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

Stockerston Road

West Farm

Uppingham

Seaton

An opportunity has arisen to acquire a substantial character farmhouse, range of traditional farm buildings and 1.5 acre grass paddock, all in a stunning setting close to the historic market town of Uppingham.

Positioned within Seaton’s conservation area in the heart of the Welland Valley, West Farm is a beautifully preserved Grade II listed Rutland farmhouse constructed of coursed ironstone beneath steeply pitched slate roofs.

Guide price £1,200,000

Guide price £1,500,000

Murray Market Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DY. Call 01572 755555 or see www.murray.co.uk

Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk 73

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

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

3 The Precincts | Market Deeping Lincolnshire | PE6 8FG | 01778 341827 75

Lorna Hamilton Triggs (centre) and some of the Calveo team, based at Rutland Garden Village.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Beyond Botox, Fillers and Medication From a single laser hair removal machine nine years ago to a curated suite of advanced skincare technologies, Lorna Hamilton Triggs, Calveo’s founder, has always bucked trends to source the most natural and eﬀective treatments for a wide range of skincare conditions

hat began as a simple laser hair removal service backed by a Dragons’ Den business loan is now a hugely popular, multi-faceted skincare clinic based at Rutland Garden Village, specialising in non-invasive skin, hair, and body treatments for adults and teens. “It’s all about the results,” says Lorna. “We only offer treatments where you see a genuine ‘before’ and ‘after’. We have a confidential consultation with clients to find out what they want, assess their skin, explain the options, and recommend what is appropriate. The aim is not to alter somebody’s face. It’s to help clients achieve healthier, fresher, natural-looking results and feel confident in their own skin.” This gives Calveo a distinctive place in a crowded aesthetics market. There is no Botox and there are no fillers. Instead, the clinic offers non-invasive alternatives, including HydraFacial; Potenza radiofrequency microneedling; the Elite iQ laser for hair removal, pigmentation, and vascular concerns; and Emsculpt Neo for body sculpting and muscle toning. There is even a professional athlete or two who discreetly opt for a bit of muscle support at the clinic.

“An AI Skin Analysis can reveal what is happening beneath the surface so we can provide a personalised plan,” says Lorna. “And we take photos that show clients their progress. It’s exciting to see the difference.” Calveo doesn’t just offer anti-ageing solutions. Its wider work includes support for concerns such as acne, rosacea, scarring, thread veins, and skin tags. Teenagers, sometimes crushed by what they see as embarrassing skin conditions, have also seen excellent results. “For teenagers, having confidence in how they look is fundamental to their wellbeing,” says Lorna. “A mother recently brought in her teen son, who had been struggling with acne and really didn’t want to go down the medical route. We suggested a course of HydraFacials and LED light, and within a few weeks we were seeing a dramatic improvement. It’s hugely rewarding being able to offer alternative solutions.” Expertise and a warm welcome clearly come together at Calveo. Lorna and her team of therapists believe a visit should feel calm, discreet, honest, and personal. “Clients are encouraged to ask questions,” says Laura, one of Calveo’s therapists, who is trained in every treatment available at the clinic. “We explain how treatments work, who they suit, and when a different approach might be

better.” Lorna confirms that openness runs through Calveo’s culture. “The clinic values feedback, selects technology carefully, and treats trust as something to earn over time.” Now Calveo is turning that philosophy into two new loyalty programmes. Launched in August, Calveo Perks Points reward clients with redeemable credit against all their treatments, just like a Boots or Nectar card, while Calveo Club, which began in October, is designed for those who want skincare to become a regular part of their routine. Like a gym membership, but for skin, members put £140 a month into their Calveo account to use towards treatments. If clients don’t have time for their usual mani, pedi or facial, the credit rolls over to the next month, ensuring the value is never lost (unlike failed gym attendance!), and allows members to save towards the treatments they genuinely want. Membership also comes with a raft of preferential benefits including discounted treatments. If you’re curious about advanced skincare but unsure where to begin, Calveo makes the first step simple. Book a free consultation on our website or call the number below, and ask the team what could work for you. Keep an eye on Pride’s social media posts to sign up for Calveo’s next open day event.

Calveo’s health and beauty clinic is based at Rutland Garden Village, Ashwell Road, Oakham LE15 7QN. For a free, no obligation initial discussion of the clinic’s range of treatments, call 01572 490950 or see www.calveo.co.uk.

Your Health Our Priority

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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF PRIDE

THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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01529 469977

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Portfolio NOVEMBER 2026

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND

FASHION - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS

TRAVEL

FASHION

Eastern Promise On the Silk Road MOTORS

BENTLEY

Long Coats and Quality Tailoring for Winter Warmth

SUPERSPORTS

WILDLIFE

MEN’S FASHION

November

Quality in Heritage

Nature An autumn almanac in the natural world

Private White VC

LUXURY BRAND

LUXURY AUTUMN FRAGRANCE COURTESY OF PENHALIGONS

FASHION

LONG Coat Season F

Words & Product Selection: Mandy Bray

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

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

Get the look: see over the page.

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

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

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

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

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

Livia wool coat, £379, www.hobbs.com.

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

FASHION

SAHARA

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

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

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

FASHION

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

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

CASHMERE COMFORT

£299, poetry fashion.co.uk

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

£345, joseph fashion.com

£215, lilysilk .com

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

£118, anthro pologie.com

£325, npeal.com

BLUE BRILLIANCE

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

£686, naomierichard.com

£1,950,

£1,950, tomfoolery london.co.uk

daintylon don.com

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

£325, atolyestone.com

£150, sansmatin .co.uk

£225, anoncph.co.uk

£110, calvinklein.co.uk

£180, michaelkors.co.uk

SOLE

£810, dior.co

BLUE

£220, axelarigato.com

CARRY BLUE

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

£820, miumiu.com

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

£2,420, uk.louisvuitton.com

£1,200, paulsmith.com

£270, nrby clothing. com

£595, reallywild clothing .com

£1,500, celine.com

£325, aspinaloflondon.com

Velvet Elegance

£700, temperley london.com

£875, bellafreud.com

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

£475, mulberry.com

A Legacy Of Craftsmanship

STYLE FOR MEN

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

LUXURY

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

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

ADVANCED SKINCARE CLINIC

Beyond Botox, fillers, and medication Non-invasive treatments for natural results

PERSONALISED PLANS FOR BODY AND SKIN CONCERNS Including anti-ageing, hydration, skin laxity, hair removal, pigmentation, fat reduction, and muscle building. Book a personal consultation with our welcoming team

POTENZA

01572 490950

Rutland Garden Village, Ashwell Road, Langham, Oakham LE15 7QN

calveo.co.uk contactus@calveo.co.uk 22

LUXURY BRANDS

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

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

LUXURY BRANDS

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

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

T THE SILK ROAD

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

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SUPERSPORTS

BENTLEY

Motors

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

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

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

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

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

Motors with ROB DAVIS

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

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

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

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

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

LOCAL BUSINESSES

EXPRESSIVE AUDIO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TALLINGTON LAKES

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

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

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

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

NATURE

N AN AUTUMN ALMANAC

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

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

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

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

Nature

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

LOCAL BUSINESSES

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

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

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

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

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

ALMANAC JAN

FEB

MAR

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

SOUND & VISION ON THE AIRWAVES IN HISTORY

APR

MAY

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

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

IN OTHER WORDS

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

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

NOV

DEC

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

IN THE CHARTS

ON YOUR TV

AT THE CINEMA

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

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

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

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

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

ARMISTICE DAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The last word ROB DAVIS

have never blazed the trail when it comes to

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

fashion. I was never any good (even when I

but on screen the statement that ‘the customer is

was younger) at looking ‘cool.’ The very

CLEARLY over 21’ did leave me wishing for a little

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

ambiguity. Perhaps it could be reworded: ‘I reckon

I habitually retreat to suits or tweed jackets, not to

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

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

looking darn fine for their age.’

looking unremarkable but relatively smart than to

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

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

MATURE

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

representations

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

preparation

emergency of

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

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

some

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

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

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