Rutland’s cover shot this month is by Peter Packer via Alamy, showing a snowy Rutland Water in winter. Stamford’s cover shows a snowsmothered Burghley, by John Lawrence Photography. Think your photography has what it takes? Send your highquality images to our editor and get the chance to enjoy the ultimate bragging rights: your work on our covers!
Send your very best photos to our editor Rob Davis, robin@pridemagazines.co.uk
Julian Wilkinson CEO & Publisher julian@pridemagazines.co.uk
As we approach the end of the year, we’re very much looking forward to gathering together as a team and raising a glass to another successful year producing the county’s finest magazine.
For the second consecutive month, we’re running our Big Reader Survey and inviting you to win £1,000 to spend with one of our advertisers in return for giving us some valuable insight into how to make the magazine the very best in terms of its content.
We’ve already received hundreds of responses; many more are also being collected by our website’s online form. The results are already proving very interesting and we’ll bring you a full report next month.
Our aim, though, is to begin 2026 with some valuable insight into how to continue to ensure that Pride Magazine is the very best magazine in the county.
In this edition, we’ll meet Steph and Nick of Woodbine Farm, who own and breed some of the finest reindeer in the country. We’ll also look forward to the King’s Speech with Rutland’s royal expert Caroline Aston and we’ll hear from the Bishop of Peterborough, Debbie Sellin, who offers us her own Christmas blessing.
Taking a break over the season, we also pay a visit to the magnificent Ragdale Hall spa. We enjoy Frazer King’s delicious winter menus at the Red Lion at West Deeping and we’ve a festive treat from from Tipplemill Distillery as well as Christmas fashion too.
Our very best wishes for a great month. Please enjoy a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous New Year!
Stamford Pride
Rutland Pride
45 CHRISTMAS GIFTS Thoughtful gift ideas for the whole family. 52 BISHOP DEBBIE Seasons greetings.
96 CHRISTMAS REINDEER Meet Steph and Nick’s adorable herd.
Homes & Gardens
62 WELCOME HOME A beautifully presented Grade II* listed property.
72 FESTIVE HOMES Christmas luxury.
82 CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
Floral floristry with Claire Sutton and decorations at Gates Garden Centre.
106 LUXURYHOMES Quality homes in Rutland & Stamford.
Ladies
Gentlemen
117 FASHION & BEAUTY Party season. 134 RAGDALE HALL Relaxing spa break. 144 WEDDINGS Ellie & George’s day.
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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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Each issue blends engaging editorial, striking design, and features that celebrate luxury living – the perfect setting to showcase the region’s finest businesses.
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Don’t miss a familiar location in Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated new film Frankenstein, which reaches cinemas as Pride goes to press
Alicia questions Government
Reassurance sought by Rutland & Stamford MP that people will be heard amid plans for reorganisation
Alicia Kearns, MP for Stamford and Rutland, last month asked the the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government for reassurance that democracy will not die under Local Government Reforms and stated that local people’s voices must be heard.
Alicia set out Rutland residents’ overwhelming preference to join with Stamford under Local Government Reform, whilst expressing residents’ majority rejection of a ‘mega-Lincolnshire Council’ and to a Leicester City takeover.
The Minister of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Alison McGovern MP, responded by confirming ‘democracy will not die’ and officials will have heard what Alicia has said and they will accept her question as representations on the issue of Local Government.
“Democracy means ‘rule by the people’, yet Local Government Re-Organisation plans are moving democracy further from local people with little consultation from the Government,” says Alicia.
Audiences around the world will soon see Burghley House on screen in Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated new film Frankenstein, releasing in select cinemas this month. Filming took place at Burghley in September 2024, with some of the House’s most spectacular State Rooms including the Great Hall, the Bow Room, and The Old Kitchen providing the backdrop for del Toro’s reimagining of Mary Shelley’s classic tale. The film, features an acclaimed cast including Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Charles Dance, and Christoph Waltz. Frankenstein tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant but egotistical scientist who brings a creature to life in a monstrous experiment with consequences that ultimately lead to the undoing of both the creator and his tragic creation.
Wild about the Baird’s Sandpiper
Local photographer William Bowell was thrilled to capture a rare Baird's Sandpiper at Rutland Water
Local bird photographer Will Bowell captured a rare sight at Rutland Water — a Baird’s sandpiper, a tiny wader that migrated from Alaska. The juvenile bird, usually found thousands of miles away, ventured remarkably close to
Will’s lens, delighting those who travelled to see it. “This bird was born this year and has come all the way from Alaska,” said Will, who lives in Deeping St James. Discover more of Will’s wildlife photography and artwork at www.justwildimages.co.uk.
Looking forward to the proms
Early tickets now on sale for the Burghley House Battle Proms, with its vintage theme for 2026
Winter isn’t yet in full swing, but we’re already looking forward to summer, and to the Burghley House Battle Proms which will take place on 11th July.
Early bird tickets have just gone on sale for the event, which will feature jazz, jive, vintage vehicles and a WWII living history display as well as the usual classical music and fun.
See www.battleproms.com.
Send your press releases & business news to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.
Oakham in Bloom’s AGM
Celebrating a year of the groups achievement and revealing plans for more hard work in 2026
Oakham in Bloom has celebrated another year of success, marking the end of a busy 2025 with its annual general meeting. The evening featured guest speaker Tom Mumby, organiser of the inaugural Rutland Flower Show, who entertained members with the story of how the event began as “a random idea in the pub” before attracting an astonishing 23,000 visitors in August.
The meeting, chaired by Oakham in Bloom’s Sheila Cunningham, was attended by Rutland’s Lord Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness, Oakham’s Mayor Chris Nix and Councillor Paul Ainsley. “It’s been wonderful to celebrate and recognise all the volunteers who’ve done so much to enhance the town during the past year,” said Sheila. “They’ve been key in everything we’ve achieved, including the transformation of the Stamford Road roundabout and its newly refurbished boat.”
The group, founded in 1997, continues to care for Oakham’s flowerbeds and 21 planters, including those near the library and the late Queen’s statue. Volunteers also oversaw the restoration of the town’s willow Spitfire, returned to its place on Burley Park Way ahead of the Remembrance commemorations. Looking ahead to 2026, Oakham in Bloom hopes to create a new feature roundabout at the Showground entrance, with an ancient plough and fruit trees in partnership with Root & Branch Out and the Rutland Agricultural Society.
And Finally... Going, going, wow, gone! A Rutland antiques seller’s silver bear jug was sold at auction last month for more than double its guide price. The 19th century jug, made by renowned silversmith Robert Hennell sold for a whopping £17,000 and was sold to a specialist dealer by Gildings Auctioneers.
We value your opinion – and as a thank you for taking part in our Reader Survey, you could win £1,000 to spend with any of the advertisers featured in Rutland & Stamford Pride Magazine
We take pride in delivering Rutland & Stamford Pride Magazine by Royal Mail, straight into the letterboxes of our readers. We want to continue doing a great job for you –while also keeping a close eye on our competitors!
By answering just 18 quick questions about your reading habits, favourite features, and local magazines, you’ll be helping us shape the future of the magazine. As a thank you, you’ll also be entered into our prize draw to WIN £1,000 to spend with any of our advertisers.
How to Enter:
Open only to readers of Pride Magazines. Complete all 18 survey questions.
Return the form by post to Pride Magazines (for the address please see over), or complete the survey online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk/survey (for ease you can scan the QR code on the next page).
All surveys received will be entered into the prize draw.
The winner will be chosen at random from valid entries.
The prize can only be redeemed with advertisers featured in this edition of Rutland & Stamford Pride Magazine.
Good luck – and thank you for sharing your views!
LOCAL MAGAZINES
1. Which other magazines, apart from Pride Magazine, do you receive directly through your letterbox?
Active Magazine n
The Rutland Magazine n
Stamford Living/Rutland Living n
No other magazines n
Other (please name) n
2. Do you read any local magazines that are bulk delivered in cafés, restaurants, shops etc?
Yes, regularly n Occasionally n Rarely n Never n
3. How often do you purchase a local magazine in a newsagent or supermarket?
Always n Often n
Occasionally n Never n
4. Which of the following topics appeal most to you as a reader?
Rate each topic from 10 (most interested) to 1 (least interested) accordingly
Local News
Local Events
Homes/Gardens
Food/Drink
Fashion
Cosmetics
Motoring Travel
Win £1,000 to spend with any of our advertisers!
Complete our Reader Survey by answering just 18 questions for your chance to win £1,000 to spend with any of our advertisers. Your feedback will help us make Pride Magazines even better and give us valuable insight into other local magazines in the area
PRIDEMAGAZINE
5. How often do you read Pride Magazine?
I read every issue delivered n
I sometimes read it n
Inever read it n
6. How well do you feel that Pride Magazine reflects the area?
It’s excellent n Quite well n
Very well n Not well n
7. Which of the following statements best describes your engagement with Pride Magazine?
Ilove it n Ilike it n
It’s OK n I’m not keen n
8. Including yourself, who else reads your copy of Pride Magazine, (family, friends etc)? In total, how many people read your copy?
Number of People:
Details:
COMPLETE ONLINE
If it’s easier for you to complete online: www.pridemagazines.co.uk/survey
Or, cut out and send the survey to... Pride Magazines
Venture House
Boston Enterprise Centre
Endeavour Park
Boston Lincolnshire PE21 7TW
RUTLAND/STAMFORD LIVING MAGAZINE
9. How often do you read Rutland/Stamford Living Magazine?
Every issue n Often n
Occasionally n Never n
10. Has Rutland/Stamford Living Magazine stopped arriving through your letterbox?
I used to, but no longer, receive it n
No, I never received it n
Yes, I still receive it n
11. If you currently receive Rutland/ Stamford Living, how would you describe the way you read it?
Ilove it n Ilike it n It’s OK n I’m not keen n
I can’t comment as Idon’t read it n
ACTIVE MAGAZINE
15. How often do you read Active Magazine?
Every issue n Often n
Occasionally n Never n
16. If you do read Active Magazine, how would you describe the way you read it?
Ilove it n Ilike it n
It’s OK n I’m not keen n
I can’t comment as Idon’t read it n
Your Name:
Address:
Telephone: Email:
THERUTLAND MAGAZINE
12. How often do you read The Rutland Magazine?
Every issue n Often n
Occasionally n Never n
13. Has The Rutland Magazine stopped arriving through your letterbox?
I used to, but no longer, receive it n
No, I never received it n
Yes, I still receive it n
14. If you currently receive The Rutland Magazine, how would you describe the way you read it?
Ilove it n Ilike it n
It’s OK n I’m not keen n
I can’t comment as Idon’t read it n
ABOUT YOU
17. What is your age bracket/gender?
Under 30 n 3150 n
5160 n 6170 n 71+ n
Gender: Female n Male n
Other/Private n
18. Which council tax band does your property fall into? A n B n C n D n E n F n G n H n
THANK YOU & GOOD LUCK!
Eat Drink & Enjoy
FIND JOY IN THE ART OF EATING WELL
ENJOY A FESTIVE TREAT WITH TIPPLEMILL LONDON
DRY GIN
DINING OUT AT THE RED LION IN WEST DEEPING PLUS: RESTAURANT LISTINGS: OUR LOCAL SUGGESTIONS WITH OLD FAVOURITES AND NEW DISCOVERIES
Dining Out
West Deeping’s Red Lion
All we really want for Christmas is exceptional dining and a warm welcome... happily, Frazer & Emma King of West Deeping’s Red Lion are happy to oblige!
Words: Rob Davis.
Christmas time is approaching and there’s always that awkward person to find a gift for. What do you give to someone who has everything? Frazer King, for example, has a sleigh-load of talent when it comes to creating brilliant food, a stocking full of the best local ingredients and a great team alongside him, not least among whom is Emma King and the couple’s two girls, aged seven and 11.
For a busy chef – busier still during the festive season –probably the greatest gift this season will be some time off, and that’s exactly what Frazer will be enjoying with the family on Christmas Day and Boxing Day when The Red Lion at West Deeping will close and Frazer will happily hand over the oven mitts to his father-in-law.
Before that though, Emma and right-hand-elf Susie will get the decorations down from the loft and make the already pretty-looking pub restaurant with its knobbly beams, flagstone floors and chunky fireplaces even prettier. They’ll be ably assisted with a large Baileys each, some Christmas songs and a tub of Quality Street, much to Frazer’s consternation, as he prefers Cadbury Heroes.
With the place looking all festive and the fires lit, the Red Lion will host its Steak & Wine evening on 19th November, with a meat-banquet format of long tables and heaving platters the likes of which have seldom been seen since the era of Henry VIII.
The Red Lion will also host Christmas carols around the tree on Thursday 18th December with a local big band and handbell ringers. Ever grateful for the village’s continuous support, Frazer and Emma also hold a party for villagers with a meal and – if the residents of West Deeping have been good – a visit from Santa to thank them for their support over the year. And then, when the couple open up again post-Christmas, New Year’s Eve will feature a 70s/80s DJ so locals can welcome in 2026. It’s a free event for anyone dining on New Year’s Eve. Be quick. Tables are limited.
It’ll mark the end of a busy – but very successful – year for the family. July saw the restaurant’s first (and an unannounced) visit by AA inspectors who awarded the place not just one, but two rosettes for the quality of the Red Lion’s dining.
Opposite: Fallow deer terrine with apple and plum chutney and sourdough.
Above: Gincured salmon with cucumber, pickled lemon, soda bread and dill mayonnaise.
>>
Dining Out
ON THE MENU
The Red Lion, West Deeping
£37.50/TWO COURSES
£45/THREE COURSES
STARTERS
Candied beetroot soup with horseradish. Fallow deer terrine with apple and plum chutney and sourdough.
Gin-cured salmon with cucumber, pickled lemon, soda bread and dill mayonnaise.
Chicory and stilton salad with celery and pickled walnuts.
MAIN COURSES
Stuffed turkey breast with roasted root vegetables, roast potatoes , buttered greens and cranberry jus.
Roast pork belly with braised fennel, heritage squash and a mustard & cider sauce.
Herb-baked cod with wild mushroom risotto.
Pumpkin tortellini with hazelnut and rosemary pesto.
PUDDINGS
White chocolate posset with honeycomb and lemon shortbread.
Spiced clementine parfait with caramelised orange and red wine jelly.
Red Lion Christmas pudding with cider brandy ice cream.
Rennet & Rind’s Cheese Selection.
NB: Sample menu and featured dishes, subject to availability and change.
>> The inspection may have been a surprise but the verdict shouldn’t be. Frazer and Emma arrived at the Red Lion in April 2021, having trained in London and having already gained a formidable reputation in his profession locally working at Clipsham’s Olive Branch, Stamford’s Paten & Co and at the hotel now known as The Barnsdale.
The building itself dates back to at least 1632 and is Grade II listed. In the summer there’s a terrace and a paddock to the rear of the pub with a kitchen garden comprising 12 beds heaving with herbs, heritage tomatoes and edible flowers. Near to the kitchen garden, Frazer and Emma’s girls have a nifty sideline in the form of their rare breed hens which provide plenty of fresh eggs.
In the winter, though, The Red Lion provides a really cosy feel with the restaurant featuring chunky farmhouse furniture, Hague Blue walls and the original pub sign on the wall. The bar, meanwhile, has wing chairs and
church pews alongside tables for two and comfy places to sit by the wood burner.
At the bar is The Red Lion’s own Kings Pleasure ale, produced by Nene Valley, plus ales from breweries like Oakham’s Grainstore and gin from Multum Gin Parvo as well as other local producers. Clarkson’s Hawkstone ale and a decent wine list (curated in conjunction with Oundle’s Amps) will help to impart a bit of extra ho-ho-ho this month too.
Frazer and Emma favour local suppliers where quality, consistency and seasonality permits, with Grasmere Farm providing pork, Lavinton Lamb and Hambleton Bakery also contributing and with butchery and fish delivered fresh each day. Rennet & Rind of Stamford provide the restaurant’s cheese and on Wednesday 3rd December will see The Red Lion hosting its Christmas Cheese & Wine event with tastings and the opportunity to take home something to make your Christmas really enjoyable.
A festive menu throughout December will run alongside The Red Lion’s à la carte menu, providing a choice of four starters, four main courses and three puddings plus a cheese board option.
Frazer’s attention to detail across the whole menu elevates relaxed pub dining to something more akin to dining in a much pricier and much more formal restaurant.
For example, his lovely caramelised Beurre noisette served with warm sourdough is a perfect winter treat, and the pub shop sells charcuterie, honey, pickles, jams and bottled ales either prepared in house or sourced close to the village. Even ice creams, sorbets and speciality breads are made by Frazer or commissioned from locals such as Sam
Opposite: Roast pork belly with braised fennel, heritage squash and a mustard & cider sauce. Above: Herbbaked cod with risotto. Red Lion Christmas pudding.
Reilly, The Rutland Chef, with whom Frazer has partnered to create Stilton ice cream.
After a starter such as gin-cured salmon, main courses include roasted pork belly, flavoured by fennel, mustard and cider, but stuffed turkey is also on the menu this month served with roasties, buttered greens and cranberry jus. For dessert, we’ll direct you towards a white chocolate posset with honeycomb and lemon shortbread or, if you’re more traditionally inclined, The Red Lion’s own Christmas pudding with Frazer’s cider brandy ice cream.
Whatever you choose from the menu though, this is a pub with a fantastic feel in winter and with lots of character, as well as genuinely exceptional attention to detail.
The Red Lion at West Deeping really is one of the most enjoyable places to dine in the area, worthy of its two-rosette rating, but even more worthy of its reputation among its visitors for offering a warm welcome.
The Red Lion, West Deeping
The Pitch: “Local, fresh and sustainable food and drink with friendlyfamily service courtesy of Frazer & Emma King. Ingredients sourced within 30 miles where possible. Beautiful Grade II listed 17th century pub restaurant.”
Opening Hours:
12 noon to 11pm Wednesday to Saturday (kitchen 12 noon to 2.30, 5pm to 9pm) and Sunday 12 noon to 6pm (kitchen 12 noon to 3pm).
The Red Lion, King Street, West Deeping, PE6 9HP. Call 07421 977661 or see www.theredlionwestdeeping.co.uk.
Gingerbread House Cake
A fun festive centrepiece for the family to enjoy
A magnificent centrepiece that’s deceptively easy, fun to create with youngsters and allows you to be really creative with two tiers of sponge and warming festive gingerbread
This month’s recipe Gingerbread House Cake
Cut out and collect our great seasonal recipes each month in Pride Magazine.
350g plain flour, 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 125g unsalted butter, 175g light brown sugar, 4 tbsp golden syrup, 1 egg
For decoration: A few boiled sweets (red or yellow); White royal icing; Small candy canes and festive sugar decorations
A centrepiece worthy of any Christmas table, this stunning two-tiered creation combines the charm of a gingerbread village with the indulgence of a winter sponge cake. Soft vanilla sponge, frosted in snowy white buttercream, forms the base for a miniature gingerbread street — with glowing sugar-glass windows, piped icing roofs and a scattering of festive sweets.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
Grease and line one 20cm and one 15cm round tin. In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar until pale and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Sift in the flour and baking powder and fold gently. Add the milk to achieve a soft, dropping consistency. Divide the mixture between tins, level the tops, and bake for 40–45 minutes until risen and golden. Allow the sponges to cool completely.
Beat the butter until very light and fluffy, then gradually add the icing sugar. Add vanilla and milk, beating until smooth and spreadable. Use some buttercream to sandwich each cake’s layers if desired, then coat both cakes fully with a smooth layer, using a palette knife to create an even ‘snowy’ finish.
Make the gingerbread: Gently melt the butter, sugar, and golden syrup in a saucepan, then leave to cool slightly. In a bowl, combine flour, bicarbonate of soda, and spices. Stir in the cooled syrup mixture and egg to form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes. Roll out to 5mm thickness and cut small house shapes (around 7cm tall), cutting windows into some. Place on parchment-lined trays, fill window spaces with crushed boiled sweets, and bake at 180°C for 10–12 minutes. Cool before decorating with royal icing.
Assemble and decorate: Position the larger sponge on a cake board and arrange nine gingerbread houses around its edge, securing each with a little icing. Stack the smaller cake on top (use dowels or straws for support if needed) and fix seven houses around it. Finish with a couple of extra gingerbread cottages and candy canes on top for a charming snowy village effect.
Christmas with Tipplemill
The perfect Christmas gift, and a local tipple to enjoy with family and friends this season, this month we’re enjoying Tipplemill London Dry with founders Lily and James Craven on their farm...
Words: Rob Davis.
It’s all about family. Christmas, that is, although we could equally be talking about Tipplemill Distillery. Fifth-generation of farmers Lily and James Craven will be enjoying a family Christmas and raising a glass to the festive season courtesy of their London Dry Gin, produced using stonemilled wheat grown on their farm in their base spirit.
In addition, the 10 botanicals used in their product include sweet fennel and elderflower grown on the farm as well as grapefruit and orange peel, coriander seeds and juniper berries, angelica, and orris root.
“Right from the outset we had the idea of producing a product that was authentic and better than mainstream spirits,” says Lily.
“Rather than industrially-made ethanol, we’ve upheld our values of sustainability, traceability and quality with the creation of a base spirit produced from our own wheat crop and milled for us at Moulton Windmill.”
The family’s farm in the Lincolnshire Fens was founded by Frank Craven, who also operated the now-derelict mill on the land. In 2023 Lily and James decided they wanted to celebrate the British countryside and the family’s farming heritage whilst reaffirming the link between farmer and consumer.
Tipplemill London Dry Gin is distilled over a long period in a traditional copper still, and the bottle itself, its stopper (with its millstone design) and the artwork have all been created in Britain with authenticity and a desire to celebrate the countryside in mind.
Tipplemill has won a double gold award at the prestigious World Spirit Awards underwriting its authenticity, traceability and its quality...
Tipplemill is an exceptional artisan gin, but don’t just take our word for it. The family were thrilled when their spirit won a double gold award at the World Spirit Awards in New York and again the following year in San Francisco, prestigious accolades from the best trade events in the spirits world, putting Lincolnshire on the map and underwriting the quality of its ingredients, its traceability and the authenticity of its provenance.
“Christmas is a really special time, when we all look back on the farming year and spend time together as a family,” says Lily.
“We all get together by the fire and enjoy a board game or just spend time as a family around the dinner table so our ultimate aim is to be a small part of everyone’s Christmas, contributing to their gin and tonic or a festive cocktail, and helping to champion the Lincolnshire countryside.”
“We’re a bit biased, but we think it’s a great gift, and a really enjoyable treat when you put your feet up on the sofa with loved ones in the winter months!”
Tipplemill Gin is available directly from www.tipplemill.com, £44, 70cl, 44% ABV. Pride readers can benefit from free giftwrapping and UK delivery by using the code ‘PRIDE’ on Tipplemill’s website.
Mulled Gin with a deep, wine-spiced winter opulence
A warm, luxurious twist to your festive gin selection
How’s this for a taste of Christmas?
Burleigh’s Mulled Christmas Gin blends juniper and red wine soaked spices, from cinnamon and nutmeg to star anise, for a smooth, indulgent sip brimming with festive warmth and luxury. Ideal straight, in a G&T or stirred into mulled wine for an extra layer of Christmas magic.
Our December picks bring festive flair to your home with an elevated festive gin, rich reds, decadent sweet wine and luxe non-alcoholic alternatives – ideal for cosy nights by the fire or dinner with friends
Three Wines to Embrace the Season
Heard it Through The Grapevine
Our monthly digest from Ketton’s Rutland Vineyard with Zoe & Tim Beaver
Are those sleigh bells you hear? No, it’s most likely the sound of us here at The Rutland Vineyard cheersing with a glass of our very First Fizz, which is now available to try at the tasting barn at the vineyard.
Hand picked in October 2023 by our fabulous volunteers, our Meunier and Pinot Noir grapes have been processed in the traditional way, fermented once in the barrel and bottled to sit on the lees for the last 18 months. Our White from Black sparkling is the first of its kind from the area since Roman times.
As Christmas hurtles towards us, you can visit the tasting barn for a cheese flight. and back by popular demand our local pork pie is also on the menu for the season! We have unique gift ideas such as row post sponsorships available for 2026, gift vouchers for the hard to buy for.
Château Liot’s Sauternes features fresh, fruity notes, of honey and passion fruit, ideal with Christmas pud! £22 / 75cl / 13.5% ABV.
Famille Perrin’s La Vieille Ferme White has elegant lemon and pear freshness. Ideal with festive canapés. £8.25 / 75cl / 13% ABV.
Pagos del Rey ‘409’ Ribera del Duero 2022/23 features rich dark fruit and oak, excellent with roast meats. £10 / 75cl / 14% ABV.
Coffee, cakes and of course our wines to treat yourself. Our nature trail is open all year round, so you can get in some steps before indulging. We have been blown away by the number of visitors we have had this year, we are truly grateful. So from our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, from everyone at The Rutland Vineyard!
Visit The Rutland Vineyard’s tasting barn, Ketton, from Wed-Sat, www.therutlandvineyard.com.
THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE
RESTAURANTS
THE BARNSDALE BRASSERIE – 1760
Set in a beautifully restored 17thcentury building, The Barnsdale provides a relaxed yet elegant dining experience. The Barnsdale, The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see barnsdalerutland.com.
BLOSSOMS RESTAURANT AT RUTLAND HALL
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 highlighted our winners in buff 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 & 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
A contemporary restaurant serving a seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients, with a beautiful lakeside setting overlooking Rutland Water. The hotel also has a new spa and wellness facility, the Four Roots Experience. Rutland Hall Hotel, Barnsdale, LE15 8AB. Call 01572 757901 or see www.rutlandhall.co.uk.
CLOISTERS BISTRO
Cosy Italian bistro serving fresh pasta, authentic pizzas, and a variety of traditional Italian dishes.
St Mary's St, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 755162 or see www.cloistersbistro.com.
THE CROWN HOTEL
A lively pub, restaurant, and hotel in the heart of Stamford, serving a seasonal menu with local ingredients.
All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 763136 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.
RESTAURANT WITH ROOM 2024 HAMBLETON HALL
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. Hambleton, Oakham, LE15 8TH. Call 01572 756991 or see www.hambletonhall.com.
HITCHENS BARN
Modern British cuisine using & locally sourced food courtesy of Neil & Louise Hitchen. 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 MAD TURK
A rustic Turkish Cypriot restaurant known for its delicious, authentic dishes cooked on a coal barbecue. 8-9 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE. Call 01780 238001 or see www.themadturk.co.uk.
NO.23 UPPINGHAM
A Mediterraneaninspired restaurant featuring a range of wellcurated selection of wines and cocktails.
High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 303023, www.23uppingham.co.uk.
THE OAK ROOM AT THEGEORGE HOTEL
Refined fine dining featuring modern British cuisine. Highlights of the menu include Dover sole and sirloin of beef carved at the table.
George Hotel, High Street, St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LB. Call 01780 750750 or see georgehotelofstamford.com.
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 across the menus. Clipsham, Rutland, LE15 7SH. Call 01780 410355 or www.theolivebranchpub.com.
ORBIS STAMFORD
A unique fusion of international flavours, featuring small plates and vibrant cocktails.
All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AR. Call 01780 669950 or see orbisstamford.co.uk.
PATEN & CO
ARMS
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2024 THE FINCH’S
An 18thcentury pub situated on the very pretty Hambleton Peninsula, providing stunning views over Rutland Water along with a menu of British classics. Hambleton, LE15 8TL. Call 01572 756575 or see www.finchsarms.co.uk.
THE GEORGE INN OAKHAM
A charming 17th century coaching inn situated in the centre of Oakham previously known as the WhipperIn. Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT. Call 01572 756971 thegeorgeinnoakham.co.uk.
THE MARQUESS OF EXETER, LYDDINGTON
A standout pub in Lyddington offering a menu that blends classic pub fare with modern Indian cuisine, all in a cosy, welcoming setting. Main Street, Lyddington, LE15 9LT. Call 01572 822477 or see marquessofexeter.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.
Located in a historic 18thcentury 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.
BEST INTERNATIONAL DINING RESTAURANT 2024
SARPECH INDIAN RESTAURANT
Offerings a contemporary dining experience with a focus on topquality Indian cuisine and excellent service. Burley Corner, Oakham, LE15 6DU. Call 01572 842888 or see www.sarpech.co.uk.
THE SLANTED DOOR
Lovely 16th century 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 BERTIE ARMS
Gorgeous C17th thatched pub in Uffington run by Katie and James Genever. Simple pub classics and à la carte dishes. 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 and great setting. Sister venue to William Cecil. High Street St Martin's, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 766412 or see www.thebullandswan.co.uk.
THE CROWN
16thcentury coaching inn serving light lunch, comforting pub classic, hand stretched stonebaked pizza.
High St E, Uppingham, LE15 9PY, 01572 822302 or see www.crownuppingham.co.uk.
THE COSY CLUB
Quirky decor, offering relaxed dining and drinking menus.
The Old Delivery Office, Stamford PE9 2RB. Call 01780 767710, www.cosyclub.co.uk.
THE FALCON HOTEL
Historic hotel and pub offering a variety of hearty British dishes and Sunday roasts. 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 longstanding chef Richard Page providing great value freshlyprepared dishes.
Pinfold Lane, North Luffenham, LE15 8LE. Call 01780 720991 or see thefoxrutland.co.uk.
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 NOEL AT WHITWELL
Country pub with a recently refurbished interior, offering a wide range of beers, wines, and homecooked food. Whitwell Road, Whitwell, Oakham LE15 8BW. Call 01572 510137 or see www.noelatwhitwell.com.
THE SUN INN, COTTESMORE
A beautiful thatchedroof country pub offering a varied menu made with locally sourced seasonal produce. Main Street, Cottesmore, Oakham, LE15 7DH. Call 01572 812321 or see www.suninncottesmore.co.uk.
THE TOBIE NORRIS
A historic 13th century pub with a cosy atmosphere, offering traditional British dishes, woodfired pizzas, and a variety of local ales. Part of the Knead Pubs group alongside Paten & Co and The Crown Hotel. St Paul’s St, Stamford, PE9 2BE. Call 01780 753800 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.
THE WHEATSHEAF
Weekly changing menu of modern British dishes, featuring in the Michelin guide as one of the area’s top gastropubs, set in a Grade II listed building with Carol and Scott at the helm since 2008. Greetham, Oakham LE15 7NP. Call 01572 812325 or see wheatsheaf-greetham.co.uk.
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.
Hambleton Hall.
DON PADDY’S
Familyrun business since 2001 and somewhere to meet for brunch, lunch and dinner daily, or cocktails. Serving delicious, high quality food with local produce in a friendly, local space. Recently refurbished with brand new menu, sister venue of Uppingham’s Falcon Hotel. Market Place, Uppingham LE15 9QH. Call 01572 822255 or see www.donpaddys.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, it’s perfect for those seeking a stylish spot for brunch, lunch, or a relaxed coffee break. High Street, Stamford PE9 2BB. Call 01780 723514 or see www.fikacafe.co.uk.
GARDEN RESTAURANT GATES GARDEN CENTRE
The perfect place to eat and drink. Large 350seater restaurant within Gates Gardens 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. Cheyne Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AX. Call 01780 767063 or see www.lamberts-stamford.co.uk.
COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR 2024 ‘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 rutlandnursery.co.uk.
CAFÉS AND TEA ROOMS
BARNSDALE GARDENS
A delightful spot within Barnsdale Gardens, known for serving freshly made dishes. The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 813200 or see www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk.
THE DAIRY BARN CAFE
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.
FROTHYS COFFEE SHOP, STAMFORD
A family run 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. Exton based café is the former bakehouse. Cottesmore Road, Oakham LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk.
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 tea cakes and savoury light lunches, which include a soup of the day and a salad of the day.
Copthill Farm, Stamford PE9 4TD. Call 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, Peterborough PE8 6SH Call 01832 343104 or see www.bosworthsgc.co.uk.
FOOD & DRINK PRODUCERS
DERWENT & DUNNE
Exceptional coffees & teas using growers of quality, Call 01780 723826 or visit www.derwentanddunne.co.uk.
GATES FARM SHOP
Farm shop with 12,000sq ft retail space incorporating Hambleton Farms butchery. Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.
HAMBLETON BAKERY
Handmade artisan bread and cakes free of additives and preservatives available from seven shops including those in Exton, Stamford, and Oakham. Oakham LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk.
FOOD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2024
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 2024
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 cameo of bittersweet citrus and elderflower, £44/70cl. See www.tipplemill.com.
TWO CHIMPS COFFEE
Fun, friendly coffee roastery providing single origin coffee, loose leaf tea, hot chocolate and coffee roasting experiences. 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.
Hambleton Bakery.
What’s On
Wednesday 10th December
The
Royal Ballet
presents The Nutcracker
Satellite screening of Royal Ballet & Opera’s The Nutcracker at Stamford Arts Center, with music by Tchaikovsky and new choreography by Peter Wright after Lev Ivanov. Hans-Peter has been transformed into a Nutcracker; the only way to save him is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse King and find a girl to love and care for him. Hope comes in the form of the young Clara, whom Drosselmeyer meets at a Christmas party.
Tickets £16, from 7.15pm, Stamford Arts Centre, call 01780 763 203 or see www.stamfordartscentre.com.
Live Opera in Stamford
Saturday 6th December
Opera Gala at Stamford Arts Centre
Stamford Arts Centre’s popular Opera Gala event is performed by four professional opera singers which will include arias, duets and ensembles from the operas of Mozart, Rossini, Verdi, Bizet and others. Held in St Mary’s Church, Stamford.
From 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, tickets £18.20, call 01780 763 203 or see www.stamfordartscentre.com.
Send your press releases and events to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk
Throughout December Christmas at
Lamport Hall
Lamport Hall’s Christmas Market will feature a huge array of stalls, and entertainment on 6th/7th and 13th/14th December. Santa visits throughout December, and there’s a performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol by Toby Burchell on 8th December. See www.lamporthall.co.uk.
Saturday 22nd November to Sunday 14th December Christmas at
Boughton House
Christmas Fair on 22nd and 23rd November, plus Christmas tree sales from 29th November Santa’s Grotto and Wreath Making Workshops dates TBC. See website for details.
Boughton House, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN14 1BJ. Call 01536 515 731 or see www.boughtonhouse.co.uk.
Tues 2nd/Wed 3rd December Thursday 4th December. Christmas at
Rockingham
Festive Wreath Making workshop on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd December, 10.30am and 6pm. Plus A Christmas Carol performed by University of Northampton drama students on Thursday 4th December.
Rockingham Castle, Corby LE16 8TH. Call 01536 770240 or see rockinghamcastle.com.
Send your press releases and events to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk
Dates throughout December Kilworth House at Christmas
This Christmas at Kilworth House unwrap the magic of Dolly Parton with Kelly O’Brien, the UK’s number one glittering festive tribute act. Expect country charm, Christmas cheer, and a stocking full of
surprises, from Winter Wonderland to Jingle bells done the Dolly way. Meanwhile, spend Christmas with the Rat Pack as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Junior brings Las Vegas and Hollywood glamour to life.
Dinner and entertainment, see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk.
Sunday 7th December
Sunday 14th December Oakham
Christmas Fair
Get that festive feeling in Oakham on both Sunday 7th & 14th December 2025 with this event for all the family. Peruse the outdoor stalls in the Market Place, in the Castle grounds and along Mill Street and High Street –there’s lots to see! Indoor stalls in Victoria Hall and Oakham Castle, plus Santa’s Grotto a funfair and more!
www.discoverrutland.co.uk.
Sunday 7th December Santa Fun Run
Three scenic routes through Burghley House’s parkland with distances of 1-3 miles.
www.burghley.co.uk
Wednesday 3rd December Christmas Concert
Based at St Andrews Church in Hambleton village, concert from 7pm, glühwein and mince pies or pre-concert dinner at Hambleton Hall.
See hambletonhall.com
Friday 5th December Sunday 7th December Concert Band and Advent Carol Service
Uppingham School presents a fun-filled evening of Music, under the baton of Director of Music Andrew Webster on Friday 5th December, from 7.30pm, followed by a candlelit carol service marking the beginning of Advent on Sunday from 7pm.
See www.uppingham.co.uk.
Tuesday 6th January to Saturday 18th January
Eric & Ern at Curve Theatre
All the right jokes, but not necessarily in the right places. Eric and Ern is a tribute to the funniest double act there has ever been. Christmas and New Year was always a time to gather around the TV and watch the Morcambe and Wise Christmas special. Now, you can relive some of the best sketches in the company of a live audience, and perhaps introduce a younger generation who have yet to discover the duo to the magic of perfect comedy timing.
From Greig’s piano concerto to the breakfast sketch, this is a show guaranteed to being you sunshine with Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens faithfully recreating the comedy duo’s greatest hits. Includes sketches and sings with special musical guest.
Various ticket prices, performances at 2.15pm and 7.30pm. Curve Theatre, Leicester, LE1 1SB. Call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.
King’s Speech The
Caroline Aston’s warmth, wisdom and historical insight all remind us that the royal family’s Christmas, for all its ceremony, is at its heart about togetherness. Whether watching from a palace or a Rutland sitting room, we all pause to listen to the same voice, sharing the same hope for peace and renewal at Christmas as King Charles III prepares to deliver his third Christmas address
Words: Rob Davis, Caroline Aston.
Caroline Aston’s mobile hasn’t stopped ringing. The phone number of Rutland’s historian and foremost expert on the Royal Family is on the speed-dial list of broadcasters, and journalists throughout Britain. A reliable source of insight and analysis, often bringing historical context to her commentary, the rumbling on of the Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor story during autumn saw Caroline very much in demand as the media sought to cover the story and understand the implications for the Royal Family.
We were more concerned with finding out more about how Caroline has managed to become one of the country’s foremost experts on the Royals, and seeking some insight into the likely content of King Charles III’s Christmas address, but we could hardly ignore the backdrop against which the King will be speaking to the nation this year.
If the family are spending the season in Sandringham, we’ll see them making their way to the 16th century Church of St Mary Magdalene for their traditional Christmas Day service. Andrew is likely to be conspicuous by his absence.
And later in the day, it’s likely that the King’s speech will be analysed in the context of this, and with the ongoing, fractured relationship with the Sussexes in mind... although, as ever, the exact content of the speech isn’t known until closer to its broadcast, and prior to that it’s under strict embargo, hence the reason that even experts like Caroline can offer a prediction (albeit a perceptive one) as to the exact nature of the speech.
The Rutland-born royal commentator and broadcaster whose voice has become a trusted source of insight across the BBC, TalkTV, GB News... and on-board Cunard’s ocean liners, upon which she entertains passengers with her speeches.
“I’m a Rutland girl, born and bred,” she says proudly, recalling her early education here before winning a scholarship to Stamford High School and later reading history, philosophy and theology at the University of Nottingham. After an early career in teaching, she moved into writing and public speaking, a change that set her on a remarkable path from addressing local Women’s Institutes to appearing on national television alongside presenters such as Vanessa Feltz and Alastair Stewart.
Her reputation as a thoughtful, historically minded royal expert grew steadily, leading to regular invitations to commentate on state occasions and royal milestones. When she isn’t broadcasting, she divides her time between writing, speaking aboard Cunard’s ocean liners, and supporting local causes such as Rutland’s annual NSPCC Christmas Carol Concert, where she has served as compère for well over a decade.
“I’ve been very lucky,” she reflects. “Rutland gave me my education, my confidence and the tools to reach people far beyond it. Every time I’m asked to speak on a major story, whether it’s a coronation, a royal wedding or the King’s Christmas message, I silently say thank you to the county that made me.”
The Christmas Broadcast
The tradition of the royal Christmas broadcast began not with Queen Elizabeth II but with her grandfather, King George V. The idea was first suggested in 1922 by John Reith, the BBC’s founding DirectorGeneral, who believed radio could unite the Empire. George V declined, dismissing broadcasting as entertainment rather than communication.
A decade later, Reith tried again, and this time the King agreed. On Christmas Day 1932, from a temporary studio at Sandringham, George V delivered the first royal message, inaugurating what was then called the Empire Service, later to become the BBC World Service. His daughterinlaw, Queen Elizabeth II, made her first Christmas broadcast in 1952 (above), just ten months after her father’s death, speaking from her study at Sandringham.
Five years later, in 1957, the message was televised for the first time, and it has been a fixture of the nation’s Christmas Day ever since. There were rare exceptions: 1959 and 1963, when the Queen was expecting Prince Andrew and Prince Edward, and 1969, when a special documentary Royal Family replaced the broadcast.
Among the most memorable was her 1992 address, the Queen’s annus horribilis, a year marked by royal divorces and the Windsor Castle fire. When King Charles III delivered his first Christmas message in 2022, standing beside a photograph of his late mother, it was both a tribute and a new beginning. His words in 2023 and 2024 were calm and reflective, and this year’s message is expected to carry forward the same note of compassion and reconciliation.
>> For Caroline, the festive season has always been intertwined with the royal family’s traditions. “The late Duke of Windsor once said that Christmas at Sandringham was like Dickens in a gold frame,” she smiles. “And I think that still holds true, it is a world of family rituals that are surprisingly familiar in spirit, if not in setting.”
“People assume it’s all grandeur and gilt,” Caroline says. “But in truth, it’s remarkably down to earth. The family exchange deliberately silly presents. The Queen was once said to have adored Billy Bass, a singing fish that burst into ‘Down by the Riverside’ and kept Her Majesty in hysterics, while someone else received a pair of soap Wellingtons on a rope. Princess Diana, who had a taste for giving cashmere, soon learned that wasn’t quite the Sandringham way.”
Beneath the laughter there is ceremony, of course. The royal family’s day begins with a formal breakfast, followed by the walk to church, a tradition that Queen Victoria began. Later comes the monarch’s annual Christmas broadcast, once the Queen’s voice in millions of homes and now her son’s. “It’s easy to forget,” Caroline observes, “that for seventy years the Queen was as much a part of our Christmas Day as the sprouts, whether we loved them or not. King Charles faces the extraordinary challenge of following that.”
Caroline knows better than most how carefully guarded the content of the King’s message will be. “If you’re ever briefed on anything to do with the royal household, it comes under what’s called embargo information,” she explains. “You’re told the broad outline but forbidden to mention anything until a specific time.” Still, as someone who has commented on each royal broadcast in recent years, she has a keen sense of the tone that King Charles tends to strike.
“There’s been a consistent thread of togetherness, the idea of the nation as a family. But this year feels different,” she says. “It’s been a bruising twelve months for the monarchy and for the country. I think he’ll want to talk about reconciliation, not only within families but between nations and faiths.”
Charles III, she notes, is a deeply spiritual man, shaped by his faith and his role as Supreme Governor of the Church of England. “When he prayed alongside the Pope, the first time that’s happened in centuries, it was a moment of profound significance. It spoke to his desire to bring people together, to heal rather than divide. That’s why I think reconciliation will be the theme this Christmas.”
Caroline also predicts that the King may refer, perhaps subtly, to the need to do the right thing, a phrase that, in royal circles, carries layers of meaning. “The handling of Prince Andrew’s situation has been difficult,” she says. “But by finally removing his titles, the King has shown that integrity and accountability matter. It’s about drawing a line under the past and moving forward.”
Reconciliation with Harry and Meghan is possible, but it has to be on the King’s terms. The late Queen was clear, you cannot be half in and half out. The King, too, will always love his son, but he’s also mindful of duty...”
And what of the Sussexes? Caroline offers a characteristically balanced view. “Reconciliation with Harry and Meghan is possible, but it has to be on the King’s terms. The late Queen was clear, you cannot be half in and half out. If you want to go and live a commercial life abroad, fine, but you can’t do that while trading on your royal status. The King will always love his son, but he’s also mindful of duty.”
Caroline’s years of commentary have given her a long view of the monarchy’s evolution, from the days when deference was automatic to today’s world of instant reaction and social media storms. “When Queen Elizabeth came to the throne in 1952, being royal was enough,” she says. “You were born into respect.”
“But now, everything is scrutinised, every gesture, every facial expression. Lip-readers, body-language experts, conspiracy theorists... they’re all out there.” She believes this constant exposure is both a blessing and a burden. “It makes the royals more visible, more relatable, but also more vulnerable.”
“There’s no cloak to hide behind any more. I think that’s why Prince William and Catherine are so determined to protect their children’s privacy. They want them to know a bit of what ‘normal’ family life means, as much as that’s possible in a goldfish bowl.”
Caroline also sees the monarchy’s survival as proof of its adaptability. “It’s endured revolutions, wars and waves of public opinion.”
“Even in 1848, when thrones were toppling across Europe, it survived because it listened and evolved. Queen Elizabeth’s speech after Diana’s death turned the tide of public anger. She showed the royal family can respond when it needs to.”
“That’s what the royal message is about, really, whether it’s from Sandringham or our own sitting rooms. It’s about hope, kindness and reflection. And perhaps this year, reconciliation too.”
Despite the global reach of her broadcasting, she has spoken live to audiences from Liverpool to Japan aboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, sometimes via a translator. Caroline remains disarmingly modest. “I don’t think of myself as special,” she insists.
“Just someone who was lucky enough to turn a passion for history into a career. I still work a few days a week for an optical company in Oakham because I love the people there. It keeps me grounded.” And yet, her contributions are far from ordinary. She has been interviewed on Woman’s Hour and The Today Programme, fronted royal coverage for the BBC and TalkTV, and addressed audiences of hundreds at sea.
“But the moment I’m most proud of each year,” she says, “is standing up at the NSPCC Carol Concert in Oakham. I never write a word of what I’m going to say, I just speak from the heart.”
That combination of eloquence and authenticity has made her one of the most trusted voices on the modern monarchy and one of Rutland’s quiet success stories. “I think my mother would have loved to see it all,” she says softly. “But I hope she’d be proud that I’ve never forgotten where I came from.”
Caroline Aston is Rutland’s historian, royal commentator and author who can frequently be seen providing insight during royal stories in the media. She will also host a series of talks on board Cunard’s Queen Anne in May 2025 as it travels around the Med. For more of the historian’s insight into a Royal Christmas, you can also read her contribution to Hugh Douglas’s A Right Royal Christmas, available in all good bookshops, or via Amazon.
The Rutland NSPCC Christmas Carol Concert
“Tickets are selling out fast for this eagerly awaited, magical concert that marks the beginning of the festive season for so many Rutlanders, and it is always a sellout,” says Margaret Wheeler, founder of the annual Rutland Christmas Carol Concert in aid of the NSPCC.
“In our 19th year, we are delighted to welcome back Austin Healey (international rugby player), Lars Tharp (BBC Antiques Roadshow), Anne Davies (BBC East Midlands Today), Tim Hart (hotelier, restaurateur and artisan baker), Caroline Aston (royal commentator) and David Farrer KC, who will entertain us with a sparkling mix of enthralling readings of mirth, poignancy and enchantment from our greatest literature.”
“Music of the highest quality will be provided by the sublime Rowell Camerata, and the cheerful Ratby Brass Band will put
us all in the Christmas mood to join in some jolly carolsinging for the audience.”
“Since their inception, these concerts have so far raised over £350,000 for the NSPCC, benefiting local projects that help local children. This magical evening has become a prestigious county occasion, in the presence of the Lord Lieutenant, the High Sheriff and the Mayor.”
“The event could not take place, however, without the support of so many local businesses, as well as the support of many Rutlanders who turn out in their hundreds to attend.”
Early application for tickets is advisable. They are priced at £20 each, available from James Sellicks, Oakham (01572 724437) and The Falcon Hotel, Uppingham (01572 823535). Doors open at 6.45pm, with guests to be seated by 7.20pm. The concert usually finishes at 9.30pm.
Top: Margaret Wheeler (white jumper), Caroline Aston (bottom row, centre) and some of the readers at last year’s NSPCC Christmas Carol Concert.
Words: Margaret Wheeler.
The year has raced by in a flurry of events, with thousands of visitors enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Lamport Hall. As we approach our Christmas events, we are really looking forward to welcoming more of you during the most wonderful time of the year.
On Saturday and Sunday the 6th & 7th and 13th & 14th December our popular Christmas Markets return, opening over two consecutive weekends 10am-4pm. The event includes over 100 stalls selling gifts, food and decorations, mulled wine and festive hot food, and a huge variety of entertainment. This year we have even more to keep the whole family entertained including Northampton Rock Choir, a festive photobooth, an elf bubble maker, an angel stilt walker, an Elsa Frozen tribute stage performance, Magic Voices choir, an animatronic polar bear and ice queen, a 1940s harmony group, Towcester Studio Band, and Nightmare Before Christmas roaming characters. If you need a space to warm up, reset and recharge before round two of shopping, we also have an après ski style heated marquee this year with refreshments available. Adult entry is £5pp and under 18s go free.
On the 6th, 7th, 8th, 10th, 11th, 13th and
14th December, we welcome the return of Father Christmas in the Tudor House. The visit includes storytime and a chat with Father Christmas and his elves in front of a warming log fire, a personalised wrapped gift and ‘nice’ certificate, with a festive sweet treat for children and refreshments for the adults. Pre-booking is essential. Entry for the Christmas Market weekends is £20 per child including one adult, with additional adults charged at £4pp which also includes entry to the Market. The weekday sessions, on the 8th, 10th and 11th are £15 per child, and adults go free. Note that the final slot for each of the weekday sessions will be a quiet session for SEND attendees.
We are also excited for the return of our Christmas Shop and Café on Wednesdays to Sundays from the 3rd December to the 21st December. Explore our special Christmas gift shop selling decorations, gifts and stocking fillers and our café stocked with hot drinks and a
special festive menu. The shop will be open 10am-3pm and is free entry and parking (entry charge applies on market weekends). The café will be open 9:30am-4pm.
For our festive theatre, Toby Burchell will be presenting a one man performance of the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. This highly immersive and atmospheric production captures the humour, darkness and joy of this traditional piece. Performed by candlelight on the 8th of December at both 2pm and 7pm, this is a festive experience not to be missed.
Finally, for our younger story-lovers, we have Standing in the Wings with their Let Us Read You A Story Christmas Special on the 5th, 12th and 19th December at 11am. Children up to 11 can enjoy a variety of festive stories by the fire in the Tudor House whilst enjoying a themed sweet treat. Please visit the website on www.lamporthall.co.uk for more information.
2025 Christmas Gift Guide
Festive gift ideas for the whole family from local independent and luxury retailers
Compiled by Rob Davis.
Gifts for Her
Top Row: St Eval candles £14.99, Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. Janis tall boot, £149.95, Cavells, Mill Street, Oakham, 01572 770372. Middle Row: Angela Harding 2026 wall calendar £10.99 and Hidden Hare 2026 pocket diary £8.99, by Wingbased artist, 07951 925896 www.angelaharding.co.uk. Bottom Row: Pendents (£call) from a selection at Lanes Jewellery, Red Lion Square, Stamford, 01780 238290, lanesjewellers.com. Tipplemill London Dry Gin, locally made with free gift wrapping and delivery for Pride readers, £40/75cl, quote ‘PRIDE’ at www.tipplemill.com. White Company Seychelles gift set, £55, High Street, Stamford, 01780 769192, www.thewhitecompany.com.
Top Row: Rowan Berry EDP, £36, Priddy Essentials, Uppingham, 01572 821890, www.priddyessentials.com. Espresso mugs, £21.50/pair, Hunters Interiors, Stamford, 01780 757946 or see www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk. Rubirox of Stamford’s Kit Heath ‘Pebble’ pearl droplet earrings £80, necklace £95, and bracelet £155, Rubirox, St Mary’s Street, Stamford, 01780 755996. Middle Row: Happy Place mugs, Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. Burghley House’s new book, £60/signed by Miranda Rock, Burghley House’s Courtyard Shop, call 01780 752451. Branch D’Olive candle, diffuser and room spritz £various, from a selection at Sarah Harding Interiors, Uppingham, 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.
www.dubarry.com.
www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.
Top Row: Tom Lane Oxford jumper, clay, caspian, grey, navy, £145, Tom Lane, Stamford, www.tomlane.co. Joe Browns Perfect Paisley shirt, £45, Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, 01664 454309,
Middle Row: Dubarry wallet, £49,
Bottom Row: Punk Whisky Set, Sinclairs Stamford, 01780 765421. Fuzzy Duck luxury wash bag, £22.99, Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton. Baker Boy hat, £29.99, Gates Garden Centre.
Top Row: Holland Cooper socks, £49/three, www.hollandcooper.com. Boss Bottled Beyond, £125/150ml, www.hugoboss.com. Weber Greatest Hits £19.99 and BBQBible £30 books, Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. Middle Row: Clarins Men Ultimate Collection, £52, www.clarins.co.uk. Fairfax & Favor Britannia travel bag £395 and washbag £80/RRP, High Street Stamford, 01780 767709. Bottom Row: Oddballs boxers, £12/ea inc donation to charity partners, Gates Garden Centre, Cold
Overton.
Gifts for Youngsters
www.oliversbabycare.co.uk.
Jingles organic reindeer stocking, £26, White Company, High Street, Stamford, 01780 769192. Sophie Allport Princess Fairies kids backpack, £36, Sophie Allport, High Street, Stamford, 01780 751044. Middle Row: Original denbuilding kit, £60, Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. Leicester Tigers replica ball, £28.99, www.rugbystuff.com. Callowesse plush bunny with cry sensor, soothing sounds and nightlight, £24.99, Olivers
Top Row: Toniebox, screenfree interactive storyteller, £99.95, Olivers Baby Care, Langtoft, 01778 562809,
Baby Care. Bottom Row: Fred Bear, £9.99, Gates Garden Centre. John Deere Animal Sounds hay ride, £29.99, Gates Garden Centre. Pinto wooden rocking horse, £44.99, Olivers Baby Care.
Gifts for Pets
Top Row: Royal Worcester Wrendale dog treat jar, £24.15, Sinclairs St Mary’s Street, Stamford, 01780 765421. Drying mitts for mucky paws and bellies, £19.99, www.lordsandlabradors.co.uk. Joules dog coat, SXL, £17.99£44.99, Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, 01664 454309.
Middle Row: Wildwash dog shampoo, conditioner, perfume, paw balm, £72.95, www.fortnumandmason.com. Barbour Marlow Fair Isle dog jumper, olive, £32.95, Doddington Hall, Country Clothing Lincoln, 01522 812515, www.doddingtonhall.com. Duck dog toy, Sophie Allport, Stamford, 01780 751044, www.sophieallport.com. Bottom Row: Sheep pet mattress, £67/small; £86/medium; £10/large, Sophie Allport. Travertine marble pet bowls, £244, www.kiwanoconcept.com.
A Christmas Message
A Christmas Message from Bishop Debbie
Faith is not just for Christmas; it’s for life, says Bishop Debbie Sellin, leader of the Diocese of Peterborough, and Rutland’s mother church, Peterborough Cathedral. This month represents the Bishop’s second year in the city, and a chance to ensure the whole community feels welcome in the building throughout 2026
As Bishop Debbie Sellin looks out of the window, it’s still very much autumn, with golden leaves and golden sunshine both falling on the light stone buildings of Peterborough Cathedral’s estate. In fact, Bishop Debbie has been in post two years now, but she still hasn’t seen the place covered in a blanket of snow... here’s hoping for a fluttering this winter, then, perhaps even a white Christmas.
“To say we live in the Bishop’s Palace sounds rather grand,” she smiles. “It’s not as grand as it sounds, but it is, nonetheless, a wonderful place to live. The view is always changing, especially at this time of year.”
Bishop Debbie officially became the Bishop of Peterborough in December 2023, taking up her duties following installation in March 2024. Her journey to this role has been one of faith, service, and vocation, though not one she ever expected.
Born in Dumfries and raised in Stirling, she studied at the University of St Andrews before embarking on a management career with the NHS in Edinburgh and West Lothian. “I grew up in a vicarage. My father was ordained, but I never imagined that would be me,” she recalls. “When I was at university, women couldn’t be ordained. It wasn’t even a consideration.”
Marriage and family life took her south, eventually settling in Guildford. It was there, while working as a family and children’s worker in her local church, that she felt a growing call to ordination. “It wasn’t a sudden revelation,” she says. “It was a gradual sense that this was the training I was meant to do.”
That journey led to three years of theological training, ordination as a curate in 2007, and then nine years as a parish vicar near Guildford. “While I was vicar, I became involved in diocesan work,” she explains. “My bishop saw in me someone who could hold the big picture and the details, a gift for vision and leadership.”
In 2019, she was appointed Bishop of Southampton, before moving to Peterborough in 2023. “The word episcopal literally means oversight,” she explains. “It’s about holding the whole picture of the diocese, understanding different communities and contexts, inspiring clergy and supporting them. I don’t have a regular congregation any more; the clergy have become my flock.”
That pastoral care is vital, she believes. “Parish ministry can be tough. Many clergy are responsible for several villages, and that can mean being less present in some communities. My role is to care for them, encourage them, and help them find ways to keep each church lively.”
Like many faith communities across the UK, the Church faces challenges of declining attendance and ageing congregations. “It’s not just about numbers,” she says. “We’re a nation where regular churchgoing largely stopped around the Second World War. People got out of the habit, and church can seem less relevant. But our task is to show that church is a place of belonging and meaning.”
That sense of belonging extends well beyond Sunday services. “In some villages, the church is the only public building. So offering a place of welcome (a toddler group, a food bank, a warm space) helps people see that we’re here for them. Once they step through the doors, they realise it’s not strange at all. It’s about community.”
In Peterborough, that sense of community finds a natural home in the cathedral, one of England’s great places of worship. Though known for its vast Norman façade and vaulted ceiling, its greatest beauty lies not in its architecture but in its spirit, an enduring rhythm of worship, hospitality and civic life that links city and diocese alike.
While the Bishop’s role is to lead the diocese, guiding and supporting the network of parishes across Northamptonshire, Rutland, and Peterborough itself, the Dean of Peterborough, the Very Reverend Chris Dalliston, leads the cathedral community.
A Christmas Message
“Wherever you’re spending Christmas, at home, with family, or on your own, I hope you experience some of the joy and wonder of the Christmas story. May this season bring peace, hope, and a renewed sense of togetherness.”
Installed in 2018, Dean Chris oversees worship and the daily life of the building, together with its staff and volunteers. A thoughtful and compassionate leader, he brings to the role both pastoral warmth and a deep understanding of how sacred spaces can serve modern communities. “The cathedral’s beating heart is worship,” he once said, “but it can fulfil many other roles in the city.”
That balance between the cathedral’s spiritual calling and its role as a cultural centre is something Bishop Debbie deeply values. “The cathedral represents both the continuity and the openness of faith,” she says. “It’s a place where people can come simply to be, whether they’re regular worshippers or just looking for peace. And it’s a place where we celebrate together, not just as a church but as a community.”
This year, as Advent begins and the city lights up for Christmas, Peterborough Cathedral will again offer that blend of solemnity and celebration. Visitors will experience The Wonder of Christmas, a light-and-sound installation that transforms the cloisters and precincts into a journey through light and story, with a guiding star and snowfall under the Norman Arch. Inside, the community’s decorated trees shimmer with colour, each one telling a story of local life and generosity.
A Celebration of Faith at Christmas
Peterborough Cathedral
Peterborough Cathedral presents a wonderful programme of festive events this year. ABBA Christmas by Candlelight takes place on Thursday 11th December, followed by the Cathedral Choir Christmas Concert on Saturday 20th December. For lovers of classical music, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Christmas by Candlelight will fill the cathedral’s nave on Tuesday 23rd December, alongside other performances including A Christmas Carol and Christmas by Candlelight.
Oakham All Saints Church
All Saints Church hosts the Rutland Choral Society Christmas Concert on Saturday 6th December at 7.30pm, while the town’s Christmas Fair fills the Market Place, castle grounds, and Victoria Hall on Sunday 7th December.
Uppingham St Peter & St Paul Church
Uppingham’s Late Night Shopping and festive entertainment is on Thursday 4th December, with Santa’s grotto in the church.
Music remains at the heart of the season. On 22nd December, Christmas by Candlelight will fill the nave with West End voices and classic carols, followed the next evening by Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Christmas, performed beneath a canopy of candlelight. “Peterborough has an extraordinary choral tradition,” says Bishop Debbie. “There’s something profoundly moving about hearing carols in that space: it feels as if the music rises up into heaven itself.”
For the Bishop, Christmas will also be a family affair, woven around the demands of ministry. “I’ll be at the cathedral for the carol service on Christmas Eve and the service on Christmas morning. Afterwards, it’s Christmas lunch with family, a little later than most people, though.”
As the world faces another uncertain winter, Bishop Debbie speaks with quiet optimism. “It can feel like a difficult and tense time, but the message of Christmas is one of hope. The birth of Jesus as a baby reminds us that light still breaks into the darkness.”
She also finds inspiration in the communities she serves. “I’m so impressed by how people come together. There’s a real spirit of care and generosity: so many volunteer groups and charities doing good work. I see faith expressed not only in worship but in kindness.”
That same message of togetherness echoes through the cathedral, where clergy, staff and volunteers work side by side. From the gardeners who tend the precinct lawns to the vergers preparing the altar, each person contributes to the rhythm of cathedral life. Dean Chris and Bishop Debbie share that vision of an open, welcoming church, one that honours tradition but faces outward with compassion and creativity.
For all its grandeur, Peterborough Cathedral remains a place of ordinary miracles: a child’s first carol service, a candle lit for a loved one, a stranger welcomed with warmth. “We can’t predict who will come through our doors,” Bishop Debbie says. “But everyone who does is part of our story.”
And as Christmas approaches once more, that story is one of faith and community renewed. “Wherever you’re spending Christmas, at home, with family, or on your own, I hope you experience some of the joy and wonder of the Christmas story,” says Bishop Debbie. “May this season bring peace, hope, and a renewed sense of togetherness.”
Peterborough Cathedral welcomes the whole community, PE1 1XS. Call 01733 355315 or see peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.
A Winter Wonderland
A serene Rutland landmark transformed into a snow-dusted scene of peace and stillness
Image: Peter Packer, Alamy.
Rutland Water is always a spectacular sight, but in the depths of winter, when snow lies thick across the landscape, it takes on an entirely different character. This photograph captures one of the most iconic views in the county –Normanton Church standing proud at the edge of the reservoir, framed by bare winter trees and a blanket of crisp white snow.
The church itself, saved from demolition in the 1970s when Rutland Water was created, is a symbol of resilience and continuity. Its graceful classical architecture, perched on the edge of the reservoir, seems to float above the still surface of the water, creating a scene that is both romantic and haunting. In winter, with the leafless silhouettes of trees set starkly against the pale sky, the building’s honeycoloured stone seems even more striking.
This is a place where locals and visitors alike come to walk, reflect, and admire the timeless beauty of Rutland’s landscape. The snow adds a quiet magic, muffling sound and softening the shoreline.
Footprints in the snow tell of early morning walkers, but otherwise the scene is calm, hushed, and seemingly untouched.
Normanton Church has become not just a landmark, but a symbol of Rutland itself. It stands for heritage, endurance, and the county’s ability to adapt without losing its character. In summer it is a wedding venue, a place alive with celebration. In winter, as shown here, it becomes a place of stillness and contemplation.
Few places in England can match the tranquil beauty of Rutland Water under snow, and few landmarks are as instantly recognisable as Normanton Church.
In every season it has a different story to tell, but in winter, it whispers of peace.
This month’s Cover Story is the Rutland Pride image. Think your photography has what it takes?
Send your highquality images to our editor and get the chance to enjoy the ultimate bragging rights: your work on our front cover and our Cover Story double page spread!
Send your very best photos to our editor Rob Davis, robin@pridemagazines.co.uk.
Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you
The Stables, Copthill Farm, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD Visit our showroom 01780 757946 See our website www.huntersinteriors.co.uk
Christmas on Barn Hill
This month’s featured property is a wonderful example of Stamford’s Georgian architecture. Home to Tina and Ben Minall, it’s the perfect place to celebrate Christmas in style…
Words: Rob Davis.
We’re tempted to say that this month’s featured property on Stamford’s Barn Hill is one in a million, but more accurately, it’s one in 23,872. Of the 450,000 listed buildings in the UK, just 5.8% command a Grade II* listing, the star denoting ‘particularly important buildings of more than special interest.’ There are just over 100 of these in Stamford. Just under 1,000 command the Grade I listing, typically cathedrals or royal palaces of architectural or historical significance and again, eight of these are located in Stamford.
The listed building database notes 10 Barn Hill’s Adam (neoclassical) decoration on the front doorcase, with its bell drops, its carved swags of wheat and Gothic fanlight. There’s also a fluted carved frieze on the fireplace in the property’s library and – if not original, then at least very old – timber panelling in the kitchen.
All of these features collectively ensure that 10 Barn Hill is extra special and an especially pretty example of Georgian architecture, even by Stamford’s standards. It’s a fact not lost on Tina and Ben Minall who fell in love with the property five years ago.
The property was the family’s first renovation project and there was much to do. The Georgian constituent of the house dates back to about 1780 with a later Victorian addition, circa 1860, and at some point it was divided into the main house and an additional pied-à-terre, which the couple reincorporated into the property. >>
“We always loved the Georgian aesthetic, but we’ve honestly fallen in love with it since living here. The proportions are understated yet so handsome...”
>> Beyond that the couple reviewed the condition of the property’s wiring, plumbing, roof and its fenestration, including faithfully recreating the bay window overlooking Barn Hill with the help of heritage building specialists Brown & Jones.
Beyond that, the couple’s focus was on styling the property so beautifully that we were surprised a professional interior designer hadn’t influenced its look and feel.
The property is arranged over five floors including the generous cellar space and a third floor currently serving as Ben’s office with its wood burning stove stone mullion windows and views over the garden and the Georgian chapel.
The ground floor reception currently serves as a library and Tina’s office, with built-in bookshelves and that beautiful carved stone fireplace. Throughout the property are dark timber floors, although sisal and jute carpeting throughout and some big rugs add warmth throughout the winter months.
In the entrance way, Minton encaustic tiles and stair treads painted in Farrow & Ball Pitch Black welcome in guests. Just off the entrance hall is a kitchen with its timber panelling in Paint & Paper Library’s Caddie, a warm taupe with a rosy hue.
The kitchen is home to an antique butcher’s block and an antique refectory table made in England, and then purchased by Tina in her native New Zealand before she brought back to England, making it, we reckon one of the most well-travelled kitchen tables in the world. A central island provides plenty of space to work and there are premium appliances from brands such as Smeg plus Perrin & Rowe taps from deVol.
Beyond the kitchen, what used to be the flat’s bathroom now serves as the scullery, with
modern appliances under a timber work area hidden by Penny Morrison Zanzibar curtains and under an antique ceramic sink.
Adjacent to the scullery is a shower room and a door to the second staircase, which leads to two first floor bedrooms.
This layout will allow the next custodians of the property to use the scullery as a boot room or as a semi self-contained wing of the property for guests.
Barn Hill in Stamford
Location: Barn Hill, central Stamford.
Provenance: Georgian property with later additions. Grade II*listing.
Rooms: Three receptions, currently arranged as ground floor library, ground floor garden room and first floor drawing room. Five bedrooms, one en suite, family bathroom and ground floor shower room.
Guide Price £1,350,000
Find Out More: Inigo, 020 3687 3071 or see www.inigo.com.
On the property’s first floor there’s a further bedroom and an adjacent bathroom with a reclaimed roll-top bath, antique brass tap, and dark panelling. The first floor is also home to the sitting room with sash windows, views over Barn Hill and its wood burner.
Elsewhere, beautiful heritage wallpapers by renowned designers such as Soane’s Wilton Vine in old gold, Morris & Co’s Willow Bough and Edward Bulmer natural heritage paints (e.g. Ethereal Blue; Fair White; White Lead).
The couple’s efforts extend to the property’s walled garden, one aspect of which is stonework from the street’s Methodist church next door.
Tina has reinstated a number of climbing roses from David Austin’s collection, including Alfred Carrière; Emily Brontë and The Generous Gardener amongst Japanese anemones, geraniums and foxgloves as well as three flowering magnolia trees and climbing hydrangea.
Worth a mention too is that all of the property’s stonework has been professionally cleaned to remove decades of soot and grime, whilst the exterior windows have all been painted and repaired, ensuring the property’s handsome appearance for years to come.
“We always loved the Georgian aesthetic, but we’ve honestly fallen in love with it since living here. I still notice elegant details like the bubbles in some of the old glass panes, or the way the windows frame the views over the town, or just the way the proportions are understated yet so handsome.”
“We’re downsizing, having seen our children leave home, and we’re keen to begin a new project. Whatever that project might be though, it’ll definitely be Georgian as we both love the look and feel of the era.”
www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd Sarah Harding Interiors (@sarahhardinginteriorsltd)
Image courtesy of James Hare
VELVET ARMCHAIR
Plush Emerald velvet chair brings cosy sophistication to your lounge, £695, vintagesofa.co.uk.
SHETLAND WOOL THROW
Wild and Wool Deer Wool Throw brings warmth and elegance on winter evenings, £74.99, thewoolroom.com.
CRYSTAL CHANDELIER
Dazzling pendant perfect for a festive dining or sitting room, £4,469.90, lights.co.uk.
REGAL FESTIVE WREATH
Evergreen wreath with blue velvet ribbon, gold leaves and festive shatterproof ornaments, £565, mackenziechilds.co.uk.
MARBLE LAZY SUSAN
Elegant marble lazy Susan for festive entertaining spreads, £125, layeredlounge.com.
SCENTED FESTIVE CANDLE
Handmade festive holly candle with gold accents, creating a warm, inviting glow, £95, fortnumandmason.com.
CRYSTAL WHISKY DECANTER
Cut crystal design perfect for serving single malts in style, portable, £239.99, takumiart.com.
NUTCRACKER FIGURINE
Traditional festive figure adds playful charm to a living room or mantel, £238, villeroyboch.co.uk.
Embroidered cushions bring festive charm to sofas or beds, £129, janconstantine.com.
HOLLY CASSEROLE LUXURY
Festive castiron casserole moulded with holly pattern, cerise enamel and gold, £329, lecreuset.co.uk.
FESTIVE BEDROOM CHARM
Festive robinprinted bedding, bringing seasonal warmth to your bedroom, £75, saramiller.london.
Festive Home Luxury Edit
Celebrate the season with elegant furnishings, décor and statement pieces across every room in your home.
NOEL
SIGNATURE DIFFUSER
Rich festive scent of roses, smoky woods, leather and spice fills your home, £499, hollandcooper.com.
CITRUS SPICE FOLIAGE
Festive garland of faux citrus, pine and berries for seasonal luxury, £579, balsamhill.co.uk.
GRAND SPRUCE STATEMENT
Realistic 9ft prelit tree with 1,559 tips and 390 warm LED lights, £795, thewhitecompany.com.
NOËL TABLE CELEBRATION
Porcelain Noël dinnerware in festive red, green, gold motifs—perfect for refined holiday tables, £various, bernardaud.com.
Below: Cosy Christmas stoneware platter, 42cm x 24cm, £50; Rustic Red gingham tablecloth, 280cm x 168cm, £165; Cosy Christmas table runner, 35cm x 200cm, £25; napkins, £21/four; 21cm side plate, £17, Sophie Allport, Stamford, www.sophieallport.com
PERFECTLY COOKED TURKEY
Meater is the easy way to achieve perfectly cooked turkey, goose or beef at Christmas, and all through the year too. It’s a Bluetooth temperature probe which measures the ambient and internal temperature of your oven and the meat you’re cooking. It automatically calculates cooking time and resting time and will give you an accurate time when your meat will be cooked to perfection, via an app which allows you to use predetermined cooking programmes or just go by the perfect internal temperature of your meat. Ideal at Christmas but Meater is also great for ensuring your barbecue meat isn’t ruined by irregular temperatures and undercooked food.
£129/www.store-uk.meater.com.
THE BEST PANS IN THE WORLD
Forget any other brand of saucepans. Stellar is the gold standard of saucepans whether you’re a keen cook or you’re looking for a set to survive your worst kitchen calamities. We’ve tried different brands but nothing performs, lasts or cleans up as well as a Stellar pan. They’re engineered to last decades not years. New to the company’s lineup is Eclipse, for all hob types, including induction, and with a triply design to conduct heat evenly, enabling you to cook with efficiency and consistency. Brushed stainless steel finish and hobtooven performance, they’re also comparatively lightweight, making them easy to handle, too.
£295/seven-piece inc. three non-stick, saucepans
£79/16cm; £86/18cm; £93/20cm, www.stellar.co.uk
LUXURY ROASTING SET
Ideal for Sunday roasts but especially useful to ensure Christmas lunch goes without a hitch, Borough Kitchen’s Perfect Roasting Kit includes a Mauviel M’Cook roasting pan with rack and helper handles, a Kai Shun set of classic carving fork and 23cm slicing knife. The olivewood end grain carving board is a generous 50cm x 30cm, whilst a fat separator and separate earthenware pitcher ensure a silky smooth gravy. Double oven gloves and chef’s apron will ensure you look the part too, and the quality of each product is unsurpassed... reflected in the price! £875/www.boroughkitchen.com.
NEW LIFE FOR YOUR KNIFE
Professional chefs have their knives sharpened regularly, and if you’ve invested in a decent set to begin with, it stands to reason that you’ll want to ensure they perform well for years to come.
Tormek is what the professionals use but in recent years, they’ve also created an easytouse knife sharpener for domestic cooks, enabling you to breathe new life into an old knife. We’ve tried one and we can attest to the fact that it’ll take a blunt, dishwasherravaged knife and turn it into a precision blade, quickly and easily, ensuring your carving is neater and easier. Available individually or bundled with a Morakniv Classic utility knife. Precision sharpening made easy from the same Swedish company professionals use. £350 (£450 bundled with utility knife), www.shop.tormek.co.uk
Christmas Floral Crafts at
This month we’ve joined forces to create easy and authentic Christmas decorations for your home with the help of florist Claire Sutton and some of the beautiful material available in your own garden...
At Christmas, our homes become a celebration of warmth, light, and generosity. One of the loveliest ways to express the season’s spirit is by using the treasures of your own garden to create floral crafts that scent, soften and illuminate your interiors. With a little imagination— and a few hours spent snipping, wiring, and arranging—you can transform foliage, dried fruit, and gathered seed heads into decorations full of rustic charm.
This month we’ve half a dozen festive floral ideas for creating a beautiful home, designed with the help of our wonderful florist Claire Sutton and Fig & Fern.
The Classic Eucalyptus and Hydrangea Wreath
A handmade wreath is a timeless way to dress your front door or hang above the hearth. Begin with a wire wreath ring and bind a base of moss onto it using floristry wire. Next, layer in generous sprigs of eucalyptus—silver-green and aromatic—alongside evergreen foliage such as yew, fir, or bay for body and depth.
Words & Images: Rob Davis.
To this base, wire in a few dried hydrangea heads for texture and faded colour, and intersperse with thinly sliced oranges that have been dried in the oven at a very low temperature for several hours. Add pine cones, holly berries, and even a few sprigs of mistletoe for seasonal interest. Finish by securing a ribbon loop for hanging and, if you wish, a soft velvet bow in a complementary shade—perhaps sage green or deep claret—to complete this luxurious yet natural design.>>
Kitchen Shelf Garland with Twinkling Lights
A simple but enchanting way to bring festive warmth into your home is an elongated arrangement designed for a kitchen dresser or hallway shelf. Begin by running a length of wide ribbon along the surface; this will serve as both base and anchor.
Gather lengths of eucalyptus, rose hips, and dried orange slices, wiring them along the ribbon so they cascade naturally. Incorporate a scattering of pine cones, nuts still in their shells, and perhaps a few mini baubles in gold or copper for a hint of sparkle.
Finally, weave a string of LED fairy lights throughout—battery-powered sets are ideal—and allow the soft twinkle to illuminate the natural textures.
A Festive Table Centrepiece
For the Christmas table, aim for something low enough to allow conversation to flow, yet rich in texture and colour. Begin with a shallow dish or floral foam tray, soaking the foam before fixing it firmly in place.
Use sprigs of fir, ivy, and rosemary as your structural greenery, then build in colour with white or crimson roses, spray chrysanthemums, or amaryllis heads if you have them. Add small clusters of hypericum berries or dried seed heads for interest.
To finish, tuck in a few short dinner candles or tea lights in glass votives, ensuring safety by keeping flames clear of foliage. The result will be a welcoming centrepiece that fills the room with fragrance and elegance.
The Staircase Swag
If you have a sweeping staircase—or even a modest bannister—a festive swag can provide drama and continuity through your home. Use a length of sturdy ribbon or thick twine as your spine, fixing it securely to the handrail at intervals. Layer on long trails of ivy, conifer, and laurel, allowing the greenery to drape gracefully.
Floral Crafts at Christmas
>> Add dried orange slices, pine cones, and ribbon bows at intervals, securing each with wire or fine garden twine.
For an extra flourish, tuck in LED microlights or glittered seed heads. The swag will look beautiful by day, and after dusk, its gentle sparkle will draw the eye up the staircase—particularly magical in a home filled with guests and candlelight.
A Gi
ft
Top Posy
Sometimes the smallest gestures bring the most delight. A miniature floral arrangement, tied onto a wrapped gift, makes your present instantly memorable. Gather a short sprig of rosemary or lavender, a few tiny pine cones, and a dried orange slice or cinnamon stick. Bundle them together with twine and secure onto the ribbon of your wrapped parcel. Not only does it look charming, it also releases a delicate festive fragrance. For a more modern take, use a sprig of eucalyptus and a single white rosebud for crisp simplicity.
Floral Crafts at Christmas
Take pleasure in the process, creating your own floral decorations for beauty but also a sense of profound satisfaction
Mistletoe Magic
No home feels complete without a little mistletoe. Instead of simply hanging a bunch from a nail, consider creating a small, suspended sphere, a ‘kissing ball,’ for a more refined look.
Take a small sphere of oasis foam, secure a ribbon for hanging, and insert short sprigs of mistletoe, holly, and ivy until the surface is covered. A dusting of artificial snow or a touch of silver spray paint can add a wintry sheen. Hang it from an interior door frame or above a hallway arch, ready to inspire a little festive romance.
For all these projects, preparation is key. Drying oranges can be done in advance: slice thinly, place on a wire rack over a baking tray, and dry in a very low oven (around 60°C) for several hours, turning occasionally until translucent.
Similarly, collecting pine cones, seed heads, and nuts from your garden during autumn means you’ll have a trove of natural materials ready for crafting by December.
A few basic supplies, floristry wire, tape, ribbon, and a good pair of secateurs, will make the work both enjoyable and professional in finish.
Most importantly, take pleasure in the process, creating your own floral decorations at Christmas brings not only beauty but also a sense of calm and connection. As the days shorten and the air grows still, there’s satisfaction in foraging, crafting, and dressing your home in textures and scents that speak of the season.
Oh, Christmas tree!
The tradition of bringing evergreens indoors stretches back centuries, but it was Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, who truly popularised the Christmas tree in Britain during the 1840s, after introducing the German custom to Windsor Castle. The royal family’s elegant fir soon inspired households across the nation to follow suit.
Today, Britons buy between seven and eight million real Christmas trees each year. In 2021, sales even topped eight million, according to research by Ipsos for the British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA).
The Nordmann fir dominates the market, accounting for around 80% of sales, thanks to its glossy, dark green needles and excellent needle retention — ideal for those who like to decorate early. The Norway spruce, making up a further 10–15%, remains a nostalgic favourite with its wonderful pine scent, though it tends to shed more quickly. Other popular choices include the Fraser fir, with a rich aroma and compact shape, and the blue spruce, admired for its silvery hue.
To keep your tree fresh, saw an inch off the base before placing it in water — just as you would with cut flowers — and ensure the stand is always topped up. Keep it away from direct heat sources such as radiators or open fires. With a little care, your Christmas tree will remain fragrant and full of festive spirit right through to Twelfth Night.
Better for the planet?
When it comes to Christmas trees, the most sustainable choice depends on how you use it. Real trees are renewable and biodegradable, with most grown on British farms that replant for every one cut down. However, transporting them and discarding them after a few weeks adds to their carbon footprint. Artificial trees, usually made from PVC, last for years but require significant energy to produce and are nonrecyclable — they only become greener if reused for a decade or more. A living, potted tree offers the best of both worlds: you can bring it indoors each Christmas, then return it to the garden, allowing it to keep absorbing carbon and providing a home for wildlife yearround. If you choose a real tree, ensure it’s recycled after the festive season. Many councils collect trees to be chipped and turned into mulch, which can then be used to enrich soil and suppress weeds — a fittingly green end for your Christmas centrepiece.
Trees and decorations, thoughtful gift ideas for grown-ups, plus toys and games for youngsters, and a wealth of local food... Gates Garden Centre at Cold Overton is synonymous with creating the perfect family Christmas!
If there’s one local business that’s truly synonymous with Christmas, it’s Gates Garden Centre. At this time of year, in other garden centres, you’d expect to find Christmas trees, decorations and gifts, but Gates Garden Centre’s offering is on a rather larger and much more impressive scale, with over 25,000 sq ft of decorations, lights and baubles alone. We’ve worked out that about a thousand hours of work goes into creating Gates Garden Centre’s impressive displays, taking around a month to put together, and the diligent work of around 10 members of the team. Each year, the centre creates a number of themes designed to provide inspiration and all of the decorations necessary to create a cohesive look.
The perfect look for your tree
Admiring each of the themes is a day out in itself, but being able to take home the look and enjoy creating an individual-looking tree
Words: Rob Davis.
is a joy, with this year’s themes including Country Christmas and Winter Walks. These are, respectively, a classic green and red theme with countryside and woodland influences, and a snowy pastel colour theme with hygge influences.
Two further looks are Snow Lodge with cool blues, silvers and whites, whilst Blush Bliss takes pink and peach tones, sugar plum fairies and playful mice as its theme.
For those who want to be a little bolder, Candy Parlour offers a whimsical scheme designed around bubblegum pinks and stripy lollipops. Santa’s Village takes the North Pole as its inspiration, with folksy reds and greens, and finally, Club Lounge provides a thoroughly contemporary look for your tree with metallic bronze and espresso tones for plenty of glamour.
Naturally, Gates Garden Centre has a range of sustainably-sourced real Christmas trees
as well as quality artificial trees, plus a dazzling range of lighting and one of the county’s largest displays of mechanical and musical model-village buildings and figures from Lemax.
Though
tful gift ideas
Meanwhile, the chore of finding festive gifts is immeasurably easier thanks to Gates Garden Centre’s gift department with its huge range of fragrances, accessories, jewellery, books and stocking fillers.
It’s the ideal place to take home unique, fun or just really nice gifts, with no need to chase up missing orders from online retailers.
Gates Garden Centre also has the largest toy department in the area, with games, puzzles and books for every age plus table games, crackers and soft toys too. Naturally, there’s a great selection of books for adults too, plus diaries, cards, gift wrap and more.
Gates Farm Shop
Meanwhile, Gates’ 12,000sq ft farm shop adjacent to the garden centre itself provides free-range turkeys and high-welfare meat courtesy of Hambleton Farms, and there’s artisan bread, fresh fruit and veg, local food, wine and spirits and vending machines for locally-farmed milk and, for your Buck’s Fizz on Christmas morning, freshly squeezed orange juice too.
Meet the family
This year, Gates’ 1948 founders, the beautifully illustrated Fred & Ivy, will welcome you into the centre for a traditional Christmas and you can even snuggle the adorable Fred Bear.
With wreath-making workshops held from 28th Nov to the 5th Dec, as well as the chance for youngsters to Dine with Santa, or visit the Festive Food Trucks and kids rides there’s plenty of fun planned as well.
Gates Garden Centre is based at Cold Overton,
Nick and Steph’s Magical
Reindeer
This month we’re enjoying a very festive visit to a local farm where Nick and Steph Dean and their family look after their beloved herd of reindeer. Is there anything quite as adorable as a baby reindeer?
“I didn’t even know they were real!” said one youngster in amazement. “I thought they were made up, like unicorns!”
In fact, reindeer are very real, although sadly we don’t encounter them as much as other animals or, for that matter, other species such as muntjacs, roe and fallow deer, which are comparatively commonplace in our part of the world.
Happily, Nick and Steph Dean are always keen to introduce their beloved herd of deer to people, and they especially love the expression on a youngster’s face when they come face to face with a real-life reindeer in the run-up to Christmas.
“They’re adorable,” says Steph. “But at this time of year they have a special magic, especially among children, so being able to look after them and take them to see people is a real pleasure, not just for us, but for the animals too, who are really tame and clearly love all the fuss and attention!”
initially wanted a few chickens before venturing into keeping emus and rheas.
In March 2011, Nick messaged Steph, who was somewhat surprised when he introduced her to some rather unexpected new additions to their family (although it was, of course, love at first sight).
Today the family have a veritable menagerie, including their herd of 21 deer, with five born on the farm in April and May.
“The welfare of our animals comes first, every single time, but we know from how they trot into the trailer and into the pens that they love getting out and about at this time of year,” says Steph, who admits that of all the animals they have on the farm, the reindeer have a special place in her heart.
“They’re incredibly calming animals,” she says. “You can be in the field with them and they’ll just wander over, lie down, graze or come to say hello. They’ve got such gentle, inquisitive natures.”
Words: Rob Davis. Images: Nick Dean.
Nick and Steph moved to their 14-acre farm in 2010. Nick had always loved animals and
Woodbine’s herd now numbers 21, a mix of bulls, cows and calves. >>
“The welfare of our animals comes first, every single time, but we know from how they trot into the trailer and into the pens that they love getting out and about at this time of year,” says Steph...
>> “They follow cow nomenclature rather than deer,” Steph explains. “So we have bulls, cows and calves, not stags and does.”
Every year, the reindeer follow a natural cycle. The rutting season comes in September and October, when males can become boisterous and must be handled carefully. Calves are born the following spring, around April and May.
“Everyone grows a new set of antlers each year,” Steph says. “The males fall off around Christmas, the females keep theirs through to spring. They can grow an inch a day, some weigh up to 16 kilograms. It’s incredible.”
Life on the farm is structured around the animals’ needs. The reindeer enjoy a breakfast of sugar beet mash (their ‘porridge,’ as Steph calls it) and have specially imported Finnish lichen as a treat.
“They graze on grass and nibble straw and hay too,” she says. “They’re perfectly suited to our winters, they come from far colder climates than we’ll ever get here.”
Most of the year, the reindeer enjoy a peaceful life in the fields. But for six weeks leading up to Christmas, the family take small groups of reindeer, never fewer than two since they’re herd animals, to festive events across the region.
“We limit it to about an 80-mile radius,” Steph says. “We do town light switch-ons, school fairs, weddings, even a funeral once. We take all their food, water and lichen, and make sure they’re comfortable. It’s wonderful to see people’s reactions, some have never seen a real reindeer before.”
Steph recalls a particularly touching visit to a care home one Christmas Eve. “There was one
Reindeer
lady who was just absolutely enchanted,” she says. “She couldn’t stop smiling. That’s what makes it all worthwhile, sharing that magic.”
In addition to the reindeer, Woodbine Farm hires out sleighs and snow machines for events (the kids love the snow machine) and offers talks at schools, where children can meet the reindeer (real ones, not cartoon ones with red noses) and learn about their lives.
Interestingly, the story of Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer nearly didn’t make it into print. It’s thought that the origin of the tale dates back to 1939, when Chicago department store and mail order business
Montgomery Ward, enduring the worldwide downturn in the economy, was expecting a fairly bleak Christmas.
The company’s boss enlisted advertising man Robert L. May to create a story that could serve as the flagship element of their Christmas campaign, to cheer customers up and encourage them to part with their money.
In 1821, a poem called Old Santeclaus with Much Delight had already been published, placing St Nicholas (who actually originated from Turkey) in a colder climate for the first time, complete with caribou and sleigh as a means of transportation.
Robert L. May took it a little further with the tale of a red-nosed reindeer who saved Christmas. His boss initially hated the idea, thinking that the story implied Rudolph had been drinking.
Thankfully, he and May decided to publish the story nonetheless, and the resulting book sold two million copies. The link between reindeer with glowing noses and Christmas has endured ever since.
As we finish chatting, Steph reflects on what the herd means to her. “It’s hard work,” she admits, “but it’s such a privilege. Being able to share our love of animals, and especially reindeer, is something very special!”
Nick and Steph Dean are local hobby farmers with a herd of 21 reindeer which are available for visits to schools, care homes, hospitals, and for village events, Christmas lights switch ons and even winter weddings. For more information call 07803 011131 or see www.woodbinereindeer.co.uk.
The second half of the year is already shaping up to be busier than the first with a notable rise in buyers relocating from London & the South. There’s still time to move before Christmas –but you’ll need to act fast. Instruct us today & let’s see if your buyer is already registered with us
The Old Bakehouse, Braunston Road, Knossington, Oakham, LE15 8LN
A striking contemporary home on the edge of a popular Rutland village, enjoying far-reaching countryside views and exceptional design throughout. Finished to a superb standard, the property offers spacious, light-filled accommodation including an impressive kitchen/ breakfast room, two generous reception rooms, and four double bedrooms—all with en-suite bathrooms. Outside, there is space for a garage and carport, a low-maintenance garden, and a raised terrace with a pagoda. Offered with no onward chain and ideally positioned for Oakham, Uppingham, and mainline transport links.
Price: £995,000
Property with Moores Estate Agents
Homes from Home
An insight into the property market with Vernon & Jenny Moore, founders of Moores Estate Agents and Country & Equestrian
We’ve been fortunate recently to have the opportunity to bring some rather unique properties to market. As they say, all good things come to an end, and on the outskirts of Grantham, within the grounds of the 475-acre Belton Woods estate, the lease on a number of luxury woodland lodges has come to their agreed end, presenting a great opportunity for new owners.
Over half of the lodges have already been sold. Their owners, who previously owned the properties on a ‘timeshare’ basis, had the first opportunity to purchase their lodges, this time on freehold terms.
Owners are permitted to occupy their lodges all year round, and they can be used as holiday lets, yielding around 10% in returns. They’re understandably popular with visitors
thanks to a leafy setting, close proximity to the A1, and the facilities on the Belton Woods estate. As well as 136 bedrooms, Belton Woods has a grill and restaurant offering modern British dining, afternoon tea, and a lounge menu.
There’s a 36-hole PGA-standard golf club too, one of the top courses in the East Midlands with leafy, established surroundings and undulating greens. There’s a clubhouse and pro shop, buggies and PGA tuition in-house courtesy of golf pro Iain Fulton, making it the ideal place to perfect your swing.
For those seeking wellness, there’s a health club too, with a state-of-the-art gym and fitness suite, fitness classes, tennis and squash courts, a football pitch and an 18.5metre pool, as well as a spa with steam room and sauna, and in-house treatments courtesy of wellness professionals working with some
of the world’s leading spa brands.
As for the lodges themselves, typical layouts see the accommodation arranged over two storeys, with three bedrooms, en suites to both master and guest bedrooms, plus fullheight glazing to take advantage of the wealth of natural light and views of the established woodland setting.
Spacious open-plan layouts, fitted kitchens with a full suite of appliances, and private balconies or terraces blur the indoor and outdoor areas during the summer months, and in the cooler months, some lodges are equipped with private saunas and hot tubs. Entry is via electric gates and the grounds are maintained by way of a dedicated caretaker, whilst fully managed rental opportunities are also available with housekeeping and reception services. The lodges also benefit from private parking spaces, and some can be purchased with existing furnishings.
“It’s the first time in two decades that these have been offered, and it’s safe to say that they’ve created a lot of interest already,” says Vernon Moore.
“Created in traditional blockwork with timber cladding, they’re substantial in size and in construction, with plenty of flexibility in terms of their use as primary accommodation, as a second home, as a holiday rental opportunity or a hybrid model of both.”
“The properties are currently being marketed for between £250,000–£295,000, which offers excellent value for a sought-after area with good transport links, the parkland of Belton House and lots of other facilities nearby, so expressing interest early is recommended to secure your lodge!”
Moores Estate Agents and the company’s Country & Equestrian brand provide professional, proactive property services for buyers and sellers of homes across the region. Familyowned and established in 2005, the company offers free initial advice tailored to your personal circumstances, call 01572 757979 or see www.mooresestateagents.com.
OIEO £685,000
Guide Price £600,000
St Peters Rise, Wymondham
A well-presented four-bedroom family home offering spacious and versatile living accommodation, set on a generous corner plot with established gardens and countryside views in the popular village of Wymondham.
Guide Price £425,000
Reeves Lane, Wing
Set on a generous quarter-acre plot, this site has full planning permission for a four-bedroom family home including off-road parking, garaging, and a spacious west-facing garden as well as a purposebuilt home office/gym, offering flexible space for modern living.
Cricket Lawns, Oakham
A well-presented four-bedroom family home with spacious accommodation and great potential for modernisation, ideally located just a short walk from Oakham town centre.
North Street West, Uppingham
Guide Price £345,000
Built c.1900, this three-bedroom period home offers deceptively spacious accommodation and a generous, mature garden, all within the centre of this historic market town of Uppingham.
An immaculately presented, reconfigured and renovated home in the heart of the Conservation village of Hambleton village, on Rutland Water’s Peninsula. This beautiful south facing house has the desirable ‘Cotswold look’, with a pretty ironstone under stone Collyweston appearance and stone mullions housing bespoke bronze casement windows.
Hambleton Oakham
Built in 2006, and set in a private position on the edge of the village, Scales Dyke is a striking stone and brick residence offering spacious, high quality living spaces across three floors. Constructed to an exacting standard, the property features underfloor heating to the ground and first floors, sash windows, solid oak and tiled flooring and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Scales Dyke Lyddington
Home Farm is a charming, four/five bedroom, Grade II Listed 17th-century village property with earlier period features, offering spacious and versatile accommodation, excellent equestrian facilities, all well situated in one of Rutland’s most sought-after villages, with easy access to an extensive network of bridleways and equestrian amenities.
Guide price £1,750,000
Tucked away along a sleepy country lane, the stately form of Coppice House rises like a watercolour illustration from a storybook. Golden stone, steep gables and sash windows lend a sense of timelessness to this Grade II listed treasure, its fairytale feel enhanced by the formal topiary, a neat trio of yew pyramids standing sentinel at the front.
Guide price £1,250,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Coppice House
Glaston
Oakham
A distinguished five-bedroom home on one of Oakham’s most desirable plots, just a short walk from the town centre. Set within 1.9 acres of landscaped gardens, it offers exceptional space, privacy, and elegance, with expansive living areas, a self-contained guest suite, and a master suite with terrace. With ample parking, an integral garage, and idyllic surroundings, Swooning House is a rare opportunity in the heart of Oakham.
Guide Price £1,250,000
Murray Market Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DY. Call 01572 755555 or see www.murray.co.uk
Swooning House
Elm Barn
Morton
Elm Barn – a charming four bedroom home - presides over the peaceful neighbourhood of Knotts Close, a haven of calm in the heart of Morton, just a few minutes from the market town of Bourne. Private, poised and effortlessly elegant, Elm Barn is a home designed for those who appreciate both beauty and balance, blending luxury with comfort, for a refined way of living.
Guide price £800,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Luxury Homes
Ketton House
Aldgate
Ketton House is one of the principal houses of the picturesque village of Ketton. The village has its own post office, primary school, library and local shop.
Guide price £3,900,000
King West 13 St Mary's Street, Stamford PE9 2DE
Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
St. Peters Street
Stamford
A truly unique four bedroom, period property in the centre of Stamford with one bed annexe, courtyard terraces and private parking.
Offers over £1,500,000
Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com
Garden House
Exton
Garden House is a four-bedroom barn conversion, originally built in 1850 and thoughtfully converted in 2006, this spacious and light-filled home sits on a generous plot with a south-facing garden.
Guide price £1,100,000
James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com
Home Farm Burley
Commissioned by an Earl, crafted by John Nash and quietly captivating ever since, Home Farm is a place of quiet magic - where architectural heritage meets timeless countryside charm.
Guide Price £1,500,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Luxury Homes
Tickencote House
Tickencote
Dating to 1872, rooted in greenery and framed by a colourful burst of hydrangea blossom in the summer months, Tickencote House welcomes.
Guide price £1,000,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Hereward Place
Stamford
An impressive six-bedroom executive home, beautifully crafted from stone, and located just a short walk from the heart of Stamford's vibrant town centre.
Price £1,249,500
Nest Estates 8-9 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA. Call 01780 238110 or see www.nestestates.co.uk
Oak House
Braunston
A beautiful and unique family home, formerly the village school, which has been improved and extended over the years to offer modern comforts whilst preserving its historic charm.
Guide Price £1,495,000
King West 13 St Mary's Street, Stamford PE9 2DE Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
Crestwood House
Stamford
Sitting proudly on the historic High Street of St Martins in Stamford, Crestwood House is a rare jewel; an architectural treasure steeped in history yet lovingly restored for modern living.
Guide Price £3,500,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Luxury Homes
Spring House
Ketton
Spring House presents a rare opportunity to acquire a characterful Grade II listed residence, discreetly positioned on a private plot in the heart of the highly desirable Rutland village of Ketton.
Guide price
£950,000
Fine & Country 30 High Street East Uppingham LE15 9PZ. Call 01780 750 200 or see www.fineandcountry.co.uk
Drywell House
Barrowden
Blending timeless craftsmanship with natural materials and creative design, Drywell House offers a home that is as stylish as it is enduring.
Guide price £2,250,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Barn Hill
Stamford
Thought to date to the early 19th century, this magnificent Grade II*-listed townhouse in Stamford, is deeply rooted in the town’s architectural tradition.
Price £1,400,000
Inigo 020 3687 307, hello@inigo.com or see www.inigo.com
Swooning House
Oakham
Swooning House is a distinguished five-bedroom home set on arguably Oakham’s most desirable residential plot, just a short walk from the town centre. Nestled within 1.90 acres of landscaped gardens.
Guide price £1,600,000
Murray Market Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DY. Call 01572 755555 or see www.murray.co.uk
Luxury Homes
The Lodge
Barleythorpe
The Lodge is a substantial 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence set in nearly an acre of private, mainly walled garden. Being set back from the road, with its close proximity to Oakham town centre.
Price £950,000
Moores Estate Agents Barleythorpe, Oakham, LE15 7FS Call 01780 484555 or see www.countryequestrianhomes.com
Church Lane
Oakham
This imposing Ironstone home is situated on an elevated position in the picturesque village of Ridlington. Offering over 5000 sq ft of accommodation.
Offers in excess of £2,300,000
Osprey Property 4 Burley Road, Oakham LE15 6DH. Call 01572 756675 or see www.osprey-property.co.uk
North Barn
Exton
North Barn is a distinguished four-bedroom stone-built barn conversion that combines the charm of a period property with the advantages of modern energy efficiency. Set within a generous plot.
Offers in excess of £1,000,000
James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com
Brooke
Oakham
A beautifully presented house, with an equally well-appointed annex cottage, within mature gardens and a picturesque setting, which has featured in period film dramas, on a no-through lane.
Guide price £1,650,000
Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com
Sparkle Season Fashion
Sequins shimmer brightly, adding glamour and festive flair this December.
There’s something about sequins that feels inseparable from the festive season. As soon as December arrives, so too does our appetite for sparkle. Whether you’re preparing for a Christmas party, a black-tie ball, or simply want to elevate an evening dinner look, sequins never fail to make a statement.
The magic of sequins lies in their ability to transform the simplest silhouette into something extraordinary. A plain black dress becomes instantly striking when dusted with shimmering embellishment, while a tailored blazer adorned with sequins moves effortlessly from smart to spectacular. Even a subtle touch, a sequinned camisole layered beneath soft knitwear, can inject instant glamour into an otherwise casual outfit.
This season, sequins are appearing in every guise, from the daringly dramatic to the quietly understated. If you love to go all-out, a floorlength gown that catches the light with every step is a natural choice, creating a look that’s both timeless and unapologetically festive. For those who prefer something more versatile, separates offer the perfect solution. A sequinned skirt paired with a crisp white shirt feels effortlessly chic, while sequinned trousers, styled with a simple silk blouse, strike a balance between modernity and elegance.
Daytime doesn’t need to be entirely sequin-free, either. Subtle touches, like a sequinned clutch or a pair of shimmering shoes, bring a festive edge to your everyday wardrobe without feeling overdone. Sequins in muted metallic tones – think soft pewter, champagne gold, or even deep midnight blue – work especially well for this, providing sparkle without overwhelming your look.
When styling sequins, balance is key. Let them take centre stage and keep accessories minimal. A pair of simple earrings and a sleek updo will allow the light-catching detail to shine without distraction. Equally, mixing textures can prevent an outfit from feeling too heavy, sequins
with velvet, satin, or even chunky knitwear create a rich, layered effect that feels both luxurious and wearable.
Ultimately, sequins remind us that fashion should be joyful. They sparkle in the candlelight, dazzle under party spotlights, and make us feel part of the celebration before the festivities even begin. So, whether you choose a gown that glitters from head to toe or add just a hint of shimmer to your outfit, embrace sequins this December. After all, ’tis the season to shine.
Opposite: Hester Sequin Jumpsuit, £380, www.cefinn.com. Right: Black Sequin Midi Skirt, £140, matching top available, www.mintvelvet.com.
From sleek minis to sweeping gowns, the black dress is fashion’s ultimate icon. Perfect for any Christmas party, it’s versatile, flattering, and endlessly chic— ensuring confidence, sophistication, and a touch of timeless drama this festive season.
£430, macduggal.com
£159, hobbs.com
£119, karen millen.com
£77,250
TIMELESS
Rolex women’s watches embody precision, luxury, and sophistication, blending heritage with modern design. Sleek and exquisitely crafted, they make a statement of effortless elegance—perfect for daily wear or special occasions. This festive season, why not treat yourself, or hint to Santa, by adding one to your Christmas list? A Rolex is more than a watch; it’s a treasured piece of jewellery and a symbol of enduring style.
£42,400
£295, rixolondon.com
£1,250, uk.louisvuitton.com
COZY CHIC COLOUR POP
Step into winter with neutral sandy suede boots, perfectly fur lined for warmth. Whether ankle or mid they blend comfort and elegance e them ideal for fes outings, country walks, or cosy city strolls in style.
£575, jimmychoo.com
Vibrant clutch bags in bold hues and playful textures add instant joy to any festive outfit. Perfect for Christmas parties, they’re the ultimate statement accessory this season.
£299, kurtgeiger.com
£124, jayley.com £136, stellamccartney. com
Celebrate the season in style with chic Christmas jumpers— cosy, colourful, and effortlessly glamorous, perfect for winter gatherings, fireside moments, and sparkling holiday soirées £99, boden.com
LASER AESTHETICS: Hair removal, pigmentation and vascular concerns
Also: Massage, LED phototherapy, manicures and pedicures
HUNTSMAN EPITOMISES the enduring elegance of Savile Row, crafting garments that embody refinement, confidence and heritage. From impeccably cut suits to indulgent cashmere coats, every piece is designed to transcend fleeting trends, offering a wardrobe of lasting sophistication. Huntsman’s tailoring blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary finesse, ensuring flawless fit and uncompromising quality. Whether for the boardroom, the season’s social calendar or an elegant evening out, Huntsman is the name discerning gentlemen trust when only the very best will do.
1. Pink Cawdor Tweed Wool Slipper, £525. 2. Damson Merino Wool Rollneck Knitwear, £230. 3. Wine/Navy Cashmere Four Point Star Scarf, £350. 4. Navy Quilted Cashmere Lined Gilet, £1,250. 5. Huntsman Jo Malone Amber & Patchouli Cologne, £152. 6. Fawn Peck Silk Pyjamas, £600. 7. Houndstooth Spot Silk Tie, £175. 8. Light Blue Linen Shirt, £275. 9. Brown Hand Sewn Peccary Leather Gloves, £375. 10. Cashmere Glen Check Jacket, £3,295. Herringbone Single Cuff Shirt, £275
Red-Hot Festive Picks
Flawless festive radiance for your winter skin
Carolina Herrera Highlighter delivers soft, iridescent radiance while the Kabuki Buffer Brush ensures flawless blending and sculpting. This duo elevates your festive makeup to couturelevel polish.
Dior Vernis delivers couturecolour, shine and longwear with a gellike finish. Infused with peony and pistachio extracts for protective, glossy nails, perfect festive polish. £30/10ml, www.dior.com.
Hydrating Festive Elixir
Rodial’s Dragon’s Blood Water Serum soothes and hydrates stressed skin with a featherlight formula that plumps, protects and restores radiance: perfect for Christmas glow. £130/30ml, www.rodial.com.
Glossy Lip Indulgence
Celebrate ten years of Clarins Lip Comfort Oil, a nourishing formula with plant extracts that hydrates, softens, and enhances lips with luminous colour. A festive beauty essential. £27/7ml, www.clarins.co.uk.
Prada Paradoxe Radical Essence is a daringly vibrant fragrance, perfect for the festive season. With intense floral notes, sensual depth, and radiant warmth, it’s a confident, modern scent that makes a striking Christmas gift for the woman who shines brightest. £117 for 50ml. Available from www.prada.com.
The Ultimate Men’s Grooming Gift
Bolin Webb’s X1 Matte Red Razor and Stand combines awardwinning design with a superior shaving experience. Sleek, stylish, and engineered for performance, it’s the perfect Christmas present for the man who has everything. Don’t forget the men this festive season, a luxury grooming has never looked so good! £160 available from www.bolinwebb.com.
All our beauty products are available from local independent stockists unless otherwise stated, note that prices stated are RRP and may vary.
Time to Reflect at Ragdale Hall Spa
One of Britain’s most loved and comprehensive day and residential spas, Ragdale Hall in Leicestershire combines world-class wellness facilities with leading treatment brands, offering the ultimate experience for those looking to relax and revitalise this winter
Words: Rob Davis.
C omfort, warmth, peace and happiness. A day of blissful reflection, relaxation and pampering. It’s just for one day, but goodness me, we’ll definitely take it!
Back in 1973, when Ragdale Hall Spa opened under the direction of Carol Ashworth, there were no electronic devices commanding our attention with pernicious alerts. There was no 24-hour news cycle prognosticating existential threats, whilst fatigue and stress were not yet societally endemic as they are today.
Today, we’re all busier than ever, yet less inclined to consider our own sense of wellness. Christmas is busy, whilst darker nights and plummeting temperatures conspire to bring with them the winter blues if we don’t keep our spirit in check.
Happily, more than 50 years on, Ragdale Hall’s aim of promoting wellness and health endures, albeit with a modern and luxurious offering of day spa experiences, residential packages and treatments tailored in order to relax and revitalise, resetting both body and mind. Ragdale Hall is peerless not just in the area, but nationally. It remains today, and always was, a dedicated luxury spa, ideal for individuals, friends or couples seeking to get away, without having to go far.>>
>> Day Spa Experiences
A single day to relax and spend time with a loved one can be a transformative experience on both mind and body, hence why Ragdale Hall offers both full day and twilight spa experiences as well as ‘late start’ packages from 10am till 4pm.
Included in these packages is access to Ragdale Hall’s 12 heat and water experiences in their Thermal Spa, its six pools, and six relaxation areas as well as gym and fitness activities, with the opportunity to enjoy Ragdale Hall’s 13-acres of grounds in the warmer months including its Outdoor Pool, loungers and outdoor activities like walking, cycling and tennis.
Twilight packages offer the chance to experience incredible sunsets from the warmth of the Rooftop Infinity Pool, whilst Ragdale Hall’s Blissful Brunch and Spa Day packages include brunch and cream teas.
Spa Breaks
Alternatively, you can stay a little longer at Ragdale Hall courtesy of a residential break. From two to five nights or more, you can afford yourself more time to re-energise in rooms and suites that would put most five-star country house hotels to shame.
Ragdale Hall’s Two-Night Luxury Break includes Champagne and canapés plus accommodation in a luxury grade bedroom and both a premium treatment and an additional massage or therapy treatment as well as unlimited access to all spa facilities.
Enjoy breakfast served to your bedroom or wander down to the Verandah Bar and indulge in a hearty breakfast buffet whilst lunch and dinners are also included in the package.
A few of our favourite things
n Ragdale Hall’s Mum and Me Day: Reconnect, create special memories and enjoy one 50minute treatment as well as Ragdale Hall’s spa facilities with this special package. A Champagne cream tea and threecourse lunch are included, from £520 for two people including a £15 retail voucher.
n Mini Manicures & Pedicures: Available at Ragdale Hall’s Beauty Express area, just £46 for a 30minute manicure or pedicure using Infinite Shine highgloss polish.
n Special Treats: Special occasion? Surprise your loved one with an arrangement of fresh flowers (£35), Prosecco (£38), or Champagne (£69), or even a fruit platter (£14.50).
n Christmas & New Year: AChristmas treat or a way to relax over the festive season. Ragdale Hall offers its Christmas Eve Spa Experience with Champagne (£100/person). Three night Christmas spa breaks at Ragdale (£310/from) and a New Year’s Eve Spa Experience or breaks (£160/from) are also available, as is a January Winter Revival package (£225/night).
Treatments and Therapies
Most packages at Ragdale Hall include a rejuvenating or relaxing treatment, but with over 100 classic treatments powered by leading spa brands, one of the joys of the spa’s day experiences or spa breaks is the ability to tailor your visit to suit with the advice and experience of Ragdale Hall’s 130 therapists.
Exceptional brands like Clarins, Elemis and Sea Magik support your treatment, with some treatments exclusive to Ragdale Hall. Partnering with the British-based Medik8 brand allows the spa to provide non-prescription cosmeceutical treatments, and the spa has a range of holistic therapies, from hypnotherapy and acupuncture, reiki and reflexology, plus crystal sound healing, and body balancing experiences.
Ragdale Hall’s Beauty Express area is an open-plan salon area offering treatments such as express manicures and pedicures, or eyebrow tinting and threading, without having to book.
Food andDrink
Most day experiences and Ragdale Hall’s residential spa breaks offer the change to enjoy the finest dishes in the Dining Room, the Verandah Bar with its lighter bistro-style dishes, or in the Twilight Bar later on.
Evening dining features ingredients from quality suppliers such as Hambleton Bakery, whilst wine recommendations are provided and desserts like a Melting Chocolate Pudding Cake or classic Eton Mess are made in-house too.
Vouchers and Shopping
And finally, give the gift of relaxation or continue to treat yourself back home with a range of gift vouchers either for specific packages or denominations. Meanwhile, the spa’s three shops, provides access to the very best beauty products, gifts and accessories all tried, tested and trusted by Ragdale Hall, for the 52 years that the spa has been championing health and wellness.
How to Enjoy Ragdale Hall Spa
n Twilight Spa Experience
Early evening spa package including 40minute Serenity Touch face and neck treatment plus gentle massage for hands, forearms, lower legs, and feet. Twocourse evening meal, and access to pools and spa. From £140/person, 4.30pm to 9.30pm.
n Blissful Brunch & Spa Day
Ideal for friends seeking a rejuvenating spa day, including continental breakfast buffet, Champagne cream tea, and unlimited access to thermal spa and pool. From £165/person, 10am to 4pm.
n Deluxe Spa Day for Two
An enhanced spa day package for friends or couples, providing a 40minute treatment each, plus a 20minute Aqua Massage Bed experience. Includes Bucks Fizz and minipastries upon arrival, a deli sharing board lunch and cocktail or mocktail in the Twilight Bar. From £500/couple, 9am to 6pm.
n Two Night Spa Stay
A twonight break with 40minute treatment included and full access to the spa and its facilities, including pools and thermal experiences. Breakfast in bed, a threecourse lunch and evening meal are also included. From £510/person, two nights.
n Luxury Couples Spa Break
A luxury offering comprising two nights of relaxation with a premium treatment and additional wellness treatment included. Champagne and canapés on your first night plus breakfast in bed, lunch and dinner, and full access to the spa and its facilities, including pools and thermal experiences. From £1,520/couple, two nights.
Ragdale Hall Spa was crowned Best Spa for Wellness in the 2025 Good Spa Awards and recently awarded Best Destination Spa in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Award 2025. Ragdale Hall Spa is based in Ragdale Village, Leicestershire, LE14 3PB. Call 01664 434 831 or book online at www.ragdalehall.co.uk.
THIS DECEMBER, make your countdown to Christmas beautifully indulgent with a luxury beauty advent calendar. Far from the chocolatefilled calendars of childhood, today’s versions brim with miniature fragrances, skincare treats, and makeup musthaves from the world’s most desirable brands. Each drawer offers a little surprise, whether a cult lipstick, a festive scent, or a pampering cream, ensuring your December mornings feel truly special. From Dior to Jo Malone, these curated calendars are the ultimate preChristmas gift for yourself—or someone equally deserving.
1. The Harvey Nichols , £175. harveynichols.com. 2. Jo Malone, £360. jomalone.co.uk. 3. Clarins , £95. clarins.co.uk. 4. Fortnum and Mason, £265. fortnumandmason.com. 5. Space NK, £260. spacenk.com. 6. Dior, £570. dior.com. 7. Selfridges, £250. selfridges.com. 8. Fenwick’s, £250. fenwick.co.uk. 9. Charlotte Tilbury, £175. charlottetilbury.com. 10. Harrods, £215. harrods.com. 11. L’OCCITANE, £149. uk.loccitane.com. 12. The White Company, £195. thewhitecompany.com.
Olivers Baby Care
New Year, New Arrival
If you’re expecting a new addition to the family in 2026, you’ll be relieved to learn that there’s a one-stop retailer with the largest selection of the best baby products in stock, offering demonstrations, car seat fitting, free parking and free local delivery... all you need now is to choose a colour for the nursery!
Words: Rob Davis.
If your plans for a happy new year include welcoming a new addition into the family, we’d like to introduce you to Olivers Baby Care. The company is close by with the largest range of quality baby products, and all of the expertise you need on site to choose the best pushchairs, car seats, nursery furniture, baby monitors, and more.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby, celebrating the arrival of a new grandchild, or helping a close friend prepare for parenthood, Olivers Baby Care has been trusted by parents since 1993.
In spring 2021, the company established its physical store to supplement its online retail, with over 5,000 products available.
Taking the risk out of ordering products like nursery furniture, pushchair systems, and car seats online, at Olivers Baby Care you can feel, try out and determine quality for yourself, checking that products aren’t too large, too small, unwieldy, or too complicated, with free demonstrations and car seat fitting for example.
As a dedicated specialist Olivers Baby Care has the most experienced staff for miles around, offering insightful and unbiased advice.
Getting Around in Safety
The first months of parenthood are filled with adventures, from the first trip home from hospital to family walks in the park. A reliable, easy-to-use travel system is every parent’s best friend, combining a pram, pushchair and car seat into one versatile package. Olivers stocks a curated range from
trusted brands such as Silver Cross, MaxiCosi, Joie, Axkid, and Cybex, all on display and each designed to blend comfort, safety and effortless style.
Silver Cross’s Cove Travel System, for example, offers RideTech wheels, advanced suspension, a bamboo-lined carrycot for overnight sleeping and coordinated accessories. Practical, durable, and beautifully designed, it’s an investment that grows with your child.
Filling Up Tiny Tummies
Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding or doing a little of both, Olivers offers expert advice and products to make the process as smooth as possible. From Fraupow breast pumps and feeding bottles from MAM and BIBS, to ergonomic nursing pillows and sterilising kits, every item is chosen to support parents through those sleepy earlymorning feeds. For weaning, Olivers Baby Care’s collection of MAM and Munchkin feeding accessories brings colour and fun to baby’s first tastes.
Sweet Dreams
Olivers Baby Care can also help families to create calm, comforting spaces that encourage sleep for baby, and peace of mind for parents. Joie Roomie cribs, and Callowesse’s Dreamy Willow remain firm favourites, allowing little ones to sleep safely and in comfort.
A Beautiful Nursery
Creating a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a new baby, and Olivers’ beautifully crafted furniture makes it easy to blend style with practicality. Choose from timeless Tutti Bambini and Obaby
collections, featuring cots, wardrobes, and dressers built to last beyond babyhood. Many of Olivers’ furniture pieces are convertible, evolving as your child grows; a thoughtful investment for modern families who value both sustainability and craftsmanship. Complement the look with soft furnishings, mobiles, and lighting, all carefully chosen to create a peaceful, nurturing environment.
Learning Through Fun
At Olivers Baby Care, play is never just play. Every toy, puzzle and activity centre in the range has been selected with educational value in mind, helping little ones develop coordination, curiosity and confidence from day one. Little Big Friends cuddly toys are soft and safe, whilst wooden toys from Speedy Monkey inspire imagination while reducing plastic waste. Meanwhile, sensory toys and activity gyms are designed to stimulate young minds.
These early moments of discovery lay the foundations for a lifetime of learning. And at Olivers Baby Care, you’ll find the perfect tools to nurture that growth.
From pregnancy to playtime, Olivers Baby Care provides everything today’s parents need, with expert advice, trusted brands, and a reassuring focus on quality and safety.
Understandably, parents-to-be travel for miles around to enjoy the service, range of products and expert advice of a team which offers an unsurpassed in-store experience.
Whether you’re shopping for your own little one or searching for a thoughtful gift this Christmas, you’ll find inspiration in every hand-picked product.
Tied by Time
From nursery classmates to newlyweds, George and Ellie’s romantic Uppingham wedding celebrated a love over 25 years in the making – filled with laughter, music, Aperol spritz, and a sea of peonies
Childhood friends turned soulmates, Ellie and George’s wedding was the definition of local love.
Born and raised in neighbouring villages (Ellie in Gretton, George in Uppingham) the pair’s story began in the most adorable way possible: as nursery classmates, with their first photo together during a nativity play.
Despite going to different schools, their paths crossed over the years through mutual friends and social gatherings. In 2017 and a with a swipe on Bumble, sparks flew and the rest, as they say, is history.
In April 2023, during a dreamy boat ride through Malta’s Valletta Harbour, George proposed with a sparkling diamond eternity ring, having asked both of Ellie’s parents for their blessing. It was a complete surprise, and the beginning of an unforgettable wedding journey.
When it came to choosing a venue, the couple briefly considered George’s family farm before opting for the elegance and ease of The Falcon Hotel in Uppingham. It ticked every box and and allowed them to relax and truly enjoy the process.
Photographer Gina Fernandes was one of the first people they booked, whose warm presence and 35mm film shots became one of their favourite takeaways from the day.
Ellie found her dress during a family holiday to Cornwall at St Ives Bridal Boutique. She had originally gone to help her sister find bridesmaid dresses but spotted a simple yet striking gown by Canadian designer & For Love.
Paired with a lace-trimmed cathedrallength veil sourced from Vinted, the look was effortlessly timeless.
Weddings
Rather than opting for matchymatchy bridesmaids’ dresses, Ellie encouraged her bridesmaids to choose their own gowns in shades of pink. The result was stunning!
Kate De Havilland took care of makeup, giving Ellie her dream natural glow, while Georgia Newton from Glow Hair, Oakham, perfected everyone’s hair.
The flowers, courtesy of Jane Franks, were a peony-filled dream. From breathtaking church arrangements to churns and bouquets, every detail bloomed with perfection.
Ellie even helped create the flower garland on the church pulpit the day before with a friend.
Their cake was made by Byrn Bakery, lemon, of course, and the couple had two versions: one for cutting and another for evening guests. Music was a major highlight, with Oakhambased band ‘Funked Up’ keeping the dancefloor packed all night.
Catering was expertly handled by The Falcon’s team, and stationery designed by Dotty Bee added an elegant finishing touch.
One of the couple’s most special memories? A quiet morning coffee and dog walk with their pup Polly before the chaos of the day began.
An orchestral version of Coldplay’s Yellow (as heard in Bridgerton) brought Ellie to tears as she walked down the aisle.
Reflecting on their day, Ellie and George credit their stress-free planning to the incredible suppliers they chose, and the unwavering support of their parents.
Their top tip? Soak in every second together, take a moment to refresh during the reception, and surround yourself with people you trust. Uppingham, and the people in it, made this wedding unforgettable. Just as Ellie and George hoped it would be!
Snow-dusted peaks, opulent chalets, fine dining and thrilling pistes define the ultimate luxury Alpine winter escape...
The Alps in December shimmer with an unrivalled allure, promising snow-dusted peaks, crisp mountain air, and a certain quiet grandeur that has long lured Britain’s most discerning travellers.
When one speaks of luxury winter escapes, the conversation inevitably turns to chalets – those private, exquisitely appointed sanctuaries where your every whim is attended to, from a roaring fire and Champagne on ice, to a personal chef creating tailored menus with the best of Alpine produce.
Getting There
Ease is key. From East Midlands Airport, regular flights whisk you to Geneva in just under two hours, or Innsbruck in under three. Chauffeur-driven transfers are readily arranged, ensuring that you step from plane to piste without delay. Helicopter transfers are also an option – a spectacular way to begin your Alpine sojourn, with snowy ridgelines spread beneath you like a Christmas card come to life.
Where to Stay
For accommodation that embodies the pinnacle of sophistication, consider Chalet N in Lech, Austria. Often described as one of the world’s most luxurious chalets, it offers ten sumptuous suites (hosting up to 22 guests), a vast spa with ice fountain, private cinema, wine cellar, and a team of staff at your beck and call. If you seek a slightly more restrained yet still resplendent
experience, the Cheval Blanc in Courchevel 1850 or The Chedi Andermatt in Switzerland are equally captivating choices, with Michelin-starred dining and ski-in, ski-out convenience.
Your Alpine Itinerary
Wake to the aroma of freshly baked brioche wafting from the chalet’s kitchen, a discreet breakfast prepared by your private chef. Slip into your ski gear, stored overnight in heated boot rooms, and glide out for a morning of pristine pistes.
Courchevel offers wide, immaculate runs ideal for building confidence before tackling more challenging terrain. Verbier’s sweeping descents, meanwhile, are the stuff of legend, while Lech remains a favourite for its genteel charm and reliably soft powder.
Return by midday, where lunch is served al fresco on your sun-dappled terrace: perhaps a velvety cheese fondue paired with a crisp Chasselas wine. Afterward, indulge in a few hours of spa time – a hot stone massage to ease skiweary muscles, a plunge into the indoor pool, or perhaps simply reclining with a book as snowflakes pirouette outside the panoramic windows.
“From snowdusted peaks to roaring fires, the Alps embody winter luxury at its finest...”
“Wake to fresh brioche, ski pristine pistes, and dine on Alpine delicacies by candlelight...”
Evenings in the Alps are made for glamour. Slip into something elegant and join fellow guests for après-ski in Courchevel’s La Mangeoire piano bar, or sip cocktails by the fire at Verbier’s W Hotel.
Dinner might be a multicourse tasting menu in your chalet, designed around your tastes – local venison, black truffle risotto, or delicately smoked Arctic char.
If you prefer to step out, La Table de l’Ours in Val d’Isère and Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc in Courchevel both boast Michelin stars and a devotion to culinary artistry. The days unfold in a rhythm of exhilaration and repose. Try heli-skiing for an unforgettable adrenaline surge, or perhaps a horse-drawn sleigh ride through twinkling
Top: Lech, Austria, is a popular ski resort and winter holiday destination. Austria Alps from Kitzbuehel ski resort. Above: Horses in Lech am Arlberg, St. Moritz.
forests for something more tranquil. Culture abounds too –St. Moritz hosts polo on snow and art exhibitions, while Zermatt charms with cobbled streets and its iconic view of the Matterhorn.
And of course, no Alpine escape is complete without shopping: boutique jewellers, couturiers, and chocolatiers line the promenades of the most exclusive resorts.
By the week’s end, you’ll have been immersed in the best the Alps offer: thrilling skiing, restorative relaxation, fine dining, and the unmistakable sense of being thoroughly, gloriously spoiled.
Flavours of the Alps
Fondue Savoyarde – molten cheese with crusty bread.
Raclette – melted cheese over potatoes and charcuterie.
Tartiflette – potatoes baked with Reblochon cheese.
Rösti – golden, crisp potato pancake.
Venison stew with red wine.
Käsespätzle – Alpine macaroni cheese.
Bündnerfleisch – airdried beef from Graubünden.
Sachertorte – rich Viennese chocolate cake.
Apfelstrudel – apple pastry with cream.
Vin chaud – mulled wine with spice
Ten Unmissable Experiences
Ski Courchevel’s perfectly groomed runs, ideal for beginners and experts alike, offering breathtaking Alpine scenery.
Dine at Le 1947, Courchevel, savouring Michelinstarred artistry paired with exquisite French wines.
Explore Zermatt’s charming old town, with cobbled streets, boutiques, and iconic Matterhorn views.
Take a horsedrawn sleigh ride in Lech, gliding through snowy forests beneath twinkling stars.
Indulge in spa treatments at The Chedi Andermatt, where East meets West in serene luxury.
Heliski in Verbier, descending untouched powder slopes for the ultimate Alpine adrenaline rush.
Sip cocktails at La Mangeoire, Courchevel, surrounded by piano music and glamorous aprèsski revelry.
Attend St. Moritz polo on snow, an extraordinary spectacle of sport, style, and society.
Shop designer boutiques in Gstaad, from jewellers to couturiers in a chic Alpine promenade.
Savour fondue overlooking snowy valleys, accompanied by crisp mountain air and local white wine.
Left, from top: Mulled wine, raclette and sachertorte.
Refined Power
Bentley Flying Spur 4.0 Litre V8 Saloon
The Bentley Flying Spur combines peerless comfort, hushed refinement, and formidable performance—offering a supremely tailored interior, a potent twin-turbo V8, and effortless presence that defines modern-day luxury.
Words: Rob Davis.
Time flies. But not half as quickly as a Bentley... especially this one, thanks to its 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 which produces a whopping 550bhp.
Whilst some cars make an entrance, others simply glide in, commanding attention without ever asking for it and the Bentley Flying Spur is firmly in the latter category. Whilst it’s capable of achieving a 0-60mph dash in 4.1 seconds, and surging to 198mph, that really isn’t the point.
Designed to be a luxury saloon that perfectly blends power, refinement and handcrafted detail. Step inside and the world outside fades to a hush. This is not just an interior, but a sanctuary.
Every surface is hand-stitched, every piece of wood veneer polished to perfection. You notice the familiar Bentley touches of knurled metal, deep carpets, leather so soft you’d swear it was tailored for you personally.
It’s a reminder that true luxury is about detail, and Bentley’s detail is unmatched. Bentley’s engineers have really fine-tuned the Touring Specification to ensure composure. The car’s air suspension smooths out imperfections, while rear-axle steering gives this large saloon an agility you’d never expect.
You glide effortlessly at low speeds and remain poised at high ones. It’s both driver’s car and passenger’s paradise—rarely do you find a machine so adept at excelling in both roles.
Technology, much like the car’s performance, is discreet but it’s definitely present in abundance. A rotating display lets you swap between modern touchscreen, classic dials, or a veneer panel, depending on your mood.
It’s this flexibility, blending modern convenience with timeless tradition, that makes the Flying Spur unique.
Flying Spur Touring Spec: understated luxury meets thrilling performance in a saloon designed to make every journey unforgettable.
Then there’s the practicality. A car like this might seem destined for grand occasions, but it’s equally suited to everyday life. Long journeys are consumed with ease; short trips are an event in themselves.
At this time of year, it’s particularly easy to see the Flying Spur’s appeal. It’s a car that doesn’t just get you to your destination; it enhances the entire journey. From festive dinners to black-tie occasions, from winter getaways to quiet evenings out, it ensures you arrive in the right frame of mind: calm, composed, and quietly confident.
The Flying Spur is, ultimately, a statement of traditional Bentley values, incorporating the latest technology and a wealth of performance. For those who expect their car to offer more than just transport, it represents the pinnacle of what a luxury saloon should be.
The Details
Bentley Flying Spur
Price: £163,715 (£157,300–£184,800 range across V8 to W12 variants).
Equipment: 21" ten twinspoke wheels, handfinished fluted Nappa leather in a choice of five colours, with Dinamica headliner and rear headrest cushions in matching colour. Crowncut walnut veneers on the cabin’s hard surfaces, bright chrome interior switchgear and metal detailing. Seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions (24way adjustment front; 14way adjustment rear). See www.bentleymotors.com.
THE RIVALS
Three Alternatives
A paragon of British craftsmanship, the Ghost combines serene refinement with effortless V12 power
RollsRoyce Ghost (£255,000):
Porsche Panamera Turbo S EHybrid (£142,000): Sports saloon delivering blistering performance and surprising efficiency.
MercedesMaybach SClass (£185,000): A limousine of cuttingedge technology, with handcrafted comfort and a smooth V8.
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Almanac
FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL IN DECEMBER
HELLO DECEMBER
Poetry & Literature
Winter Words
In DrearNighted December, John Keats (1817):
KEats captures the stillness and sorrow of winter: “The feel of not to feel it, / When there is none to heal it.” A quiet reflection on nature’s endurance as the year fades.
In the Bleak Midwinter, Christina Rossetti (1872): Rossetti evokes the frozen season and the Nativity’s humble grace: “Frosty wind made moan, / Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone.” Its stark imagery has become a cornerstone of British Christmas poetry.
The Oxen, Thomas Hardy (1915): Hardy recalls childhood faith and rural folklore: “Christmas Eve, and twelve of the clock… ‘Now they are all on their knees,’ an elder said.” A nostalgic glimpse of old England gathered by the hearth.
A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens, (1843): Ebenezer Scrooge vows redemption after his ghostly visits: “I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” Through Scrooge’s transformation, Dickens defined the spirit of generosity and goodwill that still shapes the modern Christmas ideal.
Going Wild Redwing Visit
In December, the redwing arrives in large flocks from Scandinavia to spend the winter in Britain, including across Lincolnshire and Rutland. Easily recognised by its creamy eyestripe and warm reddish flanks, it feeds hungrily on berries and fallen fruit, often alongside fieldfares and blackbirds. Redwings gather in hedgerows, orchards, and field margins, bringing movement and colour to the frosty landscape. Their thin, highpitched calls carry through the cold air as they wheel overhead, restless and alert, a sure sign of the changing season.
December Facts
Zodiac signs: Sagittarius (up to 21st December) then Capricorn.
Birthstone: Turquoise.
Birth flowers: Holly and narcissus. Full Moon: The Cold Moon takes place on 19th December 2025).
Seasonal Food: Christmas fare includes Brussels sprouts, chestnuts and turkey.
In The Garden Protect, Prune, Prepare, Plant
December is a quiet but vital month in the British garden. Protect tender plants with fleece and check stored bulbs or tubers for signs of rot. Winter pruning of apples and pears can begin now, shaping trees before spring growth, and whilst you’ve the secateurs in hand, snip some holly and mistletoe for the house. Evergreen shrubs provide structure and colour, while hellebores and winter jasmine bring welcome blooms. Clear fallen leaves from lawns and paths, and mulch borders to insulate roots. It’s also a good time to plan next year’s planting schemes, order seeds, and enjoy the calm of the winter garden.
Sound & Vision: In 1965, Thunderbirds aired its first Christmas special. Do They Know It’s Christmas? by Band Aid remains the most successful Christmas Number One of all time, selling over 3m copies. It went straight to number one on the UK Singles Chart it was the fastestselling single in British history at the time and holding the top spot for five weeks over Christmas in 1984.
TRIVIA, FOLKLORE AND HISTORY FOR DECEMBER
Folklore & Traditions
December’s Rituals and Revelry
December in Britain is steeped in folklore, blending ancient Pagan and Christian traditions. The winter solstice, usually on the 21st, was marked by our ancestors with fire festivals, celebrating the rebirth of the sun and the promise of longer days. The Yule log, originally a whole tree gradually fed into the hearth, symbolised warmth and protection; its ashes were kept to guard against evil. Holly and ivy were brought indoors as evergreens of life in the dark season, later absorbed into Christmas customs.
Medieval communities celebrated ‘The Lord of Misrule, appointing a figure to preside over games, feasts, and revelry, reversing social order for a day. Wassailing was another December rite: villagers sang and toasted
apple orchards to ensure a good harvest.
St. Nicholas’s feast on December 6th inspired giftgiving traditions, eventually merging into Christmas, while candlelight and carols carried messages of hope and renewal through the long winter nights.
Boxing Day, originally when churches opened alms boxes and masters gave gifts to servants, became a firmly British holiday.
Mumming plays—comic dramas with themes of death and rebirth—were also performed across villages during the festive season.
These rituals remind us how communities once sought light, luck, and unity in the darkest month, finding joy, laughter, and meaning amid the turning of the year.
December in History
25th December 1066:
William the Conqueror was crowned King of England in Westminster Abbey, ushering in Norman rule and reshaping the nation’s monarchy, language and architecture.
25th December 1642:
Sir Isaac Newton was born in Woolsthorpe, near Grantham, Lincolnshire. His pioneering work in mathematics, optics and physics laid the foundations for modern science.
17th December 1903:
The Wright brothers made their first powered flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina — just 12 seconds that changed the course of human history.
24th–25th Dec 1914:
Amid the horrors of World War I, British and German soldiers laid down their arms for the Christmas Truce, meeting in No Man’s Land to exchange greetings and even play football.
1st December 1919:
Lady Nancy Astor took her seat in Parliament, becoming Britain’s first female MP and paving the way for women in politics.
5th–9th Dec 1952:
The Great Smog of London shrouded the capital in thick, toxic fog caused by coal smoke. The deadly conditions led to thousands of deaths and prompted a new era of clean air legislation.
2nd December 1982:
American patient Barney Clark became the first person to receive a permanent artificial heart – a medical milestone watched closely by researchers around the world, including here in Britain.
20th December 1990:
The world’s first web browser was launched, marking the birth of the internet age. British computer scientist Sir Tim BernersLee would go on to revolutionise how we live, work and connect.
THE QUIET JOY OF CHRISTMAS
The first dusting of snow had just begun to settle across the rooftops of a small Lincolnshire market town when Jonathan realised something magical was happening. He had been bustling about, helping his wife, Lillian, with Christmas preparations in their Georgian home just off the High Street, when he noticed the sound: children laughing as they skated across the frozen village pond, neighbours greeting each other with warm smiles, and the smell of freshly baked mince pies drifting from the bakery on the corner.
Jonathan, a man known for his quiet efficiency and meticulous planning, had always thought of Christmas as a checklist — cards, gifts, turkey, lights. But that morning, as he watched Mrs Clarke wrestle with her overflowing shopping bag and instinctively stepped forward to help, he felt a shift. That small gesture sparked a ripple: Mrs Clarke offered him a warm mince pie in thanks, and soon the marketplace seemed to hum with goodwill.
Later that afternoon, Jonathan found himself helping Lillian prepare for their annual festive tea, a tradition they had hosted for neighbours and friends for over twenty years. The table, polished to a soft glow, was set with fine china, silver cutlery, and sprigs of holly. Yet it wasn’t the gleaming tableware or carefully arranged centrepiece that made the moment memorable. It was the gathering itself: families chatting across generations, old friends reconnecting, children leaning in to hear Lillian recount tales of her mischievous youth, Jonathan quietly soaking up every smile and every laugh.
As the day drew on, he ventured out to the market square, where the snow had deepened into a soft white blanket. Stalls glimmered beneath strings of golden light, selling wreaths, hand-knitted scarves and jars of homemade jam. The air was rich with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. He spotted the choir from the church gathered on the steps, their voices lifting in harmony, and for a moment Jonathan simply stood still, letting the sound and the glow of the evening wash over him. The familiar streets, lined with Georgian façades, seemed more beautiful than ever — not grand, but graceful, perfectly at ease with Christmas.
Then it happened. Young Edward, the shy boy from next door, shyly offered Jonathan a small wrapped parcel. “For you, Mr Jonathan,” he said, cheeks pink from the cold. Inside was a handmade card, edges slightly uneven, with the words: “Thank you for helping me when I slipped on the ice. You made my Christmas happy.” Jonathan’s throat tightened, warmth flooding his chest. In that instant, all the planning and preparation had led to this single, perfect moment.
As dusk fell, Jonathan slipped outside once more. Snowflakes swirled under the glow of the old street lamps, the town square twinkling with garlands of light. From the church came the faint sound of carols, the familiar strains of Silent Night, and in the shop windows, ribbons, candles, and wreaths made every street feel like a scene from a Christmas card.
He thought of Stamford, with its Georgian streets and honeycoloured stone, where he and Lillian sometimes wandered in early December to admire the windows and sip mulled wine in the market square. There was something timeless about the town at Christmas — the way its graceful façades seemed to lend dignity to the season, as if Christmas itself had always belonged there. It wasn’t the grandeur that charmed him, but the sense of continuity — people coming together, year after year, in the glow of shared tradition.
When Jonathan returned home, Lillian was waiting by the fire, a pot of tea steaming gently beside her. They sat in companionable silence, watching the snow gather on the sill. “You know,” she said softly, “I think this might be our happiest Christmas yet.”
Jonathan smiled. Outside, the church bells began to ring, marking the hour. Inside, surrounded by warmth and the quiet contentment of a life well-shared, he realised what Christmas truly meant — not the perfect day, but the perfect feeling.
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