Luxe issue 101 - Sep/Oct 26

ISSUE 101 SEP/OCT26

Built different. Autumn reset. Cosy season. High fashion. Spa session. Beauty finds. Yes chef.

Food for fall. Cabin getaway. Into the wild. Interior inspiration. Wow weddings. Life lessons.

Road trips. Mighty motors. Big names. Luxe. luxe-magazine.co.uk

Luxe magazine

£5.00

Welcome

6 The agenda Diaries at the ready

38 My life in food

A foodie chat with Scott John-Hogdson

12 Autumn reset

Cool clubs and new hobbies

14 10 things luxe loves Our luxe picks for fall

I’ve always loved the feeling of September: a clean slate, a change of pace and the promise of a new season ahead. Perhaps it’s something instilled during those back-to-school years, but even now, the arrival of autumn brings with it that lovely sense of a new beginning – a chance to reset, get back into a routine and start looking ahead to the final few months of the year.

Our latest issue is all about embracing that reset. On the cover, we meet Tilly Lockey – one of those interviews that leaves you smiling long after the conversation ends. She is wonderfully inspiring and gives thanks to the North East for her journey.

We’ve also put together special Weddings and Education Edits, sharing beautiful big celebrations close to home and across waters, and shining a spotlight on some of the fantastic schools and education establishments on our doorstep as the new school year begins.

Elsewhere, there’s inspiration for getting out and about this autumn, from new gyms and spas, to hobbies, clubs and experiences designed to help you try something new.

So, whether your autumn reset involves a new routine, a new hobby, a weekend away or simply curling up at home with a good book and a cup of tea, I hope this issue inspires you to embrace the season and make the most of everything the months ahead have to offer.

With love, Elysia x Remember to check in with us online at luxe-magazine.co.uk See us on social at: Instagram: @theluxemagazine Facebook: @luxemag

The Luxe team Chris March CEO chris@allies-group.com Editorial Elysia Fryer editor editor@luxe-magazine.co.uk Sales Debi Coldwell director debi@allies-group.com Danielle Ritchie danielleritchie@allies-group.com Photography Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk

42 18 Wildly wonderful

A journey through Africa’s wildest, most beautiful corners

50 Real wedding

Built different

Our cover star Tilly Lockey on tech, fashion and a big, bright future

The Muirs tie the knot in a beautiful Algarve vineyard

58 Green days

Autumn garden transformations with Geko Design

22 Fashion edit

Beautifully bold style with Copia Vintage

32 Take the plunge

Check out Gisborough Hall’s new Sakura Spa

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Move well Ryan Bolton talks fitness, community and his brand new health space, PhysiquePro

60

Artful living

A catch up with Helen Stevens, the brains behind Surfacephilia

70 Luxe laps

Meet the cars in Duncan Peters’ garage

72 Social diary Eyes and teeth time!

Design David Stubbs dave@allies-group.com Euan Underwood euan@allies-group.com If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Debi Coldwell: debi@allies-group.com / 07910 918 366

Our partners

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Allies Group Ltd, Second Floor, Live Theatre, The Schoolhouse, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DQ allies-group.com All contents copyright ©2026 Allies Group Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, August 2026.

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MAKE IT SPARKLE MAKE IT MATFEN Raise a glass to the start of a new season with an afternoon of true, sparkling indulgence.

Take your seat in the Drawing Room to drink in rolling views of Northumbrian countryside, lit by soft autumn light and accompanied by a glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne.

Served in 5 star style, each tier of your Afternoon Tea has been thoughtfully curated and exquisitely crafted. Moments to savour for an afternoon to treasure.

Contact us on 01661 886500 or email info@matfenhall.com to find out more.

MATFEN HALL, MATFEN, NORTHUMBERLAND, NE20 0RH

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The AGENDA

Autumn is calling – and here are some luxe diary dates to get things going…

ARTS & CULTURE

Tish Murtha & Kuba Ryniewicz: Close to Home

Until 4 April 2027 An exploration of community and identity, Close to Home brings together the photography of Tish Murtha and Kuba Ryniewicz at BALTIC. Through portraits and documentary-style imagery, the exhibition captures the changing realities of working-class communities across generations. baltic.art ARTS & CULTURE

Sublime Landscapes

Until 5 December Lose yourself in the beauty of the natural world at the Laing Art Gallery's Sublime Landscapes. Bringing together atmospheric watercolours and prints spanning centuries, the exhibition explores the power of landscape, from crashing waterfalls and stormy seas to epic ruins and otherworldly scenes. A captivating showcase of artists past and present, with plenty to inspire lovers of art and nature alike. northeastmuseums.org.uk

FAMILY

Northern Bygone Car Show

20 September & 18 October Take a nostalgic trip through the golden age of motoring at Wynyard Hall’s Northern Bygone Car Show.

Against the elegant backdrop of the historic estate, classic and vintage vehicles come together in a celebration of timeless design, craftsmanship and automotive heritage. With free entry, it’s a lovely day out for enthusiasts, families and anyone who appreciates the grace of a beautifully preserved motor. wynyardhall.co.uk

THEATRE

TALKS & WORKSHOPS

Great North Run Shake Out at Kip & Nook

12 September Get race-ready with a relaxed pre-Great North Run shake-out at Kip & Nook. Designed to help runners loosen up, move well and feel their best ahead of the big day, it's the perfect opportunity to get together with fellow running enthusiasts in a friendly setting. Expect good energy, expert guidance and a positive start to your Great North Run weekend. kipandnook.com 6

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25 September, 2, 11 & 24 October Newcastle Eagles are back in action with their 2026-27 Super League Basketball season - the top-flight of the sport in the UK. First up the men face Bristol Flyers in their home opener on Friday 25 September, followed by Caledonia Gladiators marching over the border on Friday 2 October. The women get into action on Sunday 11 October when they welcome the Nottingham Wildcats, then it’s the Sheffield Hatters on Saturday 24 October. Game nights are great fun for all the family. newcastle-eagles.com THEATRE

Dirty Dancing

22 - 26 September Have the time of your life as Dirty Dancing arrives at Sunderland Empire.

Packed with romance, irresistible dance numbers and a soundtrack of favourites, this much-loved story promises an evening of feel-good entertainment and plenty of nostalgia.

Prepare to be dancing in the aisles. atgtickets.com

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Othello

11 - 26 September A fresh new production of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy comes to Northern Stage this September.

This gripping take on Othello explores love, jealousy, identity and the destructive power of manipulation, with passion and paranoia bubbling beneath the surface. Expect an intense evening of theatre that brings one of the Bard’s most enduring stories vividly into the present. northernstage.co.uk

FAMILY

Newcastle Eagles Super League Basketball Season

THEATRE

All At Sea

24 September - 10 October Inspired by the notorious ‘Canoe Man’ case, All At Sea is a darkly comic new play exploring marriage, money and just how far desperation can take us.

When mounting debts push Colin and Deborah towards an extraordinary plan involving a faked death and an insurance claim, their lives begin to unravel in unexpected ways.

A gripping and thought-provoking night at the theatre. live.org.uk

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TALKS & WORKSHOPS

An Evening in Roman Northumberland

25 September Take a step back in time at Northumberland’s only five-star country estate, as Dr Gillian Hovell - aka The Muddy Archaeologist hosts a unique evening of history, storytelling and fine food. Opening with a drinks reception, the night includes an informative talk about the county’s rich history followed by a three-course dinner with authentic Roman wine pairings. matfenhall.com

THEATRE

Mrs. Doubtfire

23 September - 11 October Everybody’s favourite Scottish nanny is heading to Newcastle in this hilarious hit musical based on the much-loved film. Follow Daniel as he transforms himself into the unforgettable Mrs. Doubtfire in a bid to stay close to his children, with all the comedy, heart and chaos you’d expect – plus fabulous new songs and dazzling dance numbers. theatreroyal.co.uk

Spooky season

MUSIC

Captain Fantastic and The Rocket Man Band

23 September Prepare for a spectacular celebration of two of Elton John’s greatest musical eras as Captain Fantastic and The Rocket Man Band take to the stage.

Expect dazzling performances, much-loved classics and all the energy of an unforgettable Elton John concert, brought to life by a talented live band.

A fabulous evening for anyone who likes their music with a little glamour and plenty of sparkle. theglasshouseicm.org

THEATRE

Psycho Path

26 September - 5 November If haunted houses aren’t enough to raise your pulse, Psycho Path promises an immersive Halloween experience unlike any other. Set across the sprawling grounds of Lintz Hall Farm, brave visitors will navigate a series of cinematic scare zones, live performances and interactive experiences where there’s no telling what – or who – is waiting around the next corner. Expect expertly crafted sets, spine-tingling special effects and plenty of heart-racing surprises. psycho-path.co.uk

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THE AWARD-WINNING ORIGINAL PHENOMENON COMES HOME

WED 4 - SAT 28 NOV atgtickets.com/SUNDERLAND

Jesmond Dene House is proud to unveil its beautifully refurbished bedrooms, bringing a fresh new look to one of the North East’s most beloved woodland boutique hotels. Nestled within the leafy surroundings of Jesmond Dene, the hotel’s latest transformation includes the introduction of luxurious Garden Suites with private hot tubs, offering guests an indulgent retreat immersed in nature and the tranquillity of the surrounding woodland.

Home to the acclaimed Fern Dining Room, Jesmond Dene House celebrates the flavours of the season with locally sourced dining, traditional afternoon tea and leisurely Sunday lunches.

info@jesmonddenehouse.co.uk | 0191 212 3000 Jesmond Dene House, Jesmond Dene Road, Jesmond, Newcastle, NE2 2EY www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk

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Luxe reads Five dark, twisty reads to keep you turning the pages this spooky season…

The Library After Dark Ande Pilego A gothic thriller that begins with a mysterious library – and a disappearance that refuses to stay buried. When a young woman is drawn into the secrets of a seemingly ordinary library, she soon discovers that its dark history may be closer to home than she thought. Eerie, clever and packed with twists, The Library After Dark is the kind of book that makes you want to keep the lights on just a little longer.

The Anniversary Alex Finlay A fast-paced thriller centred around a killer who has been hiding in plain sight. When a group of friends gather to mark an anniversary, old secrets and buried tensions begin to resurface. Full of suspicion, unexpected turns and the sort of twists that have you second-guessing everyone, The Anniversary is a proper page-turner.

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FOOD & DRINK

Harvest Wine Dinner

2 October Celebrate the flavours of autumn at Matfen Hall's Harvest Wine Dinner, created in collaboration with Corney & Barrow.

Expect seasonal dishes beautifully paired with expertly chosen wines. A sophisticated evening for food lovers, wine enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys marking the changing seasons around the table. matfenhall.com TALKS & WORKSHOPS

Astro Photography

11 October Discover the art of capturing the night sky at Kielder Observatory.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned photographer, this specialist evening offers tips and techniques for photographing everything from the Milky Way and star trails to the Northern Lights. An inspiring experience for anyone who prefers their photography under a blanket of stars. kielderobservatory.org MUSIC

Bowie by Candlelight at Durham Cathedral

16 October Experience the music of one of the world’s most iconic artists in an unforgettable setting as David Bowie’s greatest songs are performed by candlelight at Durham Cathedral.

Expect a magical evening where timeless music meets historic architecture, creating an intimate and evocative celebration of Bowie’s extraordinary legacy. durhamcathedral.co.uk TALKS & WORKSHOPS

The Night Stairs Erin Kelly Dark secrets, a prestigious school and a mysterious staircase make for the perfect recipe for a spooky-season read. The Night Stairs follows a group of characters whose lives become entangled with an unsettling story from the past, as long-held secrets begin to emerge and the line between myth and reality starts to blur. Atmospheric and deliciously creepy, it’s a slow-burn thriller that gets under your skin.

Dreamland Olivie Blake Step into a glamorous, dreamlike world where Hollywood, fame and the supernatural collide. Dreamland takes readers behind the glittering façade of Los Angeles, where celebrity culture meets something much darker and stranger lurking beneath the surface. Dreamy, mysterious and deliciously unsettling, Olivie Blake’s latest is a wonderfully atmospheric choice for anyone who likes their thrillers with a touch of the surreal.

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An Audience with Dr Margaret Bradshaw

16 October Join an inspiring evening at The Bowes Museum with Dr Margaret Bradshaw, an acclaimed artist and passionate advocate for the natural world. Her work explores North East landscapes and communities. thebowesmuseum.org.uk

TALKS & WORKSHOPS

Sustainable Flower School with Periwinkle Barn

9 - 11 October Join Deborah Boston of Periwinkle Barn for a relaxed three-day floral retreat at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. Perfect for beginners or those building confidence, this hands-on experience explores seasonal British flowers and foam-free, sustainable floristry. Deborah will guide you through selecting and conditioning stems, alongside colour, shape, texture and natural movement. With expert guidance and encouragement, you’ll develop your own floral style in a welcoming, inspiring setting. raby.co.uk

THEATRE

SIX The Musical

13 - 17 October Forget everything you thought you knew about Henry VIII’s wives – the six Queens are taking centre stage and reclaiming their stories in this electrifying musical. With irresistible pop-inspired songs, dazzling costumes and plenty of attitude, SIX transforms 500 years of history into an exuberant celebration of female empowerment.

Bold, brilliantly catchy and guaranteed to leave you singing all the way home. darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk FOOD & DRINK

Whitby Fish

21 October Experience the tastes of the Yorkshire coast in your own kitchen with a hands-on cooking class focused on Whitby fish. Master preparation and cooking of fresh, high-quality seafood while learning expert tips and techniques. archescookeryschool.co.uk

The North East Women of Excellence Awards The North East has no shortage of exceptional women. Every day, women across our region are building businesses, leading organisations, driving innovation and creating lasting change in their communities. Yet there is no independent awards programme dedicated to recognising that contribution.

The North East Women of Excellence Awards have been created to celebrate achievement, not popularity. They’ll shine a spotlight on women making a genuine impact across business, leadership, innovation and community, regardless of the size of their organisation or profile.

An independent Advisory Board made up of some of the region’s most respected business leaders will be helping shape the awards, categories and judging process.

Every entry will be assessed on merit through a robust judging process designed to recognise excellence with integrity.

Whether leading a fast growing business, making a difference in a corporate role, championing innovation or creating positive change in your community, these awards showcase the women helping shape the future of our region.

Nominate someone exceptional or put yourself forward. This is your opportunity to be recognised alongside some of the North East’s most inspiring women.

To register for updates and be among the first to hear when entries open, visit: northeastwomenofexcellenceawards.com

FOOD & DRINK

Supper with Roaring Stags

23 October Join us at the Vinery for a seasonal three-course supper showcasing the finest estate ingredients, enjoyed with panoramic autumn views of the Castle and surrounding grounds.

As twilight falls, head into the Deer Park for an exclusive guided tour.

Hear the powerful roars of stags in rut echo through ancient woodland – a mesmerising natural spectacle that creates a truly memorable evening of exceptional dining and wild beauty. raby.co.uk FOOD & DRINK

Lord of the Wings Food Battle

23 & 24 October Things are about to get deliciously competitive as Wylam Brewery hosts the Lord of the Wings Food Battle.

Expect a feast of creative chicken wings, bold flavours and plenty of friendly rivalry as talented food vendors go head-to-head to win over hungry crowds. Add craft beer, great atmosphere and a little autumn indulgence, and you’ve got the recipe for a very tasty weekend. wylambrewery.co.uk TALKS & WORKSHOPS

Haunted Raby: Ghost Walk Tour 24 October - 1 November Prepare for an atmospheric evening of history, mystery and ghostly tales as Haunted Raby returns for its spine-tingling torchlight tours.

Explore the historic estate after dark and hear stories of unexplained happenings, legends and longforgotten characters as the shadows begin to fall. An atmospheric autumn experience for those who like their heritage served with a healthy dose of the supernatural. raby.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

Oktoberfest at Whinestone View

24 October Raise a stein to autumn with Whinstone View’s lively take on Oktoberfest.

Expect beer, bratwurst, pretzels and stone-baked pizza, with live music from Back Chat Brass bringing plenty of upbeat energy to the barn. Dirndls and lederhosen are very much encouraged, so gather your friends, embrace the festive spirit and settle in for a wonderfully sociable afternoon. whinstoneview.com FAMILY

Anglo Saxon Tales and Ancient Legends

27 & 28 October Step back into the fascinating world of the Anglo-Saxons at Ad Gefrin with a family-friendly journey through ancient tales, legends and long-forgotten stories. Bringing the past vividly to life, this immersive experience invites visitors to discover the myths, characters and traditions of the people who once called the North East home.

A captivating half-term outing for curious minds of all ages. adgefrin.co.uk

Get creative

The Crafts CORNER with Sara Davies

Entrepreneur and queen of crafts, Sara Davies, brings you a stepby-step guide to her latest craft projects...

Autumn's my favourite time to get crafting.

There's something about the nights drawing in that has me itching to sit down with a cuppa and get stuck into something, whether that's a quick splash of paint and texture paste or hours of a good, repetitive knot.

These two projects came from exactly that mood,

a spooky, one-day paint project for anyone who wants to inject a new lease of life into an existing frame and a slower, more meditative macrame make for anyone who fancies losing an evening to it. Both cost next to nothing to put together, and both look far more expensive than they are. So next time you’re feeling a bit creative, get crafting.

Spooky ghost frame You will need...

Old picture frame Black spray paint A4 black mount board (or thick black card) White acrylic paint Bicarbonate of soda Round-topped palette knife Fine black pen

Autumnal macrame pumpkin You will need...

5 lengths of aluminium wire, approx. 9 inches long 5 lengths of macrame cord, approx. 90 inches long Tape or a dab of glue A wood slice (for the base) Hot glue gun Dried or artificial flowers A battery tea light Scissors To create...

1. Cut your five lengths of wire to approximately 9 inches, and your five lengths of macrame cord to approximately 90 inches.

2. Take your first piece of wire and a piece of cord.

Fold the cord exactly in half to find the middle, then tie that middle point onto the very top of the wire. Adding a dab of glue or a bit of tape here will stop it sliding while you work.

3. You’ll now have the wire running down the middle with a cord hanging on either side. Take the left cord and cross it over the front of the wire, so it makes a shape like the number 4.

4. Take the right cord, lay it over the tail of the left cord, then bring it round behind the wire and pull it up through the loop of that “4”. Pull both 10

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cords out to the sides to tighten the knot at the top.

5. Do exactly the same again - the left cord over the front into a “4”, right cord over the tail, behind the wire, and up through the loop.

6. After four or five knots the macrame will naturally start to spiral round the wire on its own, so just let it turn and keep repeating the same knot.

7. Keep going until you’ve covered the wire, leaving about a quarter to half an inch bare at the bottom.

8. Finish with a tight regular knot, trim the excess cord, and dab a bit of glue on the ends or tuck them under your last few knots.

9. Repeat this on all five pieces of wire.

10. Hot glue the bottom of each piece onto your wood slice, spacing them out evenly.

11. Use any leftover cord to tie the five pieces together at the top, then gently bend the wires outward to give it that rounded pumpkin shape.

12. Fold a separate piece of wire in half to about 6 inches, and glue it to the top of the pumpkin for the stem. Wrap a bit more cord around it to hide the wire completely.

13. Glue some of the dried flowers around the base to hide any glue, and add a couple more at the base of the stem.

14. Finish by popping a battery light in the base, and let it glow!

To create...

1. Begin by removing the glass from your frame.

I used an old white frame, so gave it a couple of coats of black spray paint and set it aside to dry completely.

2. Cut a piece of A4 black mount board to use as your base for the ghosts. Thick black card works just as well, or paint a thicker board black if that’s what you’ve got to hand.

3. Mix up your texture paste. Do this by combining white acrylic paint with bicarbonate of soda, roughly half and half, until you’ve got a lovely gritty texture.

4. Using a round-topped palette knife, lift a good dollop of paste onto the end. Starting with your top row (around the bottom half of the card in a landscape position), pop the paste onto the board and gently drag the knife downwards to create that classic ghost shape. Work your way across the row, leaving a small gap between each one.

5. Leave that row to dry for a while, then start your next row, tucking the ghosts in between the gaps of the row above.

6. Keep repeating the process, row by row, until you’ve filled the board right down to the bottom.

7. Once everything’s completely dry, add a couple of eyes to each ghost with a fine black pen, then pop your board back into the frame.

8. And that’s it. A whole gang of ghosts, made from bits and bobs you’ve probably already got in the house!

Talking talent

I think the way the BBC has been going – like remembering there’s a place called Middlesbrough which can produce humorous things like Smoggie Queens – makes a huge difference

Lights, camera, action: inspiring the next generation As one of the region’s leading actors, it would’ve been easy for Stephen Tompkinson to turn his back on the North East. But, as Zoë Burn discovers, his love for the area is matched only by his passion for supporting the stars of the future…

He’s an award-winning TV favourite and acclaimed film actor whose career has spanned almost 40 years with no signs of slowing down.

But if you’re picturing an aloof thespian who has abandoned his region for the elite London set, you couldn’t be more wrong.

Stephen Tompkinson now calls North Tyneside his home and is a huge supporter of nurturing and helping the next generation of TV and film workers.

And his latest interest is the Tyneside Talent Unit.

Based in Newcastle’s Tyneside Cinema and funded by the Sir Graham Wylie Foundation, he’s been involved since its launch in January.

The unit has one aim: to support talented youngsters who may face financial, social or practical barriers to entering the screen industries, by helping develop their skills, confidence and professional networks.

More than 300 applied and the first 30 participants started the programme this summer. And Stephen is keeping a close eye on their progress.

“I’m really excited about the possibilities of taking 30 young individuals who are keen to find their way into something and letting them share the experience,” he explains.

“This could go anywhere. There's people in there talking about scripts, there's people talking about podcasts, it's all aspects of the industry. For them to be able to share that, bounce ideas around is brilliant.

They’re all buzzing and that’s exactly what you want.”

Stephen has first-hand experience of the difficulties facing young people keen to follow a career in the industries.

Born in Stockton, he moved to St Anne’s in Lancashire aged six. Winning a place at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London, he had to negotiate a move to the other end of the country and a new way of life.

The memories of being the new kid somewhere as large as London remain and he knows this is the reason many other talented northern youngsters have and continue to abandon their dreams.

“London… honestly, just forget it. I’d say to anyone that if you can avoid it, do. Travelling across London is a horrific, soulless experience.

There’s no engagement, it’s so busy.

“You tend to stick out a bit, you end up becoming a bit quieter and then people have an advantage over you. I think the first two years of my three year course was just me finding my feet. This was the path you had to follow then, there was no choice.

“But things are changing. I think the way the BBC has been going – like remembering there’s a place called Middlesbrough which can produce humorous things like Smoggie Queens – makes a huge difference.

“Aside from Vera, you have to go back to Auf Wiedershehn Pet to find anything set up here but I’m hoping we are set to see more. I’m hearing more of the local accent these days which can only be good.”

Despite leaving the region as a child, Stephen has never been able to stay away for long and it was almost inevitable he would return.

“We were Stockton originally but in 1977 my Auntie Eileen and Uncle Bernard moved up to Whitley Bay and I’ve never stopped coming. About five-six years ago I moved back. I live in Tynemouth now and it’s lovely.”

Being based in the region has given him opportunities to work on local projects, discovering the rewards of helping young people chase their dreams – which eventually led to him becoming involved with the Tyneside Talent Unit.

“I did a couple of short films last year with a crew of boys and girls who had just left the Northern School of Art in Hartlepool.

“The first was called The First Five Miles about the Stockton to Darlington railway where I played George Stevenson. The second was six months later and called Tanya, about a fella who had just a few months to live but hadn’t told his mam he was married to a doll.

“We went from George Stevenson to that with the same crew in just six months and to see the difference, the confidence that had grown was incredible.

“This proves opportunities do make a difference and young people just need a chance. The team at the Tyneside Talent Unit are giving these youngsters an opportunity to learn, share ideas and grow.

“I’ll be supporting wherever I can – who knows, they might give me a job when they make it big!” tynesidecinema.co.uk/tyneside-talent-unit

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Autumn reset

Join the club From creative pursuits and cold-water dips to book clubs and woodland walks, discover the places, people and passions to inspire your autumn reset There is something about September that feels like a new beginning. Perhaps it is the lingering memory of new school shoes, sharpened pencils and a timetable yet to be filled. Or perhaps it is simply the feeling that, after the long stretch of summer, we are ready to come back to ourselves.

September has always felt a little like a second New Year to me. A chance to pause, reset and decide what comes next. Not necessarily with grand resolutions or an entirely new version of yourself, but with small, meaningful shifts that make everyday life feel a little more joyful. A new class. A new walking route. A book you wouldn’t normally pick up. A morning spent making something with your hands. A reason to leave the house on a darkening evening and come home feeling lighter.

There is a particular kind of magic in joining something new, too. We are often told that adulthood is about knowing who we are, but there is something rather liberating about giving yourself permission to be a beginner again. To turn up without knowing anyone. To try something simply because it looks interesting.

And then there is the social side of it. The friendships 12

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that begin over a shared table, a pottery wheel, a muddy footpath or a bracing dip in the sea. As the evenings draw in, our homes become cosier and our calendars a little quieter, autumn is the perfect time to look beyond the familiar and find new rituals that nourish us.

So, whether your version of a reset involves moving your body, making something beautiful, getting out into nature or simply sitting down with a good book and a group of like-minded people, consider this your invitation to start again. To get curious, to make space, and to try something new.

Creative & social club

Pimm’s and Needles Sometimes a reset doesn’t need to be about self-improvement at all. Sometimes you simply need a cuppa, a slice of cake and a few hours in the company of lovely people. Enter Pimm’s and Needles, a wonderfully warm community designed around exactly that.

The idea is simple: come along, meet new people and try something different, with a new activity introduced each month. From life drawing and creative pursuits

to learning new skills and simply enjoying a good natter, it is a gentle invitation to step outside your usual routine.

One of the nicest things about the concept is that you don’t have to arrive with a ready-made friendship group. Members can come with friends, but there is also a dedicated ‘Flying Solo’ table for those who are coming alone – making it much easier to walk through the door without knowing a soul.

With groups bringing together women from 18 to 80 and beyond, this is less about being polished or perfect and much more about making time for connection. And perhaps that is the loveliest reset of all.

Cold-water club

Dip Club For those who believe the best way to welcome autumn is to throw yourself wholeheartedly into it, there is Dip Club. A cold-water social community born by the sea, Dip Club brings together people who are ready to embrace the invigorating ritual of swimming outdoors – and the camaraderie that comes with it.

There are Dip Clubs dotted along the North East coast, including Cullercoats Bay, King Edwards Bay, Longsands, Whitley Bay, Blyth, Seaburn, Sandhaven and Newbiggin, making it wonderfully easy to find your nearest crew.

Book club

Bowes Book Club There is something rather special about reading in company. A good book can transport you somewhere entirely different, but discussing it with other people opens up a whole new world of ideas, perspectives and conversations. Set within the inspiring surroundings of The Bowes Museum, the Bowes Book Club brings together literature, art, culture and

Autumn reset creativity in a beautifully considered setting.

Each session explores a hand-picked book alongside selected objects from the museum’s collection, encouraging lively discussion and a little more curiosity about the world around us. The reading list spans fiction, non-fiction, historical and contemporary explorations, with themes of change, style and empowerment woven throughout.

It feels like the perfect autumn ritual: a thoughtful book, an hour away from the noise of daily life, and a room full of people ready to share their thoughts.

Whether you’re a dedicated reader, a museum lover or simply looking for something new to try, it is an invitation to slow down, look a little closer and get lost in a good story.

Walking club

Ramblers Wellbeing Walks, Newcastle There is a reason walking has become such a beloved modern ritual. It asks very little of us, yet gives so much back. Fresh air, movement, a change of scenery and that particular clarity that seems to arrive when you have been walking for long enough.

The Ramblers’ Wellbeing Walks are a wonderful way to make getting outdoors part of your regular routine, while enjoying the social benefits of walking alongside others. Rather than focusing on speed or distance, wellbeing walking is about simply being outside, moving at a comfortable pace and enjoying the company along the way.

For anyone looking to make more time for nature this autumn – or perhaps keen to find a gentle way back into exercise – a walking group can be a wonderfully accessible place to start. There is no pressure to be sporty or competitive; just the simple pleasure of putting one foot in front of the other.

As the seasons change, so does the landscape. The autumn light, the rustle of leaves beneath your feet, the cooler mornings and the promise of a warming coffee afterwards. Sometimes, a fresh start really can be as simple as going for a walk.

Running club

Run Club at Kip & Nook There is something wonderfully uncomplicated about running. You put on your trainers, step outside and, for a little while at least, the noise of everyday life falls away. Add a group of like-minded people and the ritual becomes even more appealing. The October Run Club at Kip & Nook is a lovely excuse to lace up, get moving and meet others who enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone who has spent the summer promising yourself you’ll get started, a club can be a brilliant way to find a little motivation. There is no need to chase personal bests or take it too seriously; sometimes the greatest achievement is simply turning up.

Kip & Nook invites you to lace up and hit the trails for a morning run, complete with DJ, coffee and snacks on your return.

Creative club

Studio 573 Clay Social Memberships If your idea of an autumn reset involves getting hands-on and making something beautiful, Studio 573’s Clay Social Membership in Helmsley could be just the ticket. Designed for potters who want the freedom to create at their own pace, the membership offers regular studio time in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Members have access to studio clay, house glazes, tools and kiln firings, alongside their own dedicated shelving for works in progress. There are also regular technical demonstrations, with expert guidance on hand when you need it. But perhaps the real joy is the community: sitting alongside other creatives, sharing ideas and inspiration, and watching a lump of clay slowly become something entirely your own.

With weekly sessions, it feels less like a class and more like a creative ritual. A little pocket of time in the week that belongs entirely to you.

Whether your version of a reset involves moving your body, making something beautiful, getting out into nature or sitting down with a good book, consider this your invitation to start again. To get curious, to make space, and to try something new

Strength on your side...

Make Tilly Bailey & Irvine your partner for all your personal or business legal matters.

Our Wynyard team can assist you with:

Corporate and Commercial Business Disputes Employment Law Residential and Commercial Property Wills, Trusts & Probate Family Law including finances, divorce and separation

Visit our website:

Call us on 01740 646000 to speak to a member of our Wynyard team.

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Our picks

Pampering with…

Therabody TheraFace Mask Autumn is our cue to slow down and give our skincare routines a little extra attention. Therabody’s clever TheraFace Mask combines LED light therapy with a hands-free design, promising a high-tech approach to healthier-looking skin. Designed to target everything from fine lines and blemishes to uneven skin tone, it makes at-home pampering feel that little bit more luxurious. £449, spacenk.com

Listening to…

Dreaming of…

An autumn escape to NYC New York is magical at any time of year, but autumn might just be our favourite. Central Park glows in shades of gold, the air turns crisp and the city feels made for long walks with coffee in hand. We’re dreaming of checking into 1 Hotel Central Park or 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge before spending our days exploring neighbourhoods, browsing boutiques and soaking up that unmistakable New York energy.

1hotels.com

RedHanded As the nights get darker and spooky season edges closer, we’re leaning into a little true crime.

RedHanded has become a firm favourite for its gripping deep dives into fascinating and often shocking cases from around the world. Hosted

by Hannah Maguire and Suruthi Bala, it combines meticulous research with compelling storytelling and plenty of personality. podcasts.apple.com

Following…

From cosy comforts to autumn escapes, these are the little luxuries and seasonal finds we’re loving right now

Reading…

Watching…

On Purpose with Jay Shetty One of the world’s most successful podcasts, On Purpose with Jay Shetty is known for its thoughtful conversations and accessible take on life’s big questions. The series brings that same spirit to the screen, with candid conversations featuring influential voices from entertainment, culture, wellness, sport and business. netflix.com

Saltmoore There’s something about the wild beauty of the Yorkshire coast that never fails to stop us scrolling, and Saltmoore captures it beautifully. The coastal retreat offers a slower take on luxury, with wellness, nature and good food all part of the experience. Its Instagram feed is filled with dreamy interiors, sweeping scenery and glimpses of laid-back coastal living – providing plenty of inspiration for that much-needed autumn escape. @saltmoore_

Perfect scent…

Tom Ford, Jasmin Rouge Eau de Parfum, 50ml As the seasons shift, we’re reaching for a fragrance to match. Tom Ford’s Jasmin Rouge is rich, sensual and wonderfully opulent, blending jasmine with warm spice and amber notes. It’s the kind of scent that feels made for autumn evenings – whether that’s dinner by candlelight, drinks with friends or simply adding a little extra glamour to an ordinary day. £230, fenwick.co.uk

The Matchmakers Cottage by Kat Sloane Sometimes all we need is a blanket, a quiet afternoon and a novel that offers a little escapism. The Matchmaker’s Cottage has all the ingredients for just that. With a charming cottage setting and matchmaking at the heart of the story, it promises the sort of comforting, feel-good read we’ll be reaching for as the evenings get darker.

Kitchen kit…

Staub Round Cast Iron Cocotte, Cherry Red As the evenings draw in, we’re swapping quick summer suppers for slow-cooked stews, hearty hot pots and big family meals. Staub’s classic cast iron cocotte is made for exactly that kind of cooking – bubbling away with something comforting and full of flavour. £349 - £429, fenwick.co.uk

In our basket…

Atkin and Thyme Holly Armchair in Rust Velvet If there was ever a chair made for curling up with a good book, this might be it. The Holly Armchair brings instant warmth and personality to a room. Its rich rust hue and soft, curved silhouette make it a beautiful addition to a cosy reading corner. £549, atkinandthyme.co.uk 14

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Living by…

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.”

Emily Brontë

Xxxxxxx

BACK TO BUSINESS

SHOP NOW at Fenwick Newcastle and fenwick.co.uk luxe-magazine.co.uk

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Local beauty

♥ NE

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1. Jim Scott @jimscottphoto 2. Graeme Hall @graemehall_photography 3. Andrew Sturdy @andrewsturdyphotograph 4. John Robert Charlton @jrc_images

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Get festive

Christmas is coming…

As autumn settles in, the first whispers of Christmas are already in the air. From festive days out and fabulous parties to magical experiences and delicious food, here’s what’s coming up across the region Autumn has arrived, the evenings are drawing in and thoughts are starting to turn to festive plans.

It might still be a little early to put up the tree, but some of the North East’s favourite businesses are already unveiling their festive offerings. Here’s what’s on the Christmas calendar so far…

to festive extras and foodie gifts.

While this year’s full collection is still under wraps, if previous Christmases are anything to go by, there’ll be plenty to look forward to. Think showstopping bronze turkeys, beef Wellingtons and gammon joints, alongside seasonal sides, hampers and gifts perfect for treating the food lover in your life.

And for those who like to be first in line, there’s an added incentive to sign up ahead of launch.

Customers on the Nicholsons mailing list and members of its loyalty scheme will be given early access to the Christmas range, before ordering officially opens to everyone else.

With some of the most sought-after festive favourites traditionally available in limited numbers, it pays to plan ahead. So, whether you're already thinking about Christmas dinner or simply want one less thing to organise come December, put 12 October in your diary or join the Nicholsons community for a head start.

Christmas ordering opens 12 October. nicholsonsbutchers.co.uk

pudding, wreath-making, garland and tablescaping sessions, as well as festive afternoon teas, the much-loved Christmas market and plenty of opportunities to simply soak up the seasonal atmosphere. raby.co.uk

Christmas at Wynyard Hall

If you’re already counting down to twinkling lights, festive shopping and evenings filled with mulled wine, Wynyard Hall has given us the perfect excuse to start planning ahead.

Tickets are now live for the estate’s much-loved Christmas Fayre and Carols in the Chapel, with both returning for 2026 as part of a packed festive season.

From Friday 20 to Sunday 22 November, the Christmas Fayre will transform the estate into a winter wonderland, bringing together local artisans, independent makers, seasonal food and drink, live entertainment and plenty of festive atmosphere. It’s an ideal opportunity to get a head start on Christmas shopping, pick up something special from local producers or simply enjoy a seasonal day out with family and friends.

Then, throughout December, Wynyard Hall’s historic chapel will once again host its atmospheric Carols in the Chapel concerts, with traditional festive songs performed by local choir Cantabile. Guests can round off the evening with mince pies and mulled wine in the Statue Gallery.

Both events are always popular, so those hoping to add a little Wynyard Hall magic to their Christmas calendar would be wise to book early. wynyardhall.co.uk

Kissmas by Pretty Picture Company

For anyone who has ever wandered through a beautifully dressed hotel lobby or festive venue and wondered quite how they manage to make Christmas look that good, Hannah Gray may have the answer.

For the past eight years, the founder of Pretty Picture Company and her team have been responsible for bringing spectacular festive styling to some of the North East’s best-known spaces, as well as luxury hospitality venues and private homes further afield.

Think Newcastle Christmas Markets, Close House, Eldon Square and the Royal Station Hotel – spaces transformed with the kind of elegant, immersive Christmas magic that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

Now, that expertise is coming home with the launch of Kissmas, a new luxury Christmas retail brand designed to help us recreate a professionally styled festive look in our own homes.

The collections have been curated using the same design principles behind Pretty Picture Company’s commercial installations. The result is a more considered approach to decorating, with coordinated pieces designed to work beautifully together and take some of the stress – and guesswork – out of creating a polished Christmas scheme. kissmasuk.com

Christmas with Nicholsons Butchers

Christmas might still feel a little way off, but Nicholsons Butchers is already preparing to make festive food planning that bit easier.

The award-winning Whitley Bay butcher will officially open its Christmas ordering this October, giving customers the chance to get ahead with everything from the all-important centrepiece

Christmas at Ramside Hall

Christmas at Raby

There are few places more suited to the drama and romance of Christmas than a castle, and Raby Castle is preparing to make the festive season even more magical in 2026.

Following the success of last year’s debut, which saw the castle open during the festive period for the first time in half a century, Raby Castle at Christmas is returning on an even grander scale. Visitors will once again be invited inside rooms transformed for the season, following the story of Christmas Day at Raby – but this year there is even more to discover.

Elsewhere, Raby’s Christmas calendar is packed.

The ever-popular Father Christmas experience returns inside the castle, while Mr and Mrs Claus will be waiting in the Yuletide Yurt, and The Enchanted Forest trail brings festive clues and sparkling lights to The Plotters’ Forest.

There are creative workshops, including Christmas

Ramside Hall is already making a strong case for getting the festive group chat organised.

The Durham hotel, golf and spa destination has unveiled a packed programme of Christmas and New Year celebrations, with a refreshingly broad mix of party nights, daytime events and family experiences designed to suit just about every kind of festive mood.

For those who love a classic big night out, there are plenty of reasons to dust off the sequins. Dance Anthems Disco, Get Down Uptown Party Band nights and Dance The Decades will bring dinner and a healthy dose of nostalgia to the party season, while the Ultimate DJ and Sax Party-Afterglow promises a more high-energy affair complete with dancers.

Ramside has also created a selection of daytime parties, with lunch and music ranging from 70s disco to Motown favourites.

Families are covered too, with Santa Comes to Lunch and The Grinch and Friends offering lunch, entertainment, activities and plenty of photo opportunities.

New for this year, The Pin joins the festive line-up with a matchplay package combining bowling, time on the golf range and a festive sharing platter. ramsidehallhotel.co.uk luxe-magazine.co.uk

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No limits

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No limits COVER STORY

From bionic prosthetics and boundary-pushing technology to fashion, public speaking and a growing platform dedicated to the future, Tilly Lockey is proving that difference can be a source of extraordinary power. Elysia Fryer catches up with her over a virtual cuppa

T

here is something rather extraordinary about speaking to Tilly Lockey. At just 20, she has already built a career spanning fashion, technology, media and motivational speaking, while helping to shape the future of bionic prosthetics – technology that has been part of her own life since she was a little girl.

Yet it is perhaps the way she talks about it all that stays with me most.

There is warmth, humour and an infectious enthusiasm for what comes next. Within minutes of our virtual cuppa, we’re talking bionic arms, futuristic fashion, the possibilities of technology and the fact that, in Tilly’s words, “it’s true, the robots are taking over”.

And if anyone is qualified to have an opinion on that, it is Tilly.

She is talking me through the technology behind the bionic arm she wears when I get a glimpse of just how far her world – and the world of prosthetics – has come. With a few subtle muscle movements, she can open and close her hand, switch between grips, point, pinch and make a peace sign. There are more than 30 grip modes to choose from, with settings that can be tailored to the person wearing it.

It is extraordinary technology, but Tilly explains it with the ease of someone showing me her favourite new phone feature. She is genuinely fascinated by what it can do – and even more excited by what it might do next.

That curiosity has been there for much of her life.

Tilly lost both hands after contracting meningitis at the age of one and began trying prosthetics when she was just two. Her earliest experiences with the technology, however, were far from the sleek, intuitive devices she uses today.

One of her first prosthetics was a hook-style device attached to a harness around her body.

Much of that period has been pieced together through the stories her mum has told her, but Tilly does remember the frustrations that came with later prosthetics – particularly the feeling that the technology simply wasn’t keeping up with what she needed it to do.

“A lot of my previous prosthetics ended up in a drawer,” she says.

“Which is a nightmare because so much goes into getting them.”

One memory, in particular, has stayed with her.

She was in McDonald’s, trying to pick up a chicken nugget.

“I just remember being so frustrated with how slowly it moved,” she says.

“I was trying to pick up the chicken nugget so I could eat it.”

The high-definition silicone hands she wore were designed, in many ways, to help her blend in, but their slow, robotic movements often had the opposite effect.

“I remember feeling like every single person’s eyes were on me,” she says.

“People were staring and trying to figure out how

I was eating. Because the hand looked so real but moved so robotically, people genuinely couldn’t figure out whether it was real or fake.

“I was just trying to live a normal life with something that was designed to help me blend in, and it kind of achieved the opposite effect.”

Eventually, she stopped wearing prosthetics altogether for a while.

Then, when she was nine, she came across Open Bionics.

The company was developing futuristic, 3D-printed bionic arms, at the time working with video game creators on designs inspired by Deus Ex. More importantly to Tilly, the technology looked as though it had been created with a completely different mindset.

There was an emphasis on function, but also on design, personality and empowerment.

“It was finally a company doing what I wanted to see and what I wanted to adopt as part of my own body,” she says.

“That was such an exciting moment for me.”

Tilly and her family applied to become involved in developing the technology and, more than a decade later, she remains at the heart of the process.

“I basically call myself a professional guinea pig,” she laughs.

It is a typically Tilly way of describing a role that has been rather more significant than that. From the earliest prototypes, she has tested the technology in real life, experimenting with what works and, just as importantly, what doesn’t.

As a nine-year-old, she remembers being fitted for early prototypes and taken into a space filled with objects to play around with and pick up. The aim was to see how quickly she could learn to use the arm, how easily she could perform certain tasks and what changes might make the technology more intuitive.

“My feedback would literally be, ‘Right, this sucks.

This is impossible. This is great. This is what I think could be better as a user of the technology.’”

It has been a decade-long conversation between Tilly and the people developing the prosthetics. She wears them in everyday life, spots problems and feeds them back. Sometimes, the best ideas come from simply living with the technology.

One feature she helped to inspire is ‘Freeze Mode’, designed to give users an extra layer of security when holding something. If the hand is closed around a glass of water, for example, it can be locked into position so that an accidental muscle movement doesn’t cause it to open.

Tilly dreamed up the idea, watched it become part of the technology and now hears from users around the world who tell her it has become one of their favourite features.

“For someone in France or America or wherever to get in touch and say that it helps them do a specific task – that’s amazing,” she says.

She is just as animated when discussing the smaller details. Ventilation, for example, might not sound particularly glamorous, but for somebody wearing a prosthetic arm all day, it matters enormously. Early on, Tilly discovered first-hand just how much.

“I was literally getting stuck in the arm,” she says.

Today, improved ventilation is one of the features Open Bionics is known for.

“People can climb mountains with them and not sweat it out,” she adds.

This is where Tilly’s perspective is so valuable. She isn’t simply the face of the technology, she is someone who has grown up with it, lived with its limitations, and understands what it means when an improvement makes everyday life easier.

Fashion has become an important part of Tilly’s world, and to her, the connection between fashion and technology is entirely natural. A prosthetic arm is not just a piece of equipment. It becomes part of the person wearing it.

“Technology has become a huge part of everyday life for us, and that’s in the fashion world too,” she starts.

“There’s been a big movement in customising our avatars,” she says.

“People are more conscious and intrigued by what we can do with technology – for enjoyment, and for making life easier.

“I like to do the same with my prosthetics. Just like you do your hair and pick your clothing for the day, I customise with things like putting nails on my hands.”

She talks about her bionic nails as “a big piece of girlhood” she had always felt she was missing.

It’s a simple detail, but a lovely one. For so long, the focus of prosthetics was on recreating what had been lost – often as realistically and discreetly as possible.

Tilly sees things differently.

“I have no hands. That’s a big disability and it’s shaped and impacted the entire way I live my life,” she says.

“So for me to just put a glove over it, hide it and act like it’s not there, it just doesn’t make sense.”

Instead, she has embraced the opportunity to make her prosthetics feel like her. There are different covers, different designs and the simple pleasure of choosing what she wants to wear.

“It’s part of the day – picking what arm you want to wear.”

It is an attitude that has shaped much of her work, particularly her public speaking. Tilly is passionate about representation, but her message goes beyond simply accepting our differences.

“It’s not only about accepting it, but accentuating it,” she says.

“It’s about seeing the beauty in it and how much power there is in claiming back that super-authentic part of yourself. It’s just another thing that makes you, you.”

At 20, she is already sharing that message with audiences around the world. Motivational speaking has become an important part of her career, alongside her work in technology, fashion and media, and there are some particularly exciting stamps about to be added to her passport.

South Africa is calling later this year, followed by her first trip to Australia for Techella, a technology event she describes as the “ultimate girly tech festival”.

“It’s going to be so cool.”

It’s hard not to smile along with her.

Tilly is also about to launch the second season of her podcast, Tilly Talks Tech, where she explores human potential, prosthetics, inclusive design and the people using technology to do interesting, creative and meaningful things.

She believes we’re at a particularly interesting point in our relationship with technology. For every exciting possibility, there is understandable anxiety about what the future might hold. Tilly is especially aware of the uncertainty among her own generation – but she doesn’t think the answer is to step away from the conversation.

“I feel like Gen Z are really scared of technology, rightfully so,” she says. luxe-magazine.co.uk

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No limits “There are a couple of scary things going on. But I really want young people to put more of their input into technology because they know what they want from the future.”

Her aim is to spotlight people doing exciting work while encouraging more people to get involved in shaping the technology around them.

“So many people have valuable information to help us design our future, but we’re scared of even touching it or going near it, so we reject it completely. We need that input so technology aligns with the future that we actually want.”

For Tilly, the most interesting technology is not cold or faceless. It is personal, creative, customisable and, most importantly, human.

That feels like an important point coming from someone whose own body has become the meeting place between humanity and innovation.

Of course, long before the podcast, the speaking events and the international travel, there was a little girl in the North East and a community that rallied around her.

“I genuinely would not have even started this journey if it wasn’t for the people of the North East,” Tilly tells me.

When her family needed to raise money for better prosthetics, the response was extraordinary. Tilly says the community raised around £24,000 for her first pair in just 24 hours.

“They did that overnight. It’s insane,” she says.

“I was only two at the time, so I didn’t know it was going on, but now I’m 20, I can really understand how impactful that was.

“If it wasn’t for those people at the start, I wouldn’t even be wearing prosthetics. I owe the North East and the community that got behind me literally everything when it comes to what I’m doing now.”

It is a connection she still feels deeply, despite now living in Bath. She has made a life for herself there, living independently in her own studio apartment for the past year and a half and preparing for another new chapter as she looks to move in with her boyfriend.

There are, she says, very few things she cannot do.

“There’s certain things, like shoelaces, for example,” she says.

“I’ll just stamp my foot into my shoes rather than tie them.”

But these are adaptations rather than barriers.

“Nothing that makes living on my own impossible.”

When she returns to the North East, she is often reminded just how many people remember the earliest days of her story.

On a recent visit to see her grandfather in hospital, she found herself chatting to a nurse who eventually told Tilly’s grandmother that she knew exactly who she was.

“I was like, ‘You do?!’” Tilly laughs.

The nurse had been there when Tilly was critically ill.

She had prayed for her.

“She just kept saying, ‘I prayed for you. It’s so good to see how you’re doing now.’”

For Tilly, who has no memory of the illness itself, encounters like that are particularly surreal.

“I nearly wasn’t alive,” she says.

“It’s a really strange thought, but it puts so much into perspective.”

It is only towards the end of our conversation that we return to the little girl at the beginning of all of this.

I ask Tilly what she would say to her younger self.

For the first time, the relentlessly upbeat conversation pauses. It is a question she says she thinks about often.

“I love this question,” she tells me.

“It genuinely makes me so emotional.”

She explains that she thinks about her younger self in the third person.

“When I see myself with hands, I’m like, ‘That’s not me!’ It really feels like a third-person reflection.”

But when she thinks about that one-year-old girl, there is one overwhelming feeling: pride.

“The strength it took for my tiny one-year-old self to battle that infectious disease – I have everything to owe to her for being strong enough to fight that.”

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The strength it took for my tiny one-year-old self to battle that infectious disease – I have everything to owe to her for being strong enough to fight that She was recently asked about her proudest achievement and realised that, more than anything else, she feels she has made her younger self proud.

“That should be anybody’s goal in life,” she says.

“Scrap all the little superficial things. If you make your younger self proud, then you’ve done it.”

It is one of those moments that stays with you after the screen goes dark.

Growing up, she says, wasn’t always easy. There was “so much adaptation” required to navigate a world not always designed with her body in mind. And yet, when she looks back, she doesn’t speak about what she would change.

“I would just love to tell younger Tilly that it does all work out,” she says, with a smile.

“In the moment, it feels like such a mountain. But I’m genuinely so proud of her. I’m so proud of where we are now.

“Deep down, I think I always knew it was going to be all right because I know that I’ve had my back since the moment I was born. I fought to survive.”

Her trust in herself, she says, has never really faltered.

“Everything could be crumbling around you, but if you can pick yourself back up, you’re always going to be alright.”

There is no denying that Tilly’s disability has shaped her life in ways most of us will never fully understand.

But what she has done with that experience is entirely her own.

She has taken the frustrations she encountered as a child and used them to help improve technology for others. She has turned something she was once encouraged to hide into a form of self-expression.

She has found a place at the intersection of fashion and technology and is using her platform to make both worlds feel a little more inclusive, creative and exciting.

And perhaps that is what makes her story so compelling.

Not because she has overcome every challenge or because she claims life has always been easy. Tilly is refreshingly honest about adaptation, frustration and living in a world that wasn’t designed with her in mind.

But she has also refused to let other people’s ideas about difference dictate who she should be.

Instead, she has built a life that feels entirely hers.

Tilly Lockey isn’t waiting for the future to arrive. She’s already helping to design it.

And if the robots really are taking over, I have a feeling she’s going to make sure they look good doing it.

40 years with you.

WINTER 2026

WINTER 2026

Fashion edit

Bold moves

Credits

Photography: Holly & Louis from TTM Management Models: Ruby, Myla & Evie from TTM Management Clothing: Copia Vintage Shoes: Terry de Havilland Styling: Finley Simpson Makeup: Molly Maguire Hair: Jasmine Morgan copiavintage.com

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Inspired by the timeless treasures of Copia Vintage, this glamorous shoot brings classic silhouettes, vibrant colour and a little disco-era drama into the spotlight. Think glitter balls, Cuban heels and unapologetic vintage style

Fashion edit

Opposite page From left: Egyptian Sheer Kaftan - 1970s, POA Silk Flared Trousers - 1990s ORNA FARHO PARIS, £110 Jewel-Embellished Belted Jacket - 1980s GEORGINA VON ETZDORF, £165.

Green Sequined Pencil Skirt - 1980s BODY-BEST, £110 All at COPIA VINTAGE This page Black Sequined Halter-Neck Top - 1980s PHARD, £89 Bespoke Brown/Black Satin & Velvet Maxi Skirt - 1970s, £125 All at COPIA VINTAGE

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Fashion edit

Opposite page Long Gilet: Customised & Hand-Painted - 1960s Afghan Coat, POA Mauve Leather Trousers - 1990s VERSACE, £180 All at COPIA VINTAGE This page From left: Semi-Sheer Black Batwing Dress - 1980s OLEG CASINNI, £75 Drop Waist Art Deco Style Silk Dress - Early 2000s LEORNARD PARIS, £235 Drip-Dyed Silk Wrap Dress - 1990s ESCADA, £115 All at COPIA VINTAGE

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Fashion edit

SHOP DINE PLAY

Over 100 brands all under one roof.

Scan to explore

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Luxe looks GET THE LOOK

Smart moves Channel back-to-school style with sharp silhouettes, smart layers and polished tailoring 1

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(1) Vivienne Westwood Aperitive Plaid Cotton Midi Skirt, £690, harveynichols.com | (2) GUCCI Horsebit Gold Tone Quartz Watch, £1,660, marketcrossjewellers.com | (3) Anine Bing Rickie Cropped Trench Coat, Beige, £395, endclothing.com | (4) Birkenstock Naples Wrapped, Taupe Suede, £155, endclothing.com | (5) Prada Bonnie Medium Suede Handbag, £2,350, flannels.com | (6) Reiss Aliana Silk Jacquard Long-Sleeve Shirt in Mocha Brown, £230, reiss.com | (7) Reiss Aliana Silk Jacquard Wide-Leg Trousers in Mocha Brown, £298, reiss.com | (8) GUCCI Horsebit 18ct Yellow Gold Lariat Necklace, £4,320, marketcrossjewellers.com | (9) Saint Laurent Icare Mini Quilted Leather Top Handle Bag, £2,140, harveynichols.com

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Fall finds

Beauty UPDATE

A new season calls for a fresh beauty focus, with rich autumnal shades, clever eyeenhancing formulas and luxurious little rituals

Volume control

Clinique

High Impact High-Fi Full Volume Waterproof Mascara, Intense Black, 10ml Turn up the volume with Clinique’s high-impact mascara, designed to give lashes a fuller, more dramatic look while staying put. The waterproof formula makes it a reliable choice for busy autumn days, whether you’re caught in an unexpected shower or heading out for the evening. £27, lookfantastic.com

Milking it

rhode

Highlighting Milk, 65ml Bring a fresh, luminous finish to your autumn makeup with rhode’s Highlighting Milk. The lightweight formula adds a soft, glossy-looking glow wherever you apply it, making it perfect for the high points of the face or a subtle wash across the eyes when you want something a little more radiant. £28, sephora.co.uk

Bright idea

Health intelligence that puts you in control, with Randox Health…

19/99 Beauty

Precision Colour Highlighter Pencil, 1g Put the spotlight exactly where you want it with this clever precision pencil. Designed to add a touch of brightening colour, it’s ideal for defining the inner corners of the eyes, highlighting the brow bone or adding a little unexpected detail to your makeup look. £19, cultbeauty.co.uk

Liquid luxury

Giorgio Armani Sleep in style

Lily Silk

Sagittarius Zodiac Silk Eye Mask A little luxury for the end of the day, this silk eye mask makes bedtime feel instantly more indulgent. Crafted from smooth silk and finished with a playful Sagittarius zodiac design, it is a beautiful addition to an evening wind-down ritual – and a stylish gift for the astrology lover in your life. £39, lilysilk.com

Eye Tint Liquid Eyeshadow For an eye look that feels polished without requiring hours in front of the mirror, Giorgio Armani’s Eye Tint delivers buildable colour with a smooth, fluid texture.

Sweep on a sheer wash for daytime or layer it up for richer intensity, with a sophisticated finish that works beautifully for autumn evenings. £33, fenwick.co.uk

LUXE STAR BUY

Evening eyes

Dior Fall shades

Morphe

Jean Spirited Eyeshadow Trio A trio of effortlessly wearable shades with a little more personality than your everyday neutrals. The Jean Spirited palette brings together complementary tones that can be swept on individually or blended for a more defined look, making it a handy little addition to your autumn makeup bag. £13, lookfantastic.com

Health data that puts you in control

Limited Edition Diorshow 5 Couleurs Couture Eyeshadow Palette A true beauty-bag statement, Dior’s limitededition eyeshadow palette brings couture glamour to the new season. With five beautifully coordinated shades designed to be mixed, matched and layered, it offers everything from subtle definition to a more dramatic evening eye – making it a luxurious finishing touch to any autumn look. £62, on counter at H beauty, Metrocentre

We’re living in a world of data. We track our steps, monitor our sleep and measure everything from heart rate to calories burned. Yet when it comes to understanding our overall health, many of us are still waiting until symptoms appear.

Randox Health believes your health data should do more than simply tell you whether you’re healthy today. It should help you understand your body, identify potential imbalances early and give you the confidence to make informed decisions about your future health.

Healthcare is moving beyond simply treating illness.

It’s becoming more personalised, more preventative and more empowering, giving people the knowledge they need to make informed decisions before symptoms appear.

Randox Health brings this approach to the North East with the opening of a new clinic at John Lewis Newcastle. With no GP referral and no lengthy waiting lists, it’s now easier than ever to access advanced health testing, whether you’re looking for reassurance, want to optimise your wellbeing or simply understand your health in greater detail.

Their latest innovation, RanChip Insight 360, is designed around a simple idea: transform complex health data into personalised health intelligence.

Using a single blood sample, RanChip Insight 360 provides personalised insights that help spot potential imbalances early and offer predictive insights linked to more than 200 disease conditions. Rather than overwhelming you with numbers, it helps you understand what your results mean and where you may be able to take action.

Alongside RanChip Insight 360, the Newcastle clinic offers comprehensive health checks and specialist testing; covering areas including gut health, hormone health, genetics and cancer risk. Whether you’re looking to investigate ongoing symptoms, understand your inherited health risks or simply build a clearer picture of your wellbeing, Randox Health services are designed to give you the information you need to make informed choices.

Healthcare is changing. Increasingly, people want to play a more active role in their wellbeing, using data not just to understand where they are today, but to help shape healthier tomorrows.

Visit Randox Health at John Lewis Newcastle or discover more at: randoxhealth.com luxe-magazine.co.uk

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Luxe locks

The autumn hair reset

Luxe LOCKS

with Michael Young and Gary Hooker

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After weeks of sunshine, heat, holidays and long summer days, September is the perfect time to give our hair a little extra love. Just as we look after our skin and change things up with the seasons, our hair needs that same TLC. We’re all so aware of protecting our skin from the summer sun, but sometimes we forget that our hair is exposed to it too. UV rays, heat, humidity, salt water and chlorine can all take their toll, gradually stripping away moisture and leaving the hair feeling dry, brittle and lacking that beautiful, healthy shine.

And it’s not just long hair that needs the attention.

Shorter lengths deserve exactly the same love and care. The condition might not always be as noticeable on a shorter or more layered style, but your hair can still lose moisture and become brittle after weeks if not months - of summer exposure.

I like to think of it as a skincare routine for your hair: cleanse, treat, hydrate and protect.

Start with a really good cleanse to get rid of that summer build-up, followed by a nourishing treatment or mask to put some much-needed moisture back into the hair. A great conditioner is a must, and a leave-in treatment, serum or lightweight oil can really help to smooth the hair and bring back that gorgeous, glossy finish.

It’s also a great time for a fresh cut. Taking away those dry, weathered ends - even if it’s only a little trim - can make such a difference. Your hair instantly feels healthier, looks fuller and has that lovely freshly-cut shine again. With shorter styles, refreshing the shape and getting rid of any dry ends can completely bring the style back to life.

Moving into the colder months is our chance to rejuvenate our locks and restore them back to their former glory. Give your hair a little extra love, replenish the moisture it’s lost over the summer and get that softness and beautiful shine back.

After all, healthy hair is beautiful hair - whatever the length, texture or style.

So this autumn, treat your hair the way you treat your skin. A little TLC goes a long way.

Michael and Gary run Hooker & Young, with four salons across the North East. hookerandyoung.co.uk

Wellness within

Looking & feeling your best through menopause How personalised care can support women through menopause, helping them feel informed, confident and comfortable For many women, their 40s and 50s represent a period of significant change. Perimenopause and menopause bring hormonal shifts that can affect almost every aspect of daily life, from sleep, mood and energy levels to skin quality, body shape and self-confidence. While menopause is a natural stage of life, that doesn’t mean women have to simply accept feeling unlike themselves.

With October marking Menopause Awareness Month, and World Menopause Day taking place on 18 October, the conversation around menopause has never been more important. Greater awareness is encouraging more women to recognise symptoms earlier, seek specialist advice and understand that personalised support is available. Effective menopause care isn’t simply about managing symptoms – it’s about helping women feel informed,

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empowered and confident throughout this transition.

At The Beverley Hospital, women can access a holistic approach to menopause care, combining expert medical guidance with treatments designed to support both health and confidence. As a surgeonowned and led private hospital, The Beverley Hospital has built its reputation on exceptional care, bringing together experienced clinicians and state-of-the-art facilities to deliver personalised treatment in a calm, welcoming environment.

Thorough consultations allow dedicated time to explore each woman’s individual experience, whether they are noticing the first signs of perimenopause, living with established menopause symptoms, or looking to review existing treatment.

Every consultation begins with a thorough assessment of symptoms, medical history and lifestyle before discussing the most appropriate treatment options. Where clinically suitable, this may include Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or testosterone therapy. Equally, recognising that hormone rebalance is not right for everyone, their highly specialist menopause team also offers evidence-based non-hormonal treatments, alongside practical nutrition and lifestyle advice, ensuring every woman receives care tailored to her individual needs.

Alongside internal changes, menopause often coincides with visible changes associated with the ageing process. Declining collagen production, reduced skin elasticity, facial volume loss and changes in body contour can leave many women feeling their appearance no longer reflects how they feel inside.

For those patients wanting to know what else is available for them, The Beverley Hospital offers a carefully considered range of surgical and non-

surgical options designed to restore confidence with natural-looking results. The fully integrated team will often work together to take a more holistic approach to the patient’s needs and explore how non-surgical and surgical treatments can work alongside one another to achieve the desired outcomes. The focus is always on helping individuals feel like the best version of themselves, rather than striving for perfection.

Founded by experienced consultant surgeons, The Beverley Hospital has earned an enviable reputation for combining clinical excellence with compassionate, personalised care. Its commitment to exceptional care, combined with specialist menopause expertise and advanced surgical services, enables women to access comprehensive support under one roof.

As Menopause Awareness Month encourages more open conversations this autumn, it’s a timely reminder that no woman needs to navigate this stage of life alone. With specialist medical expertise and a genuinely holistic approach, The Beverley Hospital is helping women across the region approach menopause feeling informed, supported and empowered to look – and, more importantly, feel – their very best.

The Beverley Hospital is a surgeon-owned and led private hospital, delivering exceptional care in a premium, purpose-built setting. Combining renowned surgical expertise with advanced facilities, non-surgical treatments and handpicked experts, who deliver a personalised approach, the hospital is focused on natural-looking results, confidence, and peace of mind.

Visit beverleyhealth.co.uk to find out more.

INTERNATIONAL HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2026

MAKING HEADLINES Gosforth 0191 217 0217 Jesmond 0191 281 6714 Ponteland 01661 821 004 Wynyard 01740 644 690

www.hookerandyoung.co.uk Facebook: hooker&young Twitter: @hookerandyoung Instagram: hookerandyoung

Spa time

It is an inviting space from the moment you see it: warm water, fresh air, trees surrounding you and the hills stretching out beyond. It is the sort of place where conversation naturally quietens and you find yourself simply sitting, looking and taking it all in

A sense of place With the North York Moors as its backdrop, Sakura Spa brings a fresh perspective to countryside wellness. Elysia Fryer visits to discover a place designed around nature, stillness and the simple pleasure of slowing down As the road winds towards Gisborough Hall, with the North York Moors rising behind it, the pace seems to soften. The landscape opens out, woodland glows around the historic house and, somehow, everything feels a little quieter.

This is the setting for Sakura Spa, Gisborough Hall’s brand new wellness space. And it feels like a natural addition to this beautiful corner of North Yorkshire.

We visit for the launch party in late summer, when everything is at its fullest. The trees are green, the countryside lush and the air carries the warmth of the season. Birds are singing in the woodland, leaves are moving gently in the breeze, and nature provides the soundtrack – there is no need for anything else.

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For those of us who live locally, the arrival of Sakura Spa feels like a rather lovely thing to have on our doorstep. I live in Stokesley, so Gisborough Hall is familiar territory, but this gives the place an entirely new dimension. It is a reminder that sometimes the most restorative escapes aren’t necessarily the ones that require a long journey. Sometimes, they are just down the road.

The spa has been designed around that idea of connection to nature. Contemporary, calm and beautifully designed, the new spa sits comfortably alongside the grandeur of the country house hotel.

Gisborough Hall has all the traditional charm you would hope for – its architecture, character and sense

of history – while Sakura feels fresh and modern.

The two aren’t competing for attention; instead, they complement one another.

And then there is the view. The spa garden opens towards woodland and rolling countryside, with the outdoor vitality pool at its centre. It is an inviting space from the moment you see it: warm water, fresh air, trees surrounding you and the hills stretching out beyond. It is the sort of place where conversation naturally quietens and you find yourself simply sitting, looking and taking it all in.

There is something particularly enchanting about being in a spa surrounded by woodland. We are so used to wellness spaces creating their own atmosphere with music, scents and carefully controlled lighting, but here the atmosphere is already there. The birds are singing. The trees are moving in the breeze. The air changes as you move between the indoor and outdoor spaces. It feels wonderfully uncomplicated.

Inside, the thermal experiences continue that connection with the landscape. There is a Finnish sauna, herbal sauna and salt steam room, each beautifully designed with huge windows that keep the countryside firmly within the eyeline.

The Finnish sauna is particularly lovely. Sitting in the warmth, you can look out through the glass towards the vitality pool and the hills beyond. There is a wonderful contrast between the heat of the room and the vastness of the landscape outside. You feel cocooned, but not closed in.

The herbal sauna has its own gentle sense of escapism, with natural textures and views that make you feel almost hidden among the trees. Beside the thermal rooms is a peaceful lounge area, again with a huge window framing the woodland. It becomes a place to pause between experiences – somewhere

Spa time

to sit for a few minutes, towel wrapped around you, with nothing more pressing to do than look outside.

The cold plunge offers a more invigorating change of pace. Moving between hot and cold has a way of bringing you immediately back into the present, and there is something wonderfully energising about stepping into the cooler water before returning to the warmth.

I can already imagine how different this experience will feel as the seasons change. At the moment, the landscape is green and generous. But Sakura Spa has been created with the changing seasons in mind, and it is easy to picture the spa garden in autumn, surrounded by russet, amber and golden leaves. The Japanese influence feels particularly fitting here; the appreciation of seasonal change is woven into the experience, encouraging you to notice the landscape rather than simply look past it.

Winter will bring another mood entirely. Bare branches, cooler air, perhaps frost across the hills and that beautiful contrast between the crisp outdoors and the warmth of the sauna and vitality pool. Then spring will arrive with its fresh greens and new growth.

I suspect it will be one of those places that feels subtly different every time you visit.

The treatment rooms are equally serene. There are six in total, including a dedicated couples’ treatment room. The offering focuses on restorative and holistic experiences, designed to encourage relaxation and wellbeing rather than simply offering a momentary escape.

There is also a Japanese Head Spa, which feels particularly at home within Sakura’s philosophy.

It is an experience centred around slowing down and giving attention to an area we perhaps don’t always think about when we book a treatment.

Koyo, Sakura’s wellness restaurant, is named after the Japanese word for ‘autumn leaves’. Koyo takes inspiration from the Japanese tradition of appreciating the changing colours of the seasons. It is a fitting name for a restaurant that sits so naturally within this landscape.

The food follows a similarly fresh and seasonal philosophy, with nourishing salads, brunch dishes, lighter meals and juices. It feels appropriate for the setting and, importantly, for how you want to feel during a spa day. Nothing feels rushed or overcomplicated; everything seems to encourage that same gentle ease that runs through the experience.

That sense of ease is one of the things I enjoy most about the experience. We are so accustomed to filling our days that even leisure can sometimes become another item on the list. Sakura Spa gives you permission to take your time.

And because the spa is so closely connected to its surroundings, the senses are constantly being engaged without ever feeling overwhelmed.

There is also something very reassuring about the fact that this is North Yorkshire wellness. You don’t need to fly somewhere to find a beautiful setting. You don’t even need to drive particularly far. The North York Moors are right here, providing the backdrop.

And for anyone who lives in the area, that feels like a

genuine treat. We can be guilty of overlooking what is on our doorstep. Familiar landscapes become part of the everyday, and places we pass regularly can become almost invisible.

From the vitality pool, the hills look different. From the sauna, the woodland feels closer. Even the journey home feels slightly different when you realise that all of this has been here all along.

Sakura Spa could have been built anywhere. Instead, it has been placed here, beneath the North York Moors, within the woodland and beside one of the region’s most characterful country house hotels. The design has been thoughtful enough to let the setting remain the star.

Sakura Spa is an indulgent new escape waiting to be discovered – one that will, I suspect, become even more beautiful as the seasons change.

Sometimes you don’t need to go far to get away.

You just need to slow down enough to notice where you are. gisborough-hall.com

luxe-magazine.co.uk

33

Move well

Good energy Elysia Fryer meets PhysiquePro founder Ryan Bolton to explore his vision for a new kind of gym – one where considered spaces, good people and community are just as important as the workout

There is something to be said for finding a place that makes you want to show up.

I’ve learnt that myself. I’ve worked out at home, followed programmes, tried different gyms and convinced myself that this time I would finally find a routine that stuck. Sometimes it does, for a while.

But for me, the first time exercise has really become something that fits naturally into my life has been through a local gym. It isn’t simply the equipment or the workouts that keep me going back; it is the people, the atmosphere, the familiarity and the feeling you get when you walk through the door.

That is exactly the philosophy behind PhysiquePro, the North East gym brand founded by Ryan Bolton.

Having opened its first site in August 2024, when Ryan was just 22, the business has grown remarkably quickly. The original site sold all of its available memberships in three months, followed by a second opening at Great Park in November 2025, and now, as this issue lands, the third PhysiquePro site has just opened its doors in Ponteland.

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Yet the growth isn’t really about building bigger gyms.

In fact, it is almost the opposite. Ryan’s vision is to create smaller, more considered spaces that feel like somewhere you would actually want to spend time.

“We opened at the end of August 2024,” he tells me.

“At the time, I was 22, so pretty young to be starting my own business. We sold out that site in about three months, which then gave us a chance to go into Great Park, which was our second site.

“And now we have the recent opening of Ponteland.”

The concept is what he describes as a luxury gym, but delivered in a boutique style: smaller than a traditional commercial gym, with an emphasis on service, experience and space.

“We aim to provide an experience and a service that’s unmatched by anyone,” he says.

There are complimentary drinks, PT sessions and those small touches that elevate the everyday. But the luxury is perhaps less about what you are given and more about how you feel while you are there.

Ryan calls it the ‘third space’.

“Everyone’s at work or home looking after their lives, so it’s a time to really switch off outside of that,” he explains.

“It’s people’s third space.”

I love that idea because it feels particularly relevant now. So many of us are working from home, juggling family life, answering emails from the kitchen table, rushing from one commitment to another. We are constantly connected, yet somehow there can be very little genuine connection in our days.

For me, that is where a gym can become so much more than somewhere to exercise. Working from home most of the time, my local gym has become the closest thing I have to a working community on a daily basis. Sometimes I go for a proper workout; sometimes I just need to get out of the house, see people and have a chat. The physical benefits are obvious, but so is the mental lift that comes from being somewhere with energy, personality and people you enjoy being with.

Ryan sees exactly the same thing happening within PhysiquePro. “It’s all about community. The gyms are run off of it,” he says.

“The best thing I’ve noticed as a gym owner is seeing so many communities come together. These are people that have never met before, and in four weeks’ time you’ve got them going for coffee or doing outside-gym activities together, which is just lush to see.”

That sense of community feels especially important in a world where more of life happens behind a screen.

“People lose that social interaction, which is so important in life,” says Ryan.

“Which, again, is why we re-emphasise that third space.”

And enjoyment is a word that comes up repeatedly when we talk. Because, ultimately, exercise has to work within real life. We are busy.

We have jobs, children, partners, families, social lives and endless lists of things to do. If working out becomes another obligation that makes us feel guilty, rather than something that makes us

Move well

His charity work has included supporting food banks and Tiny Lives, while PhysiquePro has run Christmas donation drives, sponsored the Tiny Lives Ball and taken on challenges to raise money

feel better, it is never going to be sustainable.

At PhysiquePro, the main unique selling point is the four-person classes, with around 42 sessions running each week. Keeping the groups small means the membership can remain relatively low while still offering plenty of opportunities to train.

“It targets all abilities,” Ryan explains.

“Because there are only four people, it doesn’t matter if you’re a complete beginner or pretty experienced in the gym, you’ll still be challenged as the coaching is tailored to the individuals in the class.”

There is also the main gym, personal training, sports massage and physio, alongside health bars, creating a place where people can spend 30 minutes or two hours, depending on what their day allows.

And then there is the aesthetic. Anyone who has seen PhysiquePro will know that these are not your stereotypical commercial gyms. The spaces are stylish, considered and cool, with a distinctly boutique feel.

The design, interestingly, came from Ryan himself.

“I remember when I was 22, I was like, ‘Right, I have a vague idea of how I would set up my home gym.’

And then I thought, ‘Right, how can I change that into a commercial space?’ I thought there was a real gap in the market.”

Rather than focusing solely on expensive equipment, Ryan wanted somewhere that felt safe and homely, before layering in the luxury touches.

His inspiration, he tells me, has been pulled in from locations across the globe, and some interesting spaces he has seen online.

But perhaps the greatest influence was his own experience as a personal trainer. Before PhysiquePro existed, Ryan spent years working directly with clients and seeing first-hand what he felt was missing from the gym industry.

“I was a PT beforehand, so I got first-hand experience in what I felt was lacking in the gym industry. And then pretty much took everything that was lacking, as well as what’s working well, and merged them together to create this space.”

And while you might assume that the quality of the

training would be the biggest priority when recruiting his team, Ryan puts something else first: personality.

“I can teach anyone to become a good PT, as long as you know their coaching styles and how they learn best,” he says.

“Other than that, it’s all about character and personality for me.”

He would rather take someone with a brilliant personality and teach them the skills than employ someone technically brilliant who doesn’t have the right character.

It is a philosophy that extends far beyond the gym floor. The right people can completely change how a place feels. They can turn a building into a community, a workout into a ritual and something you once dreaded into something you genuinely look forward to.

For Ryan, that has been the entire point.

He finished school at 16, went to Gateshead College, studied sports science, played football and eventually went into professional football, before realising that being employed wasn’t where he felt fulfilled.

“I had an idea of what I wanted to do and never really felt fulfilled in that,” he says.

So, at 18, he started his own PT business. What began with showing potential clients around a gym quickly developed into a career built on helping people, communicating with them and understanding what made them tick.

But there was always a bigger ambition.

Ryan credits his father as a major inspiration – someone who worked incredibly hard to build his own career – and says there was always an itch to do something bigger while still putting his own stamp on the industry.

That became PhysiquePro. “It was basically combining what I believed was left out of the gym industry, whilst mixing what was going really well with the gym industry, and creating an environment for people to enjoy the gym rather than it being a space where people dread going to.”

That last part feels particularly important. Because how often do we tell ourselves we should exercise, without ever asking whether we actually enjoy the way we are doing it?

“Experience first for me,” Ryan says. “That’s kind of where we built it from.”

In an age where you can find endless workout plans, nutritional advice and fitness information online – where, as Ryan puts it, “you could go and find any bit of information you want to” – the thing that cannot be replicated so easily is experience.

“Experience for me is still something that AI and Google can’t take over.”

And perhaps that is why place and people matter so much. You can exercise anywhere. You can train in your living room, run around the park or lift weights in your garage. But the environment you choose, and the people you surround yourself with, can completely change the way you experience it.

Some PhysiquePro members might put their headphones on and barely speak to anyone. Others might spend 45 minutes in a group class chatting and laughing. Both can leave feeling better.

“Some people come here and stick their headphones on, but just love the social interaction of a hello when they come in,” Ryan says.

“That makes them go home and feel the same way as someone who was in a group class and spoke for 45 minutes. So I think that combination of both is really important.”

I couldn’t agree more. Sometimes a simple hello can be enough. There are days when you might not have spoken to another person outside your family, and suddenly you are surrounded by familiar faces, someone tells you well done, you have a quick chat between sets, and you leave feeling lighter than when you arrived.

It is fitness, but it is also life.

And perhaps that same community spirit explains why giving back has become such an important part of Ryan’s business. His charity work has included supporting food banks and Tiny Lives, while PhysiquePro has run Christmas donation drives,

sponsored the Tiny Lives Ball and taken on challenges to raise money.

He estimates that, collectively, the business has donated somewhere between £12,000 and £15,000 over the past couple of years.

“I’m very grateful for my life and my background,” he says.

“So it’s always been important to me to give back.

I feel like I’m very fortunate with the opportunities I got. I’d like to thank Craig Bolton, Michelle Bolton, Emily Bolton and Kimberley Collins – they’ve all played a huge part in my journey.”

PhysiquePro’s community has become part of that giving too, with members contributing alongside the business.

“We can’t say we’re community-driven and only look after ourselves. I think it’s important.”

There is another challenge on the horizon, too. Later this autumn, Ryan will take on the National Three Peaks Challenge, attempting to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon within 24 hours, raising money for charity in the process.

“I will die on the hill if I don’t,” he laughs.

Then there will be the annual PhysiquePro Christmas drive for Cash for Kids, with the business making a donation, members contributing what they can and the team taking on its own fundraising challenge. Last year Ryan ran 12 half marathons in 12 days; this year, the challenge will be something new.

It feels like a fitting place to end our conversation, because the story of PhysiquePro has never really been about the gym itself. It is about what happens around it.

The workouts matter, of course. So do the equipment, the classes, the PTs and the beautifully designed spaces. But Ryan has built something around those things that feels much more human.

A place to go. People to see. A reason to show up.

And perhaps that is the secret to making fitness stick: not forcing it into the margins of an already busy life, but finding somewhere – and a group of people – that makes it feel like it belongs there. thephysiquepro.com luxe-magazine.co.uk

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Yes chef

Home COMFORTS with Chris Baber

Fresh foodie finds, big career moments and a shift towards cosy autumn cooking – Chris Baber shares what’s inspiring him this season My world A chef and friend of mine, Paul Ainsworth, has opened a new place in Rock, Cornwall, so I headed down for the launch party. Gordon Ramsay and Rick Stein were there, so it was a pretty special couple of days!

I’ve also been away to the South of France on holiday with friends, where the produce is just hard to beat.

There’s something about the simplicity of the food there – incredible ingredients, treated well and allowed to speak for themselves.

More recently, I’ve been up in Glasgow with HexClad.

We’ve launched a TikTok Shop and were doing some filming up there. There’s a really cool food scene in Glasgow and I’d love to head back and spend a bit more time exploring it properly.

Ask Chris

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Salmon Puttanesca Serves 2 A healthy one pan recipe when you’re looking for all of the flavour with none of the fuss. So easy and absolutely delicious. The rich tomato and olive sauce is best mopped up with some crusty bread!

Music and some brilliant chefs. It was a great crowd and fantastic to see how food can bring people together, get everyone around a table and simply allow them to have a good time.

We’re now working together to evolve the Friends of Claridge’s concept and starting to talk about future events. Honestly, it’s a dream job for me. Everyone there has genuinely made me feel incredibly welcome. Claridge’s is such an institution, so to have my name on the menu there was a huge moment.

Inspired by the seasons As we move into autumn, we’re moving away from the salads and getting back into routine. September is a bit of a transitional month, I suppose, and then October is when the root vegetables really start to come into their own. That’s when autumn produce is really at its best.

For me, autumn is all about getting organised and getting back into a routine, so it’s the perfect time for food prep and batch cooking for big family dinners. It’s all about planning ahead and making life that little bit easier.

Foodie happenings One of the biggest things I’ve been working on recently was the pop-up event, Friends of Claridge’s, which went really well. It was centred around British seasonality and healthy, fresh food – proper food that also happens to be good for you. Delicious, nourishing and uncomplicated, built around the very best British produce and suppliers.

In the run-up to the event, we went out to meet some of the suppliers we were working with. We visited the farmers who supplied the beef, for example, and have been creating a bit of a content series with Claridge’s around that journey. It was a big celebration of British produce, which I think is so important, and to be able to do that with such a prestigious venue was something I was incredibly proud of.

The event took place in L’Epicerie, Claridge’s intimate private dining and chef’s table space, and we called it Friends of Claridge’s. We had some really interesting guests on the night, including former England rugby player Chris Robshaw, musician Example, the Chief Creative Officer from Aston Martin, people from Sony

TRY THIS

If you’ve got any questions you want to ask Chris, please get in touch via his Instagram page. Chris will select a question and answer it in the next column. #AskChris Q: For any Luxe readers heading to London for an autumn city break, what are your recommendations?

A: There’s a restaurant called Dante Mayfair that has opened at Claridge’s. Dante NYC is an iconic restaurant in New York and they did a pop-up here last year. It was so successful that it’s now become the main restaurant at Claridge’s – I’m actually sitting in it now as we speak!

It’s one of those places where you can come and celebrate something big, but equally you can just pop in for a glass of wine and a beautiful bowl of pasta.

Another top pick for me is Kudu in Marylebone. It’s a South African-inspired restaurant centred around open-fire cooking. I had some amazing giant tiger prawns off the grill with peri-peri sauce. That’s definitely one to add to the list.

Ingredients 2 x salmon fillets 1/2 lemon, zest and juice 2 x anchovy fillets 2 x cloves garlic, finely sliced 1 small red onion, finely diced 1 small red pepper, finely diced 1 x tbsp capers 8 x black olives 1 x tin tomatoes 1 x bunch basil Method Preheat the oven 180ºC. Heat a small oven proof frying pan over a medium heat. Add 1 tbsp of oil from the tin of anchovies, along with the anchovies and garlic, cook for 30 seconds.

Add the onion and pepper, cover loosely and cook for 5 minutes until soft.

Add the capers, olives and tomatoes and half of the basil. Cover loosely, simmer for 10 minutes.

Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and the lemon zest then place on top of the sauce.

Transfer the pan to the oven (if the pan isn’t oven safe transfer it all to an oven proof dish) cook for around 10 minutes until the salmon is cooked.

Scatter with basil. Serve.

“HexClad makes cooking effortless and enjoyable, achieving amazing results time after time. The sheer versatility of a HexClad makes them the only pans I couldn’t live without. They are built to last with a lifetime guarantee and get better with age. They are by far the best investment you can make for your kitchen at home.

There’s no other pan that will give you the same results. It’s time to get Hexy! A pan for the modern age.” - Chris Baber Find out more at: hexclad.co.uk

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The early bird catches the… whisky

Images: Sally Ann Norman

Guests at the launch of Ad Gefrin's Crǣft Series of Single Cask Whisky.

The three North East artists commissioned by Ad Gefrin with their final bottles.

When Ad Gefrin launched the first ever Northumbrian English Single Malt Whisky in modern times on 1st August, it truly paid to be one of their Corenkyn Members Three hours after it was released to the public, it was all sold out. However, Corenkyn had the chance to pre-order a bottle before the public launch, and to buy another bottle in person on the day. With only 1122 bottles in total from three highly individual casks – that early bird privilege was certainly worth having.

From the very beginning – even before the distillery opened, Ad Gefrin were committed to making their members feel like family, and family comes first.

Corenkyn comes from the words for ‘Chosen Family’ in Anglo-Saxon. Many of the members have signed up for the lifetime of benefits because they feel part of something special, and to be part of the success story of this North Eastern flagship.

Opened in 2023 the Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery is a unique destination. They have already won a roster of awards, from RIBA North East Building of the Year 2025, to Visit England’s national Awards for Excellence Gold as Best New Tourism Business in

Ben Murphy, Director of Distilling responsible for the art and craft of Ad Gefrin’s whisky.

2025, followed by the even more hotly contested Silver as Visit England’s Best Small Attraction in 2026.

Whilst the destination has been shining a light, behind the scenes in the calm of the Cask Store, the whisky was maturing. The first 10 casks reached official ‘Single Malt’ status in December 2025, and since then the stocks have been growing. Over the winter, Director of Distilling Ben Murphy tasted over 1,000 of the casks to review their progress. What he discovered was that some of this very young whisky, was already outstanding in its own right – flavoursome and characterful beyond its years reflecting its home – Northumbrian barley grown by farming families within 25 miles of the stills and Cheviot water, drawn from the borehole beneath the distillery floor. So the idea of the Crǣft Series was ignited.

The three casks that Ben selected to form the debut release each carried a distinct character, shaped by the same provenance but drawn in different directions by wood and time. Cask 23170, matured in an ex-American Single Malt cask, opens with ripe fruit and sweet malt, developing into spearmint and lemon sherbet on the palate. Cask 23215 spent its maturation in an ex-Bourbon cask – the most tropical of the three, with mango and spiced peach on the nose and creamy vanilla and sweet cinnamon spice on the palate. Cask 24492 spent 18 months in an ex-American Single Malt cask before finishing in an Oloroso hogshead, bringing dried fruit, resin and new leather to the nose and sticky toffee pudding and mulled wine spice to the palate.

Crǣft takes its name from the Old English for art or skill. The series is built on the belief that discovery is part of the experience – all three casks were released simultaneously, each in a sealed box carrying the series name and number of bottles. Each bottle carries label artwork commissioned from an emerging

North East artist, each responding to the character of their paired cask: Voirrey Taylor for the Bourbon cask, Luke McTaggart for the American Oak, and Sarah Calavera for the Oloroso Sherry finish.

The cask and label design are unknown at point of purchase. The jeopardy was deliberate, but never a mystery: all three casks, their tasting notes and their paired artists are promoted openly from day one but which bottle you ended up with was down to chance.

Ben Murphy, Director of Distilling at Ad Gefrin, commented: “Making whisky is about the meeting of art and science. We know how our distillery works best, what casks we need and how long to ferment for, but the art is in teasing out the deep-rooted Northumbrian character that embodies everything we do at Ad Gefrin.

“These first three casks were distinct from each other, showcasing where that art and science can take us. The thing that united them is the land from which they came and the backbone of sweet malt and rounded fruit character that is showing up in our new make and sustaining through maturation in the warehouse behind our still room.

“It’s a cliché to say we were excited to release a whisky but for it to be the first legal single malt from Northumbria in 200 years is an incredible thing. We were thrilled to see the bottles go out into the world so fast and see how well they have been received.”

With such a reception, there is now great anticipation for the release of the next three casks – expected before the end of the year. Further excitement is being generated as Ad Gefrin recently made a call out for more artists to create the truly unique artwork for the next set of labels. Competition to secure a bottle will be even greater than ever – the art, the quality of the spirit, and the jeopardy of ownership all adding to the frisson of getting your hands on one. For members – the advantage of early-bird pre-orders has never been more valuable – but even for them, which bottle they get won’t be known until they open their box. adgefrin.co.uk

For more details on membership contact sharon@adgefrin. co.uk – and for news on the next Crǣft Series release watch the website and local press for details.

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Food notes

MY LIFE IN FOOD:

Scott John-Hodgson At the helm of two of Newcastle’s most celebrated restaurants, Scott John-Hodgson has quietly become one of the driving forces behind the city’s fine-dining renaissance As Executive Chef, Scott oversees the kitchens at both Solstice and House of Tides, working alongside chef-owner Kenny Atkinson, who remains deeply involved in the culinary direction of each. Together, the pair have helped make Kenny the first chef ever to hold two separate Michelin stars for two restaurants in Newcastle, with Solstice's intimate, open-kitchen tasting menu and House of Tides' Grade I listed Quayside setting offering two distinct expressions of the same exacting philosophy.

The timing couldn't be more fitting: Scott has just picked up the Restaurant Chef award at the 2026 Craft Guild of Chefs Awards, further cementing his reputation as one of the North East's most exciting culinary talents.

Luxe sits down with Scott to talk about his foodie journey and what's next for two of the city's most talked-about tables…

A meal that takes you back to childhood…

It’s got to be stew and dumplings. My mam didn’t always have time to cook fresh food every day, so when she did, it was a real treat. Her stew and dumplings were great; the pre-bought packets of suet dumpling mix were baked half-submerged in the stew, so they were soggy on the bottom and crispy on top. Loved it.

Maybe an Angel Delight and tinned fruit cocktail for dessert. That’s it, I’m having that this weekend!

The food that brings you the greatest joy…

I love cacio e pepe. It’s made with really simple ingredients, but it needs skill and love to get it right.

It’s so easy to get wrong, but once you know how to make it, it becomes one of those dishes that perfectly demonstrates the joy and harmony of cooking.

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The food that represents where you come from…

Naturally, as a Smoggie, I’m going to say a parmo.

It’s distinctly Teesside, and every family across the region loves it. It represents a real treat, and it’s something the region is rightly proud of. I’m absolutely here for it.

Your most memorable meal…

I’m going to be cheeky and say two, but only because they are so different.

As a chef in the fine-dining game, going to Jordnær when it was two-star was unbelievable. It opened my eyes and educated me so much about what food could be and how far you could push flavour and seasoning. A month later, I was back in Copenhagen to find out as much as I could about the meal I’d

experienced. It genuinely changed the way I thought about food.

The other came much earlier in life. I was around 10 or 11, and as part of a Scout day out we went to visit a mosque, where they cooked us a meal.

It was the first time I’d ever been exposed to spices.

I found something a little spicy, and I remember one of the older ladies giving me some natural yoghurt to have with it. Wow. That moment has stayed with me. I distinctly remember it being the first time I’d experienced food that felt balanced and harmonious.

Your favourite meal of the day and why…

Breakfast. When I’m working, I love either a yoghurt and muesli or a simple porridge pot. I’m a real fiend for coffee – it has to be the good single-origin hipster stuff, so anything I can wash down with a decent coffee is the go-to.

The best cook you know…

It would have to be my boss, Kenny Atkinson. Not because I have to say that, but because of the sheer amount I’ve learned from him.

Food notes He’s all about big flavour and making sure everything in a dish actually tastes of what it is. He has an incredible palate, so having him there to critique and try the dishes at Solstice is always a privilege and can be quite humbling sometimes.

The food you turn to when you need some comfort…

A big lasagne. With garlic bread and a proper good salad. It’s become synonymous with coming round to mine and Rachel’s. I love cooking a big lasagne that can be plonked in the middle of the table, still bubbling away. I call it comfort food because I’m only really cooking it for people I love and want to share my house and space with.

The food you always need in your fridge…

I think most chefs will say this, but it’s condiments.

My fridge is half full of different condiments from all over the place – most of them way out of date by the time I get around to using them – which, by the way, never stops me.

I never really stock much food. I’d rather go out and buy what I need for that particular meal than plan too far ahead. We like to just go with the flow and see what we fancy that night.

The food you never give up…

I think it would have to be fine dining in general.

I think it’s the pinnacle of food. I often compare it to F1 for people who don’t really understand it. It drives dining forward, and so many things we take for granted now started life in world-class fine dining kitchens, through research and development.

It’s been getting a bit of a bad rap recently, but I think there will always be a place for fine dining, and it’s something I’ll always enjoy doing.

It’s the occasion, the theatre and the general production of it all that I love just as much as the food. Someone has worked incredibly hard and genuinely cared about the food and the experience you’re about to have. I think that’s a beautiful thing.

What food means to you…

It’s my life. I’m thinking about it constantly.

Whether it’s a new dish at Solstice, a collaboration coming up where I need to have the menu in next week, or a competition I’m taking part in, I find myself randomly thinking about food in the shower.

Now, with my new role, I’m having to broaden my cooking knowledge and experience to help broaden the menus too.

It’s a vicious circle because I absolutely love what I do, but it can be all-consuming at times and takes real effort to switch off from. Even then, most of our leisure time is based around food. What are we eating tonight? What am I cooking at the weekend? What are we putting on the BBQ? But that’s why I love it so much. Food brings everyone together, and that’s what it’s all about.

It can create so many memories for people, whether it’s a fine dining meal for a birthday or anniversary, or the first time someone experiences that little bit of yoghurt with something a little spicy. Class. houseoftides.co.uk | solsticencl.com

Food brings everyone together, and that’s what it’s all about. It can create so many memories for people

FINE

DINING

BOOK A TABLE

PERFECTED

IN

MORPETH

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Cosy cabin

UK GETAWAY:

Kip & Nook A countryside retreat with a creative heart, Kip & Nook brings beautifully considered design, wild North Yorkshire landscapes and a little taste of la dolce vita to the countryside. Elysia Fryer checks in to discover a very special kind of getaway The best getaways have a way of making you forget what day it is. At Kip & Nook, time seems to loosen its grip a little. We arrive in the late summer sunshine, surrounded by rolling fields and blue skies, and check into The Sky – a beautifully designed countryside cabin where the huge picture window makes the landscape feel like part of the room.

Within minutes, the pace changes. There’s a cup of tea on the sofa, a log burner waiting to be lit and nowhere we particularly need to be. But that’s the thing about Kip & Nook – while you can retreat into your own little corner of the countryside, there’s a real energy just beyond it. Padel, sauna and ice baths, cocktails in the sunshine, creative workshops, run clubs and now Albertos, its brand-new Italian farmhouse restaurant. It feels peaceful and sociable all at once. And just like that, the outside world feels wonderfully far away.

Location Kip & Nook feels like it occupies its own little pocket of North Yorkshire. There’s a sense of space and freedom that immediately slows everything down.

But what I love most is that, despite the peaceful setting, there’s plenty happening here. Wander over to The Workshop and there’s a real buzz – friends meeting for drinks, people playing pool, creative workshops taking place upstairs and guests coming and going for padel, yoga, run club and other events.

There are camping pitches too, alongside a calendar of activities and experiences that makes Kip & Nook feel much more like a destination than simply somewhere to stay.

Style This place is effortlessly cool. There’s no sense of trying too hard here – everything is beautifully designed, but it feels natural, relaxed and incredibly considered.

The Sky, our home for the night, is warm and characterful, with rich coral tones, carefully chosen artwork, beautiful comfy furniture and shelves filled with coffee-table books that immediately invite you to settle in. I love spaces that feel like somebody has actually thought about how you’ll use them, rather than simply how they’ll photograph, and that’s exactly the feeling here.

We spend time curled up on the sofa with a cup of tea, flicking through books and watching the flames in the log burner. Later, a glass of wine in hand, we watch golden hour unfold through that huge picture window that frames the landscape.

Outside, the same thoughtfulness continues. The outdoor bath – positioned to make the most of those countryside views – it’s the ultimate spot for a slow morning. We’re here at the end of summer, when there’s just the first hint of that freshness September brings, and it feels like the perfect place to watch the seasons change.

Lay your head The Sky is exactly what you want from a countryside cabin – cosy, comfortable and completely cocooning, without sacrificing style.

The bedroom area feels warm and intimate, with the cabin-style bed creating the perfect retreat to lay your head. It’s the sort of bed you sink into, particularly after an evening of good food, a little 40

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stargazing and a nightcap beside the fire pit.

There’s something wonderfully private about staying here too. Despite everything happening across Kip & Nook, once we retreat back to The Sky, it genuinely feels as though we have the whole countryside to ourselves.

That contrast is one of the things Kip & Nook does so well. You can be right in the middle of the action one minute – cocktails, padel, dinner, music and conversation – and then be back in your own little world minutes later.

Highlights We start our stay with the Sauna & Ice Bath experience, which feels like the perfect way to press reset. Afterwards, we wander over to The Workshop for a margarita in the sunshine. There’s something about this space that immediately draws you in. It’s cool without being intimidating, creative without feeling contrived and social without ever being overwhelming.

We play a little pool, soak up the last of the sun and watch people arrive and settle into their own Kip & Nook afternoons. There’s a real community feel here – the kind where you quickly start recognising faces and conversations seem to happen naturally.

Food & drink Then comes dinner at Albertos.

Described as ‘Italy meets Yorkshire’, it’s unlike anywhere I’ve eaten before. We walk through the

snug from The Workshop and suddenly it feels as though we’ve been transported somewhere entirely different. The interiors are stylish and atmospheric, with a wonderfully cosmopolitan feel that seems almost surreal given we’re surrounded by fields.

It feels exclusive, but never stuffy. Homely, but still incredibly cool. And the welcome is just as warm.

Our waiter talks us through the menu, and when we admit we can’t possibly choose between the pasta, meat and fish dishes, he simply tells us we don’t have to.

Everything is designed for sharing, so we lean into it.

We start with burrata, grilled fig, pistachio and rocket, alongside king prawn, fennel and rocket salad, with focaccia and olive oil and a bottle of Malbec. Then comes the beef shin pappardelle, ribeye steak with parmesan and rocket salad,

and pan-fried seabass with chilli caper butter.

Every dish is completely different, and every one is delicious. If I had to pick a favourite, though, it would be the steak. Sourced from a local farmer just a few miles away, it’s melt-in-the-mouth good – the kind of beautifully simple produce that doesn’t need much doing to it.

We finish with chocolate mousse to share before heading back to The Sky for a nightcap by the fire pit.

The sky is clear, the fire is crackling and we spend a little while looking up at the stars.

Do this There’s no right way to spend your time here.

You could quite happily stay in your cabin all weekend, soaking up the cosiness. There aren’t many places where doing less genuinely feels like doing something.

But if you want to get involved, there’s an impressive amount to choose from. We’re up with the sun the following morning for a game of padel in one of the indoor courts, followed by a strong coffee and something to eat at The Workshop.

There’s yoga and Pilates, run clubs, walking trails, a gym, sauna and ice baths, cinema room, creative workshops and regular events ranging from car meets to social gatherings.

And then, of course, there’s Albertos. I have a feeling we’ll be back for that one quite regularly.

What strikes me most throughout our stay is just how much enthusiasm there is behind the place. We chat to owner Ben, who is full of energy when he talks about Kip & Nook and what’s still to come. You can see that enthusiasm everywhere – in the team, in the people who keep coming back and in the constant sense that this is something that’s still evolving.

We leave feeling rested, revitalised and more connected than when we arrived. It has that slightly elusive members’ club feeling – somewhere you feel lucky to have discovered, somewhere you immediately want to tell everyone about, but also secretly want to keep to yourself.

Kip & Nook is a place where time seems to slow down, without ever standing still. kipandnook.com

Xxxxxxx

Your Keys Are Our Responsibility

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Into Africa

Wildly wonderful

Tsowa Safari Island

Elysia Fryer experiences two unforgettable sides of Africa, from barefoot days on South Africa’s wildest shores to intimate safari adventures on a private island in the Zambezi, discovering a journey where nature, luxury and genuine connection go hand in hand “Once you’ve been to Africa, it stays with you.

You leave with a feeling you didn’t have before.”

It is something somebody says to us during our trip, almost in passing, but it stays with me. And as the days unfold, I begin to understand exactly what they mean.

Perhaps it is the vastness of the landscapes, the warmth of the people, or the wildness of the wildlife.

Africa seems to make you look differently. To listen more carefully. To notice things.

For us, that feeling begins on the shores of South Africa and follows us all the way to a tiny island in the middle of the Zambezi.

We’re spending time at two very different Isibindi Africa Lodges properties – Thonga Beach Lodge in Mabibi, South Africa, and Tsowa Safari Island in Zimbabwe – with a short stay at Sala Beach House on the KwaZulu-Natal coast in between. On paper, they offer completely different experiences. One is all white sand, turquoise water and barefoot beach days; the other is river, bush and wildlife. Yet both leave us with exactly the same feeling: that wonderfully rare sense of being somewhere special, while also feeling completely at home.

That, perhaps, is what sets Isibindi Africa Lodges apart. These are places rooted in their surroundings, where the landscape is not only a backdrop to the experience, but part of it. The people are local, passionate about where they live and work, and keen to share not only the beauty of their corner of Africa, but its stories, communities, food, wildlife and culture, too.

Our first stop is Thonga Beach Lodge, and even 42

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getting there feels like part of the adventure.

We arrive at Librodi Lodge in Sodwana Bay, where a 4x4 is waiting to take us further into the wilderness.

The journey takes us along sandy roads and through quiet villages, and as we travel deeper into this wonderfully remote part of KwaZulu-Natal, we begin to understand just how far away from everyday life we really are.

Eventually, we arrive at the kind of place that makes you stop in your tracks. Thonga sits within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on what feels like one of the most untouched stretches of coastline imaginable. White sand, bright blue water, lush vegetation and a sense of space that seems to go on forever. There is no busy road, no row of sun loungers, no constant hum of activity. Just the ocean, the trees and the sound of nature doing what nature does.

We step out of the 4x4 and onto the decking, and it genuinely feels like we have entered another world.

The shoes come off almost immediately. Thonga describes itself as a barefoot beach lodge, and it really is. There is something wonderfully liberating about realising you don’t need to dress up, check the time or think about what comes next. There are only 12 couples staying at the lodge at any one time, and because the accommodation is so carefully spaced among the trees, it often feels as though we have the place entirely to ourselves.

The design is beautiful without ever feeling as though it is trying too hard. Crisp whites and blues and natural woods sit effortlessly within the landscape.

Monkeys swing between the branches and the lodge

seems to have grown around the trees rather than been built within them. It has that lovely treehouse feeling – elevated, secluded and completely connected to the world outside.

But it is the people who make Thonga. Within hours, we are chatting to members of the team about life, the local area and the community. They are professional, of course, but there is such warmth to the way they look after us that the relationship quickly feels much more natural.

The people working at Thonga are local to Mabibi village, and the lodge has become an important source of employment and opportunity within the community. It adds another layer to the experience.

We aren’t simply visiting this beautiful part of the world; we are beginning to understand something about the people who call it home.

Days here have no real structure, unless we want them to. Each evening, we wander over to the activity board and decide what we might like to do the following day. Perhaps a boat trip, guided snorkelling or sundowners on Lake Sibaya. There is no pressure to fill every minute, and no sense that we should be doing anything other than exactly what we fancy.

We begin some mornings with a sunrise run along the

Thonga Beach Lodge

Into Africa

Tsowa Safari Island beach, followed by yoga and a little workout in the outdoor gym. Then comes breakfast, and some of the best coffee we have had on our travels, alongside fresh fruit, pastries and whatever creative egg dish the kitchen has cooked up that morning.

Late morning slips into afternoon almost without us noticing, and one of the loveliest things about Thonga is that there is no guilt attached to doing absolutely nothing. We are not rushing to get somewhere.

We do, of course, make the most of the experiences on offer. Guided snorkelling gives us another perspective on the marine world around us, while a sunset trip to Lake Sibaya takes us into the landscape beyond the beach. Our guide talks us through the wildlife and the communities around us as we watch the sun begin to drop, cocktail in hand.

One of the greatest luxuries, though, is the lack of connection. There is limited Wi-Fi and little to no phone signal. Initially, we wonder how we will manage, but within a few hours, we realise it is one of the best things about the place. We are so used to being contactable, reachable and constantly distracted that properly switching off can feel almost impossible. Here, it happens naturally. We don’t need to make a conscious decision to put our phones away.

Instead, we run along an empty stretch of beach for what feels like miles without seeing another person.

We swim. We sit and watch the sea. It feels like being dropped onto the most luxurious desert island imaginable. There are beautiful spaces, incredible food and thoughtful service, but the overall feeling is wonderfully relaxed. It feels like home. Just a very, very long way from home.

Three nights somehow feels like much longer and nowhere near long enough at the same time. We are genuinely sad to say goodbye to the people who have looked after us, and to a place that has quietly stolen our hearts.

After a short stop at Sala Beach House on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, we fly on to Zimbabwe and prepare to exchange the sound of the Indian Ocean for the Zambezi River.

The landscape changes. The pace changes.

The wildlife changes. But that feeling of arriving somewhere extraordinary remains.

Tsowa Safari Island is, quite simply, one of those places that makes you say ‘wow’ before you have even properly arrived.

We are met by a 4x4 at the edge of Zambezi National Park, upstream from Victoria Falls, and taken towards the river. At the water’s edge, a speedboat carries us across to the island.

There are only a handful of guests staying during our visit – just us and another couple. It immediately feels incredibly personal, almost as though we have been invited into someone’s private home.

Our guide, Zulu, introduces us to the landscape and the wildlife we are likely to encounter before taking us out on our first 4x4 safari. We quickly realise that Tsowa isn’t about manufactured safari moments.

It is about being in the wild and accepting whatever the day brings.

One of our first experiences is a sunset cruise along the Zambezi. Zulu talks to us about the animals as we move slowly along the river. Elephants bathe on

Thonga Beach Lodge the banks. Monkeys move through the trees.

Hippos emerge from the water. And there we are, sitting on the river with a gin and tonic in hand, watching it all unfold.

The days are ours to shape. We can spend hours on safari drives, take a game walk or head out onto the river, or we can simply stay at the lodge, swim in the pool, curl up with a book or sit quietly taking in the view.

Once again, there is no pressure. That sense of freedom is something we have come to appreciate enormously.

We feel completely connected to the natural world around us. You can hear it, see it and feel it. The river is constantly moving. Birds fill the air with sound.

Elephants appear almost casually on the horizon.

And then there are the people.

Zulu becomes an enormous part of our experience, teaching us about the animals, the landscape and the environment with such knowledge and enthusiasm. We learn about local culture, food, and the way the landscape has changed over time. The experience is not simply about spotting an animal and ticking it off a list. It is about understanding what we are looking at and why it matters.

I’m not sure there’s a feeling more magnificent than a morning game drive, rumbling through the bush in a 4x4 before stopping for coffee on the riverbank as the national park slowly wakes around us. Birds call from the trees, elephants bathe in the distance, and the whole landscape seems to shift from darkness into light.

Back at the lodge, Anna looks after us with the same warmth we experienced at Thonga. Within a couple of hours, she feels like an old friend. She arranges a bit of downtime and some pampering for us. Later, wine appears as we sit on the decking with our books.

By the end of our stay, she seems to know exactly what we want before we have even asked for it. That is the thing about these places. The luxury isn’t simply in the beautiful accommodation or the food or the setting. It is in the way the experience is tailored around you.

Our safari tent is private and beautifully considered, with views towards the river, a generous terrace and an outdoor shower. There is something wonderfully organic about the accommodation. It feels like a traditional safari lodge, but with all the little luxuries you would expect from a five-star hotel.

Food is another highlight. Each meal offers something new and authentic, and lunch can become a wonderfully indulgent tower of local meats, fruit and vegetables. Dinner, for us, is served around a big table, where stories from the day naturally turn into stories about travel, home and life.

A trip to nearby Victoria Falls is an absolute must.

It is every bit as spectacular as we hoped. The scale is almost impossible to comprehend. We walk from viewpoint to viewpoint, each revealing another perspective of the falls, and yet we can’t seem to stop looking.

We finish the day with a cocktail at The Lookout Café, sitting back and taking in the falls from a little further away.

Our game drives are wonderfully authentic. We see

elephants, giraffes, monkeys and an incredible variety of wildlife.

The bush is particularly wild after a very wet season, and there is nothing forced about what we see.

There are no enclosures. No animals are being tracked down for our entertainment. No line of safari vehicles rushing to watch a catch. We are simply there, watching whatever happens to be happening.

By the end of our time in Zimbabwe, I find myself thinking about that sentence again: Africa stays with you.

I think it is because both Thonga and Tsowa give you something that is increasingly difficult to find. Space, stillness, and a genuine connection to the natural world. The opportunity to be completely present, without the constant pull of everyday life.

Thonga is the ocean. Tsowa is the river. One is barefoot mornings, turquoise water and long stretches of empty beach. The other is elephants at sunrise, bumpy 4x4 tracks and sundowners on the Zambezi. One encourages us to slow down. The other encourages us to look closer.

But both give us that same wonderful feeling of ease.

The feeling of being somewhere completely removed from ordinary life, while still feeling comfortable enough to relax into it.

As we leave Tsowa, I already know these are places I would love to return to. Not simply to stay in the same room or repeat the same itinerary, but to learn more about the places we have only begun to understand and experience them differently next time.

And perhaps that is the magic of Africa. You don’t simply leave with photographs and memories. You leave with a feeling.

A little piece of Africa that we know we will carry home with us. thongabeachlodge.co.za | tsowasafariisland.co.za

A little slice of luxury Sometimes, the perfect stopover becomes part of the story. For us, Sala Beach House is just that – a beautifully considered pause between the wild remoteness of Thonga Beach Lodge and our onward journey to Zimbabwe.

Situated in Shaka’s Rock on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, around 40km from Durban Airport, it is an easy four-hour drive from Thonga and makes a wonderfully luxurious place to rest our heads before flying on. After the sandy tracks and complete seclusion of Thonga, Sala feels like a gentle return to civilisation – but with the same sense of calm.

Our suite overlooks the sea, and we spend the evening sipping cocktails as the sun sets, followed by dinner with the sound of waves crashing beyond us. The interiors are sleek and contemporary, softened by natural materials, warm neutrals and plenty of light. It is effortlessly chic without ever feeling cold.

There is time to relax by the pool, explore the Dolphin Coast or simply settle into the easy rhythm of the house. It feels like the kind of place you could happily linger for a few days, rather than simply pass through.

For us, though, it is the perfect little slice of luxury between two very different African adventures. salabeach.co.za

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Promotion

A new chapter for Rockliffe

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Promotion

A new season brings a new chapter for Rockliffe, with beautifully reimagined spaces, exciting dining and plenty to fall in love with…

There has been a quiet sense of anticipation around Rockliffe for some time now. We’ve watched the transformation unfold, followed the plans, admired the glimpses of what’s to come – and now, finally, the wait is almost over.

This September, Rockliffe enters a new chapter. And from what we’ve seen so far, it is going to be quite a chapter indeed.

Rockliffe has always been somewhere to escape to for all the right reasons – be it the food, the location, the golf, the spa, or special events. Now, following an ambitious multi-million-pound transformation, that same sense of place remains, but there is something distinctly new on the horizon.

From 1 September, the newly refurbished East Wing suites will be available to book, as well as new dining and drinking destinations, Rialto and Ro, alongside beautifully refreshed hotel and spa reception spaces.

Afternoon Tea will return to the newly reimagined Morning Room from 3 September, before the much-anticipated arrival of ATLAS James & Maria Close on 9 September.

It feels less like a refurbishment and more like a reinvention.

A new era of dining At the heart of the transformation is a significant new culinary chapter, led by Rockliffe’s Culinary Director James Close and his wife, Maria. Four new concepts will bring an entirely different rhythm to the resort, each with its own personality and purpose.

First up is Rialto, the new all-day restaurant and social heart of Rockliffe. Inspired by Italian-American hospitality, it will move effortlessly from leisurely breakfasts and relaxed lunches to aperitivo afternoons and convivial evenings, with sharing

dishes, handmade pasta and a menu designed to feel generous and welcoming.

Then there is Ro, an intimate new cocktail bar with Japanese influence, where precision, craftsmanship and a little theatre come together. Expect beautifully considered cocktails, Japanese-inspired small plates and a grown-up atmosphere that feels made for lingering over one more drink.

And for one of those wonderfully timeless Rockliffe rituals, The Morning Room will reopen for Afternoon Tea from 3 September. Traditional British favourites are being given a refined modern treatment, with Champagne and English sparkling wine alongside speciality teas, all served in a beautifully restored Grade II-listed setting.

But it is ATLAS James & Maria Close that has been generating perhaps the most excitement across the region and beyond.

Opening on 9 September, this intimate 36-cover restaurant will offer an immersive chef-guided experience inspired by James and Maria’s travels around the world. Guests begin in a dedicated Champagne and aperitif lounge before moving through a carefully curated sequence of dishes, with three open kitchen islands bringing the chefs and their craft into the centre of the experience.

For the North East, and for Rockliffe, it feels significant. This is dining designed not simply to feed you, but to take you somewhere.

award-winning spa and thermal suite – the perfect place to retreat to as autumn begins to draw in.

For golfers, meanwhile, autumn brings its own particular appeal. The Autumn Fairways stay combines an overnight stay with two rounds on Rockliffe’s championship course, spa and thermal suite access, dinner and breakfast at the new Rialto.

It is the sort of autumn escape that makes a very convincing case for putting the diary down and heading for the countryside.

Be among the first The Art of Discovery stay has been created specifically for those wanting to be among the first to experience the new Rockliffe. From 9 September, guests can stay in a newly refurbished suite, dine at ATLAS James & Maria Close, enjoy breakfast at Rialto and make use of the spa, gym, tennis and padel facilities throughout their stay.

It is an opportunity to see Rockliffe as it was always intended to be seen: refreshed, reimagined and ready for what comes next.

We’ve loved following the journey, from the first whispers of what was planned to the glimpses of the spaces and experiences taking shape. And now, with its opening in sight, we can’t wait to see it for ourselves. rockliffe.co.uk

The art of staying The transformation extends well beyond the dining room.

The newly refurbished East Wing suites have been designed around comfort, calm and a strong sense of place, creating spaces that invite you to settle in rather than simply sleep. Across the resort, the intention is clear: luxury that feels considered rather than excessive, with thoughtful details and plenty of room to breathe.

And, of course, the beauty of Rockliffe has always been that you don't necessarily have to do very much at all.

There are spaces to explore, riverside walks to wander, bikes to borrow, a Kitchen Garden to discover and tennis and padel courts for those who prefer a little more energy. Then there is the luxe-magazine.co.uk

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Gorgeous getaway

HiP HOTELS with Debrah Dhugga

Anantara Villa Padierna, Marbella – a palace of timeless elegance

Greek saunas, hydrotherapy pools and beautifully designed treatment rooms set amongst tranquil gardens. Whether enjoying a signature massage, holistic wellness ritual or simply unwinding in the peaceful surroundings, the spa perfectly embodies Anantara's philosophy of restoring both body and mind. As both a yoga teacher and wellness advocate, I found it to be an exceptional space that encourages guests to truly slow down and reconnect with themselves.

Beach club A complimentary shuttle transports guests to the resort's By The Sea Beach Club, where the Mediterranean becomes the backdrop for a wonderfully relaxed dining experience. As a lover of fresh local seafood, this was my haven for a lazy lunch. Perfectly prepared paellas and classic Andalusian dishes are served just steps from the shoreline, accompanied by amazing sea views.

Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch, sipping cocktails from a sun lounger or lingering over dinner as the sun sets across the Costa del Sol, the Beach Club offers an effortlessly elegant seaside escape that perfectly complements the grandeur of the palace itself.

Imagine waking up to rolling hills and championship golf courses, spending the morning on immaculate fairways, unwinding in one of Europe's finest Roman-inspired spas, then enjoying lunch at a beautiful beach club just minutes away. Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, Marbella is a hidden gem that has everything you could wish for.

There are luxury hotels, and then there are destinations that leave an imprint on your soul.

Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, nestled between Marbella, Benahavís and Estepona, is one of those rare places where architecture, art, wellness and beautiful hospitality all come together. Surrounded by three championship golf courses, tranquil lakes and beautifully landscaped gardens, the resort offers a true sense of escape while remaining just minutes from the glamour of Marbella and Puerto Banús.

From the moment you arrive, the hotel evokes the romance of a grand Italian palace. Classical statues, sweeping terraces and more than 1,200 pieces of artwork create an atmosphere that feels more like a private European estate than a traditional five-star resort. Every corner tells a story, inviting guests to slow down and simply absorb the beauty around them.

As someone who has spent over three decades working in luxury hospitality, I appreciate that true luxury is not defined by marble floors or designer furnishings alone. It is found in genuine service, thoughtful attention to detail and the ability to make every guest feel valued. At Anantara, this philosophy shines through. The team delivers warm, intuitive hospitality with effortless professionalism, creating an experience that feels personal rather than scripted.

The accommodation is refined, spacious and beautifully appointed, blending classic elegance with contemporary comfort. Whether overlooking the gardens, lakes or golf course, every room provides a sanctuary of calm. The award-winning Anantara Spa is equally impressive, offering one of southern Spain's 46

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most comprehensive wellness experiences, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking restoration of both body and mind.

Dining Under the guidance of Manuel Navarro Mena and his team, the food centres on fresh, seasonal Andalusian produce and authentic Mediterranean flavours. Every menu celebrates the rich flavours of Andalusia while embracing the refinement and creativity expected of a world-class luxury destination. Seasonal ingredients, locally sourced seafood, premium meats and vibrant Mediterranean produce are transformed into beautifully presented dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

From elegant fine dining to relaxed al fresco lunches overlooking the golf course or the Mediterranean, every restaurant offers its own unique atmosphere while maintaining impeccable standards of service.

The chefs demonstrate a genuine respect for local traditions, adding contemporary flair without losing the authenticity of Spanish cuisine. Every meal feels carefully considered, from freshly baked artisan breads and delicate appetisers to expertly prepared seafood, perfectly cooked Iberian meats and indulgent handcrafted desserts.

What impressed me most was not only the quality of the food, but the passion behind it. The culinary team creates memorable dining experiences that encourage guests to slow down, savour every course and appreciate the connection between exceptional food, outstanding hospitality and the beautiful surroundings.

Spa One of the true highlights of the resort is the 2,000-square-metre Anantara Spa, one of the largest and most impressive wellness sanctuaries in southern Europe. Inspired by ancient Roman baths, the spa offers a serene thermal circuit, hammam, Finnish and

Golf For golf enthusiasts, Anantara Villa Padierna is a truly exceptional destination. Home to three championship golf courses – Flamingos, Alferini and Tramores – the resort has earned a reputation as one of Spain's premier golfing retreats. Each course offers its own unique character, from challenging fairways to breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean, mountains and surrounding countryside. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or simply enjoy the beauty of the landscape, the immaculate courses and outstanding practice facilities provide an unforgettable experience, perfectly complementing the resort's world-class hospitality and wellness offering.

Key info The resort is located in the prestigious Los Flamingos Golf Resort, between Marbella, Estepona, and Benahavís, approximately: 15 minutes from Puerto Banús 20 minutes from Marbella Old Town 50 minutes from Málaga Airport anantara.com/en/villa-padierna-marbella

Bow wow

Posh PETS with Rupert

Falling into autumn with fur-friendly fashion, diary dates and new friends Sweater weather Autumn is here. From cosy knitwear for crisp morning walks to a little canine socialising at one of our favourite dog-friendly destinations, we’re getting ready for the season ahead.

In this issue, Rupert meets Claude, a seven-monthold Miniature Dachshund with a very big personality, to find out about his favourite walks and puppy pampering rituals. We’re also heading to Raby Castle

for Bark in the Park – because our furry friends like plans in the diary too – before wrapping up in the cosiest knitwear for those cooler days ahead.

So, whether your pooch is a country rambler, a coffee-shop connoisseur or simply happiest curled up in a luxurious bed, there’s plenty here to keep tails wagging.

Autumn walks, cosy knits and a little bit of puppy pampering… sounds like the perfect season to us.

Rupert, your Luxe pooch x

♥Rupert loves

Cosy knits for canines...

Over Glam Mono Square Thin Knitwear - Cats & Dogs, £49.90, everytail.co.uk Barbour Saltburn Dog Jumper, Olive Small, £29.95, fenwick.co.uk

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Bark in the Park

27 september Because our furry friends like plans in the diary too, you know. If your pup’s social calendar is looking a little light, may we suggest a date at one of our favourite dog-friendly destinations? Raby Castle’s Bark in the Park returns this September, promising a tail-wagging day out for four-legged friends and their humans in the beautiful surroundings of the castle’s Deer Park.

Taking place on Sunday 27 September, this is one for dogs who like to keep active, socialise and, naturally, be admired. Expect impressive agility demonstrations

Q&A Claude is a 7-month-old Miniature Dachshund. Small dog. Big personality.

Goofy, curious and always on the move, he has become a familiar face around Durham. Usually found trotting into coffee shops, charming strangers or snoozing in his dog bag while mum and dad enjoy a cocktail.

Luxe walks You’ll usually find me exploring Durham, strolling along the river or visiting my Granny and Grandpa on the farm. Give me plenty to sniff and a coffee stop for Mum and Dad, and I’m in my element.

Pooch’s perfect day out I do love a lie-in, so don’t wake me too early.

Breakfast is non-negotiable – if it’s late, you’ll find me patiently waiting by my bowl with my best puppy dog eyes. Once I’ve refuelled, it’s back to bed for a power nap before heading out with Mum and Dad for a coffee run and a stroll.

A pup cup is, of course, essential. Then it’s home for cuddles, a quick zoomie around the kitchen, the destruction of a toy or two, a lavish dinner and an early night.

LISH London Smithy Sage & Mint Green Stripe Polo Neck Dog Sweater, £75, lishlondon.com

The Stylish Dog Co. Lambswool Dog Jumper ASPEN, Snowflake, £40, thestylishdogcompany.com

Luxe pet

Wag & Wool Checkerboard Merino Wool Jumper - Burgundy, £77, ruffretreat.co.uk

as professional pups dash, jump and weave their way through challenging courses, alongside interactive ‘Have-a-Go’ sessions where you and your own canine companion can pick up tips and tricks from dog training experts. Think of it as a little continuing professional development for your pooch.

There will also be a handpicked selection of traders to browse, offering everything from gourmet dog treats and stylish leads to toys and rugged outdoor kit — because every well-dressed dog needs the right accessories for the season. And, naturally, there’s the Fun Dog Show, with wonderfully tongue-in-cheek categories including Coolest Canine and Most Like Their Owner.

Best of all, tickets include entry to Raby’s Deer Park and Gardens, so once the formalities are over, you can enjoy a leisurely autumnal stroll together, taking in the castle views and letting your four-legged friend properly stretch their legs.

For those who believe a dog day out deserves a dog-friendly stay, Raby suggests making a weekend of it at the charming High Force Hotel, just a 30-minute drive from the estate. Because, really, one day of luxury is never quite enough. raby.co.uk

Doggy downtime Easy. I need at least three naps a day, whether that’s curled up on a lap or tucked away in one of my many beds. If I’m not asleep, you’ll usually find me stretched out in a sunny spot, soaking up every last bit of sunshine.

Hound habits Sniffing absolutely everything, a quick bark at anything that catches me off guard, claiming ownership of stray socks from the laundry basket, and shredding any piece of cardboard that crosses my path.

Puppy pamper A warm bath, a good brush, my teeth cleaned and ears checked, finished off with a little paw balm. If I sit patiently through it all, I’m rewarded with a frozen blueberry or two – which makes the whole experience worthwhile.

Dog’s best friend Mum & Dad. I’m happiest when ‘the pack’ are together!

Fondest doggy memory My first trip to the beach with my old friend April.

Lots of digging and endless zoomies.

Puppy a-lister Stanley Tucci – small in stature, big on good food, great company and life’s little luxuries.

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Nearly wed

Wedding edit 2. Have a rough guest list. You don’t need exact numbers yet, but knowing whether you’re inviting 60 people or 160 will instantly rule some venues in or out.

3. Think about the budget. Wedding costs vary enormously, so decide what feels comfortable for you and use it to narrow down your options.

4. Think about location and how far you’d be willing to travel. The North East is a big place. For us, around an hour felt right.

5. Ask every question. What’s included? Can you bring in your own suppliers? Is there accommodation? Is it dog-friendly? What time does the bar close?

Nothing is too trivial when you’re choosing where to spend one of the biggest days of your life.

6. Visit your favourites twice. This was one of the best things we did. Because we’re getting married in November, we knew much of our day would take place after dark. We revisited our final venues in the evening to make sure they still had that all-important wow factor once the sun went down.

And finally, enjoy it! Book the tours, explore the venues and make a day of it.

You only plan to do this once, make the most of it.

The diary of a bride to be with Nicole Wood

From finding the perfect venue to planning the dream honeymoon and everything in between, Luxe’s very own bride-to-be shares her top tips and journey to ‘I do’ as she plans her November 2027 wedding…

When I first started writing for Luxe in 2019, never for one second did I think I’d be writing a dedicated page with my own wedding plans seven years later. But here we are!

On a trip to San Francisco in March 2025, my partner got down on one knee at sunset on Baker Beach, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, and I officially entered my bridal era.

What I wasn’t prepared for was how quickly the ‘Have you set a date?’ questions would start. Somewhere between San Francisco and Las Vegas, we were still happily living in our engagement bubble and hadn’t given the actual wedding much thought.

That changed fairly quickly once we got home. Little Miss Organised emerged and, before long, I’d booked tours of what felt like every wedding venue in the North East.

But choosing a date and finding the perfect venue was much harder than I expected. As an overthinker with fairytale expectations and absolutely no idea where to begin, I could have done with a friendly guide to help narrow things down.

So, with that in mind, join me as we count down to November 2027, sharing everything we learn along the way…

Nicole x 48

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Setting the date I was never one of those girls who grew up knowing she wanted a June wedding. But for us, settling on a time of year came quite naturally.

We quickly ruled out getting married abroad.

As gorgeous as destination weddings are, neither of us could cope with being suited and booted in the heat. That led us towards winter and, eventually, November.

We got together at the end of November 2014, so it already feels like a special time of year for us.

Plus, in our house, Christmas starts on 1 November.

A cosy winter wedding surrounded by candles, fairy lights and a little festive magic suddenly made perfect sense.

If you’re struggling to set a date, start with a few simple questions: 1. Is there a special date or anniversary that means something to you both? This could be a natural starting point.

2. Which season feels most like you? Think summer sunshine, autumn colour, crisp winter evenings, spring flowers or even a full-blown Halloween or New Year’s Eve celebration.

3. Would you consider a mid-week wedding?

4. Check major sporting events, festivals, school holidays, birthdays and anything else your guests – or you – wouldn’t want to miss. For us, avoiding a Euros or World Cup year was essential!

Finding the venue When we started looking at venues, we weren’t entirely sure what we wanted. What we did know was that we wanted the celebrations to last longer than one day, with accommodation on site for family travelling from further afield.

The more venues we visited, the clearer our priorities became.

If you’re starting your own search, here’s what helped us: 1. Work out your style. Rustic barn, stately home or grand ballroom? If you’re unsure, view a mix! Seeing spaces in person quickly teaches you what you do and don’t love.

Our dream venue We viewed some beautiful venues, but each time there was something that stopped us from feeling completely sure.

Then we reached the final venue on our list: Doxford Barns.

Tucked away in the Northumberland countryside, it had everything we’d been picturing for a cosy winter wedding – exposed brick, twinkling lights, candlelight, roaring fires and a gorgeous courtyard.

The Threshing Hall instantly felt like our ceremony space, while the Great Barn gives us plenty of room for our two big families to celebrate. One of the best parts? The Coop is perfect for a night-before sleepover with the girls. Add in the on-site accommodation and the chance to make a proper weekend of it, and it ticked every box.

Most importantly, we could picture our wedding there.

After weeks of venue tours and endless conversations beginning with ‘Yeah, but…’, there finally wasn’t a but.

We’d found it.

So, the date is in the diary and the venue is officially ticked off the list. Now comes everything else that turns a wedding from an idea into the big day.

More on that next time…

Wedding world

Love notes What’s new, noteworthy and worth knowing in the world of weddings…

Wynyard Hall

Love is in the air this October as Wynyard Hall opens its doors to couples looking to say ‘I do’ to their perfect wedding venue

to enjoy a full wedding experience – all in one unforgettable location.

With the venue fully styled and dressed for the occasion, this is your chance to experience Wynyard Hall as your guests would, with every detail designed to help you picture your special day.

Unlike a traditional wedding fair, the focus is on giving couples the time and space to explore, ask questions and connect with Wynyard Hall’s expert wedding team. A handpicked selection of trusted suppliers will also be there to offer ideas and inspiration in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Wynyard Hall remains a favourite for couples seeking elegance, heritage and unforgettable photo opportunities. The open evenings offer a rare chance to experience the venue exactly as it would look on your wedding day, helping to bring ideas to life and spark new inspiration.

The events are free to attend, with no tickets required, but guests are encouraged to register their interest by emailing: marketing.manager@wynyardhall.co.uk. wynyardhall.co.uk

Taking place on Wednesday 21 October from 5pm to 8pm, the Wedding Open Evening gives couples the chance to explore the venue, meet the team and start picturing what their big day might look like at Wynyard Hall.

Set within a private 400-acre estate, Wynyard Hall is an elegant 18th-century country house surrounded by landscaped gardens, a serene lake and an enchanting rose garden. With a choice of stunning spaces for ceremonies and receptions – from the venue’s 12th-century chapel to its breathtaking State Rooms – it offers everything needed for both grand and intimate celebrations.

For those travelling from further afield, there's plenty of on-site accommodation, with elegant bedrooms, suites and cottages offering the chance

The Doxford Group

Set among the rolling Northumberland countryside, The Doxford Group is home to two of the region’s most distinctive wedding venues: Charlton Hall and Doxford Barns. Each offers its own unique character and sense of place, alongside the privacy and intimacy of an exclusive-use celebration.

For couples seeking a wedding that feels entirely their own, both venues provide a beautifully considered backdrop for every chapter of the day. From the first

glass of fizz at your viewing to the final dance of the evening, an experienced and passionate team is on hand to ensure every detail is effortlessly delivered.

At Charlton Hall, contemporary grandeur meets Georgian country-house romance. Bold interiors, elegant entertaining spaces and luxurious accommodation create a setting that feels both sophisticated and wonderfully individual. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and Northumberland countryside, it is a venue designed for celebrations that continue long into the night, with everything needed for an unforgettable wedding weekend in one beautifully private setting.

For something more country-inspired, Doxford Barns captures the romance of a countryside wedding.

Timeless rural architecture, elegant barn spaces and beautifully landscaped grounds provide a relaxed yet atmospheric setting, where natural beauty takes centre stage. It is a place for candlelit dinners, champagne receptions, outdoor photographs and celebrations filled with warmth and character.

With exclusive use, couples and their guests can settle into the rhythm of the celebration without distraction, enjoying the freedom to make the space their own and create a day that feels personal from beginning to end.

From intimate gatherings to spectacular celebrations, The Doxford Group offers the rare combination of beautiful surroundings, exceptional hospitality and privacy, all within the heart of Northumberland. doxfordbarns.com | charltonhall.co.uk

Brinkburn Northumberland

Brinkburn Northumberland has unveiled In Nature, a newly licensed outdoor ceremony setting that allows couples to exchange vows beneath some of Britain’s most impressive woodland trees, surrounded by the tranquillity of the River Coquet valley.

Located within the historic Brinkburn estate, In Nature offers an alternative to traditional ceremony spaces, placing the landscape itself at the very heart of the wedding experience.

Framed by mature red cedars, Douglas firs and giant sequoias, the ceremony space sits within ancient woodland, where birdsong, flowing water and changing light replace the formality of a conventional venue.

The launch reflects a growing demand from couples seeking weddings that feel more personal, immersive and closely connected to nature.

The woodland ceremony setting sits within one of Northumberland’s most remarkable historic landscapes. Beneath the sandstone cliffs sketched

by J.M.W. Turner, and overlooked by Brinkburn Priory and the Manor House, couples can exchange vows in a place shaped by almost a thousand years of history. Rather than creating a theatrical backdrop, the estate allows the landscape itself to become part of each celebration.

That philosophy extends well beyond the ceremony.

Brinkburn specialises in long-weekend weddings, encouraging couples and their guests to experience the estate at a slower pace. Rather than arriving for a single day, guests can settle in from Friday through to Monday, with time to celebrate, reconnect and enjoy the surrounding woodland, river and historic buildings without feeling hurried.

Accommodation for up to 22 guests is provided across five restored stone cottages, allowing close family and friends to remain together throughout the weekend. The estate’s Yoga Loft offers a peaceful space before or after the celebrations, while bespoke dining experiences are created by Michelin-trained chef Tom Rookes of The Elder Tree, whose seasonal menus form an integral part of each wedding.

Brinkburn intentionally hosts only a limited number of Specialist Weddings each year. Designed for intimate celebrations of approximately 22–52 guests, with up to 80 in the evening, each wedding receives exclusive use of the estate and is shaped around the couple rather than a standard package.

The launch of In Nature further strengthens Brinkburn’s reputation for weddings defined not by spectacle, but by authenticity, landscape and time.

Brinkburn will showcase In Nature during its Wedding Open Days on 31 October, 1 November, and 4, 5 and 6 December, when couples can explore the woodland ceremony setting alongside the estate’s accommodation, reception spaces and gardens.

For bookings and enquiries, contact love@brinkburnnorthumberland.com or visit brinkburnnorthumberland.com luxe-magazine.co.uk

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Real wedding

Wedding edit REAL WEDDING

It was always you Childhood sweethearts Millie Agnew and Will Muir brought their favourite people together for a sun-soaked, laughter-filled celebration in the Algarve The couple…

Millie, 29, and Will, 30, may now call Bath home, but their story began many years earlier, back on Will’s family farm near Whitby.

The childhood sweethearts first met when they were young, their families already friends, and grew up alongside one another through their school years.

Their lives have since taken them on plenty of adventures, with Millie now working in marketing for Yeo Valley Organic and Will playing professional rugby for Bath, but theirs is a love story with wonderfully deep roots.

Perhaps that is what made their wedding in Portugal feel so incredibly special. This wasn't just a gathering of guests; it was a coming together of so many chapters of their lives. Childhood and school friends, university and work friends, rugby friends and family travelled to the Algarve to celebrate two people they have known and loved through the years. And, over one glorious weekend of sunshine, spritzes, wine and dancing, every group blended seamlessly together.

The proposal…

Will dropped down on one knee at THE PIG at Combe in January 2025, during a cosy countryside escape to start the new year.

On a crisp winter morning, with blue skies overhead and frost covering the grass, he proposed on a huge wooden swing. Romantic, intimate and perfectly understated, it was the beginning of a very exciting year of planning.

The couple wasted little time in choosing where they wanted to say I do. Portugal had long held a special place in their hearts; Millie's family have a home there, and is somewhere Millie and Will have holidayed together for years. A destination wedding in the Algarve, surrounded by their closest family and friends, felt like the perfect fit.

And, with another celebration still to come at Will's family farm, there’s plenty of partying on the horizon.

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The venue…

Their chosen setting was Quinta dos Santos, a breathtaking vineyard nestled between the picturesque Algarve villages of Carvoeiro and Ferragudo.

With its rows of vines, crisp white walls, beautiful curves and unmistakable Portuguese charm, it’s the kind of venue where every corner feels made for a photograph. Elegant but relaxed, stylish without feeling overly formal, it was the perfect backdrop for the couple's vision: a wedding that felt special and spectacular, but above all, joyful.

The celebrations began well before the wedding itself, with a Friday evening welcome party at The Lighthouse, a rooftop bar in Carvoeiro. Sangria flowed, pizzas were shared, a magician entertained guests and friends gathered from every stage of Millie and Will's lives.

The party continued on Sunday with a beach day at Club Nau in Ferragudo, where guests danced to live music with their feet in the sand, tucked into sushi and soaked up one final afternoon of Portuguese sunshine.

The bride wore…

Millie looked breathtakingly beautiful in the Tamara gown by Sassi Holford, paired with a couture veil.

The elegant high neckline, exquisite lace and long cuffs, finished with gathered detailing and bows, gave the gown a timeless feel, while the incredible veil brought all the drama.

Her bridesmaids brought another layer of colour and personality to the day in gorgeous floral dresses from Reformation.

The groom wore…

Will and his groomsmen looked smart in stone suits from Charles Tyrwhitt. Dapper, relaxed and perfectly suited to the Algarve sunshine, the soft neutral tones worked beautifully alongside the vineyard setting.

Perhaps that is what made their wedding in Portugal so incredibly special. This wasn’t just a gathering of guests; it was a coming together of so many chapters of their lives

Real wedding

Wedding edit

The food…

The menu was a celebration in itself, beginning with burrata, followed by fillet steak. Then came dessert – although not quite in the traditional sit-down sense.

Knowing their guests were more than ready to get to the dancefloor, Millie and Will opted for mini pastel de natas, quince cheesecake and brownie bites served in canapé style after dinner.

Special details…

The day was filled with beautiful details, all carefully chosen to bring Millie and Will's personality into the celebration.

The florals, created by BLOMMA, were elegant and romantic, with soft pinks, greens and whites complementing the vineyard setting perfectly.

The stationery was created by the couple's friend and wedding guest, Liv of Flower & Tassel Stationery, adding an especially personal touch. With colourful illustrations and playful details bringing stylish pops of colour and fun to the tables.

Behind the scenes, LS Filmmaker was there to capture the day in motion, preserving all those moments like the dancing, the hugs, the speeches and the glorious energy of a wedding where absolutely everyone was having the time of their lives.

Keisha from The Captured Edit was there to document the celebrations as content creator, quickly becoming part of the fun herself. Like having a friend by their side with a phone camera, she captured the candid, spontaneous moments that made the weekend so special.

The honeymoon…

After the wedding, Millie and Will enjoyed a little more time celebrating with loved ones before checking into Tivoli Carvoeiro for some much-needed relaxation.

It was a brief chance to slow down after a whirlwind weekend before reality called and Will headed to France for pre-season training.

In early 2027, they hope to enjoy their honeymoon with a trip to South Africa.

The photographer…

Catarina captured Millie and Will's wedding exactly as they wanted to remember it: full of love, laughter, sunshine and the people closest to them having an absolutely brilliant time. Her images beautifully balance the spectacular setting and elegant details with the candid moments that tell the real story of the day. catarinadinizphotography.com luxe-magazine.co.uk

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I do venues

Wedding edit

Three venues - one stunning day

Bowburn Hall Hotel

Once you’re ready to set the date there’s so many important decisions to be made – and none more so than picking the perfect venue...

It’s the backdrop for your special memories, a place where your family and friends will join you to celebrate and share your happiness.

So what boxes do you need to tick?

A unique setting? Definitely.

A variety of spaces able to cater for an intimate gathering or a cast of hundreds? Absolutely.

An experienced team known for their attention to detail who will ensure your wedding day is seamless and beyond your wildest expectations? It goes without saying.

If these are your requirements, then there is nowhere better than the hotels that are part of Ramside Estate – three exquisite and special venues which will ensure your happy ever after.

Flagship property Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa are the experts when it comes to weddings, with stunning function rooms which can cater for gatherings of all sizes. Its stunning grounds are perfect for those all-important photos and because of

the hotel’s additional facilities – such as its awardwinning spa and new attraction, The Pin – there’s plenty on offer to make your wedding memorable.

If you’re all about breathtaking backdrops, the stunning lake which sits beside Hardwick Hall Hotel is the perfect fit – and just one of the many benefits of saying “I do” at this grand country house. Like its sister hotel, it has multiple function rooms – all equally striking – so you can tailor your special day to suit your requirements.

Last but certainly not least is Bowburn Hall Hotel, also in Durham, which is available for exclusive use.

Its stunning gardens are in great demand for outdoor ceremonies and each couple have their wedding tailored to their specific requirements – so no two events are every the same.

Three amazing locations – one incredible brand.

Find out ore about Ramside Estates at ramsidehallhotel.co.uk | hardwickhallhotel.co.uk bowburnhallhotel.co.uk

Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

Hardwick Hall Hotel

Photography By DJM Photography

Not just a wedding.

An Experience.

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Discover your dream wedding at Ramside Hall, Durham DH1 1TD luxe-magazine.co.uk

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I do venues

@Ross_from_lux

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

make magic AT

Photography by Paul Flannigan

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Real wedding

Wedding edit Harry and Scarlett’s big day brought together family, friends and plenty of personal touches for a wedding that was every bit as meaningful as it was beautiful

REAL WEDDING

Close to home From a sunset proposal in Dubai to a beautifully personal celebration in Gosforth and the gardens of Close House mansion, Harry and Scarlett Young’s August wedding was filled with family, sentiment and unforgettable details The couple…

Harry Young, 29, Regional Valuer at Sanderson Young, and Scarlett Young, 28, Customer Success Leader. They tied the knot on 1 August 2026, bringing together family, friends and plenty of personal touches for a wedding that was every bit as meaningful as it was beautiful.

The proposal…

The couple travelled to Dubai in June 2025, one of their favourite holiday destinations, where Harry 54

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proposed on the beach as the sun was setting.

The proposal took place at one of their favourite restaurants, making an already special trip even more memorable.

The venue…

They tied the knot at All Saints Church in Gosforth, a particularly sentimental location for Harry and his family. His parents, Duncan and Alison, were married there in 1981, while Harry himself was christened at the church in 1997.

Their wedding reception was held in the gardens of Scarlett’s stepdad Graham’s property, Close House mansion. It is a place where Scarlett spends a lot of time with Graham, her mum Jo and their big blended family, making it an incredibly special setting for the celebrations. The wider Close House team also played an important role in preparing the grounds and ensuring everything looked beautiful in time for the big day.

The bride wore…

Scarlett’s wedding gown was by Jane Hill, paired with a Kyha overskirt and Marrime veil. All three pieces were purchased from the Jesmond boutique Marrime.

She completed the look with Prada shoes and a Gucci bag, while her bridesmaids wore Pretty Lavish.

The groom wore…

Harry opted for a classic black Oscar Jacobson tuxedo suit, with a Wilvorst white dinner jacket, Prada cufflinks and Loake shoes. The groomsmen wore Torre Uomo, with all of the suits purchased from Palmers Menswear in Jesmond.

The cake…

The wedding cake was created by Durham-based

Sherbert Moon. The couple wanted something simple and understated, with minimal detailing and their initials incorporated into the design, echoing the look of their wedding stationery, from the invitations through to the items used on the day.

The cake table was surrounded by beautiful flowers, although the couple had so much fun on the wedding day that they decided to leave the cake cutting until day two instead.

Special details…

A talented team of local suppliers helped bring the couple’s vision to life. Evening entertainment came from The Rockets Collective, who were a huge hit with the couple and their guests.

Wedding planner Michelle Jones was instrumental in making the day possible, while Wild and Wonderful created the beautiful florals. Boldon Farmhouse Pantry took care of the catering, Tyne Digital captured the day on film and Original Marquees provided the marquee. Scarlett and her bridal party’s hair was created by Sassine Jesmond.

The honeymoon…

Straight after the wedding, the couple headed to Corfu for a mini-moon – a particularly special destination for the Young family. Their main honeymoon is still to come – a trip to the Seychelles with a sentimental stay in Dubai on the way home.

The photographer…

Katy Melling Photography captured the couple’s wedding day. For Harry and Scarlett, having Katy there was an important part of preserving the memories, and they say they can never thank her enough for capturing their day so perfectly. katymelling.com

Wedding edit

Weddings at Wynyard Hall.

Some places simply feel like they were made for love.

Beyond the sweeping tree lined driveway and beneath the grandeur of Wynyard Hall, every wedding begins with a little magic. The kind found in stolen glances beneath ancient trees, champagne toasts as the sun dips over the terrace, and dance floors that stay full long after the stars appear.

Whether you're dreaming of an intimate celebration or a spectacular affair, Wynyard Hall provides a beautiful backdrop where every detail feels effortless, every moment feels unforgettable, and every love story finds its perfect beginning.

From elegant ceremonies to unforgettable celebrations, our dedicated team will bring your vision to life with warmth, care and exceptional attention to detail, allowing you to simply savour every second.

Because some moments deserve more than a venue.

They deserve a place you'll return to in your memories for the rest of your life.

Every love story begins with a single visit. Book your private viewing with our Wedding Team today and begin your forever, at Wynyard Hall. www.wynyardhall.co.uk/weddings

SAY ‘I DO’ WITH THE DOXFORD GROUP DISCOVER TWO EXTRAORDINARY COUNTRYSIDE WEDDING VENUES Nestled in the heart of Northumberland, The Doxford Group is home to two distinctive luxury wedding venues, Charlton Hall and Doxford Barns, both offering an unforgettable exclusive-use experience.

From stylish celebrations at Charlton Hall, with its bold interiors and luxurious accommodation, to romantic countryside weddings at Doxford Barns, with its timeless charm and beautiful grounds, every wedding is thoughtfully tailored to you.

With an experienced team on hand from first viewing to final dance, your day is in expert hands.

Weddings at The Doxford Group start from £5,995.

Discover the venue that's right for you by booking a one-to-one private viewing. www.charltonhall.co.uk | 01665 579173 | doxfordbarns.com

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Quiet moments

Wedding edit

Sound & stillness For brides seeking something beyond the traditional hen do, Dewi Ratna’s immersive sound healing experiences offer a beautiful way to pause, breathe and reconnect before saying ‘I do’

There is something rather beautiful about giving yourself permission to pause. Especially before a wedding, when life can suddenly become a whirlwind of lists, fittings, appointments, decisions and celebrations. Amid all the excitement, it can be easy to forget to simply stop and take it all in.

For Dewi Ratna, founder of Merasa Damai Wellness and a qualified Sound Healing Practitioner, that feeling of stillness is not just part of what she offers; it is the very foundation on which her business was built. In fact, the clue is in the name. Merasa Damai is an Indonesian phrase meaning ‘to feel peace’ – a phrase Dewi chose without realising quite how perfectly it would come to embody everything she wanted to create.

“I wanted to create spaces where people could pause from the pace of everyday life, reconnect with themselves and leave feeling a little lighter than when they arrived,” she says.

Originally from Indonesia, Dewi has lived in the UK for more than 20 years and spent over two decades working across luxury hospitality and retail, including nine years with Christian Dior. It was a world she loved, surrounded by beautiful things and the high standards that come with luxury, but over time she began to recognise that there was another kind of luxury she was craving.

“After a little while, I just wanted to follow my heart and do something that really felt like me.”

That instinct to slow down was not something entirely new. Dewi grew up in a spiritual family in Indonesia, where meditation and a sense of spirituality were simply part of everyday life.

“It’s not something I learned; I was born within that environment,” she explains.

Moving to the UK and building a successful career inevitably brought a faster pace of life, but meditation 56

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remained something Dewi practised privately.

Gradually, what had always been a personal form of grounding began to evolve into something she wanted to share with others.

Merasa Damai Wellness was born from the belief that true luxury isn't necessarily about beautiful surroundings – although there are plenty of those involved – but about how a space makes you feel.

Today, Dewi creates a series of seasonal Sound & Soul Gatherings throughout the year, inspired by the rhythm of each season.

Jesmond Dene House has become one of her favourite settings, although the Merasa Damai experience is deliberately not tied to one particular studio or location.

The sessions begin with breathwork before moving into immersive sound healing and meditation, with gentle yoga and creative workshops often woven into the experience. It might be a beauty workshop, a flower-arranging session or something entirely different. The idea is that each gathering feels like its own little world.

For those wanting to make sound healing part of their everyday wellbeing, Dewi also hosts regular sound healing evenings every other Thursday at Gosforth Civic Theatre. And then there is her private studio in Wideopen, Newcastle, where the experience becomes even more personal.

“I grow my own vegetables at home, so people can come to our home studio, pick their own vegetables, and I cook them lunch right in front of them after the sound healing,” she says.

“Then they can choose a workshop, whether making a flower arrangement or making bath salts.”

It feels less like attending a conventional wellness appointment and more like being welcomed into somebody’s home – which is exactly the point.

That personalised service, paired with the philosophy of slowing down, has found a beautiful place within the wedding world, with Dewi now creating intimate sound healing experiences for brides and their closest people.

The idea came about after a woman who had attended one of Dewi’s very first gatherings told her she was getting married and wanted to do something different for her hen celebration. She didn't want the traditional combination of drinking and partying; instead, she wanted to come back to herself before the big day.

The bride wanted to incorporate sound healing and meditation into the day before her wedding. Dewi put together a private bridal experience for her and four guests, complete with goody bags and all the little details needed to make the experience feel special.

It is easy to understand why the concept has resonated. Weddings are full of anticipation, but they can also be surprisingly emotional. There are months of planning, family dynamics, financial decisions, endless conversations and, of course, the pressure that comes with wanting everything to be just right.

Dewi’s bridal sessions offer something completely different: not another activity to squeeze into an already busy schedule, but a deliberate moment to step outside it.

“Wedding planning is often joyful, but it can also be emotional, overwhelming and incredibly busy,” she says.

“I wanted to offer brides something that isn't another item on the checklist, but rather an opportunity to pause before one of the biggest moments of their lives.”

The sessions can be enjoyed by the bride alone, with a partner, or with mothers, sisters and bridesmaids.

It is about creating a little pocket of calm with the people who matter most.

“Through gentle sound healing and guided relaxation, everyone has the opportunity to slow their nervous system, release tension and simply be present together,” says Dewi.

She has seen first-hand the difference those moments can make.

“I’ve watched brides arrive carrying months of planning and leave looking noticeably lighter,” she says.

“Families often tell me that, amongst all the celebrations, this became one of the moments they treasured most because it gave them uninterrupted time together before the wedding day.”

So, what exactly happens when you lie down for a sound healing session? For anyone who has never experienced it, Dewi describes it as a sound journey rather than a musical performance.

Quiet moments

Wedding edit

“Sound healing as a practice goes back to ancient times,” she explains.

“It’s not music; we use frequency instruments.”

Crystal bowls, chimes, gongs, ocean drums and Canary bells – made from dried Canary seeds and said to sound almost like running water – are among the instruments Dewi uses. Guests lie down comfortably, eyes covered with an eye pad, and allow the sounds to wash over them.

“At first, you try to switch your mind off,” she says.

“Then your body starts to feel different sensations.

Most people feel a tickly feeling or a shift in their body. Then, as people drift into a sleeping mode, they zone out and memories might surface that they haven't thought of in years.”

And there is absolutely no need to worry about whether you are doing it ‘right’. In fact, Dewi is quick to reassure clients that falling asleep is perfectly normal.

“We always tell our clients that if you snore, that is completely fine!” she laughs.

“Because your body is so relaxed and switched off, you achieve complete relaxation.”

The response can be different for everyone.

Some people experience a deep sense of calm; others may become emotional or find memories coming to the surface.

“Everybody's journey is different,” she says.

But perhaps the most important message Dewi wants to share is that you don't have to be stressed, overwhelmed or struggling to benefit from sound healing.

“You don't have to have a problem to do sound healing. You can be healthy, balanced and highperforming, and use it to maintain your wellbeing.”

It is a philosophy that feels particularly relevant in the wedding world. There can be a tendency to treat wellness as something you turn to when you are exhausted, but perhaps it is even more valuable when everything is going well – a way of protecting that sense of balance rather than waiting until it disappears.

Dewi’s own journey into sound healing was shaped by a deeply personal experience. In 2023, she was planning to attend a sound healing retreat in Bali when she received the news that her mother in Indonesia was extremely unwell. She flew home, fearing it might be the last time they would see her.

Her mother was struggling to eat, digest food and walk more than a few steps.

“We took her with us to the retreat Bali and did the sound healing session with her,” Dewi recalls.

“After the sound healing, the very first thing she said when she woke up was, ‘I'm hungry!’ We were all in shock. Then she asked, ‘Can you take me for a walk on the beach, please?’ And she took her shoes off and walked on the sand.”

Each wedding begins with a conversation.

The experience left Dewi overwhelmed with emotion.

“I was crying,” she says.

“I said to my partner, ‘If it works for my mum, this can work for other people, too.’ That was the lightbulb moment before I officially started Merasa Damai Sound Healing in 2023.

“At its heart, Merasa Damai has never been about fixing people,” she says.

“It’s about creating a space where people feel safe enough to pause, breathe and reconnect with themselves.”

And perhaps, before the dress, the flowers, the champagne and the dancing, that is exactly what a bride needs. A little stillness. A deep breath. Time with the people she loves. And a moment to remember that, underneath all the planning and anticipation, there is simply something wonderful about being here, together, before everything begins. merasadamai.com

Our role is not to fit your celebration into a package, but to understand what matters most to you and create a wedding that feels entirely your own.

Brinkburn hosts just 20 Limited Edition Specialist Weddings each year, giving every couple the time, care and attention their celebration deserves. Each wedding unfolds across a long weekend, allowing family and friends to arrive, settle in and celebrate without feeling rushed.

For 22 to 52 guests, with up to 80 in the evening, every celebration is shaped around the people, place and season. From wild swimming and sunset yoga to forest walks, sound baths and fire-pit gatherings, your wedding can be as individual as you are.

Choose from four distinctive settings: Brinkburn Priory, Brinkburn Manor House, The Barn at Brinkburn or In Nature at Brinkburn.

With on-site accommodation for up to 22 guests, additional local partner accommodation and food prepared by Michelin Star-trained chef Tom Rookes, every detail is thoughtfully considered.

For a thousand years, Brinkburn has been a place to gather and mark life’s most meaningful moments. Today, that tradition continues.

01665 570870 love@brinkburnnorthumberland.com www.brinkburnnorthumberland.com

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Looking ahead

Green DAYS

with Gareth Mitchell, Founder and Lead Designer at Geko Design The winter blueprint: why autumn is the true season of garden transformation

As the warmth of late summer slips into the crisp mornings of autumn, the conventional horticultural narrative urges us to look to the garden with a sense of closure. We are told to sweep up the leaves, cover the tender perennials, drain the hosepipes, and bid farewell to our outdoor sanctuaries until spring.

But at Geko Design, we challenge this philosophy of winter hibernation. For a luxury home, your garden does not end at the back door. It is a seamless, beautiful, and essential extension of your lifestyle – and winter is not a time of retreat, but the most crucial chapter of its creation.

Over the past three issues of Luxe, we have explored a fundamental truth of modern landscape design: most people are living in a stranger’s garden.

When we move into a new property, we instinctively re-design the interior. We would never tolerate a badly designed kitchen where we constantly bang our heads on an awkward cupboard when opening the oven, yet we accept the external spaces exactly as we find them. We inherit a poorly positioned patio, a barbecue tucked into a dark, damp corner, or a rectangular lawn left by developers, and we spend years trying to force our lives to fit their flawed configurations.

A truly great garden is not just a beautiful collection of plants; it is a choreographed experience of space, light, and texture designed to enhance the way you actually live, relax, and entertain. Winter provides the perfect quiet intermission to stand at your window, look out at the damp, bare soil, and ask yourself a simple, liberating question: who’s dream are you currently living in?

When we sit down with clients, the first meeting is not about paving or plants; it is a deep dive into their daily routines and domestic passions. We focus on uncovering what we call your 'non-negotiables’.

These are the highly personal features required to 58

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support how you actually intend to live, relax, and entertain. We screw down on the absolute details, mapping your lifestyle onto the bare soil of your plot: • The culinary theatre: If outdoor hosting is your passion, a simple barbecue isn't enough. We specify dedicated outdoor kitchens equipped with integrated stone-clad pizza ovens, charcoal Kamado ovens (like the Big Green Egg), and integrated outdoor fridges so you never have to break the social flow to fetch a cold drink.

• Year-round wellness: A hot tub should not sit exposed in the middle of a lawn, cold and uninviting in December. We zone relaxation areas close to the house, protected by timber verandas or architectural pergolas, ensuring your sanctuary is private, warm, and usable 365 days a year.

• Routines, kids, and silly dogs: A functional garden respects every family member. We design secured, sensory play zones for children and structurally dedicated pathways or lawn boundaries for what one of our client briefs delightfully termed 'silly dogs that need routine' – preventing muddy paws from ruining pristine outdoor tiles.

• Chasing the sunlight: We map the solar path across your garden to establish multiple seating zones. An eastern terrace for morning coffee, a sheltered midday arbor, and an expansive western deck positioned perfectly to capture the final rays of sunset over a glass of wine.

Standard winter prep involves clearing leaf litter and protecting frost-sensitive tree ferns. But a professional, landscape-led approach is forensic.

The wet, harsh months of autumn and winter are when your garden's technical secrets are laid bare.

It is the only season where we can accurately read the soil, observe how water drains, and identify the 'dead zones' where poor soil structure compromises life.

We are living through a documented climate and

biodiversity emergency. Projections from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and the Landscape Institute reveal a stark future of increasingly volatile weather: hotter, drier summers paired with significantly wetter winters characterised by short-duration, heavy downpours. To future-proof our gardens, we must move away from artificial, high-maintenance watering systems and instead design with nature.

The modern, sustainable garden must act as a self-sustaining green-blue network. At Geko Design, we often replace traditional hard paving with permeable gravel surfaces, allowing water to naturally infiltrate the soil and replenish deep aquifers rather than overloading municipal sewers. We integrate Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) directly into our luxury aesthetics.

This includes: • Vegetated swales: Gently sloping, grass-lined channels designed to collect, transport, and slowly filter rainwater runoff across your property, transforming drainage into a natural, meandering design feature.

• Rain gardens: Shallow, gravel-filled, and lushly planted basins containing resilient native and non-native wetland species. These act as natural bio-filtration systems, trapping pollutants while absorbing excess rainfall before it can reach the house foundations.

• Living roofs: By topping garden rooms, verandas, or pergolas with a wildflower sedum green roof, we create a layer of natural thermal insulation. This provides a double service: an active cooling and shade effect in hot summers – reducing the need for artificial air conditioning – and an insulating effect in winter that traps ambient heat and lowers energy costs.

Why is winter the ultimate season to collaborate with a professional landscape designer? Because high-end craftsmanship requires time.

A masterfully planned outdoor sanctuary cannot be built overnight. By initiating the design process in September or October, we utilise the quiet winter months to run through our meticulous, thorough design sequence, ensuring your project is locked in, budget-approved, and ready to break ground the moment spring arrives.

At Geko Design, we have pioneered a process that eliminates the traditional risks of high-end construction. We believe you should never have to 'imagine' your new garden or rely on flat, confusing 2D blueprints. Instead, we translate your lifestyle requirements into highly immersive, photorealistic 3D concepts of your property.

Our clients can virtually walk through their new garden before a single stone is laid or a single sod is turned. You can experience how shadows fall across your terrace at 4pm on a summer afternoon, verify that your chosen dining table fits the space with generous circulation, and view exactly how your ambient lighting plan illuminates the water features at midnight. This is the Geko Guarantee of 'Design Acceptance': we lock in every material texture and construction cost digitally first, ensuring zero budget creep and absolute peace of mind.

So, as the winter frost begins to settle over the landscape, do not turn your back on your garden.

Step outside. Walk past the basic rectangular patio left by the builders, ignore the old, unsightly garden walls, and look at the bare soil. Think about how you actually want to live.

Do you want a sanctuary for quiet reflection, an immersive pool, an expansive veranda for family gatherings, or an outdoor kitchen that brings the theatre of cooking into the open air?

Take this quiet season to partner with an expert. Let Geko Design help you clear the canvas, uncover your non-negotiables, and engineer a sustainable, climate-resilient sanctuary. Let us build a garden that doesn't just look pretty, but one that choreographs an extraordinary new way of living. geko-design.com gareth@geko-design.com

Cosy season INTERIOR INSPIRATION

Talking texture Embrace the season with cosy layers, sumptuous fabrics and beautifully tactile pieces designed to make home feel extra inviting 1

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(1) Next Ivory Mongolian Faux Fur Throw, £60 - £100, available in store at Next, Eldon Square | (2) Rowen Ottilie Pink & White Striped Tasseled Throw, £29, rowenhomes.com | (3) Rockett St George Yes Sir I Can Boogie Feather Cushion, £39, fenwick.co.uk | (4) Oliver Bonas Ero Brown Velvet & Tassel Drum Pendant Lamp Shade, £30, oliverbonas.com | (5) Ligne Roset Fireside Chair Togo Michael Ducaroy, £1,564, ligne-roset.com | (6) Nkuku Zairya Jute & Cotton Rug Sea Foam, £350, nkuku.com | (7) Cox & Cox Velvet & Cotton Linen Rectangular Cushion Cover - Deep Red, £25, coxandcox.co.uk | (8) Secret Linen Store Amber Cora Stripe 100% Linen Bed Linen, £175, secretlinenstore.com

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Design focus

Artful living

Inspired by fashion, nature and a love of tactile design, the creative force behind Surfacephilia has spent more than 20 years redefining interiors through artful pattern and personal storytelling. Elysia Fryer chats to Helen Stevens…

When you spend time talking to Helen Stevens, the creative brains behind Surfacephilia, it quickly becomes clear that her art isn't simply what she does – it's how she sees the world. From hand-painted textures inspired by windswept coastlines to wallpapers that blur the lines between art and interiors, her work is rooted in storytelling and a genuine love of beautiful spaces.

Based in Teesside, but with a reputation that reaches far beyond it, she's spent more than two decades building a brand that champions originality over trends. Now expanding into interior styling alongside her signature wallpapers and bespoke artworks, she's 60

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helping clients create homes that feel deeply personal. Luxe checks in to chat about her creative journey, finding inspiration in unexpected places and why, in an increasingly digital world, handmade design has never felt more valuable.

What can you tell us about your creative journey and what first inspired you to pursue a career in surface and interior design?

As far back as I can remember I’ve always had an interest in both fashion and interiors. I chose to study Textiles & Surface Design at university as it enabled me to design across both disciplines. Whilst studying I

was interested in crossing the boundaries of fashion, art and interiors. I took inspiration from fashion trends, adapting it slightly to fit the slower pace of the interiors market whilst offering a different direction in concept for interior textiles. I would initially create bold artwork that I would expose as silkscreen designs, to hand print onto fabric. My work was very experimental, using layers of texture, mark making and pattern. That was over 20 years ago and I am still exploring ways of combining ideas and markets.

The natural next step when developing my own work and brand was to apply my flat surface designs to wallpaper. I launched Surfacephilia at the London Design Festival in 2011 with only five wallpapers on the market. Sixteen years later, I retail five collections of wallpapers spanning 25 designs in multiple colourways. The collections also include luxury interior products such as velvet cushions and silk tiered lightshades. I also produce bespoke, hand painted canvas artwork and art prints.

I have developed a very loyal client base who tend to buy into my whole brand, from wallpaper to my artwork. Over the past few years I’ve found myself

Design focus doing site visits, with clients asking advice on paint colour to pair with their wallpaper, and help with dressing other areas of rooms. I found I was spending so much free time pulling looks and shopping lists together that I decided to start offering a basic interior styling package, using my products as the starting point for an entire look.

It’s been an organic step forward for my business, and one that makes sense.

Where do you get your inspiration, and how do you transform those initial ideas into the work you’re known for?

I take inspiration from textiles found within fashion – details like embroidery, fabric manipulation and placement of print. A single image can lead to a million ideas I want to explore. I also take inspiration from textures found within nature. For example, surfaces found along coastlines. I love so many styles of art; it could be the use of colour, a brush stroke or a composition that inspires me. I challenge myself to combine all of these random elements to create successful commercial designs. Although my wallpapers are technically flat, my signature layering and mark-making hopefully bring a unique tactility to ordinary products. When working on a hand painted canvas, I am able to work with actual deep layers and marks, which allow me to develop my ideas even further.

What does your creative process look like, and how do you ensure each commission feels personal?

People who approach me have already discovered my work and usually have an idea of what they would like me to create for them. I have a portfolio of past and current work for sale that clients and interior designers can browse through before we chat through ideas. Their colour palettes are generally quite specific, sometimes I suggest other colours to be featured so that my clients can introduce new palettes to their interior schemes. I do site visits where I can, and look at the space the piece or pieces will be displayed, measure up wall space,

advise on orientation of artwork and also discuss framing options.

I see each piece as a chance to explore new ideas within reason, without moving too far off brief. My clients are always thrilled that their artwork has been created completely bespoke to them.

Your collaboration with Fenwick Newcastle is a wonderful celebration of North East creativity. What did that partnership mean to you, and what did you enjoy most about bringing your work into such an iconic institution?

I recently had a concession space within Fenwick Newcastle, where I displayed a curated and varied collection of original artwork and giclee prints. It was a privilege for such an iconic brand to align themselves with my work and see fit to be represented within the store. I was really grateful by the generosity and eagerness of a local director to take a chance on my work, support local talent and help push my business name into the limelight.

You’re proudly rooted in Teesside. In what ways has the area influenced your outlook and your approach to business?

I moved to London shortly after graduating to start my career in design. After a few years I moved back to the north to be with family after losing my dad to cancer. I quickly realised that in order to live the creative life I wanted, and to keep pursuing my dream of working within the design industry, I would have to build my own little design empire here in the north.

In the early days I felt I had to work harder at connecting with the right people to have my work seen, at tradeshows, meetings, networking events.

This was long before the arrival of Instagram, LinkedIn and the likes. The graft was actually insane thinking back. The expense and logistics of regularly exhibiting at tradeshows was quite monumental. All very much worth it though. I made some incredible life-long business contacts, peers and friends, and featured across international publications, magazines, books and newspapers.

I see each piece as a chance to explore new ideas within reason, without moving too far off brief. My clients are always thrilled that their artwork has been created completley bespoke to them However, the world is a much smaller place now and the internet is your shop front. The people you need to access and get your work in front of are so much easier to reach these days, thankfully.

What’s something about your work or the design process that people are often surprised to discover?

I tend to get two responses when it comes to my work, the slightly older ‘analog’ generation (this is me!) are shocked to find my wallpapers aren’t actually textured and that they are flat and digitally printed.

The slightly younger generation can’t believe I paint and draw all of my textures and patterns by hand before scanning them in to layer up my designs on Photoshop. They presume it is all done digitally.

When you’re not in the studio, how do you like to spend your time?

I escape to the beach as much as possible, it clears my mind, slows me down and regrounds me. Saltburn is my place to relax. I lived there for nine years after falling in love with the way of life by the coast. It has the perfect mix of cafe culture, a great network of creatives and inspiring shops. The stretch of beach from Huntcliffe leading to Marske is beautiful in all weather, the Valley Gardens are stunning, not to mention great bars – The Sitting Room providing the best cocktails!

I also like to visit the area's interior stores. There are some gems local to me such as Cinnamon Bay Interiors, LillianDaph and the guys at Harbour House in North Shields. They all have incredible creative vision and are doing great things for the creative community.

The interior world is constantly evolving. What excites you most about the future of design, and are there any ideas, materials or projects you’re especially keen to explore next?

With AI moving so rapidly, bringing about uncertainty in the survival of some industries, there is a real shift towards authenticity, human experience and storytelling in order to keep businesses thriving.

I think this is a chance for true creatives to excel and connect via the presentation of their journey, services or products on a human level. I’m hopeful to see this shift as the antidote to everything we have become so used to ingesting at speed, a saturation of digital consumerism. I’m looking forward to a slower, more considered approach toward how we live, how we spend and what we invest our money in. People are starting to cherish meaningful, luxury purchases the way they used to, buying into brands that feel honest, wholesome and identifiable, whilst outliving trending fads.

And finally, what are your three luxe things in life?

My work and business is a total joy – it provides escapism and is a huge part of my identity.

I love to travel, getting abroad or even just UK getaways. It’s good for the soul, and breathes new life into me. The latest destinations have been Milan, Ibiza and Iceland, offering so much in the way of inspiration.

And finally, being a very much hands-on mum to my little girl, who absolutely rules the roost and has forced me to develop my PA skills to the max! surfacephilia.co.uk luxe-magazine.co.uk

61

Happy days

Eductation edit Luxe MAMA

Halloween happenings

Spooky season has arrived, with plenty of family-friendly fun on the cards…

Spooky Tales

Live Theatre 28 - 30 October For little ones who love a good ghost story, this playful Halloween workshop is full of imagination.

Using costumes, props and puppets, children aged five to 11 will create their very own not-so-spooky tale before setting off on a boo-tiful scavenger hunt. Expect plenty of laughs, a few gasps and just the right amount of magic. live.org.uk

with Elysia Fryer

Fresh playroom finds, spooky season and plenty of Halloween fun ahead…

Fall for fun September arrives with school bags, fresh uniforms and a renewed sense of routine. After a summer of having the children underfoot, we’re finally feeling a little more organised. And just like that, all eyes turn to the fun ahead – October half term, Halloween and, before we know it, Christmas.

In this issue, we’re getting prepped for spooky season with plenty of Halloween happenings to keep little ones entertained, from pumpkin painting and magical adventures to ghost stories and classic films. We’ve

also rounded up some lovely pieces to give the playroom a little post-summer TLC – because after weeks of crafts, games and general holiday chaos, it’s definitely due some attention. And with Christmas bringing another inevitable influx of stuff, now feels like the perfect time to get clever about the space we have.

Here’s to fresh starts, organised playrooms and plenty of fun still to come.

Elysia, George & Nora x

Room for play

Give the playroom a little TLC after a summer of spills, crafts and chaos…

Little Ones Pumpkin Painting

The Yurt, Raby Castle 24, 25, 29, 31 October & 1 November Skip the carving and let little imaginations run wild at this wonderfully messy pumpkin-painting workshop. Young artists can decorate their very own pumpkin using paints and brushes, creating everything from spooky faces to colourful autumnal masterpieces. With all materials provided, it’s a lovely way to embrace the season – just remember to dress for mess. raby.co.uk

Spookydorei Days at Lilidorei

Lilidorei, Alnwick Garden 1 October - 1 November Lilidorei gets a spooky makeover this season, with the magical village divided into spooky and not-so-spooky sides. Follow the adventure trail, solve riddles, hunt for hidden objects and meet the Secret Keepers in their Halloween finest.

There’s also a scarecrow competition and an optional trick-or-treat adventure for little witches, wizards and monsters. alnwickgarden.com

Halloween Half-Term

Kid of the Village The Girls Banner, £19.50, scandiborn.co.uk

Braided Rug Company Candy Cane Large Tulip Basket, £62, braided-rug.co.uk

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens 24 October - 1 November Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at beautiful Belsay. The Great Pumpkin Party brings together interactive storytelling, spooky games, themed trails and devilish disco fun, with plenty of seasonal selfie spots around the grounds. Fancy dress is very much encouraged, too – with a daily competition giving young Halloween stars the chance to win a prize. english-heritage.org.uk

Grand Cinema: Hocus Pocus

Boori Tidy Toy Cabinet, £180.99, boori.co.uk

Homescapes Orange & Yellow Sunshine Tufted Cotton Cushion, £14.99, homescapes.com

Posie & Penn Beatrix Chair in Red, £399, posieandpenn.co.uk 62

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Beamish Museum 29 October & 1 November Honestly, is there a more perfect Halloween family film than Hocus Pocus? Settle in for a nostalgic screening of the much-loved witchy classic at Beamish’s beautifully recreated 1950s Grand Cinema. With its wonderfully atmospheric setting and big-screen magic, this is one for families ready to embrace a little Halloween nostalgia. beamish.org.uk

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Education edit

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Promotion

Education edit

Supporting children to flourish: the role of specialist education law For an increasing number of families, schools and professionals, specialist legal advice is becoming an important part of a child’s education journey North East-headquartered EMG Solicitors works with parents, carers, children and young people, schools, local authorities and other professionals, providing expert advice and support across a wide range of education law matters.

With decades of education experience within its award-winning Court of Protection Health & Welfare team, the firm’s dedicated Education Law team helps clients understand their legal rights and responsibilities, resolve disputes and ensure the right support is in place for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN).

One of the fastest growing areas of education law is around SEN provision, and how schools and local authorities provide the extra support many children and young people need to flourish.

The firm’s growing commitment to education law has also seen it strengthen its specialist expertise with the recent appointment of Lydia Dunford-Anderson, who has taken up the role of Associate Solicitor and is working for clients nationally.

With more than a decade of experience in education law, Lydia has advised on a wide range of issues as well as authoring two books; ‘A Practical Guide to Education Otherwise Than at School or College 64

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(EOTAS/C)’ and ‘A Practical Guide to the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) Process’.

Lydia said: “It’s a very emotive area of law. Children and young people need support through their formal education and beyond. It’s a continual process that happens throughout their lives. I always like to remind the clients I work with that they’re not alone in this.

Other people are going through the same experience.

“One of the first things we do, whether advising families or professionals, is to make the process as clear as possible from the outset. That really helps everyone understand the timescales involved and the key areas we need to think about. We also assess the evidence we have from therapists or other healthcare professionals. We can advise on what might need updating or if we need to bring in new experts or specialists.”

Susannah Millard, an Associate Solicitor in the Court of Protection Health & Welfare team, understands that for families of children with special educational needs, navigating the legal requirements of schools and local authorities can feel complex and overwhelming.

“There’s not always a lot of support out there and I think that’s the hardest part for a parent,” she said.

“Knowing where to come and what we as solicitors can do on their behalf. We can help families understand their legal rights, what routes of appeal they have, and how to manage their relationships with local authorities.

“SEN provision and ensuring the needs of individual children are met is an area of education law we’ve seen a big increase in. Understandably, everyone wants the best for a child but the process can be challenging if it’s not done with the right advice and guidance.

“Managing the relationships with local authorities and ensuring they meet their legal obligations, is another area where EMG has expertise. Where children with special educational needs require additional support

Left to right: Sarah Jackon, Lydia DunfordAnderson, Susannah Millard

that isn’t being implemented by local authorities, we help everyone understand what they can appeal and how to do it.”

Both Susannah and Lydia recognise that for everyone involved, establishing an agreed EHCP can be an emotional experience and this is where EMG can help.

“People come first at EMG and that’s reflected in our values and everything we do,” Susannah said.

“We have the legal skills but we have the people skills too.”

Sarah Jackson, Director, Solicitor in the Court of Protection Health & Welfare Team, added: “We understand the challenges faced within the education sector and our approach is supportive and committed to delivering effective and empathetic legal solutions.

“I’m delighted to welcome Lydia to our team. Her experience strengthens the expertise we can offer our clients and means we can provide clear, informed and practical advice to help them understand their options, navigate complex processes and achieve the best possible outcomes for the children and young people they support.”

The expansion of EMG’s Court of Protection Health & Welfare team reflects the firm’s wider growth and continued investment in specialist legal services. With 14 offices now across the UK and a growing team of over 300 colleagues, EMG is strengthening its ability to provide specialist, accessible legal advice to more families, wherever they are.

EMG Solicitors is an award-winning Legal 500 firm providing expert legal advice across Court of Protection, deputyships, family law and mediation, residential conveyancing, and wills, trusts and probate.

To find out more about the Education Law team and what they can do for you, go to: emgsolicitors.com/service/education-law

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Education edit

Imagine if distinction was matched with success For over 10 years we’ve continued to build a passionate team that work tirelessly to help protect, serve and support our clients each and everyday.

We see nothing but potential in our people, our community and you.

Imagine, together what we could do.

#ImagineALawFirm

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School news

Education edit

Luxe checks in with some local schools on their latest news, achievements and highlights…

School noticeboard A strong start in life

Every parent wants the very best for their child.

Whilst academic results matter, the true value of an education lies in the confidence, character and ambition developed to make the most of their future opportunities

Muddy hands, curious minds

At Newcastle High School for Girls, muddy hands, imaginative play and outdoor adventures are helping its youngest girls build confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning There is a moment in the Woodland Kitchen at Newcastle High School for Girls (NHSG) that captures something quietly powerful about early years education.

A group of girls are ‘baking a cake’. Their ingredients are leaves, twigs, mud, water and plenty of imagination. One child counts carefully as she adds to the mix, another explains the recipe. Around them there is storytelling, negotiation, movement, laughter and concentration.

They are having a brilliant time. But they are also learning.

At NHSG’s Junior School in Sandyford, the outdoor environment is an extension of the classroom.

Nursery and Reception girls can move naturally between indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the day, choosing where they want to explore and 66

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learn, with trusted adults close by to guide and extend their thinking.

Behind the wall of the school’s leafy five-acre site is a magical Forest School, a much-loved Woodland Kitchen and space to climb, balance, investigate, create and simply be outdoors. The setting feels calm and nurturing, but there is real purpose behind it.

For parents, it offers the best of both worlds: a setting that feels welcoming while giving the girls stimulation, expertise and independence they need to grow.

It is learning with muddy boots on, learning without realising. A child counting leaves is developing early maths. A walk through the grounds can become a conversation about wildlife, nature and change; a shared discovery can spark an entirely new line of enquiry.

Research increasingly points to the importance of the first five years of a child’s life, when the foundations for future learning, behaviour and wellbeing are being built. Time spent outdoors can support physical development, attention, emotional regulation and resilience, while giving young girls something equally valuable: space to be curious.

To discover NHSG Early Years, visit: newcastlehigh.gdst.net

For more than 500 years, the Royal Grammar School (RGS) Newcastle has combined academic excellence with exceptional opportunities beyond the classroom, enabling young people to discover their strengths, build confidence and realise their potential.

The journey begins in the Junior School, where children learn in a nurturing environment that values the importance of childhood and encourages curiosity and self-belief. Guided by the RGS Superpowers of Able, Strong, Calm and Kind, pupils develop the foundations they need to thrive.

As students progress through the Senior School, opportunities broaden further.

Whether representing the school on the sports field, performing on stage, participating in academic societies or volunteering within the wider community, pupils are encouraged to explore new interests and discover where their talents lie.

By Sixth Form, students become part of one of the largest and most dynamic co-educational independent school Sixth Forms in the country.

With 30 A-Level options, including recentlyintroduced Business Studies, Photography and BTEC Sport & Exercise Science, alongside dedicated university and careers guidance and more than 170 co-curricular opportunities, students are empowered to chart their own path.

The impact of an RGS education extends far beyond school. The community of almost 10,000 Old Novocastrians continues to inspire the next generation through achievements across business, sport, science, public service and the creative industries.

Just a few of RGS’s former pupils include Kate Waugh, Team GB triathlete and RGS’s first female Olympian; Jim Ryan, former President and Chief Executive Officer of Sony Interactive Entertainment, and Leo Pearlman, the award-winning television and film producer behind some of the world’s most successful productions.

Their achievements demonstrate that there is no single route to success. Whether aspiring to become doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, performers, lawyers, scientists or athletes, students benefit from an education designed to help them realise their potential.

Families interested in learning more about life at RGS can explore the school at one of its upcoming admissions events: 24 September - RGS Insights Evening 15 October - RGS Sixth Form Open Evening 14 November - RGS Open Morning rgs.newcastle.sch.uk

School news

Education edit Outdoor education is a key pillar of a Dame Allan’s education

Wellbeing, woodland and worry monsters

For a young child beginning to learn about the world, their school is a hugely influential part of their development. Therefore, it is critical that their school fosters an enthusiasm for learning, an atmosphere of wonder, discovery and adventure and a culture of creativity, fun and care Dame Allan’s Junior School works to shape wellrounded, confident, and curious young people.

Outdoor education is a key pillar of a Dame Allan’s education. The Woodland Ways, an outdoor ‘classroom’ sees pupils head to the woods to learn about nature and develop a respect for the environment. It is complemented by the newly renovated Whispering Woods where outdoor adventures take place regularly.

The School is also certified as ‘Platinum’ for their Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) programme, meaning that they are amongst the top one per cent of schools nationally for quality of play provision. Play is taken seriously, with activities designed to help pupils develop their imaginations, refine communication skills, and have a lot of fun too!

In addition to their OPAL programme, a diverse co-curriculum offers outstanding opportunities for pupils at lunchtimes as well as before and after school. From ukulele and robotics, to dance and fencing, there’s something of interest for every child.

The School also has a range of services to support pupils’ wellbeing, including a dedicated counsellor and a school nurse. Their wellbeing area, The Cosy Snug, has art supplies, books, and the Worry Monster - a furry friend who ‘eats’ worries and helps children articulate their anxieties. It is a safe space, where children from across the School can go for support (or a cuddle with Poppy the therapy dog).

With this foundation of wellbeing support, outstanding opportunities and a woodland adventure on their doorstep, Dame Allan’s Junior School promises an enjoyable and nurturing place for any child to begin their education.

Dame Allan’s will be holding their next Junior Open Morning event on Saturday 19 September 2026.

For more information, contact the Head of Admissions on 0191 275 1500 or visit: dameallans.co.uk

Helping businesses grow

Teesside University is encouraging local SMEs and social enterprises to take advantage of its upcoming Help to Grow: Management programme, designed to help ambitious business leaders strengthen their skills, build resilience and unlock future growth The next 12-week cohort begins on 28 September, combining five sessions on campus with seven online sessions, alongside regular peer-to-peer learning.

Participants will benefit from expert-led business growth sessions, 10 hours of one-to-one mentoring, practical tools and guidance, and the opportunity to create a bespoke growth plan for their organisation.

The programme is 90% government-funded, with a participant cost of £750, and also offers access to a valuable network of like-minded business leaders and an active alumni community.

To find out more about eligibility, dates and how to register, visit: tees.ac.uk/schools/tubs/help_to_grow

Where discovery opens the door to adventure Dame Allan’s Schools invites parents to discover a nurturing, co-educational environment for children aged 3-18, blending academic excellence with exceptional pastoral care.

Join us for an upcoming open morning to experience our dynamic classrooms, innovative facilities and supportive community first-hand.

JUNIOR SCHOOL & NURSERY

OPEN MORNING Saturday 19th September

Where innovation honours tradition

Book your visit today: Telephone: 0191 275 1500 www.dameallans.co.uk

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Life lessons

Education edit

Little MOMENTS with Nadia McSheffrey

Bringing the best of summer into the new school year...

reduces stress, improves concentration and supports emotional wellbeing. Developmental psychologist Dr Mona Delahooke reminds us that children's behaviour is deeply influenced by the state of their nervous system. Nature helps regulate that system without children having to ‘try harder.’

As autumn arrives, perhaps we could embrace what the North East already offers so beautifully. A walk along Bamburgh beach after school. Collecting conkers in Gibside. Exploring Jesmond Dene or watching waves crash at South Shields before heading home for hot chocolate. Children rarely remember perfect weather. In fact, some of the best memories come from splashing in puddles or spinning in the wind!

America: celebrate grit One quality often admired in American culture is its encouragement of possibility. Children are invited to have a go, speak confidently and believe their ideas matter. If they fail, that’s ok. They can pick themselves up, dust themselves off and try again.

Confidence isn't built through constant praise or by telling children they're brilliant at everything. Instead, resilience and grit develop when children discover they can cope with difficult things.

As children move into new classes this September, notice effort rather than outcomes. "I saw how hard you kept trying." "You worked that out yourself."

"That looked difficult, but you didn't give up." These small observations build genuine self-belief rooted in competence rather than perfection.

Anyone missing the summer yet? There is something about the warmer months that gently rearranges our priorities. Perhaps it is the slower mornings, the later sunsets or the freedom from packed lunch boxes and homework diaries. Perhaps it is the opportunity to step outside our familiar routines and notice that families around the world often approach childhood in slightly different ways.

Over the years, travelling with my own family has become one of my greatest sources of learning, not because I've discovered the ‘perfect’ way to parent, but because every culture seems to hold a small piece of the puzzle. As school routines all over the North East begin to re-establish themselves, perhaps the challenge isn't getting back to normal, but deciding which parts of summer are worth holding on to.

Italy: children grow through community One lesson that has stayed with me comes from a small Italian village we've visited for many years.

Each evening, children of every age spill into the local piazza carrying footballs, scooters and bicycles.

There are no organised teams or adults directing every interaction. Teenagers naturally include younger children, disagreements are quickly resolved and everyone seems to find their place. Respect isn't demanded; it's modelled. Research tells us that children's brains develop through relationships.

Emotional regulation, empathy and communication are learned through repeated experiences, not simply by being taught about them.

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home. Encourage children to greet neighbours, help welcome visitors or spend time with grandparents without rushing off to the next activity. These everyday moments quietly tell a child: you are part of something bigger than yourself.

France: reclaim the family meal French family life has long fascinated parenting researchers because mealtimes are treated as opportunities for connection rather than another task to complete. Phones stay away. Conversation becomes the main event.

For many British families, dinner can easily become another stop between school, homework and evening clubs. Yet neuroscience shows that when children feel calm, connected and listened to, they are far more likely to open up naturally. As children return to school, try creating just fifteen or twenty minutes each evening where everyone is fully present. Ask, "What made you laugh today?" instead of "How was school?" Share stories from your own childhood. Light a special candle on an ordinary Tuesday. Connection often grows through ordinary conversations.

Scandinavia: let nature help Across Scandinavia, children spend remarkable amounts of time outdoors, whatever the weather.

Forest schools flourish, babies nap outside and waterproofs are considered more important than sunshine. The philosophy is wonderfully simple: there is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.

Research consistently shows that time outdoors

Portugal: protect unhurried time Perhaps one of my favourite lessons comes from Portugal, where life often feels just a little slower. Coffee is lingered over. Evenings unfold gently. Conversations aren't constantly interrupted by checking the clock. Once school begins in the UK, family life can quickly become a relay race of work, homework, clubs and commitments.

Children's nervous systems notice that pace because our own daily stress often spills into our parenting. When we slow down, children often become calmer too. This autumn, resist filling every after-school slot. Protect one evening each week with nothing scheduled. Bake together.

Read. Walk the dog. Simply be. Those quieter moments often become the ones children crave, even if they don’t tell you!

We know that schools play an extraordinary role in helping children flourish, but the timetable is jam-packed and for some children, it can be quite stressful. That’s why the moments between the school runs matter just as much. The everyday interactions at home shape emotional resilience, confidence and wellbeing in ways that last long after the classroom door has closed.

So, as another academic year begins across the North East, perhaps the greatest lesson from summer isn't found in the souvenirs we bring home but in the habits we choose to keep. More conversation. More community. More time outdoors. More confidence to have a go. And a little less rushing. It's a gentler, more connected way of raising children.

For more reflections on Tranquil Parenting, visit: tranquiltreehouse.com

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WHERE GIRLS THRIVE Because we put girls first every single day.

Find out how at one of our open days.

Early Years Thursday 8th October Senior Saturday 7th November Junior Saturday 21st November Register at newcastlehigh.gdst.net

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Mighty motors

Me & my car A life built around cars: Duncan Peters of DLP Classic and Sportscars

Cars have been in Duncan Peters’ blood since childhood, thanks to a father who started his own car sales business back in the 1960s. After a career spanning advertising with Trinity Mirror in the late 1980s and running his own publishing business in the 2000s, Duncan has finally returned to his first love, launching DLP Classic and Sportscars from the family farm in Northumberland. The name is a tribute to two generations of family involvement in classic and sports cars: DLP stands for Duncan Lewis Peters.

Childhood car crush?

Like most teenage boys in the 1980s, I lusted after a Porsche 911. I never really thought I'd achieve it. It took a long time, but I finally bought one last year.

What’s in the garage now?

Right now there's a 911, a 944, and the recently acquired Armstrong Siddeley Hurricane.

If you could own any car?

That's a tough one. I'm smitten with Porsche as a brand, and I'd probably go for an older 911.

Tracks of your tyres?

I'm a bit old school when it comes to tunes, so I'll skip between Fleetwood Mac, Bowie and Pink Floyd.

What has been your favourite road trip in your motor?

I was fortunate to go on a spirited couple of days in Scotland with the Independent Porsche Club, a birthday present from my wife. I'd just restored the 944 and was concerned I'd be among much younger and more powerful cars. I needn't have worried. The club guys were fantastic, keeping everyone together at speed. I can only describe it as a Top Gear tour experience, with lots of memorable moments and a great bunch of guys.

Dream road trip?

Got to be a European tour around France and Italy, in something German and quick.

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Who with?

Tess, my long-suffering wife. She's been on my car journey for the last 20 years and is well versed in the ever-changing vehicles. I think she'd be up for a road trip, provided I included lots of stops to take in the sights.

Memorable car moments?

Literally hundreds to choose from, but if I had to pick one, here's a cracker. I bought a Mk4 Cortina 2.0S in the late 1980s for a few hundred pounds. I was so excited to drive the car that I skipped the usual checks before taking it out for a spirited drive in Northumberland. It was while sliding round a roundabout that I discovered the error of my ways.

A wheel appeared next to me and proceeded to overtake me, which was a little alarming, even more so when I realised it belonged to the rear of my car.

The saga continued when, having retrieved my wheel, I discovered I had no wheel brace, no jack and now no wheel nuts on that hub. Fun times.

What’s in the glove box?

CDs, a charger and a handbook.

How clean is your car?

Mostly clean. I love to keep a car clean, and I don't think you can ever really get to know a car unless you've cleaned it yourself.

Scary moments?

Many years ago I had a fantastic Alfa Romeo: close ratio box, twin Webbers, adjustable suspension.

It was a quick little car. One Sunday I was travelling back from an enjoyable afternoon in Northumberland along the Military Road and took a blind hump a little too enthusiastically. We absolutely flew, far higher and longer than anticipated. I literally saw my life flash before my eyes.

Looking to buy or sell a classic or sports car?

Get in touch with Duncan at: duncan@ dlpclassiccars.co.uk or visit: dlpclassiccars.co.uk

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Social life

Luxe looks

Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!

The Executive Group, Matfen Hall

Sharon Howey, Alison Gittins, Mark Smales

Frank Curry, Grant Seward

Jo Elliott, Alison Gittins

SJP Foundation Wine Tasting Evening, ChachaBucci

Jonathan Bishop, Jacqui Bishop Carl Swansbury, Natalie Turner

Daren Knipe, Katie Knipe Chris Brown, Lauren King, Andrew Hibbert

Richard Salkeld, Suzanne McCreedy

Gurpreet Jagpal, Gemma Brannen Natalie Turner, Harry Vaulkhard

Alyson Thompson, Stephan Taylor, Kate Dearlove, Chris Senior, Andrew Hibbert, Sophia Stovall, Kay Carrick

Vicki Jackson, Lydia McCaslin, Rebecca Harbron Gray Jane Napper, Sharon Howey, Gurpreet Jagpal

Durham Business Club Summer Social, Durham County Cricket Club

Heather Swan, Katie Joynson

Steven Bates, Ally Gunning

Feeding Families / Women Who Rise lunch, Wynyard Hall Marie Nesbit, Lyndsey Everett, Sarah Reid, Paula Toms

Ashleigh Watson, Nicola Halse, Andrew Halse

Wayne Dobson, Emma Jarvism Emma Swarwick, Rachel Lister, Hazel Ditchburn, Ruth Bufton Richard Salkeld, Joe Gratton, Alison Gittins, David Stubbs

Gurpreet Jagpal, Paula Toms

Top: Esther McHugh, Sarah Lawrence, Jane Heath, Nicky Gibson, Sarah McPhie, Nicola Mearns, Jennifer Gibson. Bottom: Ashley Carney, Norma O’Sullivan, Cherri Bray, Vici Richardson

Lucy Phillipson, Debra Cairns, Tamma Carel, Zoe Maylam, Sarah Reed, Julie Turnbull, Vikki McIsaac, Lauren Kin, Kyrie Geach

Paula Toms, Grant Seward

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Ythan Sale, Alison Gittins, Jo Morris, Emily Humphries

Christina Stephenson, Hannah Clegg

Social life

Aston Martin Valkerie Spider event, Fuego At Fenwick Newcastle

Sharon Howey, Helen Cadzow

Laura Eke, Jamie Birkett

Jess England, Claire Rutherford, Tony Rutherford

Graeme Stammers, Mel Stammers, Nicky McKenna

Martin A, Kash M, Matt L

Yasi Fatollahy, Maisie Latham, Cal Thompson

James Thomas, Sam Harman, Tony Rutherford

Prue Radich, Madison Radich, Alexis Radich, Tom Richardson, Paul Thursby

Natasha Thompson, Terry Costello, Rob Turnbull, Nion Turnbull

Sarah Gilmour, Jess England Rebecca Allen, Harry Tattersall

Steve Trewick, Dianna Trewick

Photograpy by

Curious Arts PRIDE fundraiser, Fuego at Fenwick Newcastle

Malissa Charlton, Angela Carrington

Rachel Fenwick, Wendy Sproul, Kathy Sheedy

Lex Westgarth, Mags Brunskill

Joe McElderry

Melissa Appleby, Sophie Armstong

Lucy Phillipson, Claire Long, Debra Cairns

Lucy Davids, Debra Cairns

Lauren King, Tom Shanks, Victoria Leech

Coggin Galbreath, Phil Douglas, Sam Marley

Ben Lloyd, Nicky de bouliere, Mal Charlton, Lucy Davids, Paige Simpson

Samantha Foster, Helen Cadzow, Count George Cazenove

Simon Keddy, Helen Cowie

Ryan Hay, Coggins Galbreath

Miss Rory

Claire Long, Debra Cairns Photograpy by

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Social life

City Ladies, Hilton Tyne Bridge Oasis Community Housing Charity Ball, Hilton Tyne Bridge

Lisa Picken Katrina Parker and Andrea Perino Ben Johnston, Sophie Barker, Katie O’Brien, Tracy Cutherbertson, Sarah Gormana

Sarah Cairns, Cherly Reid Penny Davison, Linda Lowther

Neesha Kaushal, Sonia Davison, Catherine Marchant, Melissa Jones, Amber, Sofia Tsekhonya Kayleigh Bell, Emily Young, Bradley Galloway, Sarah Gray

James Doyle, Luci Doyle

Suzanne Weatheritt, Janet Minto Alex Morgan, Karen Weir, Brenda Kilgallon Katie Teasdale, Gavin Teasdale

Sophie Milliken, Angela Whalley

Tania Cooper

Amanda Tweedy, Kate Garrett, Catriona Law

Ashleigh Pinder,d Jo Gray

Julie Pentland, Louise Johnson, Claire Davidson, Janine Howarth, Laura Holburn

Isobel Care, Ben Spargo

Law Society President’s Summer Charity Party, Baltic

Marsela Ademi, Adam McFarlane

Hannah Dawood, Edward Shanks Paul Cain, Jennifer Craven, Katy Lawrenson

The Dave Lees MND Golf Day, Darlington Golf Club

Helen Boyd, Lesley Fairclough

Paul Brown, Russell Hewitson

Mandy Cheung, Nathan Maddison

Omar Din, Rebecca Lawson

Rachel Tombs, Rob Wagg, Emma Hughes

Chris Atkinson, Paul Hastie, Jim Renwick, Michael Atkinson

Alison Hinchliffe, Chris Holloway, Lee Woolams, Jon Hinchliffe Mandy cheung, Mary Dargue, Ryan Laidlow, Zoe Atkinson, Carolanne Seddon

Paul Frater, Paul Callaghan, David Lander, Mike Cross

Mike England, Simon Rees, Trevor James, Jerry Petch

Phill Capewell, Julie Huntingdon, Laura-Ann Porter Lesley Cuthbertson, Lauren King, Clara Thurgood

John Wilkin, Nick Wilson, John Holbrook, John Seymour

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James Aston, Sandi Bellwood, Alison Leith, James Thompson

Stephen Seymour, Lesley Seymour, Anne Curry

Photo credit: ready_steady_shoot

Newcastle Upon Tyne, Eldon Buildings, 122 Grey Street