BEYOND THE BREW
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Join us at Kooky for everything from pop-up food nights like Bao & Beats and Unwined, to mellow live sessions and seasonal celebrations.
Planning your own event? Our space is made for it, whether it’s a private party, work gathering, or something uniquely yours. Effortless, flavourful, and unmistakably Kooky.
Food served Wednesday to Saturday until 3pm / Sundays until 2pm
42 High Street, Royston, Herts, SG8 9AG Monday to Friday 7.30am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 5pm Sunday 8.30am - 3pm
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I. PEOPLE
p10. Katie Linnard
Katie, founder of Mama’s Little Black Book, is on a mission to bring back the village for modern parents, creating a thriving community that celebrates connection, support, and shared experience.
p12. Zoe Andrews
We sat down with Zoe Andrews, whose appointment as Headteacher marks an exciting new chapter for King James Academy Royston and the wider community.
III. PRESENT
p08. Editors Note
In this volume, we celebrate the people, places, and moments that bring our towns and villages to life, from local stories and festive spots to shared community experiences.
p44. Rethinking the Way We Celebrate
Rethink your festive celebrations of mass-produced meals and embrace a sustainable winter feast, where local ingredients, mindful choices, and seasonal flavours combine making mindful, combine making mindful feasts a part of everyday life.
p48. A Local Gift Guide
From artisanal delights to unique experiences, explore local gifts that combine charm, meaning, and the best of local spirit this festive season.
p64. Watch & Listen
Our recommendations for what to add to your watch and listen list, with a community twist - of course!
PLACES
p14. Newsells Winery
Right on our doorstep near Royston, Newsells Park, renowned for premium thoroughbreds and its picturesque setting, is extending its expertise into a new market.
p20. Wilde Aparthotel
Just steps from Cambridge’s historic Round Church, the new Wilde Aparthotel offers locals and tourists a fresh, stylish space to stay, connect, and feel at home in the city.
p32. Winter Feasts
From cosy countryside pubs to stylish local eateries, discover the best spots for hearty roasts, festive feasts, and and shared moments this winter.
IV. PROPERTY
p56. Homes with Heart
Studio 28 Interiors talk to us about how thoughtful design can create homes made for connection, celebration, and the everyday moments that bring family and friends together.
V. PAST
p62. Share Your Memories
STONES invites you to join in by sharing memories, stories, and photographs that celebrate the people, places, and moments of our local area.
THIS VOLUME FEELS ESPECIALLY CLOSE TO OUR HEARTS.
From the very beginning, STONES was created with one purpose, to provide a platform for our community. To celebrate the people, places, and ideas that make our towns and villages such wonderful places to live, work, and explore.
We’ve always believed that creativity and connection sit at the centre of everything we do, and Celebration & Community captures that perfectly. This edition is about the moments that bring us together: shared tables, familiar faces, local shops glowing with festive charm, and the warmth of supporting those around us.
As ever, our pages are filled with stories that reflect the best of where we live. From discovering new dining spots and gifting ideas, to exploring cosy winter interiors and celebrating the first harvest at Newsells Winery, it’s a reminder that there’s always something inspiring to uncover, right on our doorstep.
Here’s to local stories, shared moments, and a season full of community.
JoshFounderMurphy, & Editor
KATIE AND THE VILLAGE OF MODERN PARENTING
Motherhood can be joyful, messy, and sometimes isolating, something Katie, founder of Mama’s Little Black Book and mum to two energetic boys, knows well. Originally from Yorkshire and now settled in Barley, she understands first-hand how lonely parenthood can feel when you’re somewhere new and trying to find your village.
That experience inspired Mama’s Little Black Book, a onestop community and directory designed to make family life a little easier. What began as a local idea has grown into a trusted hub connecting families across Royston and Cambridgeshire with local experts, events, family discounts, and, most importantly, each other.
At its heart, Mama’s Little Black Book celebrates connection and community. Katie’s mission is simple: to help parents find the right support when they need it, create connections that combat loneliness, and guide families through every stage, from pregnancy to the school years and beyond.
Through her work, Katie is reminding parents that they don’t have to do it alone, proving that even in today’s busy, digital world, the village still exists, and reminding us all that connection is something worth celebrating.
A Fresh Chapter for KJAR
Meet Headteacher, Zoe Andrews
There’s something reassuring about meeting someone who genuinely gets it.When we sat down with Zoe Andrews, the new Headteacher at King James Academy Royston, it was clear within minutes that her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for both the school and the community it serves. Personable, grounded, and full of warmth, Zoe radiates an energy that’s both inspiring and approachable, the kind of leadership that feels human.
Zoe’s story with KJAR isn’t new, it’s a return. Having worked across both the middle and upper schools for over five years, she was part of the team that navigated the complex merger during the challenges of Covid. During that time, she wasn’t just managing from behind a desk, she was out in the community, delivering food parcels to families, helping where it mattered most. That sense of connection has clearly stayed with her.
Since then, Zoe has gone on to lead at Cottenham Village College, where she gained valuable experience as Headteacher. It’s a school deeply rooted in its community, something she’s keen to replicate in Royston, a place she’s called home for the past 16 years. “Cottenham showed me what’s possible when a school becomes a true community hub,” she shared. “Opening up the site for evening learning, sports, and cultural events, it creates opportunity, energy, and a sense of belonging.”
Now, as she prepares to take up her new post at KJAR in January, Zoe brings that same vision with her, to make the academy a space where everyone feels part of the journey. “I want to listen, observe, and understand what students, parents, and staff want from their school,” she said. “The best change comes when everyone feels included.”
A chemistry teacher by background and a sports enthusiast by nature (you might spot her at Royston Hockey Club), Zoe speaks passionately about teamwork, both on and off the pitch. “Team sports teach you about resilience, communication, and respect. They’re lessons that shape how we work together as a school, too.”
She’s also a parent of two teenagers, something that gives her a unique empathy with families navigating the whirlwind of secondary education and post-16 choices. “I’ve been through it, and I know how much it matters to get it right,” she said with a smile.
Zoe’s leadership style is collaborative and open. She’s keen to strengthen partnerships with local businesses, organisations, and community groups, ensuring that the academy continues to reflect and serve the wider Royston area. “It’s about true partnerships,” she explained. “When schools and local stakeholders work together, everyone benefits.”
With over 20 years of teaching experience and a genuine love for her profession, Zoe embodies the balance of vision and heart that education needs right now. “There’s so much to be excited about,” she said. “KJAR has an incredible team and community behind it, my job is to build on that, and bring everyone along on the journey.”
It’s a journey we’re all looking forward to watching unfold.
A Harvest of Heritage
Nestled in the undulating countryside of Hertfordshire, hidden amongst exquisite heritage architecture, prominently stands an international treasure. Renowned for premium thoroughbreds and its picturesque setting, Newsells Park is extending its expertise into a new market, one that equally matches its prestige and superiority.
The rolling emerald hills, long shared by foals and grazing horses, now tell an even richer story. Alongside the thoroughbreds, neat lines of leafy vines stretch across the landscape, a new layer to the Park’s heritage. Together they form a striking picture of harmony, where tradition and innovation coexist.
Established 100-years ago and now covering an incredible 1,200 acres of soft rolling pasture, Newsells Park Stud has an outstanding reputation for breeding, raising and selling thoroughbreds. The Park changed hands in 2021 and has since been under the care of the Smith-Bernal family, beginning a new chapter combining the breeding and raising of top-class racehorses with another of Smith-Bernal's passions.
Described as a “cross-pollination” of two worlds, Owner and Director, Graham Smith-Bernal, has worked incredibly hard to bring his vision to life. A vision where thoroughbreds and fine wine intertwine, a complementary pairing - and it is now a reality.
Spring of 2022 was the year of plan and action, by planting 45,000 vines across a vast 175-acres. The next 3-years were dedicated to growth and nurture, where nature’s stillness met with quiet anticipation.
The rolling hills, long foals and horses, even richer
rolling emerald long shared by and grazing now tell an richer story
In September 2025, the time had come for the first harvest at Newsells Park. A historical event that celebrated locally crafted excellence and refined mastery. This harvest was a milestone moment after years of patience, nurture, and belief.
An outstanding offering of 37 tonnes of bejewelled Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay berries were harvested by participants and the STONES team were there to be part of the celebration. Members of the Wine Club, enthusiasts, and community gathered side by side to pluck, pull, and pick the berries into containers, marking a milestone moment in Newsells’ story. The vines glistened in the autumn sunshine, as did the popping bottles and full glasses raised by the smiling, sun-warmed volunteers. A true celebration of craft, community, and connection.
We caught up with Graham, whose love of wine has grown quietly over the years, beginning simply as a personal passion. As he described the journey, it was impossible not to be drawn in by his enthusiasm, the way he speaks about the vines, the grapes, and the delicate balance of growing conditions. There’s a real sense of pride in what’s being created here, but also a feeling of community and shared excitement that runs through every part of the project.
“I see life and businesses as a bit of a voyage, and you’ve got to be brave enough to take it on”. With courage comes reward, of which Graham has achieved multiple times with several successful business ventures. The winery is the next challenge, to match the calibre of their breeding success, he explained “We are the first breeder of racehorses in Europe who have the aspirations to make the same quality of wine that we achieve in the breeding of horses”.
The Newsells wine won’t be something you’ll find lining supermarket shelves and that’s entirely by design. The wine has been crafted for those who appreciate the story behind every bottle. Becoming part of the Newsells Wine Club isn’t just about receiving a case of exceptional English sparkling wine each year, it’s about joining a community.
Members are invited to share in the journey from vineyard to glass, celebrating the craft, care, and connection that define every step of the process. Each annual membership includes 12 exquisite bottles of Newsells’ sparkling wine, alongside access to limited-edition vintages, behind-thescenes experiences, and exclusive events hosted within the stunning grounds of the estate.
From thor oughbreds to vineyards, Newsells Park’s evo lution cel ebrates cellence every form.
As part of this, members also enjoy a special partnership with the Fox & Hounds in Barley, where Newsells wines are perfectly paired with locally sourced dishes, the ultimate expression of Hertfordshire’s homegrown excellence.
After years of vision, patience, and passion, the wait is nearly over, the very first bottle from the inaugural Newsells harvest will be ready to uncork and enjoy from 2028.
Become a part of the Newsells Park Winery story, following along as Newsells grow from first harvest, to first pour, and sign up to the exclusive Wine Club Membership.
To find out more scan the QR code below: www.newsellsparkwinery.com/membership/
A NEW KIND OF STAY IN THE HEART OF THE CITY
There’s a new kind of welcome in Cambridge, one that blends the comfort of home with the pulse of city life. Nestled near the historic Round Church and just a short stroll from the River Cam, Wilde Aparthotel brings something fresh to the city’s hospitality scene: a place that’s not just for travellers, but for locals too.
Part of the growing Wilde brand, which began in Covent Garden and now spans cities like Vienna and Lisbon, this new landmark blends the freedom of apartment living with the service and style of a boutique hotel. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape, a month-long project, or a halfyear stay, it’s designed to feel like home, only better.
From the moment you step inside, the tone is set. Soft furnishings, warm lighting, and a subtle hum of conversation create a sense of ease. The lobby isn’t just a lobby, it’s a space to linger, connect, and recharge. Baristas serve up rich, aromatic coffee, and there’s a light breakfast offering, perfect for early risers or those easing into the day. Plugs are plentiful, the Wi-Fi is quick, and the atmosphere encourages creativity, whether you’re working solo or catching up with friends.
And that’s exactly the point. Wilde isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a place to be. It’s part of the new digital nomadic era, where work, travel, and lifestyle blend seamlessly.
Each Wilde Aparthotel is styled to its surroundings, and Cambridge’s iteration is no exception. The design pays tribute to the city’s balance of tradition and innovation: sleek lines meet warm tones, contemporary comfort sits effortlessly alongside historical architecture. Local touches are everywhere, from Cambridge Gin in the bar to bread from nearby bakeries, artwork by local creatives, and a team that truly knows the city inside out.
lines meet warm tones, contemporary comfort sits effortlessly alongside historical architecture.
Wilde isn’t a place it’s
a place
isn’t just to stay, place to be.
MODERN LIVING WITH THE SOUL OF THE CITY.
Sustainability is woven into the building’s DNA. Solar panels, rainwater harvesting, bee bricks, and a living wall bring a touch of the wild back to the urban landscape, a thoughtful nod to both nature and the city’s green aspirations. Even the rooftop has its own secret: a “wild roof” where bees thrive, adding a buzz of life to the skyline.
For guests, the experience extends beyond the room. There’s a gym, laundry facilities, and flexible apartments designed with smart details, adaptable bedframes, modern kitchens, and open layouts that make short or long stays equally comfortable.
But perhaps the most defining feature of Wilde Cambridge is its sense of community. It’s a place that invites conversation. Locals pop in for coffee, travellers unwind after
exploring the colleges, and coworkers gather for impromptu meetings that turn into ideas. It’s not just a stay, it’s a lifestyle, a creative hub, and a gentle reminder that travel and connection go hand in hand.
Wilde blends modern living with the soul of the city, a fitting addition to the city streets that have inspired thinkers, dreamers, and creators for centuries.
If you’re looking for your next stay, whether one night to six months, experience life the Wilde way.
CELEBRATING CREATIVITY, COMMUNITY, & COLLABORATION.
Every issue of STONES begins with one simple belief, that creativity is everywhere.It lives in our local shops and studios, our makers and musicians, our schools, cafés, and community spaces. It’s in the ideas we share, the risks we take, and the moments of connection that turn something ordinary into something memorable.
What makes this magazine special isn’t just the stories we tell, it’s the people and businesses behind them. From designers and chefs to independent retailers, community organisers, and creative thinkers, STONES exists to give a platform to the passion that shapes our towns and villages.
But this is just the beginning.
We want to keep growing this collective, to work with local businesses, not just feature them. To co-create editorial stories that bring your world to life, blending insight, imagination, and authenticity. Whether it’s a behind-thescenes look at your craft, a profile on your people, or an editorial piece that captures what you do best, we help shape ideas into meaningful stories that resonate with our readers.
Because this magazine has always been more than print on paper, it’s a community project.A celebration of the people who make this region such an inspiring place to live, work, and explore.
So, if you’ve got a story to tell, a project to share, or a spark of creativity waiting to be seen, we’d love to hear from you.
Join us in shaping the next volume of STONES, as we continue to spotlight local brilliance, build connections, and tell the stories that matter.
STONES Team!
Let’s create something together. hello@sandersandjay.com
LOCAL, MEANINGFUL, AND MADE FOR GIFTING
The local brand making the perfect gifts this season
Vurchoo Jewellery creates beautiful, readyto-gift pieces designed to be cherished long after the decorations come down, all from a brand right on your doorstep.
From bestselling studs and elegant hoops to timeless necklaces, every piece arrives beautifully packaged and ready to give.
Each design is inspired by children’s stories from around the world and with every sale, we give a share of the profits to support children in need.
PRELOVED REIMAGINED REMARKABLE
TRASH CHIC
EXPLORE A HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF ONE-OF-A-KIND GARMENTS, FROM QUIRKY HIGH STREET FINDS TO REWORKED DESIGNER PIECES, ALL CHOSEN WITH CARE AND CREATIVITY.
BOUTIQUE SHOP HOMEMADE, OLD NORTH ROAD, BASSINGBOURN, CAMBRIDGESHIRE SG8 5JL WED – SUN 10AM TO 4PM.
Best Winter Feasts
Where to Dine, Gather & Celebrate the Season
There’s something magical about winter dining. Maybe it’s the glow of candlelight against steamed-up windows, the sound of laughter echoing through a cosy pub, or the smell of slow-roasted meats and mulled wine drifting through the air. Whatever it is, this season is made for good food and even better company.
Whether you’re planning a long Sunday lunch with the family, an intimate date night, or that annual festive get-together with friends, we’ve gathered some of the best local spots that bring comfort, character, and a hearty winter welcome.
Set in elegant surroundings just outside the city, Cambridge Country Club. Their Sunday roast is a thing of beauty: tender beef or perfectly crisp chicken, rich gravy, and golden roasties that crunch just right. But beyond the food, it’s the setting that steals the show, panoramic views, plush interiors, and a relaxed luxury that invites you to linger.
Perfect for: Family gatherings or a little indulgence before Christmas shopping.
The Tickle Arms, Whittlesford
A true countryside gem with charm in every beam and brick. The Tickle Arms offers a warm, rustic atmosphere, ideal for cold evenings and hearty roasts. Think Yorkshire puddings that rise like clouds and gravy that feels like a hug in a jug. Their wine list is thoughtful, they're welcome even more so.
Perfect for: An intimate winter date night with candlelight and comfort food.
The Red House is the definition of country elegance. Their Sunday roasts are rich, generous, and made to be shared, the kind of meal that leaves you content, not just full. Expect slow-cooked joints, velvety cauliflower cheese, and the kind of service that makes you feel instantly at home.
Perfect for: Family feasts and special celebrations.
Cambridge Country Club
The Red House, Longstowe
The Fox and Hounds, Barley
A local favourite that does what British pubs do best, serve excellent food without fuss. The Fox and Hounds pairs perfectly cooked meats with seasonal vegetables and all the trimmings, plus local ales and a roaring fire that feels straight out of a storybook.
Perfect for: That long, lazy Sunday lunch where time doesn’t matter.
The Jolly Postie, Royston
With its quirky décor and lively atmosphere, The Jolly Postie is the perfect spot for relaxed, feel-good dining. Their roast dinners are hearty and full of flavour, but it’s also a great place for sharing platters, a craft beer, and that “one more drink” you promised you wouldn’t have.
Perfect for: Family catch-ups or an easy, fun night out.
Provenance Kitchen, Whittlesford
For something a little different, Provenance brings a modern edge to local dining. Their open kitchen and farm-to-table philosophy mean everything is fresh, thoughtful, and full of flavour. Their Sunday menu often blends the traditional with a twist, seasonal ingredients cooked to perfection.
Perfect for: The foodie in your group who loves discovery as much as dining.
The Sword in Hand, Buntingford
The Sword in Hand feels like stepping into an old English tale, all low ceilings, log fires, and charm. Their Sunday roasts are legendary in the area, with crisp potatoes, rich jus, and hearty portions. It’s the kind of place you go once and immediately start planning your next visit.
Perfect for: A true winter pub experience, comforting, classic, and full of character.
The Lodge, Duxford
A place that hits the perfect note, relaxed yet refined, stylish while comfortably down-to-earth. Every Sunday, at The Lodge, Duxford, the spotlight is on a beautifully crafted Sunday roast served in their atmospheric Tipi, accompanied by live music that lifts the lunch into something truly special.
Expect seasonally inspired flavours on your plate and the soft glow of strings or subtle rhythms in the background. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to linger, after all, dessert is a treat you won’t want to miss here.
Perfect for: A slow-Sunday reset with friends, a family outing with a twist, or a relaxed yet elegant date lunch.
So, Where Will You Feast First?
This season, make dining part of the celebration. Gather the people who make you laugh until your cheeks hurt, book that table you’ve been meaning to try, and let the conversation (and gravy) flow.
Because winter is for slowing down, savouring the moment, and never saying no to seconds.
Not just your local...
ONE
OF
THE UK’S BEST
We’re proud to share that The Fox & Hounds, Barley has been named among The Good Food Guide’s Top 100 Pubs for 2025, ranked No. 36 in the UK!
It’s an honour to be recognised alongside so many outstanding pubs, and a true reflection of the dedication of our team, the support of our loyal guests, and the community that makes our pub what it is. Thank you for being part of it!
The Wee Vinoteca
1 The Arcade, Hitchin, SG5 1ED www.weevinoteca.com 01462 454 881 Scan
WINE CLUB OF THE YEAR
At this year’s International Wine Challenge Awards, often called the Oscars of Wine, a small independent wine merchant from Hitchin took home one of the industry’s biggest honours. The Wee Vinoteca was crowned Wine Club of the Year, beating household names like Laithwaites, Virgin Wines, and The Wine Society.
So how did a small team from Hertfordshire outshine such giants? The secret lies in their philosophy: less, but better.
Unlike mass-market wine clubs that ship out generic mixed cases, The Wee Vinoteca’s Wine Subscription is entirely personal. Every case is handpicked by owner Duncan and his small, passionate team, each bottle chosen for the individual subscriber, sourced exclusively from small, family-run wineries across the world.
Judges at the IWC praised the approach: “We loved the high degree of personalisation, care and exploration in each case.”
This win has been years in the making. The Wee Vinoteca had been shortlisted for Wine Club of the Year three times before finally taking the top spot. With each year, they refined and deepened the experience, adding exclusive winemaker interviews, subscriber-only events, and an ever-greater sense of connection between drinker and maker.
The club’s waiting list has grown rapidly since the win, but that doesn’t mean newcomers aren’t welcome. To keep every experience truly personal, only a small number of new spaces are released each week. By joining the list, wine lovers get first access when those openings become available.
“This award proves that a small, focused team can beat companies with millions in marketing,” says Duncan. “I pick every bottle, I write every email, and our subscribers know who’s behind it. That matters more than ever right now.”
In an era when people value authenticity over algorithms, The Wee Vinoteca shows that passion, personality, and genuine connection are the real markers of success.
The Wee Vinoteca — small by choice, exceptional by nature.
NEW! Celebrate Life's Milestones Around the World. Experience bucket-list adventures, romantic escapes, and unforgettable celebrations up close.
Let’s design a trip filled with joy, meaningful connections, and memories that last a lifetime.
Make
Whether
A romantic gondola ride in Venice
A private vineyard stay in Tuscany
A luxury island retreat in the Maldives
A family celebration under the Japanese cherry blossoms
biggest moments truly unforgettable
Maldives, Indian Ocean
Venice, Italy
Tuscany, Italy
Kyoto, Japan
Sustainable.
Distinctive. Purposeful.
When lifelong best friends and designers, Nic and Roz, launched Storigraphic from their Cambridgeshire studio in 2020, they had a clear vision: to transform everyday products with beautifully designed, sustainably crafted items that everyone can use and enjoy.
This independent design studio, brand and lifestyle store has built its reputation on distinctive design style and unwavering principles. Every product tells a story of considered choices: UK craftsmanship, environmentally certified materials, recyclable packaging, and small-batch manufacturing that honours both the planet and local economy. From the weight of the paper to the precision of printing, nothing is left to chance.
The result? Collections that pulse with life. Drawing inspiration from pop culture, art history, fashion, mid-century design and modern architecture, Storigraphic celebrates heritage design through their contemporary lens. Rich colours, intricate patterns and compelling narratives flow through their paperware, stationery, gifts and accessories, whilst their homeware range, Storihome, brings this same energy into your living spaces.
Behind the beautiful products is a team that genuinely loves what they do. It’s this passion, combined with meticulous attention to detail, that makes Storigraphic more than just a brand. It’s a curation of considered design and a route towards a more sustainable future.
Discover Storigraphic online: storigraphic.com
Visit their Open Studio shopping days running November and December in Shepreth. See their website for details.
Cryotherapy at Light Blue Clinic
Cryotherapy isn’t just for athletes It’s a powerful wellness tool for everyone. Reduce inflammation, ease pain, boost your mood, improve skin, and strengthen your immune system in just minutes.
Unit 4 The Workplace, Camboro Business Park, Girton, Oakington Road, Cambridge, CB3 0QH
RETHINKING THE WAY WE CELEBRATE
The festive season is a time for abundance, warmth, and sharing with loved ones. Yet, in our rush to stock up on supermarket aisles stacked high with mass-produced goods, we often overlook the impact our choices have on the planet. This winter, there’s a better way, one that celebrates not just taste, but sustainability, community, and the power of considered consumer behaviour.
THE HEART OF A SUSTAINABLE FEAST
Rather than queuing up in large supermarkets and contributing to industrial-scale production, why not explore the richness of local ingredients? Our surrounding counties of Herts, Cambs, Beds and Essex are home to a wealth of passionate producers and artisan suppliers. From the Honest Fig Cheese Company, crafting cheeses with care and minimal environmental impact, to local butchers, such as, Knibbs in Bourne, offering ethically reared, grass-fed meats, the options are plentiful and delicious.
Seasonal vegetables from our local markets provide the perfect accompaniment, vibrant roots, leafy greens, and squashes harvested at the peak of their flavour. Pairing these ingredients with a bottle from a local vineyard, Saffron Grange Vineyard, that every element of your celebration is grounded in locality and care.
When we choose to spend thoughtfully, we become part of a network of considered consumer behaviour. Our purchases send signals to producers, suppliers, and communities. Every mindful decision is a cog in the larger machinery of change and it only takes a few people to shift the direction of the system. By stepping away from mass consumption, we set in motion a chain reaction that benefits people, place, and planet.
CHANGING HABITS BEYOND THE FESTIVE SEASON
Sustainability isn’t just a seasonal choice, it’s a lifestyle. Lets reconnect with the story behind the food. Who grows it? How is it produced? And how does it affect the world around us?
Choose quality over quantity. Instead of contributing to overproduction and waste, become part of a system that values care, skill, and respect for the environment. Create real, lasting change and encourage others to do the same.
A CELEBRATION WITH MEANING
Imagine a festive table where each ingredient has a story: the pork is from a family farm just a few miles away, the root vegetables were harvested this morning, and the cheese is handmade with passion. A glass of locally produced wine complements these dishes, celebrating not just flavour, but provenance and sustainability.
By making these choices, we demonstrate that our spending matters. We show that sustainability doesn’t mean compromise.
This winter, let’s step off the conveyor belt of massproduced meals. Let’s embrace local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients, not just for Christmas, but as a routine that enriches our tables, our communities, and our world.
A Local Gift Guide for ThouGhtful GivinG
After celebrating the joys of local, seasonal, and sustainable food, why not extend that same care to your gift-giving this festive season? Our handpicked selection showcases the very best of local businesses, from artisanal treats and handmade treasures to unique experiences that support our communities.
Discover gifts with meaning, charm, and a story behind every purchase, and make this Christmas truly special for both your loved ones and the people and places around you.
Scan to discover more
These minimalist earrings feature a stunning Malachite gemstone. Malachite is to be a protective stone that helps to clear away negative energies in your life. It is also a stone of transformation, helping you to feel more courageous. With its rich green colour and subtle marbling, each pair is unique.
Material: Handmade with 18kt gold plated on Sterling Silver (925, hypoallergenic), and a solid malachite bar.
£40 Vurchoo Malachite Drop Bar Gold Stud Earrings
Christmas wrapping paper, greeting cards and festive accessories
Transform your gifting with Storigraphic’s boutique collection of festive finery. Creatively crafted in bold and timeless styles, their Christmas collection of wrapping papers alongside matching cards and tags makes every gift and celebration extra special.
For fashion lovers who care about the planet, Trash Chic offers a thoughtfully curated collection of preloved and upcycled clothing. From quirky high-street finds to reworked statement pieces adorned with Trash Chic’s signature punk and hippie patches, every item is handpicked to help women express their style sustainably. Affordable, unique, and full of personality, it’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves fashion with a story.
Treat someone to a taste of genuine craft with The Honest Fig in Royston. This warm and welcoming indie shop offers hand-picked artisan cheeses, cleverly composed grazing boards, and all the accompaniments for a memorable culinary gift. Ideal for birthdays, house-warmings or cosy catch-ups, it’s a thoughtful flavourfilled experience to share.
Trash Chic – Sustainable Style with Personality
The Honest Fig – Artisan Cheese & Grazing Board Specialists
Vurchoo Pink Opal and Pearl Enamel Starry Night Gold Necklace
Indulge in the beauty of our Pink Opal and pearl enamel starry night gold necklace. Adorned with a picture-perfect starry night design, each detail is crafted to perfection. The necklace features a pink opal at the eye of the moon and a distant planet, complemented by a pearl-coloured enamel night sky. Be prepared to turn heads and share the captivating story behind this unique piece.
£39.99
Afternoon Tea at The Lodge, Duxford
Give the gift of indulgence with a beautifully presented Afternoon Tea at The Lodge, Duxford. Enjoy freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, delicate sandwiches, and irresistible cakes in the elegant surroundings of the Dining Room, glasshouses, or Courtyard Garden. Perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or simply treating someone special, with the option to add a glass of Prosecco or local Saffron Grange for a sparkling touch.
Monday – Saturday: 12:00-17:00
Afternoon Tea for two for £30 (valid till 1/03/26 with the code AFT/DL26)
Glazed Creations – Personalised Pottery & Keepsake Gifts
At Glazed Creations in Royston, you’ll find beautifully hand-painted pottery pieces that make thoughtful, personal gifts. Whether it’s a customised plate, a baby-handprint keepsake, or a bespoke celebration piece, each item is crafted with care and can be uniquely personalised for your loved one. Ideal for birthdays, new arrivals or simply making someone feel truly special.
Treat someone to thoughtful self-care with Just Being Escential’s beautifully curated collection of aromatic gifts. From luxurious soy-wax candles to tailor-made body oils and scent-infused home rituals, each product is designed to delight. Perfect for birthdays, thank-you moments or simply showing someone you care, it’s a gift filled with scent, personality and purpose.
Gifts under £20 — Postcard Editions
Postcard Editions is a curated collection of 18 beautifully bold postcards featuring signature prints and patterns from Storigraphic’s design portfolio. Each A6 landscape postcard detaches cleanly from the bound collection, making them perfect for personal correspondence, framing, scrapbooking, and multiple creative applications. Sustainably printed in the UK using FSC-certified, recyclable paper. Whether for personal use or gift-giving, this versatile collection appeals to design enthusiasts, creatives, crafters, and anyone who appreciates distinctive stationery.
Just Being Escential
Sunday Roast & Live Music
Join us Sundays 12–5pm for a delicious Sunday Roast with live music in the relaxed atmosphere of The Lodge Duxford
Two Courses – £28
Three Courses – £32
STONES Readers Exclusive: Get 25% off your Tipi Sunday Roast with code Book your table, bring this advert or quote the code, and enjoy great food, music, and company!
Eat. Drink. Celebrate.
Celebrate the Magic of the Season in Style. A place for evenings out, celebrations, or memorable Sunday roasts.
YOUR PLACE TO BELONG
Opening Hours
Thursdays 5pm - 9pm
Fridays 4pm - 10pm
Saturdays 3pm - 10pm Sundays 12pm - 6pm Book Now
HOMES WITH HEART
INTERIORS MADE FOR GATHERING
How Studio28 Interiors designs soulful, lived-in spaces made for connection and celebration.
There’s something special about a home that welcomes you in. Where the lighting feels soft, the furniture invites you to linger, and every surface seems to tell a story. As the festive season approaches, our thoughts naturally turn to togetherness, whether that’s hosting friends around the kitchen island or curling up with family by the fire. The spaces we gather in shape the moments we remember most.
Great design has the power to set the tone for how a home feels to live in. The best interiors go beyond aesthetics; they nurture daily life, making hosting, relaxing, and celebrating effortless. From busy weekday breakfasts to laughter-filled dinners, the homes that truly work are the ones made to be lived in and loved.
This feeling is beautifully captured in the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-guh”), a word that describes more than just being cosy. It’s a sense of comfort, contentment, and togetherness, created through warmth and simple pleasures. It’s that same sense of ease and belonging that thoughtful interior design can bring into every home, where beauty and comfort coexist, and connection happens naturally.
DESIGNING FOR CONNECTION
Gathering spaces sit at the heart of every home. One recent project saw a family wanting their kitchen to become the true social hub, a place for cooking, chatting, homework, and celebration. A generous island now sits at its centre, allowing everyone to come together naturally. Bar seating invites guests to relax while the chef of the family works their magic, and layered lighting helps the space shift effortlessly from bright and practical to warm and atmospheric.
It’s these small, intentional design choices, the placement of a pendant light, the depth of a worktop, the texture of a finish, that quietly transform how a home feels and functions day to day. Whether it’s a contemporary townhouse or a centuries-old farmhouse, good design should always reflect the way you want to live.
“When a space invites you to gather and linger, that’s when it truly comes to life.” — Studio28 Interiors
THE ART OF COSINESS
Cosiness isn’t about clutter or excess, it’s about comfort with intention. Thoughtful use of materials such as brushed oak, woven linen, and soft wool helps to bring warmth and texture, softening architectural lines and adding a sense of calm. Layered lighting, wall lamps, table lamps, and soft accent lighting, creates ambience long after daylight fades.
Even subtle seasonal shifts can refresh the atmosphere; a heavier throw, a candle with notes of cedar and amber, or a vase of dried grasses echoing the winter landscape outside. These small gestures keep a home feeling grounded and alive, gently evolving with the rhythm of the seasons.
“We design for the moments that matter, shared meals, quiet mornings, joyful chaos.” — Studio28 Interiors
Because ultimately, a home isn’t defined by its walls or finishes, but by the people, and the moments it holds within.
CREATING HOMES WITH SOUL
A home should tell your story, how you live, what you value, and the moments you want to hold onto. The best interiors don’t shout for attention; they quietly enhance everyday life. From the morning coffee ritual to family gatherings that spill late into the evening, good design supports the rhythm of living.
Timeless spaces are created when craftsmanship meets comfort, where clean lines blend with layered textures and natural materials to form rooms that evolve with you. It’s about finding that balance between beauty and practicality, tradition and modernity.
When a home feels good, everything else flows from there, it’s the backdrop to life’s best moments.
To learn more about Studio28 Interiors and their approach to creating timeless, soulful spaces, visit www.s28interiors.com
Photography by: Peter Bennet and Sarah Griggs
Bob Tribble hanging up the Uptons sign.
Over the past issues of STONES, we’ve been walking through time with the Royston Town Trail, exploring the places, people, and stories that helped shape the town we know and love today. From historic landmarks and longforgotten trades to the charming quirks that make Royston unique, the trail has reminded us how much local history still lives on in the streets around us.
But there’s so much more to uncover, and this is where you come in. We’d love to hear your memories of the past: the shops and cafés that once lined your loacl area, community events that brought everyone together, or the everyday
moments that capture what life used to be like. Perhaps you have old photographs tucked away in an album, or family stories passed down through generations. These glimpses into the past help us all see how our local area has grown and changed, and they keep its spirit alive for future generations.
We’ll be sharing some of these stories and images in future issues and online, building a living archive that celebrates our local areas, not just through history books, but through the real experiences of local people.
Together, let’s keep these stories alive, one memory at a time.
Share your stories
We’d love to see your memories. Send your stories and photos to hello@stonesmagazine.com or message us on social media.
Bob Tribble and Dave Dyer. Royston Joinery, 7b Lower King Street Approx. 1984/85
The Commitments Brassic
SKY & NETFLIX / 7 SEASONS
If you haven’t watched Brassic yet, you’re seriously missing out. It’s this brilliant British comedy-drama about Vinnie (Joe Gilgun) and his bunch of mates just trying to get by in their scruffy northern town, usually by getting up to some sort of mad scheme or petty crime. It’s rough around the edges, completely chaotic, and absolutely hilarious.
What makes it special though is the heart behind it all. Yeah, it’s full of laughs, but it also tackles real stuff like mental health and friendship in a really honest way, especially with Vinnie’s bipolar story. You’ll go from laughing your head off one minute to feeling genuinely moved the next.
And the cast? Spot on. Joe Gilgun and Michelle Keegan are class together. The whole show’s got that proper mix of humour, heart, and northern grit that makes it feel real. Honestly, it’s one of the best British shows out there right now, think Shameless, but smarter and funnier.
The Commitments is one of those films that just oozes heart, soul, and a bit of chaos. Based on Roddy Doyle’s brilliant debut novel, it follows a group of working-class lads and lasses from Dublin who decide to form a soul band, even though they’ve got more enthusiasm than experience. What unfolds is pure joy: sharp humour, clashing egos, killer tunes, and that gritty determination to make something out of nothing.
The music absolutely bangs, packed with classic soul hits that make you want to sing along, and the cast (mostly unknowns at the time) feel totally authentic, like people you actually know. It’s funny, real, and full of energy, but underneath all the chaos there’s a genuine message about friendship, ambition, and finding pride in where you come from.
Whether you’ve read the book or not, the film captures that same mix of grit, humour, and community spirit that makes The Commitments such a timeless story.
PRIME
The Suburbs Arcade Fire
ALTERNATIVE / 2010 / 16 TRACKS / 1H 4MINS
Getting Killed Geese
ALTERNATIVE / 2025 / 11 TRACKS / 46MINS
REVOLUTION RECORDS RECOMMEND
The Suburbs is one of those albums that just gets under your skin, a sprawling, emotional reflection on growing up, drifting apart, and finding your way back to where you belong. Arcade Fire capture the feeling of modern life perfectly: that mix of nostalgia for the past and restlessness about the future.
Musically, it’s stunning; rich, layered, and full of energy, moving from anthemic rock to tender, reflective moments without missing a beat. Every song feels connected, like chapters in a story about home, friendship, and the way communities shape who we are.
What really makes it special is the heart behind it. Beneath the big sounds and cinematic sweep, there’s warmth, honesty, and a sense of shared experience. The Suburbs isn’t just an album you listen to, it’s one you feel, reminding you of where you came from and the people who made it matter.
New York City’s Geese return with their highly anticipated 3rd studio album, Getting Killed. After being approached by Kenneth Blume at a music festival, Geese tracked the album in his LA studio over the course of ten fast-paced days. With scant time for overdubbing, the finished project emerges as something of a chaotic comedy, shambolic in structure but passionately performed, informed by an exacting vision. Garage riffs are layered upon Ukrainian choir samples; hissing drum machines pulse softly behind screeching guitars; strange, lullaby-esque songs are interspersed with furious, repetitive experiments. With Getting Killed, Geese balances a disarming new tenderness with an intensified anger, seemingly trading their love of classic rock for a disdain for music itself.
Josh Murphy
Sophie Murphy
Steve Eggs
WEBSITE GET IN TOUCH
Vicky Stacey No Story Publishing a Sanders + Jay company
GET INVOLVED
At STONES, we are inspired to be part of the bigger picture. The way we all do business has shifted over recent years and it’s more important than ever for us to support each other. We are starting here, with our lifestyle magazine; designed to draw readers to all of the finer things in our area. No matter what it is you have to offer the community, whether it be big or small, you could be a part of STONES. Be a part of the conversation, part of the journey. Get in touch with our STONES team today to find out more.
Let’s stick together and create an environment we are all proud to call home.
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