Style of Wight Nov Dec 2025

Seaview High Street

Whether you’re buying or selling, let’s talk Island property.

Rooted in island life

Based in the heart of Cowes High Street, McCarthy & Booker has built its reputation on a genuine love for the Isle of Wight and a straightforward, personal approach to estate agency. Founded by directors Georgie McCarthy and Paul Booker, the business began in 2011 with a focus on waterside homes and has since grown to represent properties of every kind across the island.

The agency remains the Isle of Wight’s exclusive member of the Waterside Properties network, a national group of specialist agents with expertise in selling homes with beautiful coastal and riverside views — a natural fit for the island’s sailing heritage and seaside lifestyle.

At the core of McCarthy & Booker is a close-knit team. Alongside Georgie and Paul, Tracey and Catherine bring energy, experience and dedication, ensuring clients feel fully supported throughout the buying or selling process. Together, they balance professionalism with a warm, approachable style that reflects the island itself.

Community is central to the way McCarthy & Booker works. From supporting local charities such as

Mountbatten, RSPCA, Alzheimers Cafe Cowes, The Wave Project and Ability Dogs for Young People, to being a familiar presence at island events including the Royal County Show and Cowes Week, the team takes pride in being part of island life beyond the property market. Their office is as much a place to connect with neighbours as it is to discuss homes.

Most recently, McCarthy & Booker has expanded its reach by collaborating with experienced agents Steve Webb and Mark Jenkins, who join as South Wight consultants and bring with them a wealth of local expertise and an established portfolio of homes.

Today, McCarthy & Booker combines deep local knowledge with national connections, offering a professional service rooted in community and shaped by a shared passion for the island’s coast, countryside and way of life.

300 111 | The Old Post Office, 73 High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7AJ

£2,250,000

SUN HILL | COWES

A celebrated boutique hotel and restaurant, with many accolades including being awarded One MICHELIN Key for two consecutive years. Occupying a prime position within this world-renowned sailing destination, with residential potential, it is truly a unique opportunity not to be missed. EPC C

I. POUND GREEN £POA

An attractive semi-detached two bedroom cottage situated in a popular and picturesque conservation area. EPC TBC

II. FRESHWATER BAY

£535,000

A 1930’s four bedroom detached family home in a sought-after location, close to the seafront at Freshwater Bay, Afton Downs and local Nature Reserve. EPC E

III. BEMBRIDGE

£1,150,000

A beautifully extended and comprehensively renovated family home, offering high-specification interiors, impressive open-plan living spaces, landscaped gardens all in a prime village location. EPC C

IV. YARMOUTH

£485,000

A three bedroom detached house that offers the unique combination of fabulous views, a south facing garden, garaging, and plenty of off street car-parking.

V. COWES

£325,000

This ideally situated period property has been renovated throughout to provide a comfortable family home with open plan kitchen living opening to the attractive rear garden with home office. EPC D

VI. BONCHURCH

£650,000

Set in an elevated position with panoramic southerly sea views, the principal portion of this charming historic property with elegant rooms and a wonderful garden. EPC D

VII. COWES

£560,000

A delightful period property that offers comfortable accommodation that has been well-maintained, with sea views, off-road parking and garden. EPC C

SHALFLEET MANOR

- Timeless & Elegant -

From £817 / night

Sleeps: 16 Bedrooms: 7

KINGSTON COTTAGE

- Art of Relaxation -

From £118 / night

Sleeps: 4 Bedrooms: 2

SHANKLIN OLD SCHOOL MEWS

- New School Luxury -

From £120 / night

Sleeps: 6 Bedrooms: 3

LUCCOMBE WOODLANDS - Hot Tub and Sauna -

From £210 / night

Sleeps: 6 Bedrooms: 3

Editor

Cover Pic: Courtesy of Nadydy

Christian Warren

christian@styleofwight.co.uk

Associate Editor

Rebecca Lawson

rebecca@styleofwight.co.uk

Sub Editor

Helen Hopper

Writers

Rebecca Lawson, Ginnie Taylor, Christian Warren

Design and Creative

Tim Mander, Christian Warren

Photography

Christian Warren, Julian Winslow, Gary Wallis

Sales

Christian Warren

christian@styleofwight.co.uk

Distribution office@styleofwight.co.uk 01983 861007

We print on sustainable paper using ecologically friendly inks and use a ‘carbon balanced’ printer.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of Style of Wight Magazine, but legal responsibility cannot be accepted for errors, omissions or misleading statements.

Winners at the IW Chamber Awards 2016

Note from the Editor

As the nights draw in and the Island begins to twinkle with fairy lights and festive markets, there’s a familiar kind of magic in the air — one that feels both nostalgic and new each year. I always know Christmas has truly arrived when I’m standing by the sea, eating a mince pie as the wind whips in from the Solent. The waves keep rolling, the gulls keep calling, but for a moment, everything slows. That’s the kind of Christmas I love — simple, grounded, and full of heart.

This issue is a celebration of exactly that: slowing down, gathering together, and finding joy in the little things that make the season special.

Our Christmas Gift Guide is full of inspiration from local artisans and businesses who put real care into what they sell and create — thoughtful gifts that mean something. Continuing that theme of connection, SOMA invites us to explore a gentler kind of wellness this Christmas — one rooted in community, shared experiences, and quiet moments of calm amid the rush.

We’re also delighted to welcome Joanne Harris, whose return to the world of Chocolat is every bit as rich and evocative as the first taste. Our Meet the Chef feature introduces the lovely team behind Honey Donuts, a business that proves joy really can be baked fresh every day. And in Meet the Maker, we step inside Coralesce Stained Glass, where light, colour, and craftsmanship come together in the most beautiful way.

We also take a look at the age-old tradition of wassailing, a wonderfully raucous reminder that community, song, and cider have long gone hand in hand on cold winter nights. And if your style leans more serene than sparkly, our White Wight Christmas feature offers inspiration for creating a calm, natural look at home; think soft neutrals, winter whites, and just a hint of magic.

So light a candle, pour yourself something warm, and settle in. This issue is all about comfort, creativity, and connection — everything the Island does best.

Christian Warren

Get in touch

8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1EJ 01983 861007 www.styleofwight.co.uk

STYLE SCOOP

Get out and rediscover your Island this silly season — support local events, enjoy festive fun close to home, and make the most of the Island’s magical winter season.

Christmas Wreath Making Workshops

7, 12, and 14 December, Goose Island Workshop, Fakenham Farm, St Helens

Get creative, learn a new skill - see our reader offer for details on how you could win your place! gooseislandcandlecompany.com

Gurnard Boxing Day Dip

26 December, Gurnard Sailing Club

Blow away the Christmas cobwebs and dive into the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust Gurnard Green Boxing Day Dip!

Magazine Making Workshop

Various dates in January and February School Workshops

Step inside the world of magazine-making with this exciting workshop run by Style of Wight magazine in conjunction with Creative Island. creativeisland.org

Rob da Bank Music Club Returns 25 November, Strings, Newport

Rob da Bank Music Club is back! Hosted with IOW Youth Trust, it’s a chance to learn, create, and explore music. stringsbarandvenue.com

Soundings

11 October– 19 December, Quay Arts, Newport

A new installation by artist Emma Critchley combining film and live dance to reimagine our relationship with the deep sea. quayarts.org

Freshwater Vintage One-Year Anniversary 14 December, Gate Lane, Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Vintage marks its first anniversary with a charming celebration of all things retro.

Chilly Hilly

14 December, West Wight

Warm up with West Wight Sports & Community Centre and fundraise for a charity of your choice via GoFundMe. isleofwightfestivalofrunning.co.uk

NOVEMBER – JANUARY

It’s time for your annual dose of festive cheer, and you’ll find it at any great fayre, fair or market! Try some of these locations:

East Cowes Christmas Market

23 November, Well Road Car Park & Kings Square

Totland Christmas Fair

28 November, Colwell Common totlandparishcouncil.org.uk

Northwood House Christmas Fair

29 – 30 November, Northwood House, Cowes

northwoodhouse.org

Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival

4 – 7 December, Various venues brighstonechristmastree.com

Briddlesford Christmas Market

5 – 7 December, Briddlesford Farm briddlesford.co.uk

Newport Minster Market

Christmas Fayre

6 December, St Thomas’ Square

Quarr Abbey Christmas Market

11–16 December, Quarr Abbey, Ryde quarrabbey.org

Near:

Southampton Christmas Market

13 November – 4 January, Above Bar Street & Guildhall Square southamptonchristmasmarket. co.uk

Further away: Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

21 November – 22 December, The Close

winchester-cathedral.org.uk

READ:

A Christmas Murder by Mary Grand

Snuggle down and buckle up for the latest instalment of Island author, Mary Grand’s Isle of Wight Killings Series.

DO:

Go red squirrel spotting

Visit America Wood – if you’re lucky, you may spot the Style team there, too!

Shop at festive markets

Keep it in the Island family!

EAT:

Local cheeses

“Working with everyone involved with Mountbatten has been the highlight of my career.”

Nigel Hartley announcing his retirement from Mountbatten. He passes the torch to Becky McGregor, who officially took over on 1 October 2025.

Grab an Isle of Wight Borthwood – perfect for melting into a hearty winter dish.

Isle of Wight Crab

Go Aussie-style (like our editor Rebecca) with a Christmas shellfish spread!

DRINK:

Savour some mulled wine at a local pub

Pop into the Village Inn in Bembridge and let the warming goodness do its magic.

STYLE PICKS SARAH EPSOM

To award-winning watercolour artist and illustrator Sarah Epsom, who founded her business in Bath in 2021, a blank page is an invitation to capture a moment of quiet wonder. Her work is known for its luminous colour palettes, intricate details, and sense of movement. Through her paintings, Sarah has turned her passion for the natural world into a thriving business of stationery, prints, and homeware, bringing artistry into everyday life.

For Sarah, Christmas is more than a season; it’s a feeling — a time of memory, emotion, and tradition. This depth fuels her creativity, inspiring festive collections that embody the timeless magic of the season.

This year’s Moonlit Magic range, painted in her signature watercolour style, transforms deep night skies into scenes of shimmering wonder — a child posting a letter to Santa, two tiny mice by the glow of a Christmas pudding, a robin perched beside a star-topped tree. Each piece, rich in colour and detail, captures the quiet enchantment of Christmas.

More than just cards, they are fragments of magic to share — carrying warmth, reflection, and timeless beauty. You can discover Sarah’s full collection of greeting cards, prints, and homeware on her website or at selected stockists.

sarahepsom.com

Get your Christmas correspondence sorted with this gorgeous collection of hand-painted greeting cards. Scan the QR code now to win. Or visit our website styleofwight.co.uk OPEN ONLY TO ISLAND RESIDENTS.

A JOLLY CHRISTMAS

A LITTLE MAGIC

CHRISTMAS STARS

CHRISTMAS

JOANNE HARRIS’S STORIES

SPARKLE

JOANNE HARRIS

HER TAS EOF CHOCOLAT

From Chocolat to Vianne, Joanne Harris has spent a lifetime exploring the hidden corners of human desire, myth, and memory. At this year’s Isle of Wight Literary Festival, the acclaimed author spoke with quiet power about creativity, ageing, and the magic found in the everyday.

Words: Rebecca Lawson | Images: Kyte Photography

“I THINK PEOPLE RESPOND TO THE EMOTIONAL TRUTH OF THINGS, NOT NECESSARILY WHAT’S LITERALLY TRUE.”

The afternoon is cool and bright in Cowes, the sea visible in soft glimpses between Georgian rooftops. Inside Northwood House, where the Literary Festival hums into life, a sinuous line of book-lovers queue for a seat. The scent of coffee and salt air mingles with the faint rustle of pages and the murmur of conversation. Almost everyone is clutching a hard-cover copy of the recently released novel Vianne, prequel to the cult classic Chocolat.

The audience is seated in the large reception rooms, where sunlight slants across rows of chairs and catches the edge of a stage and sofa. Joanne Harris enters without fuss

and takes her seat. She is small in stature, dark curls framing her face, a presence that makes you want to stop and listen, to crane your ears for every word. She has the kind of poise that doesn’t need any fanfare; she is articulate and her words are infused with the same spark of curiosity that animates everything she writes.

She speaks of Vianne, the lead character from her Chocolat series, in measured tones, musical and layered with warmth. It is clear she knows her well; “Vianne and I have aged together,” she says, “and are now more or less at the same stage of two very different lives.”

Harris’s conversation, much like her novels and Vianne herself, slips easily between the ordinary and the mythic. She sews magic into everyday life, so you accept it as fact. “I think people respond to the emotional truth of things, not necessarily what’s literally true,” she explains, her tone reflective. “It’s more about what feels real than what actually is.”

It’s that emotional truth that has made Harris one of Britain’s most distinctive literary voices. Her 1999 novel Chocolat – a tale of faith, temptation, and the magic of chocolate – became a modern classic, adapted into an Oscar-nominated film starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. This may have been a defining moment in her career, but

Harris herself never stood still. Her work since has ranged from psychological thrillers to Norse retellings and ghost stories, each one stitched with her signature blend of folklore, sensual detail, and quiet rebellion.

After her talk has wound to a close, Harris and I chat further. When she talks about her childhood, it’s easy to see that her love of myth and memory took root long before Chocolat made her a household name. With a French mother and an English father, she grew up straddling two languages and two cultures – belonging to both yet somehow caught between them. “One of the unique things about being from two cultures,” she says, “is that wherever you go, you are

always going to be at least half foreign. This makes for an interesting perspective for a writer. It means that you interact with people slightly differently and have a different sense of what belonging means.” It is from this liminal space that Harris has been able to create such multi-dimensional characters as Vianne, and this is vital to the longevity of her stories. She explains, “It’s the tension between two realities that gives a story breath.”

It’s hard not to notice how seamlessly transitional spaces seep into other themes in her work as well, such as the boundaries between myth and reality. Her readers, too, seem to inhabit that in-between state — half

believing in the magic, half aware that it’s a mirror for something closer to home. It’s what makes Harris’s stories endure: the uncanny sense that what she’s describing could, in the right light, be real.

Magic, it turns out, is a practical craft in Harris’s world. She approaches writing like a musician — unsurprising for someone who plays flute and bass guitar — composing her novels in rhythm and tone as much as plot. “Language has cadence,” she says. “A sentence can rise, fall, or hold its breath. I want the reader to feel that.” But there’s something deeply grounded about her, too — a Yorkshire earthiness beneath the lyricism.

She’s warm, quick-witted, occasionally wry, and entirely unpretentious.

She laughs when asked if she’s ever tempted to step away from the supernatural altogether. “I don’t think I could,” she admits. “The definition of between religion and myth, or folklore and superstition, are culturally dependent – all of those things exist on a sliding scale. One person’s myth is another person’s religion. So you see, I’m not really writing about magic — I’m writing about emotion, perspective and what we can’t explain.”

started writing and now — from the rise of social media to the quiet encroachment of AI in creative fields. Her response is measured but firm and candid: “Technology can reproduce style, but it can’t reproduce empathy — and that’s the heartbeat of writing. The job of a writer isn’t to produce words — it’s to create connection.”

That word — connection — threads through everything Harris says. Connection between writer and reader, past and present, myth and truth. Even the way she talks about her characters feels like she is describing old

experience colours, everything. You start to care less about how people will perceive your work and more about what you actually want to say.”

That shift, she adds, is part of why she continues to write — to map those changes, to make sense of the evolving landscape of being human. “Stories are how we make sense of being human. They help us look at ourselves — sometimes not too kindly — but with a kind of compassion that allows us to keep going.”

Emotion and human nature both seem to be something Harris instinctively understands, but it is hard-won knowledge. “I wouldn’t have been capable of writing about things too far outside my own experience,” she explains. “If you’re going to write grief, you have to have known grief. If you’re going to write about feeling like an outsider, then it helps to have felt like that. Emotional realism rather than literal realism is what I’m talking about here. Emotional realism is what links us and those are generally universal experiences to some degree.”

While discussing lived experience, our conversation shifts to the changes in the publishing industry between when she

friends, especially Vianne. “We’ve travelled alongside each other,” she admits. “When I wrote Chocolat, I was a young mother, full of questions about identity and belonging. Now I’m in a different phase of life, so my stories reflect that. I think when you reach a certain age, memory becomes important, and you start looking back, which is how I have been able to travel back in time and write about Vianne’s early life after already creating her later life.”

Harris is unafraid to talk about ageing — in her work, her body, her career. “I think as you get older your writing inevitably changes. The way you see the world shifts, how you

As our conversation draws to a close, the October light is beginning to lengthen the shadows on the lawns of Northwood House stretching out towards the Solent. Harris asks for directions to her next engagement. I point the way down to town and for a moment she stands looking out over the lawns, half in reflection. There’s something fitting about her presence here, on an island surrounded by thresholds – land meeting sea, history brushing against the present. Like her stories, the Isle of Wight exists in the in-between, a place where the edges blur and imagination has room to breathe. Perhaps this is why our little Island has always had such a strong link to literature and creativity.

Then Joanne turns and, smiling, disappears into the soft Island air, leaving behind a trace of wonder that doesn’t fade.

Joanne Harris’s latest novel, Vianne, is published by Orion (2024).

joanneharris.com

COLIN & CHRISTINA

Nestled away in a Victorian barn workshop in Brighstone, Colin and Christina Conroy are quietly working to help protect an endangered heritage skill: the art of making and restoring stained glass.

Words: Ginnie Taylor | Images: Julian Winslow

The history of stained glass is extensive, with the use of coloured glass dating back to the Ancient Egyptians. The earliest example in the United Kingdom was found during monastery excavations in Northumbria, with the discovery of fragments of coloured window glass. Stained glass as we know it today, however, has evolved from the medieval art form. Widely used in Gothic Architecture, vibrant visual narratives were painted in churches and cathedrals to bring Bible stories to life for the (largely illiterate) congregations.

Thanks to the Gothic Revival of the 19th century and the abstract art movement, stained glass can now be found in many forms and in many buildings – from places of religious worship and education to grand houses and humble homes. Nevertheless, creating stained glass is a skill that is in danger of extinction. Colin and Christina Conroy are two members of the community who are working to keep this ancient art alive. Together, the husband-and-wife team operate Coralesce Stained Glass from their workshop in Brighstone. Master craftsman Colin takes commissions for restoration

Colin has been making and restoring stained glass panels for over 40 years. Starting at the tender age of just seventeen, he began his career in Essex, before moving to Surrey and eventually making his way to the Isle of Wight. Here, he’s been commissioned for restoration work on properties that range from English Heritage sites to holiday homes in Seaview – complete with bespoke mermaid designs, each unique and crafted to represent the MEET THE MAKERS:

projects, while he and Christina run courses for students of the art form.

owners’ daughters. Today, stained glass is a luxury and, Colin explains, very labourintensive. “You need to have the right look, the right glass, the right design. When you’ve been doing this for forty years, you want to make sure the houses look beautiful.”

Their workshop is where the magic happens. Colourful stained glass decorations hang from the rafters, with flowers, mushrooms, and whales catching the light. It’s not a craft for the faint of heart; it requires patience, precision, and concentration. “It’s filthy and dirty,” laughs Colin. “When I rebuild panels, they’re falling apart.”

But before a student can get their hands dirty with restoration, they need to learn the basics. Tuition begins with a six-week beginner course, where students learn how to make stained glass pieces using a ‘Tiffany Technique’. Popularised by Charles Tiffany, creator of the eponymous lamps, this method is primarily used for lightshades, three-dimensional pieces, and decorative work.

The husband-and-wife team have a workshop in Brighstone.

First, the students learn to make a cartoon (the term given to the pattern that the glass will be cut into). Christina designs cartoons, so no experience is needed. “You don’t have to be artistic,” she says. “We have lots of pre-set designs. This is typical for stained glass makers. In Victorian times, builders would have pattern books customers could choose designs from – like how we choose a kitchen now.”

Once the cartoon has been created, the glass is cut and ground, then meticulously put together using copper foiling. Soldering then commences, using a combination of 60% tin and 40% lead, with a variety of techniques employed throughout the process to create firm holds and neat edges. Once this has been mastered, students can progress to lead panels and then, finally, restoration.

Since the couple opened the studio in 2014, the courses have proved popular. Pat, a local Royal Mail Manager, is now learning

stained glass restoration, having completed the beginner and intermediate courses. “I’ve always wanted to do this,” he explains. “It’s very difficult, but I enjoy it, it’s therapeutic.”

Helen, formerly Head of Microbiology at the hospital, is also learning restoration, alongside selling her work. “You can let your imagination run free and do anything. It’s not something I thought I would do, but I love it. I like to make natural things – flowers, fish, birds.”

Colin is clearly delighted that their students are so enamoured with the heritage art form. “We’ve taught people who are actually teaching their own courses now, which is brilliant.” The couple live next door to the workshop, in a beautiful thatched cottage with stained glass designs decorating their garden. “We hope we’re leaving a legacy,” says Christina.

coralesce.com

Stained Glass will be holding an Open Studio to coincide with Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival. Visitors are welcome to learn more about their stained glass courses and buy their students’ work at their Christmas Grotto, which will be open 4 – 6 December, 12noon – 4pm.

Coralesce

Nestled at Fakenham Farm, Goose Island Studio is a warm, creative haven where everyone's welcome to relax, unwind and get imaginative.

This winter, join our Festive Giveaway for the chance to win a wreath-making workshop for two - complete with mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies!

Fakenham Farm Eddington Road PO33 1XS t: 07769 553153 | e: gooseislandstudio@gmail.com

SET IN THE BEAUTIFUL GROUNDS AND ESTATES OF EAST DENE BONCHURCH

Featuring Local Arts and Crafts, Local Island Foods, Santa Grotto Wreath Making and much more...

ENTRY £8 in Advance

Scan for TICKETS DECEMBER

(£10 on the door)

Entry includes a mince pie, mulled wine & raffle tickets with exclusive prizes.

Tues 16th 11am - 4pm

17th 11am - 4pm

Preview Evening Tues 16th 6pm - 8pm

Kelly and Eddie Saunders warmly invite you to Bonchurch and East Dene Estate East Dene Estate Bonchurch Village Road Bonchurch, Ventnor Isle of Wight PO381RQ

ADD YOUR VOICE

JOUR: Joyful Observations of Unfiltered Reality is an exhibition by photographer Vincent Dupont Blackshaw that lingers on the magic of childhood – the small, fleeting moments that we often don’t realise are precious until they’ve passed. And this time, Vincent is inviting you to be part of it.

His photographs, a mix of gentle portraits and honest, documentary-style glimpses, have a way of pulling you back. Back to the quiet corners of home, the thrill of doing something for the first time, the kind of happiness that bubbles up without warning. For many of us, they awaken memories of childhood Christmases – when fairy lights made everything feel enchanted, when stockings seemed impossibly exciting, and when Christmas morning felt like the most magical day of the year.

But JOUR isn’t just a gallery of images to admire. It’s a shared project that grows through the people who come to see it. If a picture stirs something in you – a memory, an emotion, or simply a familiar tug – you’re invited to add your story. Maybe it’s the smell of pine needles on Christmas Eve, the laughter of siblings, or the warmth of traditions you still carry with you. Maybe it’s a moment with your own children that reminds you how it felt to believe.

Every story adds another layer to this living artwork, creating a tapestry of memory and connection. To join in, all you need to do is scan the QR code, explore the series online, and if something sparks, write it down and share it.

Because your story matters. By offering your words, you help capture something

we all long for – the feeling of growing up, of remembering, and of those rare times, like Christmas, when the world felt utterly magical.

Eileen White: The Art of Slowing Down STYLE SPECTRUM

If you’ve ever wished the world would just pause for a moment, artist Eileen White might be the person to show you how. Her work is all about slowing down — watching, listening, and giving time back to nature.

Eileen doesn’t take photographs in the usual way. She builds her own cameras, makes her own plant-based photographic chemicals, and even turns her darkroom waste into compost to feed what she calls her ‘photographic garden’. It’s a process rooted in care and patience, where every stage connects back to the land.

Her new exhibition, running at The Arc in Winchester from 8 November to 14 December 2025, is an invitation to step into that slower rhythm. Through soft, atmospheric images and delicate prints, Eileen explores the quiet relationships between people, plants, and place. “I see my practice as a conversation with nature and

time,” she says. “It’s about paying attention – to the small shifts, the changes, the moments that often go unseen.”

Based in Winchester, Eileen describes herself as an eco-feminist, guided by the belief that creativity and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Her photographs aren’t straightforward landscapes – they’re something more like impressions or memories, what she affectionately calls ‘hauntings’. Each image holds a trace of what’s passing, a reflection on how everything – plants, people, and places – is constantly changing and intertwined.

Earlier this year, Eileen spent time as artistin-residence at Chelsea Physic Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. There, surrounded by medicinal herbs and centuries of history, she experimented with making images from plants themselves.

Using everything from historical glass-plate techniques to electron microscope scans, she captured the microscopic beauty of leaves and roots, revealing patterns that feel both ancient and futuristic.

With a background in textiles and printmaking, first at Goldsmiths and later at the Royal College of Art, Eileen’s work has always been tactile and grounded. She has exhibited internationally, collaborated with English Heritage and The National Trust, and is part of The Sustainable Darkroom collective, which supports artists developing greener photographic methods.

What makes her work so powerful, though, isn’t just the process – it’s the feeling. Each piece invites you to slow down, breathe, and notice the quiet wonder in the world around you.

eileenwhite.co.uk

Gardener, Chelsea Physic Garden: expired fibre-based paper, silver gelatin print, plant-based developer. 2023

Crab Wood 5: hand-printed silver gelatin print on recycled glass, plant-based developer. 2024

Propagation, Chelsea Physic Garden: silver gelatin print on collaged waste food packaging, plant-based developer. 2023

Snowdrop: silver gelatin print on expired photo paper using plant-based developer. 2023

MEET THE CHEF:

SWEET WHEELS FROM HONEY’S

Words: Rebecca Lawson | Images: Julian Winslow

“WE DON’T DO ANYTHING BY HALVES. IT’S ALWAYS TWO FEET IN, AND THEN THE REST OF YOU SCRAMBLES TO CATCH UP.”

What began as a daydream over coffee and a film has turned into one of the Island’s sweetest success stories. Honey’s Donuts is a tale of family, generosity and a little van called Claude who brings a taste of joy wherever he goes.

It’s a perfect autumn morning when I meet Wendy and KC, the pair behind Honey’s Donuts. Their little Citroën truck has become a familiar sight on the Island, pulling up at weddings, school fairs, events and community gatherings where they serve up hot, sugar-dusted rings of dough and locally roasted coffee that smells of home. At first glance, it’s a sweet treat business with a vintage vehicle. But sit with them a while, and you realise the story runs much deeper—into family history, local life, and the joy of doing something together. The name itself has roots. Years ago, the

couple had a tiny bolthole perched near the cliffs at Thorness Bay. They called it the Honey Hut after KC’s nickname for Wendy –Honey Sweet. The name stuck and became a sort of family brand. When the idea of starting a food venture began to take shape, it seemed natural to carry the Honey thread through. Wendy smiles as she explains: “We’ve always been a bit creative—inventive Christmas cards, little logos, all our own designs. It just felt right.”

KC grew up here, but Wendy rediscovered the Island when KC brought her here with her daughter Lucy, who was only seven at the

time. They all loved the sense of freedom, the beaches, the way children could still run out and play with new friends without anyone worrying. “We couldn’t do that in London,” Wendy recalls. Slowly but surely, the Island drew them back for good. Once they’d settled, the idea of a shared project began to press. “We’d always talked about doing something together,” KC tells me, “something creative, something that got us out meeting people and getting a buzz from doing something fun and happy.”

The answer turned out to be donuts. Wendy had helped a friend on the mainland who ran

Claude, Wendy and KC make up the Honey Donuts team.

a donut business, so they had seen a little of what was possible. The couple also adore the film Chef, with its food truck romance and street-food buzz. They began dreaming of their own Citroën van, something that would combine KC’s love of design with Wendy’s drive to have a business of their own. “We don’t do anything by halves,” Wendy laughs. “It’s always two feet in, and then the rest of you scrambles to catch up.”

Claude—yes, the van has a name—entered their lives after months of searching. A 1972 Citroën diesel, he had spent lockdown as a grocery shop on wheels, delivering essentials to villagers. “We thought that was so lovely,” Wendy says. “We couldn’t possibly change his name after that.” Now Claude is fitted with a donut kitchen and a fabulous coffee machine, and when the hatch opens, the smell of cinnamon and frying dough drifts out into the air, pulling people closer. The menu is simple: fresh ingredients to

make sugar-dusted donuts, cinnamon sugar for the traditionalists, and toppings that change with the season. Twix, Biscoff, bubblegum, caramel, chocolate, pistachio and raspberry, Sicilian lemon for the grownups - the fun is in the choosing. KC, who runs the fryer, has a favourite: “Hot and straight into the sugar. You can’t beat it.” Wendy loves watching customers take their first bite. “You see this look come over them, like nothing else matters for a second. It’s wonderful.”

Though KC currently still works in design, Honey’s Donuts has become very much a family business. Their daughter Lucy, now at university, jumps in to help when she’s home. Their son Rudy, who is a bit young to be employed yet, still wants to be a junior Donuteer — yes, this is an official job title — when you work at Honey’s Donuts, you become a Donuteer!

When possible, Honey’s try to donate raffle prizes or support local organisations, and

they always try to make sure no one is left out. Rudy’s cub pack got lucky recently and had donuts delivered to camp. Wendy included a whole batch of gluten-free and dairy-free donuts so that every single child could join in, not just those without allergies. “That matters to us,” Wendy says firmly. “We can’t stand the idea of someone being left out.” That same impulse drives the gift boxes and personalised teacher thank-you treats they make at Christmas, often with special options so everyone can enjoy a sweet treat.

The business works in two ways. There’s Claude, out on the road at weddings, corporate pop-ups, school treats, fêtes, key Island events and community gatherings, and there’s the softer kitchen side, where they prepare impressive donut towers for weddings and birthdays, or neat gift boxes for any occasion. Couples seem to love this idea of a donut tower, not just a wedding cake—something playful, customisable, and easy to share at the end of the night. “We

There’s a flavour for everyone.

can theme them around anything,” Wendy says, listing everything from football clubs to Homer Simpson. “It makes people happy— and that’s worth so much.”

Christmas has brought out their inventive streak too. Last year they amused themselves by creating a daily advent calendar of donut characters on social media—Rudolph, Santa, the Three Wise Men, even an angel or two. Wendy laughs as she tells me. “It was ridiculous, but we had so much fun. We might try again this year. Maybe even a whole nativity.”

There’s also a community heart to Honey’s Donuts. They buy their coffee locally, keeping the business rooted on the Island. And Claude himself seems to make friends wherever he goes, drawing curious onlookers and starting conversations. “People always ask if he’s original, if he still drives,” KC says. “On the road, we are quite slow, so we get a little parade of cars behind us. It’s quite a sight.”

“TWIX,

BISCOFF, BUBBLEGUM GLAZE, PISTACHIO AND RASPBERRY,

SICILIAN LEMON FOR THE GROWN-UPS – THE FUN IS IN THE

Running a food truck is far from glamorous. The early mornings, the mountains of admin and constant cleaning, the balancing act of preparing just enough fresh dough for an event. “Too little and you disappoint people, too much and it’s wasted,” KC explains. Social media is another constant demand. “It’s like a whole job in itself,” Wendy admits. They’re experimenting with behind-the-scenes posts, little glimpses of the chaos and the banter. “People like seeing the real thing now,” she says. “Authenticity matters more than perfect pictures.”

This year marks their second full season with Claude, and they’ve been learning how to pace themselves. “We’ve had no proper holiday, just time off between events,” Wendy says, “but knowing so much more than when we started really helps.” Next year, they want to shape the calendar more carefully, keeping the fun while avoiding burnout.

Through it all, there’s a clear sense of joy. Honey’s Donuts isn’t just a food business—it’s

an expression of family life, of being rooted in the Island, of creating something together. When I ask what keeps them going, Wendy doesn’t hesitate. “Watching people take that first bite and say these are the best donuts I have ever had. That’s what it’s all about. That’s the best moment.”

As Christmas approaches, they’ll be back out at fairs and festive markets, Claude parked up with steam rising from coffee cups and the sweet smell of cinnamon on the air. If you stop by, you may find more than a donut in your hand. You’ll find a story, and perhaps a glimpse of the reason why Honey’s Donuts has become so loved here: it’s not just about sugar and toppings, but about family, generosity, and the pleasure of sharing something warm with a community you call home.

honeysdonutsiow.com

CALABRESE

With

Will Steward , Living Larder

Calabrese is the true Italian name for what we commonly call broccoli. Borrowed from our Italian friends, Calabrese is an autumn vegetable in the brassica family (think cabbage, cauliflower etc). Relatively easy to grow thanks to modern plant breeding, efficient harvesting can be more challenging as calabrese doesn’t keep on the plant for long (one week at best once ready) meaning the whole crop needs picking quickly. Calabrese, in its basic form, is a huge collection of buds that are just waiting to burst into flower, hence its more seasonal use in autumn, rather than through the sunnier summer days.

BROCCOLI SOUFFLÉ

Ingredients:

50g butter, plus extra melted butter for greasing

Handful of fresh, fine white breadcrumbs

250g broccoli, not the thick stalk

40g plain flour

300ml milk

4 eggs, separated

100g grated cheddar cheese

Method:

Soufflé has a reputation for being difficult to make, but this recipe is foolproof, and if the soufflé collapses, it will still taste delicious.

Preheat the oven to Gas Mark 5, 190°C, 170°C fan, place a baking tray in it to heat. Grease 8 ramekins with softened butter and sprinkle over breadcrumbs to form an even layer. Tip out any excess.

Cut your broccoli into florets and steam until tender, plunge into cold water to retain the vibrant green, and then drain really well. Blitz in a food processor until well chopped.

In a medium pan, melt the butter. Stir in plain flour, cook for 1 minute, stirring all the time. Whisk in the milk to make a smooth sauce. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2

minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar, the broccoli, and the egg yolks. Season well with salt and pepper. Cover and leave to cool slightly.

Whisk the egg whites in a clean bowl until they form soft peaks. Gently fold a spoonful into the broccoli mix. Repeat until all the egg white is folded in.

Divide the mixture between the ramekins, pop in the oven for 8-10 minutes on the hot baking tray. Serve immediately.

For something a little different, why not serve as your Christmas dinner starter with some peppery rocket. We have also served with lentil ragu – see our website www.livinglarder.co.uk for the recipe.

Make this Christmas unforgettable at the Seaview Hotel! With festive menu, sparkling atmosphere, and plenty of cheer, it’s the perfect place to celebrate with friends, family, or colleagues. Book your Christmas party now and secure your spot for a magical night.

December dates include: 7th Keziah Violin 3-5pm

12th Folk CarolsTravellers Hand Bells 7.30pm 19th Abbey Brass 6.45pm 31st John Wroath 8pm till late

THE CRUFFINS AT HOTBOX BAKERY: LAYERS OF PURE HAPPINESS

You can smell Hotbox Bakery before you see it. That warm, buttery scent drifts down Bembridge High Street. Inside, the counter gleams with trays of golden pastries, but it’s the cruffins that steal the show – those beautiful, swirled towers of croissant dough baked into the shape of a muffin.

They look almost too perfect to eat. Almost. One bite and the layers give way with the softest crunch, scattering a few delicate flakes across the table (and, inevitably, your jumper). Inside, the dough is tender

and rich, each buttery layer melting into the next. It doesn’t matter which flavour you choose – thick lemon curd that bites back just enough, silky chocolate orange, or a millionaire shortbread take that makes you close your eyes for a second longer than you meant to.

The cruffins come out fresh throughout the morning, so if you time it right, you’ll catch them still warm. Pair one with a flat white, find a corner seat by the window, and savour every flaky, messy, wonderful mouthful.

hotboxbakery_bembridge

THE TASTE OF TRADITION AT WOODFORDS

At Woodford Butchers, Christmas is the busiest and most exciting time of the year. The shop is full of familiar faces, festive orders, and the smell of fresh joints being prepped for the big day. It’s a season built on tradition - and that’s exactly what the team at Woodford believe in - quality, simplicity, and making Christmas dinner something to enjoy, not stress over.

While many people talk about trying something different at Christmas, most come back for the classics done properly. Boneless turkey breast remains the firm favourite - easy to carve, evenly cooked, and beautifully tender when given time to rest. It’s no surprise it’s Woodford’s best-seller every year.

That said, the team has one small suggestion for anyone looking to mix things up - consider a large roasting chicken. It’s often overlooked but naturally moist, full of flavour, and far more forgiving than turkey for those nervous about overcooking. Paired with pigs in blankets, homemade sage and onion stuffing, and a drizzle of rich onion gravy, it’s a simple way to serve a show-stopping dinner without the fuss.

For those wanting to guarantee the tenderest roast, Graham’s advice is simple: bring your meat up to room temperature

before cooking, roast it gently, and give it time to rest before carving. “That rest is what keeps all the juices locked in,” he explains. “It makes the difference between a good roast and a great one.”

For anyone wanting to make life even easier, Woodford Butchers have created their Christmas Hampers - a complete festive package containing everything needed for a traditional Christmas meal.

From The Classic for Two to The Family Roast and Traditional Luxury Hamper, each includes expertly prepared meats, stuffing, bacon, gravy, and cranberry sauce - all the essentials in one easy order.

Whether it’s turkey, gammon, or a full family hamper, Woodford Butchers’ aim is simple: to make Christmas dinner straightforward, stress-free, and absolutely delicious.

woodfordandsons.co.uk

SPECIALISING IN LOCAL PRODUCE

FREE RANGE XMAS GAME & MEATS

FREE - Local Deliveries

26 HIGH ST. BEMBRIDGE tel. 872717

TURKEY, DUCKS & GEESE - Order yours Now. Order early to save disappointment and guarantee the very best quality from your local butcher. OPEN Monday to Friday 10am til 4pm, Saturdays 9am til 5pm, Sunday 10am til 4pm 7 Esplanade, Ryde PO33 2DY | Telephone. 01983 718292 | Email. info@chocolateapothecary.co.uk

7 Esplanade, Ryde, Isle of Wight

Our Chocolates are handmade with the finest ingredients To enjoy them at their best, please eat within 3 weeks Store in a cool dry place

The Island’s home of handmade chocolates, fresh coffees, homemade hot chocolates and cakes. Located in the heart of Ryde our apothecary boasts a unique dining experience no other place can offer. Relax with some tea and cake while watching our master chocolatier create handmade chocolates, or sit back and watch the tide roll in.

7 Esplanade,

PO33

VIBRANT SPANISH CUISINE AT THE BASQUE KITCHEN

Words: Ginnie Taylor | Images: Christian Warren

Authentic flavours from Northern Spain can now be found on the Island’s Southern coast. We visit The Basque Kitchen in Ventnor to experience expertly crafted cuisine in a relaxed, cosy atmosphere.

Perched on the corner in Ventnor town centre, The Basque Kitchen is bringing the lively flavours of northern Spain to the table. Sunshine slants through the windows at lunchtime service, while in the evenings, candlelight dances against the olive-green walls. It’s a convivial and inviting space – elegant but unostentatious – where you’re invited to sit down and take your time over your meal, Spanish style.

The family-run restaurant was established in Cowes in 2012, and the team has recently moved to a new location in sunny Ventnor, taking over the space formerly occupied by Drunken Lobster. Happily, they’ve kept some favourite innovative cocktails on the menu. Owner and Head Chef Maikel Rodriguez hails from Bermeo in the Basque Country, and he’s made it his

mission to create delicious, authentic food, combining locally sourced and Spanish produce with flair. The Basque region has gained international recognition for its unique, creative cuisine, particularly its seasonal dishes, fresh seafood, and succulent, well-raised meats. With this in mind, we’re anticipating a satisfying feast.

We’re shown to a roomy table and settle in. The team is friendly and welcoming, explaining each dish to us in detail as we peruse the menu. We start with the speciality olives, which signal immediately that we’re in for a treat; robust, complex, and pleasantly tangy, these are not your average olives. With every bite, we’re transported to The Bay of Biscay. Our appetizer is followed by Pan con Boletus y Cecina – toasted garlic sourdough

topped with wild mushrooms and Cecina –a Spanish delicacy made from beef hind legs, air-dried, salted, and smoked. Our starter is finished with a generous drizzle of egg yolk and finely chopped fresh chives. The combination of the smoky meat with earthy mushrooms, garlic notes, and bright yolk is delicious. We opt for glasses of Vina Sastre Crianza to wash it all down. Smooth and aromatic with floral notes, this aged Spanish Rioja feels an apt pairing.

With our appetites suitably geared up, we eagerly await the mains, and we’re not disappointed. We’re served hake fillet and throat, delicately cooked with a creamy green sauce with peas, and paired with buttery potatoes. The aroma is incredible, and the taste is just as good – light and

It’s hard to beat the crunch of sourdough and the earthy depth of mushrooms.

Enjoy a delicious barraquito.

fresh vegetables complement the smoky, slightly salty seafood. Next up is the ibérico Presa, chargrilled on a bed of smoked potato mash with thinly sliced Confit Piquillo peppers. This is a prime cut from the shoulder of the free-range, acorn-fed Iberico pig of Spain, and the quality is exceptional. It’s tender and moreish with a rich, nutty flavour. Each bite is savoured with a smear of smoky, creamy mash and bright, sweet peppers.

For sides, we’re served goat’s cheese with root vegetables, topped with cauliflower. It’s a hearty, seasonal dish, elevated by foam and beautifully presented. The lightly charred sweet beetroot pairs wonderfully with the salty cheese, with crunchy seeds adding texture. We’ve also selected creamy spinach and chargrilled leeks, which arrive

baked in a terracotta dish and presented temptingly browned. Flavoursome and inviting, this dish is equally indulgent and wholesome – just right for a cosy winter afternoon. Unable to resist the tempting menu, we’ve also opted to share the lightly battered cod throats. Slightly spicy, golden, and crispy, these are topped with sweet black garlic aioli. With a flavour likened to molasses, this caramelised garnish pairs wonderfully with the mild, umami fish, and soon the plate has been cleared.

To finish, we treat ourselves to a dessert cocktail. Encouraged by the illustration onthe cocktails board and the team’s recommendation, we opt for Barraquitos, which involve meticulous layering of condensed milk, Liquor 43, brandy, double espresso, and a topping

of milk froth. We watch, spellbound, as the barman performs the intricate display, pouring the spirits and espresso over a spoon with careful precision, to achieve the desired results. Our drinks are served with cinnamon stick garnishes that double as stirrers, and the result is a strong, punchy combination of flavours, sure to wake us up after a satisfying meal.

Our friendly waiter bids us adios as we step into the street, the sun low in the sky. As we meander down to the beach, we’re already contemplating what we’ll order on our next visit. thebasquekitchen.com

The hake fillet is beautifully paired with a creamy sauce.

The smoky Iberian presca (pork).

Battered cod throat is a Basque seafood delicacy.

RAISE A GLASS TO THE ISLAND’S AWARD-WINNING SPIRIT

There’s something truly special about whisky crafted by the sea. Wight Whisky combines tradition with Island innovation in every bottle, capturing the spirit of the Isle of Wight in its Signature Malt Blend – a rich, smooth, and beautifully balanced whisky that’s now officially recognised among the best. Recently crowned a multi-award winner, the Signature Malt Blend has received both a Great Taste Award and a Great British Food Award, celebrating its depth of flavour and exceptional craftsmanship.

Visitors to the Island can experience Wight Whisky’s creations firsthand at The Albion, where the Signature Malt Blend is proudly served. It’s the perfect place to sip, savour, and discover why this locally made whisky is turning heads across the UK. Those who can’t make it to the Island can still enjoy a taste of its coastal spirit by ordering a bottle of the award-winning Signature Malt Blend.

It’s the Isle of Wight – bottled. wightwhisky.com

ORCHARD EMBER

A warm embrace of spiced apple and Wight Whisky’s super smooth Signature Malt Blend, capturing the essence of a crisp autumn evening. This elegant cocktail is crowned with a toasted whisky-infused

marshmallow, adding a delicate, smoky sweetness that melts into every sip. Orchard Ember is the perfect harmony of fiery warmth and velvety softness, a refined classic with a cosy, modern twist.

Fork In good Food

IF YOU’VE NEVER MADE CHRISTMAS BARK, YOU’RE IN FOR A TREAT. IT’S ONE OF THE SIMPLEST HOMEMADE SEASONAL GIFTS – AND IT KEEPS WELL FOR DAYS – SO YOU CAN MAKE A BATCH AHEAD OF TIME AND WRAP IT UP WHEN YOU’RE READY. JUST BE WARNED: IT’S ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO NIBBLE BEFORE YOU GIFT IT!

What Is Christmas Bark?

Once the melted chocolate is poured, set, and broken into jagged shards, the pieces look like the bark of a tree – hence the name. It’s rustic, beautiful, and endlessly customisable.

Flavours & Toppings: Anything Goes

This is where the fun begins. Start with melted chocolate, then let your creativity loose:

• Nuts, dried fruit, marshmallows

• Popcorn, granola, graham crackers, cereal

• Crushed cookies, sweets, candy canes

• Edible flowers for a pretty finish

You can even stir in a base flavour before adding toppings –peppermint is a festive favourite and on our list to try this year.

For extra indulgence, swirl in peanut butter, scatter chopped peanuts, or finish with a sprinkle of sea salt to make the flavours pop.

Storing Your Bark

Once set and broken into pieces, store your bark in a cool cupboard, pantry, or airtight tin. There’s no need for the fridge or freezer – unless you’re hiding it from yourself!

THE BARK BASICS

Use the best chocolate you can. Chocolate chips contain stabilisers and don’t always melt smoothly. Choose bars or discs made for melting – Valrhona, Callebaut, Scharffen Berger, Guittard, or Ghirardelli are all excellent.

Melt gently. Whether using a microwave or bowl over simmering water, heat slowly and stir often – burnt or clumpy chocolate can’t be rescued.

Don’t chill to set! Let your bark firm up at room temperature. Refrigeration can cause a whitish “bloom” and spoil the look.

Skip tempering? Cheat! Add a teaspoon of vegetable shortening or coconut oil per 6oz chocolate while melting. It gives a sheen and helps it set without full tempering.

Try layers. Pour one layer, let it set about 80–90%, then add the next. This keeps the layers bonded and gives gorgeous contrast.

“It’s

the easiest edible gift you’ll make all season.”

Christmas Bark:

The Sweetest (and Easiest!) Festive Treat

“Just try not to eat it before you give it away!”

WHAT’S ON THE MENU?

WINTER WARMTH

Warm up this winter with comforting classics and bold seasonal flavours from some of the Island’s top eateries. Designed to chase away the chill, here’s what’s on the menu to make the colder months delicious.

Seaview Hotel, Seaview

Duck Two Ways

Tender duck two ways – rich, slow-cooked confit leg and perfectly seared breast – served with a golden grated potato cake. Drizzled with a luscious cherry and Kirsch jus and accompanied by vibrant, tender broccolini, this elegant dish balances savoury richness with fruity, aromatic sophistication.

Caffe Isola, Newport

Pear and Parma Ham Open Sandwich

A crisp, artisanal slice of bread layered with sweet, juicy pear slices and delicate, salty Parma ham. A light drizzle of balsamic enhances the flavours, creating a sophisticated, balanced open sandwich perfectly combining sweetness, saltiness, and subtle, fresh textures.

Bluebells Café, Briddlesford Farm

Halloumi Cheese Stars

Golden, crispy Briddlesford halloumi cut into festive star shapes, lightly seasoned, wrapped in panko breadcrumbs, and cooked to perfection. Warm, salty, and slightly chewy, these cheesy stars are an ideal holiday treat that everyone will love.

Prickly Pear, Cowes Roasted Squash with Macha

Golden roasted Isle of Wight crown prince squash melts softly on the plate, its natural sweetness lifted by a swirl of tangy lime cream. A hint of smoky heat from salsa macha gives depth, while caramelised walnuts add crunch. Fresh pico de gallo and crisp watercress bring everything to life.

The Basque Kitchen, Ventnor The Chargrilled Vegetables

Chargrilled cauliflower foam paired with warm, grilled goat cheese, sweet roasted beetroot, and caramelised butternut squash. Finished with crisp cauliflower florets and toasted pumpkin seeds for texture, this vibrant dish balances smoky, earthy, and nutty flavours in a harmonious plate that captures the essence of the season.

FAMILY WARMTH MEETS FIVE-STAR SERVICE: INSIDE THE ALBION

Set against one of the UK’s most breathtaking coastal backdrops, Joseph Warren, general manager of The Albion, shares how a blend of family warmth, five-star service, and local charm has shaped the hotel’s growing reputation as both a luxury retreat and a beloved part of the Island community.

How would you describe The Albion’s personality?

As soon as customers enter the hotel, I would hope they feel relaxed. We have one of the most iconic locations in the UK and we try to match the view with style, finesse and friendliness. Our guests often compliment the team on how caring, attentive and friendly they are. Our customer service is certainly something that has come to define our personality. Our directors are a husband-and-wife team and their daughter works in the restaurant, so the family-style service and atmosphere are fed from the top and work their way through to the team.

When you first opened, what was the vision behind The Albion? Has that changed or grown since then?

The vision has always been to provide 5* service in one of the most unique and breathtaking coastal bays in the UK. This remains true today. Now we have settled in, I feel Islanders see us differently. On opening, Island residents were perhaps a little apprehensive to visit or thought we

were somehow closed off to them. I would like to think that perception has changed; that visitors to the bay feel free to pop in for a coffee or ice cream. I am always surprised and thrilled when I meet guests of the hotel that live on the Island! You would think that people go to the mainland for a vacation and yet they like our hotel that much, they stay for a one- or two-night break, even though we are only thirty minutes up the road.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced since opening, and what have you learned from them?

Food costs are a constant challenge. The increase in minimum wage has not been easy on the hospitality industry either. We have embraced them head-on and tried our best not to pass on the cost to the customer without harming the quality of the food. Thankfully, this seems to have worked. This summer, we have received very positive reviews regarding the elevation in food quality. When I am not greeting guests at reception or walking around the hotel with our maintenance team, my favourite part of the day is talking with patrons of the restaurant,

gathering feedback and suggesting where they should visit next on their vacation to the Island. It doesn’t feel like work at all.

Hospitality can be a really intense industry. What parts of it do you find the most stressful, and how do you and the team manage that pressure day to day?

Stressful days are few and far between, thankfully. I have a brilliant team, kind and dedicated directors to guide me, and owners that care passionately about this project. The investment in the hotel has been bold and the owners are highly committed to seeing the hotel flourish.

A difficult day might be when we have an absent member of staff. However, this is when the team really pulls together and that is how you create lasting bonds. It is a necessary and inevitable part of hospitality. For the most part, being general manager is the immediacy in which you tackle issues. The best hotels proactively forecast these issues and have measures in place to respond accordingly when they arise.

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE: The Local Edit

There’s something special about Christmas shopping close to home. The scent of cinnamon drifting from the bakery, fairy lights twinkling in shop windows, and friendly faces behind the counter who actually know your name—it’s all part of the magic.

This year, we’re bringing it all in to celebrate shopping local. This an invitation to slow down, wander your local high street, and rediscover the joy of giving gifts that come with a story. Instead of clicking ‘add to cart’, you might find yourself chatting with the

jeweller who handcrafts silver bangles, the florist who knows just how to wrap a winter bouquet, or the baker who’s been making mince pies since you were a child.

Every purchase from a local shop helps keep your community alive and thriving. It supports dreams, families, and the character that makes your town sparkle a little brighter at Christmastime. So bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and explore the hidden treasures just around the corner.

Top: Maison Berger glass air purifying lamp and bouquet reed diffusers from Bayliss and Booth. Prices vary.

Right: One Hundred Stars poplin pyjamas from Luchelle Boutique Price: £84

Far right: Christmas accent cushions from Bayliss and Booth . Prices vary.

Clockwise from top left: Winter Gin gift set from Mermaid Gin . Price: £68.90. Box of 24 handmade chocolates from Chocolate Apothecary . Price: £28. Wine gift boxes from The Halland . Prices vary. No. 1 Single Malt Whisky from Wight Whisky . Price: £125. Assorted coastal teatowels from XV Stripes . Prices vary. Cheese board from Briddlesford Farm . Prices vary. Feather placemat and coasters from XV Stripes . £38 and £14. Assorted Christmas treats from Bayliss and Booth . Prices vary.

Clockwise from top left:

Barbour beanie and gloves from Visual Impact . Prices vary.

Sheer scarf from Readers Interiors . Prices vary.

Coastal-themed scarf from XV Stripes . From £39

Ashwood Austin bag from Leather and Suede Shop . £170

Isle of Wight-Shaped Sea Glass Necklace from Serendipity Diamonds . £50

Solid silver Cockleshell Necklace from Serendipity Diamonds . £80.00

Floral Powder socks from Readers Interior s. £7.99

Clockwise from top left: Assorted glass decanters from Dig for Vintage . Prices vary.Animal vases and watering jugs from Flower Garden . Prices vary. Gisela Graham White Iced LED Gingerbread House from Readers Interiors . £25. Elephant water jug from Flower Garden . £23 Sigikid Patchwork Sweety Fox from Bouchic . £34.95 Festive Friends Advent Calendar from My House . £14.95 Sigikid Fire Engine rucksack from Bouchic. £49.50 Gisela Graham Pine Needle scented candle from Readers Interiors . £12.99 Silver ‘Somewhen’ Necklace from Serendipity Diamonds . £80. East of India porcelain mug from Readers Interiors . £12.49 Sigikid Patchwork Sweety Octopus from Bouchic . £34.95

Clockwise from top left:

Fox Cub & Co assorted candles and diffusers from Bayliss and Booth . Prices vary.

The Island scented candle from Duxmore Botanicals . £50

Grand Illusions pillar candles from Flower Garden . Prices vary.

Aery Before Sleep aromatherapy candle from Bouchic . £24.95

Yarmouth blanket from XV Stripes . £125

Clockwise from top left:

Brick mold from Dig for Vintage . Prices vary.

Annie Sloan gift sets from Dig for Vintage . Prices vary.

Forest Green Light-Up Globe from Bouchic . £114.95

Designworks Ink planner from My House . £17.95

Wise Words art print from Bayliss and Booth . £9.99

Clockwise from top left:

Various gift sets from Duxmore Botanicals . Prices vary.

Cat in Jumper hot water bottle from Bouchic . £27.50

Dog House slipper socks from Bouchic . £17.50

Peanuts Snoopy Love hot water bottle from Bouchic . £19.99

Multi Bondi crossbody leather handbag (various colours) from Bouchic . £39.50

Maegan wash bag (assorted sizes) from My House . Prices vary.

Clockwise from top left:

Pack of 3 Barbour socks from Visual Impact . £30

Miniature gin gift set from Mermaid Gin . £18.10

Powder Fox zip pouch from Readers Interiors . £25

Assorted items from Luchelle Boutique . Prices vary.

East of India porcelain candle holder from Readers Interiors . £23.99

Morgan Supersoft Stiped Cuff Jumper - £95

Kingston Tassle Cross Body Bay (gold) - £110

BouChic

2a Melville Street, Ryde

t: 01983 614 587

bouchic.co.uk

Nooki

Original brushed cotton

1970s tartan dress Size 10

£49

Red frothy petticoat £45

Original 1990s Moschino leather belt £250

Scarlet band leader’s cape £150

Leopard print hat £20

Pearl & diamanté cuff £30

Pearl ring £10

Tights £8

Lucy Whelan Vintage located under Lily’s Coffee Shop

High street, Seaview

e: lucy@lucywhelan.com t: +44 79791 686574

@lucywhelanvintage

Boutique

luchelleboutique.co.uk /luchelleboutique One Hundred Stars Stork black crepe kimono - £125 Black quilted velvet kiss lock bag ~ £80

Boutique

Leather and Suede Shop ...get the look at

Premium genuine soft sheepskin leather jacket (aniline finish) with zipper closure and popper collar.

Available in various colours.

Leather and Suede Shop 20 Union St, Ryde t: 01983 568332

7 St Thomas’ Square, Newport t: 01983 520810

Showroom open Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm

“Aurora Star” Signet Ring

Solid gold signet ring star set with a natural fancy yellow Canadamark diamond.

Price £850.00 limited edition.

Fiorelli Silver Statement Cuff Bangle

Domed 925 sterling silver cuff bangle available online or from the Serendipity showroom.

Price £225.00.

Black Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

A natural 1-carat black diamond sparkles within a halo of brilliant white diamonds crafted in 950 Platinum. Special offer price £2220.00. Size M.

Paris Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire Earrings

Brand new and in stock for Christmas in a selection of carat weights. Beautifully crafted classic four-claw diamond stud earrings in a choice of yellow or white gold.

Price from £700.00.

Yellow Beryl Pear-Shaped Earrings

A beautiful pair of matching yellow beryl gemstones, crafted as a unique showroom addition to the Serendipity jewellery collection. 2.79 carats. Crafted in 9ct Yellow Gold. Price £1165.00.

Pink Destiny Engagement Ring

A modern version of the iconic Tiffany-style setting, the Pink Destiny ring sparkles with a captivating, vivid pink diamond set in 950 Platinum. Special offer £1485.00.

Miniature Isle of Wight Shaped Necklace

One of our best-selling Isle of Wight silver necklaces, the “mini” provides a beautifully petite keepsake from the Isle of Wight, handcrafted in our Ryde workshop. We produce limited quantities available for online ordering or in our showroom. Price £60.00.

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SOMA: T he Island’s New Wellness Collective

Wellbeing isn’t something you buy in a jar or book for an hour on a Saturday — it’s something you live, breathe, and share. That’s the idea behind SOMA, a new subscription-based membership designed to connect the Island’s wellness community in a more meaningful way.

SOMA isn’t about surface-level self-care or fleeting fads. It’s about real wellness — gathering together, sharing experiences, learning from one another, and finding balance in the everyday. Think sunrise walks and sea swims, creative workshops and conversations that linger long after they end. From yoga teachers to

nutritionists, from breathwork practitioners to curious beginners, SOMA brings everyone into the same circle.

By joining, you become part of something larger — a collective that celebrates the Island’s natural rhythm, its people, and the many ways we care for body and mind. It’s a chance to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover what wellbeing truly means.

SOMA launches soon. If you’d like to be part of this growing movement — to meet, move, and breathe alongside others who value genuine connection — now’s the time to register your interest and join the circle as it begins to grow. scan the QR code to register now. Or visit our website styleofwight.co.uk

THE WELLNESS OF GATHERING WHY COMING TOGETHER THIS CHRISTMAS IS GOOD FOR BODY

AND MIND

Words: Rebecca Lawson

Humans are communal creatures. We all know socialising to some degree is good for our wellbeing, but why?

As the nights draw in and the ferry crossing timetable grows sparser, the Isle of Wight snuggles down into its own kind of cosiness. Windows glow, shops fill with festive aromas, and everywhere you look there are little signs of people preparing to gather. We gather friends and family around tables, bring in greenery to brighten our homes, and dust off the traditions that make the season feel festive. All of this feels instinctive, but it isn’t just nostalgia or habit. Science is clear that gathering – whether it’s people, food, or memories – is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to support our wellbeing during the winter months.

Humans are built for connection. Long before Christmas trees and fairy lights, our ancestors needed to live communally to survive, and our brains are still wired that way. One of the most famous pieces of research into this, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, has followed people for more than 80 years and found that

close relationships are the single strongest predictor of happiness and long-term health. Not income, not status – just the quality of our connection with the people around us. When we get together at Christmas, we’re not just ticking a box; we’re following our instincts.

The benefits aren’t abstract – they show up physically. When you share mulled wine with a good friend or laugh with your grandma over the Christmas pudding, your body releases oxytocin – the hormone nicknamed ‘the cuddle chemical’. It helps lower blood pressure and counteracts the stress hormone cortisol. Your brain also gets a boost of those natural mood-lifters, dopamine and endorphins. Researchers at the University of Oxford have even shown that shared laughter can raise pain thresholds and leave us feeling safer. These are small, unseen changes in our human chemical makeup that make a big difference to how we tackle the darker months.

And then, of course, there’s the food. Eating

together has its own scientific benefits. A 2022 study from the University of Leeds found that adults who regularly shared meals with others ate more fruit and vegetables and reported better mental wellbeing than those who usually ate alone. The traditional Christmas table – laden with roasted root vegetables, nuts, and citrus fruits – is a smorgasbord of exactly the kinds of foods our bodies need to survive through winter. Even the spices have health credentials: cinnamon has been linked to steadier blood sugar levels, cloves are high in antioxidants, and nutmeg contains compounds studied for calming effects. Sharing these foods amplifies their benefits because the company you keep affects how you digest and absorb nutrients. Eating slowly, talking, and laughing all help the body register fullness and aid digestion.

That doesn’t mean festive food is without its challenges. It’s easy to fall into an allor-nothing approach – days of restriction followed by days of excess. But gathering

can actually help here too. Meals eaten with others tend to be paced more naturally, which gives your brain time to register when you’ve had enough. So instead of fretting about a few extra mince pies, it might be more helpful to focus on the company and conversation, which are arguably the bigger contributors to health.

Gathering is not only about who you eat with but what you do together. Singing, for example, is a surprisingly powerful wellness tool. Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that group singing synchronises heart rates and increases feelings of calm and connection. Carol singing, pub singalongs, or simply belting out your favourite festive playlist while cooking can trigger these effects.

Movement works the same way – whether it’s a family walk along Compton Bay after lunch or a quick dance in the kitchen, moving together combines the benefits of exercise with social bonding. Even storytelling has measurable effects, which is why curling up with family photos or swapping memories at the dinner table can feel so comforting.

But gatherings don’t have to be big to be beneficial. A quiet coffee with a friend, a video call with relatives who live far away, or even a small ritual like decorating the tree together can deliver the same sense of belonging. Quality matters more than quantity. This is especially true for those who find the season overwhelming, or for people going through loss or change. A single thoughtful connection can do more good than a calendar packed with stressful social events. And the act of reaching out benefits both sides. Studies from the University of Zurich show that generosity – whether giving gifts, time, or attention –activates reward centres in the brain and boosts mood for the giver as much as the receiver.

Winter itself makes these connections even more valuable. Shorter days and low light can disrupt sleep and lower energy, and many people feel a dip in mood as daylight hours shrink. Gathering can help counter this. A planned dinner, a shared walk, or simply decorating together creates structure and rhythm, which our bodies and minds crave at this time of year. In

that sense, Christmas rituals are not just tradition but biology, helping us through the darker season.

Of course, it’s also okay to protect your energy. Not every invitation needs a yes. Wellness at Christmas isn’t about filling every evening but about choosing gatherings that genuinely nourish you. Set boundaries around time, alcohol, or digital interruptions and don’t feel guilty about sticking to them. Think of it as curating your social season rather than cramming it.

As the year winds down, we often find ourselves taking stock of what we’ve gathered: memories, friendships, little treasures from winter walks, recipes scribbled on scraps of paper, the scents and songs of the season. These things are more than just decorations of our lives; they are threads that hold us together. Science gives us the evidence, but chances are your own experience will have confirmed it – coming together is one of the most effective, natural ways we have of staying healthy and happy.

Images courtesy of Freepiks

THE ART OF GATHERING: FORAGED WREATHS FOR A THOUGHTFUL CHRISTMAS

At Christmas, we gather.

We gather people around tables and firesides, we gather memories from the year that has passed, and (if we’re lucky) we gather moments of calm among the rush. There’s something deeply grounding about the act of collecting and creating, of bringing the outside in. Foraged wreaths capture that spirit perfectly: a circle of nature, carefully and deliberately made from what’s close at hand, not what you’ve grabbed from the local shops at the last minute.

What better place to ‘gather’ or ‘forage’ natural items than a forest? On the Island, we’re blessed with many gorgeous leafy spaces — Firestone, Borthwood, and Mill Copse — or we can journey slightly further afield to explore one of England’s oldest managed woodlands, the New Forest.

Step into any of these places and you’ll feel it immediately: that gentle hush that settles when you leave the path behind. The crunch of leaves underfoot, the scent of pine in the air, the light filtering through ancient branches; it’s another world entirely. And it’s here, in the quiet company of the trees, that the best wreaths begin.

The joy is in the noticing. Once your eyes adjust, the forest floor and hedgerows start offering up little treasures. Sprigs of holly, glossy and bold. Ivy, winding itself into shapes that seem ready-made for wreaths. Fallen pinecones that add a rustic weight. Even herbs like rosemary or bay, hiding on the edges, waiting to bring fragrance to your creation.

But there’s a responsibility woven into foraging too. Pick with care, take only what you’ll use, leave plenty for birds and wildlife, and always be sure of what’s safe to gather. It makes you slow down, look closer, and treat the forest with the respect it deserves.

Then comes the making. Whether it’s a group of friends around the table, mugs of something warm nearby, or a quiet afternoon on your own, there’s a sense of peace in the rhythm of it. You start with a circle of willow or hazel, bending the branches into a base. From there, it’s all about layering — tucking ivy so it flows, weaving holly for colour, nestling cones where they feel right. There’s no wrong way; it’s less about perfection and more about letting nature guide you. A bit of twine here, a twist there, and suddenly you’re holding a wreath that carries the scent, texture and memory of the walk you just took.

When you hang it on your door, it’s more than decoration. It’s a reminder of how important it is, in this hectic season, to slow down and notice the small wonders hiding in plain sight.

For those who’d like to learn the art of wreath making with expert guidance, Goose Island runs workshops on various dates in the lead-up to Christmas, or scan our QR code to win tickets!

gooseislandcandlecompany.com

If you’d like to win tickets to a wreath-making workshop, follow the QR code below.

HERE

REWRITING THE HOLIDAY NARRATIVE

Words: Caroline Hurley, Wellbeing Practitioner and Trainer

For many, the festive season is a time of celebration — family, friends, and togetherness. But for those on a health or weight-loss journey, it can also stir anxiety, guilt, and old dieting fears. Do you spiral into “I’ve ruined everything” thinking after a mince pie, or promise to “start over in January”? You’re not alone — but there’s a better way to navigate the season.

1. Ditch the All-or-Nothing Mentality

One festive meal doesn’t undo months of progress — but harsh self-criticism might. Health is not about perfection; it’s about consistency and compassion. Progress is never linear, and learning to make empowered choices, even in imperfect moments, is true success.

2. Choose Presence Over Pressure

Instead of obsessing over what’s on your plate, focus on who’s around the table. Be present. Taste your food. Savour the conversation. You’re not just feeding your body — you’re nourishing your soul.

3. Don’t Let Old Diet Stories Run the Show

Maybe past holidays were filled with binge–restrict cycles, but your past doesn’t define your future. You’re writing a new story — one built on self-respect, not punishment.

Affirmation: “I trust myself to enjoy food without guilt and return to balance with ease.”

4. Focus on Habits, Not Rules

Rigid rules create rebellion. Instead, anchor yourself with gentle habits that keep you grounded:

– Start the day with a nourishing breakfast

– Choose whole foods when possible

– Stay hydrated

– Move joyfully (walks, dancing — not punishment workouts)

– Practise gratitude daily

Small habits like these help you feel calm and in control without restriction.

5. Eat Mindfully

Mindful eating is one of the simplest, most powerful tools for lasting health. It’s not about rules, but awareness — slowing down, noticing flavours and hunger cues, and eating with intention.

Why it matters: it helps prevent overeating, reduces emotional snacking, supports digestion, and makes meals more enjoyable.

To practise: eat without distractions, take deep breaths before starting, chew slowly, and pause halfway to check if you’re still hungry. Even one mindful meal a day can transform your relationship with food.

6. Celebrate the Journey

Your health journey isn’t “on pause” at Christmas — it’s evolving. Every small choice and mindset shift counts. Instead of a guilt-fuelled January reboot, finish the year with compassion. You’re not off track; you’re learning to live with balance, joy, and trust.

You deserve peace with food and confidence in your body — even at Christmas. Real transformation doesn’t come from dieting harder, but from thinking differently.

healthwellsolutions.co.uk

A WHITE WIGHT CHRISTMAS

Words: Rebecca Lawson

Amid the noise and vibrancy of a traditional festive season, a white Christmas can have its own quiet charm. It’s not about tinsel, glitter, or the traditional bold red and green palette. It’s about soft colours, natural textures, and little details that make a home feel cosy, warm, and ready for Christmas. On the Isle of Wight, this understated approach to the season has become a style in its own right – where creams, soft greys, and warm neutrals, paired with thoughtful decorations, create a festive home that feels calm, elegant, and welcoming.

Picture a living room ready for Christmas, and you’re likely to envisage the calming comfort of a fire. Charnwood’s wood-burning stoves are perfect for this. The gentle glow of the fire, the subtle crackle of logs, and the warmth spreading through a room dressed in muted creams and greys instantly make it feel festive. Add a few simple touches for the season – a small garland of pine or eucalyptus draped along the mantel,

neutral-toned candles flickering in holders, and perhaps a few baubles in glass or silver – and the room instantly feels Christmassy without ever being loud. Place a cosy armchair nearby with a woollen throw, and suddenly you have a space that invites you to sit with a cup of something warm and watch the season unfold.

The dining table is where a neutral Christmas truly shines. Imagine a lace tablecloth (Dig

for Vintage has a beautiful range), soft taupe or ivory runners, and candles of varying heights flickering in glass or ceramic holders. This is where the magic of Christmas comes through subtly: the shimmer of glass baubles, the soft textures of linen napkins, and muted tableware that lets the food and company take centre stage. Anne Ginger’s interiors show how soft creams, sand, and warm greys can be layered to create a calm,

Give your furniture a refresh with Annie Sloan’s chalk paint, available at Dig for Vintage.

Snowy glass baubles from My House.

Give your table a neutral makeover or add a touch of snowy sparkle at Bayliss and Booth.

festive setting. Cushions and throws in similar tones help tie the room together, so your decorations feel considered and harmonious.

For those who like a personal touch, Dig for Vintage in Ryde is full of ideas for creating a neutral festive look for any item. Their Annie Sloan paints are perfect for giving furniture a soft, neutral base that lets Christmas decorations stand out. A console painted in Chalk or Old White, decorated with a simple fir garland, a few cream or taupe candles, and maybe a small brass or ceramic ornament, gives the home a lived-in, natural Christmas feel – unforced, understated, and warm.

Tablescapes can be festive yet simple, and Bayliss and Booth excel at this. Their neutral

tableware in soft whites, pale greys, and sandy tones makes the table feel elegant but inviting. Textured ceramic plates, linen napkins, and delicate glassware create a look that’s calm and beautiful. Layer in simple bowls for seasonal treats, and the table becomes a stage for both food and conversation. Setting it up feels like part of the celebration, a quiet ritual that brings everyone together.

It’s the little details that make a neutral Christmas feel special. Readers Interiors show how small, simple touches – a transparent table decoration, wooden candle holders, or a handful of pinecones – can transform a home without ever feeling overdone. Over in Ventnor, Luchelle’s sweet collection of Gisella Graham decorations is playful but understated: soft metallics,

feathered wildlife, and natural textures that catch the light in subtle ways.

Across the Island, My House in Newport adds a festive sparkle with snowy glass balls and elegant neutral accents. Nestled on a mantelpiece, among soft throws or cushions, or in a small bowl on the table, these delicate touches bring just enough sparkle for Christmas without overpowering the calm, neutral colour palette. Pair them with touches of greenery or a small wreath, and you’ve created a seasonal display that feels effortless and inviting.

Your choice of flowers is another fabulous way to bring neutral tones to the festivities. Head florist, and owner at The Flower Garden, Catherine suggests large amaryllis or long-stemmed white roses mixed

Dig for Vintage has a beautiful collection of lace tablecloths.

A touch of texture from Anne Ginger.

Transparent decorations make the light dance - find them at Readers.

with birch twigs and foliage for striking centrepieces, or “a bowl full of paperwhite bulbs, moss and twigs” for something longer lasting. Fir, rosemary, and eucalyptus bring scent and softness, she says, while “Nordic pine, blue spruce, conifer, and berried ivy or skimmia add greater depth.” Amid all the frosted wreaths threaded with silvery twigs and simple vases of amaryllis, Catherine’s biggest piece of advice? “Employ the help of your local florist at Christmas time — we’re a wealth of information.”

The secret to a neutral Christmas is layering textures and materials. Wool, linen, ceramic, wood, and glass all play a role in creating a home that feels warm, tactile, and ready for the season. From the glow of a Charnwood stove to the carefully set Bayliss and Booth table, every detail contributes to a sense of

calm, connection, and celebration. This is a Christmas where thoughtfulness matters more than extravagance, where a wellchosen decoration or a simple candle is enough to make a space feel festive.

There’s something timeless about the dream of a white Christmas, and while snow may not fall on Bembridge or Carisbrooke, in the end, Christmas is about how it feels, not just how it looks. It’s the comfort of colours that never tire, the tactile pleasure of wood, linen, and ceramic, and the glow of gentle lights across a carefully decorated home. It’s a Christmas where family, friends, and home come together in a relaxed, beautiful way – a season that leaves lasting memories because it’s simple, thoughtful, and entirely human.

SHOP THE LOOK

6b Lake Industrial Way, Newport Rd, Sandown anneginger.co.uk

t: 01983 407 730

Bayliss and Booth

Lushington Hill, Wootton Bridge baylissandbooth.co.uk

t: 01983 528 600

Charnwood

1 High Street, Ryde charnwood.com

t: 01983 811 999

Dig for Vintage

No. 4 The Colonnade, Lind Street, Ryde digforvintage.co.uk

t: 01983 719 433

Flower Garden

45 St James’ St, Newport flowergardeniow.co.uk

t: 01983 524061

Luchelle Boutique

28 High St, Ventnor luchelleboutique.co.uk

t: 01983 717902

My House

69 High St, Newport @myhouseiow

Readers Interiors

33 South St, Newport readersinteriors.co.uk

t: 01983 521011

Bring the warmth with Charnwood.

Wildlife sparkle from Luchelle.

JOYFUL CHRISTMAS STYLE

There’s something special about stepping into Bayliss and Booth at Christmas. The air feels festive the moment you walk in – twinkling lights, the scent of pine and cinnamon, shelves filled with handpicked decorations, beautiful garlands, and little treasures waiting to be discovered. It’s less about perfection and more about creating a home that feels joyful and personal.

Maybe you’re dressing the mantel, setting a welcoming table, or simply adding a touch of sparkle to a quiet corner. Start with what you love – a favourite candle, a few sprigs of greenery, a handful of baubles that catch the light – and build from there. Those small details have a way of transforming a space, making it feel warm, calm, and full of heart.

“It’s about finding things you truly love,” says Carole, owner of Bayliss and Booth. “Bringing together new finds with your old favourites makes your home feel layered with memories – that’s what creates a truly personal Christmas style.”

Everything at Bayliss and Booth is chosen with care: timeless decorations, beautiful table linens, softly glowing candleholders, and pieces that invite you to slow down and enjoy the season. The textures, the colours, even the flicker of candlelight; all the senses come into play. Add a gentle home fragrance, and suddenly the whole house feels wrapped in comfort.

If you’re styling a shelf or tablescape, begin with what’s already there – a jug of garden greenery, a stack of books, a few tealights – and then add one or two festive accents

that tie it all together. A hand-blown bauble, a garland draped across the mantel, or a tiny ceramic house glowing softly in the evening light.

The beauty of choosing fewer, better pieces is that they last. You’ll look forward to unwrapping them each year, remembering where you found them, and the moments they’ve witnessed. It’s a lovely kind of tradition, a way to celebrate Christmas slowly, meaningfully, and with love.

So this year, take your time. Wander through Bayliss and Booth, find the things that speak to you, and let your home sparkle in its own way. Because the best Christmas style isn’t about doing more, it’s about creating warmth, joy, and memories that last.

baylissandbooth.co.uk

Discover the joys of Christmas at Bayliss and Booth.

Image: Holly Jolliffe

In conjunction with Ian Dickens presents

The Power of the Pen

Early Entries

Wow! What an incredible response we’ve had to our Children’s Literature Competition. We’re thrilled to see so many budding young writers putting pen to paper and letting their imaginations run wild. So far, we’ve had magical adventures and whimsical characters, heartfelt stories and endless adventure. The creativity pouring in has been nothing short of inspiring, so we couldn’t resist sharing just a little taste of the magic with you.

Here are some excerpts from our early entries – proof that the next generation of storytellers is already hard at work!

If ever you’ve walked past Lilypad Lane in London, near Parliament, I’ll bet you haven’t stopped to admire Number Four’s pretty little window frames or its beautifully engraved door. Well, if you haven’t, I suggest you read something else, because that house is the starting point of this story.

Iris T (aged 9)

I climb up, a fresh breeze in my hair. The wind brushes through my curls and I stand upon the misty moor. The mist cloaks my surroundings and corners the hills in a soft, grey hue.

Eleanor L (aged 11)

Once I was invited to dinner with a dragon. I’m pretty sure he wanted to eat me more than the Spaghetti Bolognese he ordered. However, for all the evil tendencies a dragon tends to have, he was rather polite. All in all, a rather good night.

Harry L (aged 8)

There’s still plenty of time to join in the fun, so sharpen those pencils, fire up the imagination, and get those entries in! Whether it’s a story about pirates, princesses, talking animals, or entirely new worlds of your own making, we want to see it!

Congratulations to Iris T and Erica B (both aged 9) for being the only two entries with the correct answers in our Introduction to Introductions challenge at the Chale Show!

How to enter: Up to 500 words in any style on any topic!

Entries will be judged in three age ranges -

7 – 9 years

9 – 11 years

11 – 13 years

Submissions accepted from 1 Sept, closing date 15 Dec.

To enter, please email submissions to rebecca@styleofwight.co.uk or mail them to:

Children’s Literature Competition Style of Wight, 8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, PO38 1EJ

HHARNESSING HERBS

Words: Chris Kidd | Ventnor Botanic Garden

erbs and gardens go together like peas and carrots. In fact, the earliest botanic gardens were made entirely from herbs.

This time of year is a good opportunity to rethink how to bring herbs into the garden. If you already have an herb garden, or herb collection in pots, give them a critical appraisal. If you’re thinking of creating a space for herbs, take a look in the garden centre at what’s currently available. When you examine your herbs, you’ll realise that at this time of year, the plants are not at their best and hardly inspirational. Herbs, like so many plants, are seasonal; they tend to look miserable in winter. Putting them all together can make it worse, and they look like a whole lot of misery. Even the bestintentioned herb gardens have this look about them in winter, not so much peas and carrots as Jekyll and Hyde.

Yet fear not, there is an answer which may also benefit your garden year-round, and that’s to blend herbs into the rest of the garden – or to blend the rest of the garden into the herbs.

Herbs needn’t be grown together. They don’t necessarily “like” each other or grow better that way; that’s our own human construct. When they are mixed into the rest of the garden, we can still find them when needed, and they can work as good garden plants, too.

Rosemary is evergreen, likes the sun, comes in many shapes and forms – from upright to prostrate – and is brilliant for bees. Mint is an herbaceous perennial for difficult positions (just contain the roots if you are worried about it spreading too far) and is also good for wildlife. Sage makes for surprisingly good groundcover and is great for colour and texture.

These are all perennial or hard herbs.

Annual herbs have a different character. These should be used like most hardy annuals: sow or plant them in positions where they will speed through their short lives; mix them with flowers and leave them to set seed.

It’s quite possible to create an ever-changing Persian carpet of annuals, both decorative and edible.

But, beware! The ever-present caveat: the world is a dangerous place, and where lies food can also lie poison… always be sure of what you pick before adding it as an ingredient to your kitchen creations!

botanic.co.uk

SEAVIEW BEACH SHOP: KEEPING SEASIDE TRADITIONS ALIVE

Tucked away just steps from the seafront, Seaview Beach Shop has become a familiar sight for locals and holidaymakers alike. With its simple striped canopy and friendly atmosphere, it captures the easy-going charm of this small Island village.

The shop’s owner, Olivia Mann, has a long family connection to the area. “Three generations of my husband’s family grew up in and around Seaview, enjoying summer days of sailing, swimming, picnics, and crabbing,” she explains. “For us, like many others, there is a childhood nostalgia that takes us all back to Seaview.”

That sense of nostalgia was what inspired Olivia to open the shop three years ago. “Over the years, despite more tourism, Seaview remains a quaint little village. It is because of this that I wanted to create something that kept that feel,” she says.

When she first opened, the shop stocked all the seaside basics — buckets, metal spades, crab lines, and beachwear. Since then, it’s grown into something much more personal. “I’ve got to know my clientele and now sell

unique gifts to suit all ages,” Olivia says. “I source the current trends and bring them to the Island. Currently, our vibrant knitwear is causing a storm. We have flared jeans, scarves, pyjamas, kids’ toys, novels, candles, and fabulous cards to name a few. We like to look after our residents all year round and run social events like coffee mornings and our thriving book club to bring people together.”

Even as the summer crowds fade, Seaview Beach Shop stays open through the cooler months, offering a warm welcome and a reminder of sunny days by the sea. For Olivia, it’s clear that Seaview Beach Shop is about more than just running a business. It is her way of keeping a piece of the village’s seaside tradition alive — a place where locals and visitors can reconnect with the simple pleasures of the coast.

SHOPPING EVENTS

Seaview Yacht Club – RNLI 29 November 10am – 3pm

Seaview High St Christmas Event 12 December 5pm - 8pm

Fizz & Shop 18 December 5:30pm – 7:30pm seaviewbeachshop.com

Olivia keeps Seaview Beach Shop full of bright, colourful goodies.

LUXAFLEX BLINDS

(excluding Shutters & Awnings)

OPEN: Tuesday to Saturday 11am til 3pm

Tel: 01983 761958 Mobile: 07763 949141 Email: rolina.massey@btinternet.com

ROYAL WIGHT ESTATE

The Hypnotic Beauty of Fire — Reinvented

The beauty of real firelight, without gas or compromise. Gasless Fires blend technology, design, and atmosphere to create mesmerising, living flame effects that bring ambience and elegance to any space.

While most electric fires rely on artificial glowing effects, I wanted something different — a fire that truly feels alive, with beautiful flames that dance naturally across the room. No hassle. No gas. No hidden costs.

Perfect for Homes, Restaurants, Hotels, Guest Houses, Care Homes, and Holiday Lets.

“I wanted to create an electric fire so real, it redefines what’s possible — without compromise.”

Mark Temple – Founder.

We are an independent florist in the centre of Newport with island wide delivery. We offer a wide selection of stunning fresh flowers, indoor and outdoor plants and a beautiful range of homeware, all available online or instore.

Telephone: (01983) 524 061

- you’ll find delicious food and a smile in both!

DESTINATION NEWPORT

The Beating Heart of the Isle of Wight

Words: Rebecca Lawson

Images: Christian Warren

Newport is the Isle of Wight’s beating heart – a town where history, community, and creativity meet. Step beyond the everyday bustle and you’ll find a thriving network of independent shops, artisans, and cafés that make this place so much more than the centre of the Island.

There’s something special about Newport. It’s not the picture-postcard seaside of Cowes, nor the windswept romance of Yarmouth or Ventnor. It’s quieter than that, more grounded – the sort of place that hums with everyday life. It’s where Islanders go to get things done, but also where they bump into friends, linger over coffee, and chat to shopkeepers who know their name. Newport might be the county town, but beyond the practical side of it all lies a real sense of warmth and character. With its Georgian buildings, cobbled side streets, and friendly market square, it’s the kind of place that rewards a slow wander rather than a quick dash.

Take Caffé Isola, for instance. Tucked just off the High Street, the smell of freshly roasted coffee hits you before you’ve even pushed open the door –beans roasted right here on the Island

by the same family who run the café. Inside, it’s light, modern, and unfussy, filled with a mix of regulars, freelancers tapping away on laptops, and shoppers stopping for a much-needed caffeine fix. Their coffee is excellent, of course, but so is the food – smashed avocado on toast, breakfast bowls, hearty sandwiches, and cakes that are far too easy to justify. It’s a space that feels effortless and welcoming, where you can just sit back and watch Newport drift by outside.

A few streets away, the smell changes from coffee to freshly baked bread. Grace’s Bakery is one of those Island names everyone knows; a family business that has been feeding us since the 1990s and now has shops across the Island. The Newport branch is a hive of activity from the moment the doors open. Counters piled high with loaves, trays of pastries, and

Caffe Isola and Grace’s Bakery are both Island favourites

staff who somehow keep smiling no matter how long the queue. There’s nothing pretentious here, just honest, old-fashioned baking done properly. Whether you’re grabbing a pasty or taking a warm loaf home for supper, Grace’s is that dependable, comforting constant in an ever-changing world.

Head down the road and you’ll come across Visual Impact, a fashion boutique that brings a touch of city style to the Island. With a separate men’s and women’s wear store, there is plenty of room for lots of lovely high-end labels and beautifully cut pieces, but it’s the kind of place where quality speaks louder than logos. The rails are thoughtfully curated: premium denim, tailored shirts, easy knits, and coats that feel like forever pieces. The team has a real knack for what works; they’ll tell you honestly what looks good and what doesn’t, and somehow you always leave feeling better dressed and a little more confident. For those looking for tailored suits for the festive season, there’s also their third shop,

Christopher’s of Newport, just down the road. Visual Impact quietly sets the tone – refined but never intimidating, polished yet warm, much like Newport itself.

If interiors are your weakness, My House will have you hooked before you’ve even made it past the front table. The shop is full of bold, striking colours and vibrant pieces that immediately catch your eye, yet it’s still carefully curated so nothing feels chaotic. Every shelf is arranged with care, from candles and ceramics to throws and prints, mixing new and vintage items in a way that feels exciting and inviting. Suzy, the owner, clearly loves what she does, and her eye for quality makes the shop feel like a space you could happily spend hours exploring. My House isn’t about fast trends; it’s about surrounding yourself with things that last; objects that bring a little spark of joy to everyday life. The shop is also surprisingly affordable, with at least a quarter of items priced under £10, making it accessible to

Baked fresh at Grace’s.

Be well-dressed at Visual Impact.

My House goodies.

everyone. A local favourite, now back on the Newport scene after ten years, it’s a joy to see it thriving once again.

Just along the street, Readers is a treasure trove of homewares, furniture, clothing, and jewellery. The moment you step inside, you’re met with a sense of calm and care – soft fabrics, natural wood, and little details that make a space feel like it has been loved for generations. Every corner holds something special, whether it’s a hand-crafted necklace, a cosy throw, or a chair that looks like it could tell a story. And now, with their brand new café tucked inside, you can pause midbrowse for a perfectly brewed coffee and a slice of something homemade, surrounded by the same warmth and charm that fills the rest of the store.

The team knows their stock intimately, and there’s a pleasure in wandering slowly, picking up pieces, feeling the textures, imagining how they might fit into your own home or wardrobe. It’s one of those shops where browsing

feels like a gentle conversation, and leaving empty-handed somehow feels impossible.

Wander a little further and you’ll find The Flower Garden, a shop that offers a burst of colour and scent even before you step through the door. It’s one of those florists that’s always changing – one week bursting with hydrangeas and sunflowers, the next filled with winter greenery and twinkling lights. Their arrangements are beautifully creative but never fussy, and the team has a gift for capturing exactly what you mean, whether it’s a birthday bouquet or something more personal. They also stock lovely extras – candles, cards, vases – the kind of thoughtful touches that make a floral gift even more special. The Flower Garden is a real tonic, a reminder of how simple beauty can completely transform a room, or a day.

And then there’s Moku Coffee Co., a café that is instantly welcoming with its soft wood, muted greens, and

Shop and dine at Readers.

Some Flower Garden favourites.

the comforting hiss of the espresso machine. It’s the kind of place that makes you exhale the moment you walk in. The coffee is exceptional –smooth, rich, roasted to perfection –and the menu is full of easy, feel-good favourites: fresh pastries, smoothie bowls, and the best pistachio croissant I’ve ever tasted. There’s something effortless about Moku, something quietly cool without trying too hard, like a corner of Notting Hill. You’ll see friends chatting over pumpkin-spiced lattes or people reading on the sofa – the rhythm of real life unfolding in a place that feels both modern and familiar. It’s a reminder that coffee, at its best, is about connection as much as caffeine.

Down by the river, Quay Arts embodies Newport’s creative soul. Set in a beautifully restored 19th-century warehouse, it’s where the Island’s artists, makers, and dreamers come together. The galleries change regularly – one week, contemporary photography,

the next bold, abstract sculpture –and there’s always something worth seeing. The café is a local favourite, too: all wooden tables, fairy lights, and a terrace that catches the afternoon sun. On summer days, there’s nothing better than sitting outside with coffee and cake, watching the Medina drift by. If it’s a touch of retail therapy you’re after, you’ll find it in the shop, which offers a wide range of unique gifts, such as locally made jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and much more. Artist materials such as sketchbooks, paintbrushes, and pens are also newly stocked. More than just a venue, Quay Arts is the heart of Newport’s imagination – open, inclusive and full of life.

Just a short stroll away, entering The Leather and Suede Shop feels like stepping back into a gentler time. The moment you walk in, you’re met with that unmistakable scent of real leather – warm, earthy, and comforting, like the memory of a favourite old jacket. It’s been

Service with a smile at Moku.

Artisan shopping and delicious bites at Quay Arts.

NEWPORT

DIRECTORY

Caffé Isola

85A St James’ St

Try: a flat white made with their own beans.

islandroasted.co.uk/caffe-isola

Grace’s Bakery

90 High St

Try: a warm cheese and onion pasty or a loaf of fresh-baked bread. gracesbakery.uk

Visual Impact

21 Holyrood St

Expect: beautifully curated rails, expert styling advice, and enduring quality. visualimpact.co.uk

My House

69 High St

Pick up: handmade candles, ceramics or a beautiful throw for your sofa. @myhouseiow

Readers Interiors

family-run for generations, and you can tell. There’s a quiet pride in the way everything is displayed, from the soft handbags and beautifully stitched belts to the jackets that look as though they’ll only grow more handsome with age. The owners greet everyone like regulars, chatting easily. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow, where craftsmanship still matters, and things are made to last. In a world obsessed with the next new thing, The Leather and Suede Shop is a reminder of what’s worth holding onto: care, quality, and the stories that live in well-loved things.

What ties all these places together is something you can’t quite bottle – a sense of pride, warmth, and belonging. Newport isn’t just a shopping town; it’s a living, breathing community. It’s where generations of Islanders meet, swap stories over coffee, and support the people and places that make the Island what it is.

In an age where everything can be done with a click, Newport reminds us that the best experiences still happen face to face. You can see the care in every loaf at Grace’s, smell it in every bouquet at The Flower Garden, taste it in every cup of coffee at Moku. You can hear it in the conversation when you step into a shop and someone genuinely wants to know how your day has been.

So next time you’re in town, don’t just rush through. Take your time. Park a little further away, wander through the back lanes, stop for a chat. Pick up a loaf, a piece of homeware, a bunch of flowers, or something beautiful for your home or wardrobe. Because Newport isn’t just the county town – it’s the Island’s heart. A place that reflects who we are: independent, creative, welcoming, and quietly full of charm.

33 South St

Don’t miss: the super cosy woollen socks. readersinteriors.co.uk

The Flower Garden

45 St James’ St

Tip: ask the team to create a bespoke bouquet – they always get it right. flowergardeniow.co.uk

Moku Coffee Co.

12 Holyrood St

Try: a pistachio croissant with your latte. @mokucoffeeco

Quay Arts

15 Sea St

Best seat: on the terrace in the afternoon sun with cake and coffee. quayarts.org

The Leather and Suede Shop

7 St Thomas’s Square

Go for: something timeless that will only get better with age. leatherandsuede.co.uk

You’ll find gorgeous variety and top quality at Leather and Suede Shop.

WIGHT WASSAIL

A Toast to the Trees

Words:

FROM PISTOL SHOTS IN YARMOUTH TO CIDER-SOAKED TOAST FOR THE ROBINS, THE ISLE OF WIGHT’S WASSAILING BLENDS FOLKLORE, FUN, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT INTO A JOYFUL MIDWINTER TRADITION.

Rebecca Lawson | Illustrations: Lauren Fry

STYLE HERITAGE

The winter months can often feel long and never-ending — all grey skies and bare branches — but in orchards across England, people have long found a way to shake off the gloom. The answer? Wassailing. It’s a curious blend of blessing, noise-making, and cider drinking that aims to coax good fortune from apple trees for the year ahead.

Though best known in the cider heartlands of Somerset, Devon, and Herefordshire, wassailing has its place here on the Isle of Wight too. Today, it’s being gently revived, thanks to folklore enthusiasts, community groups, and even modern Druids.

The word “wassail” comes from the Old English waes hál, meaning “be well” or “be in good health”. Over the centuries, it became a toast, a song, and eventually a ritual. There are two main strands of the custom: house wassailing, where singers go door-to-door at Christmas or New Year offering blessings in exchange for food and ale; and orchard wassailing, where people gather around apple trees, sing to them, and offer cider and toast to ensure a strong harvest.

House wassailing was once a lively affair across the Island. A Yarmouth account from 1926 describes children going round on New Year’s Eve with a wassail bowl of hot spiced ale, nutmeg, toast, and roasted apples, singing:

“Wassail, Wassail to our town, The cup is white, the ale is brown; The cup is made of the ashen tree, And so is the ale of good barley.”

The orchard version of the ceremony is the one most often revived today, and it is wonderfully theatrical. Participants parade into an orchard with lanterns, drums, and rattles.

A chosen “wassail queen” or “king” might place cider-soaked toast into the branches as an offering to the tree spirits — or a treat for the robins — while the roots are sprinkled with cider. Songs are sung, and everyone makes as much noise as possible — banging pots, firing shotguns, blowing whistles — to drive away any evil forces that might blight the fruit. Finally, there’s a communal toast with steaming cups of mulled cider, spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon. It’s part blessing, part party. Sounds like a good time in anyone’s language!

The Isle of Wight was never a cider-producing powerhouse, so wassailing traditions here weren’t as firmly entrenched as in the West Country. Still, local memories and scraps of song suggest that the custom wasn’t unknown. One colourful report from the County Press in 1911, which may or may not be just a rumour, claims that Island wassailing revels in Yarmouth that year had

been particularly dramatic as pistols were fired through the branches of an apple tree to scare away evil spirits. Whether that is exactly what happened is hard to prove — but it sounds like the sort of thing that’s possible after a few too many ciders.

In more recent years, wassailing has been given new life on the Island by groups such as the Wight Druids. Since the mid-2000s, they have celebrated the wheel of the year with open-air ceremonies, and a wassail is often part of their calendar. Members Malcom Brown and Alan Phillips even composed verses in Isle of Wight dialect with words like gurt for “great” and nammet for “food and drink”, weaving local flavour into the tradition:

And what a wonderful tradition to uphold! There is something disarmingly joyful about standing under bare branches on a frosty night, lifting a cup of mulled cider and singing to a tree. It’s an ancient tradition, yet entirely modern at the same time: building community, marking the seasons, and finding a reason to laugh and be loud in the depths of winter.

What makes the Isle of Wight’s version of wassailing so charming is precisely its blend of fact and folklore. Some elements are well documented — the songs, the toasts, the offerings — while others are more rumour than record, like the Yarmouth pistol shot or the trees that blossomed back to health after being serenaded. But together they form a picture of Islanders refusing to let winter pass uncelebrated.

“Wassail, Wassail all over the Wight Good Health to you Goodman, Good Health to your Wife Come open your door, we’re shrammed so much And give us zome cider to zwally an’ glutch…

“Wassail, Wassail, A jolly gurt Wassail, So bring out some nammet and join our Wassail.

“Come Missus and give us a mighty gurt feast To scoggel and snobble and scrannel like geese We’ll zwally your cider and gollop your beer And when we’re all crapzick we’ll give you a cheer!”

Some say that trees in these revived ceremonies began to blossom more freely, though whether that’s folklore, careful pruning, or a little of both is left to the imagination.

On an island where community is as important as landscape, these revived midwinter rituals matter. They root us to place, invite us to join in regardless of background, and remind us that even in the coldest months (or especially then), there is joy to be had in gathering together. Wassailing may once have been about coaxing apples from a tree, but today it’s just as much about coaxing cheer from the people around us. So this winter, raise a glass, sing a verse, and wish each other well: waes hál!

With special thanks to Dave and Anwyl Williams, Leading Island Druid Malcolm Brown and Island folk historian Alan Phillips.

I didn’t want synthetic. I wanted real fire — 100% natural flame that changes everything about the way a room feels.

A warm and cosy ambience that transforms any room into a haven of comfort and charm

CREATING THE AMBIENCE: AN INTERVIEW WITH MARK TEMPLE OF GASLESS FIRES

There’s something hypnotic about a flickering flame, and for Mark Temple, Islander and founder of Gasless Fires, that fascination with fire turned into an unexpected journey that’s now transforming the atmosphere of homes and businesses around the UK.

What first inspired you to create a gasless fire?

I’ve always been mesmerised by fire — there’s just something about it. I wanted that same comforting, flickering ambience in my own home, but I quickly found it was painful, expensive to achieve, and short-lived with the gas fire I purchased. So, I set out on what turned out to be a long journey to create an alternative fire for my own use that looked and felt exactly like a real flame, but without all the complications of gas or heat. I didn’t need the heat as I have under-floor heating; it was only for that real flame look and feel that nothing compares to a gas fire look.

So how did this personal project turn into a business?

Honestly, by accident! I showed what I’d created to a couple of friends — people who knew me and knew how long I’d been tinkering with the idea — and when they saw the finished fire they immediately wanted one for themselves. That’s when I realised there was a real market for it. I like to joke that what I’ve created should be called an “ambience generator” instead of a “fire” because that’s what it is — it creates a beautiful, realistic atmosphere that even fools my dogs! But it is a rubbish name!

What makes Gasless Fires different from traditional gas or electric fires?

Nothing truly compares to a real flame — the movement, the depth, the warmth it creates in a space. Electric fires all looked synthetic or something trying to be what it’s not. I wanted to create the look of real flames

that only a real or gas fire can produce. But gas and heat just don’t mix well in a lot of environments — particularly in businesses, hotels, or care homes. Especially in bedrooms and places you get the most and best use of them. That’s where we come in. Our fires are completely safe, easy to install, and provide that authentic visual comfort without any of the risk or regulation headaches.

What’s been the most surprising thing about creating Gasless Fires?

When I meet people to introduce the Gasless Fires, they tend to have preconceived ideas that it will be another synthetic electric fire. It’s seeing people’s reactions that gets me. These really are incredibly realistic flames. They completely transform a space — the whole ambience changes. People have always loved watching water and flames since time began… and now, I can provide them the flames! The experiences I have had so far with customers is really positive and enjoyable.

You mentioned care homes… they sound like a really meaningful part of what you do.

Yes, it’s one of the most mentally rewarding parts of the business. In care homes, especially in residents’ rooms or sitting areas, creating a calm and more homely environment can make such a difference. We’ve started doing some case studies, and we want to do more on the effect our fires have on people living with dementia, and the early feedback is incredible. It’s heartwarming to think that something I designed for my own visual pleasure

might actually be enhancing other people’s wellbeing too.

What effect does living and being based on the Island have for your business?

I think about that a lot. I am lucky that the Island has so many hotels, guest houses, lodges, and cottages. All fighting hard for business. Restaurants and other businesses too. My fires provide an advantage both for bookings and enhancing guest experience while staying, so I think that I am lucky to be based here in most respects. It’s a good thing.

What’s next for Gasless Fires?

Working more with businesses because until now there has been no real alternative for creating the warm and welcoming environment that we are focussing on. Restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, holiday lodges, guest houses and care homes are transformed, and I really enjoy the positivity that creates with our clients. The wow factor.

Are Gasless Fires only for businesses? Can people buy Gasless Fires for their homes?

Yes, absolutely. They can buy them on our website and fit them in any room, anywhere in minutes. The cost of our fire will invariably be less than just the cost of the installation of a gas fire! There is no need for external vents, a flue or gas connection. They simply plug in and hang on the wall plate provided. They are especially good for media walls and fitting in cabinets.

gaslessfires.co.uk

THE PICK OF ISLAND PROPERTIES

From seaside cottages to elegant country homes, the Isle of Wight always offers an inspiring mix of properties for sale and rent. This edition’s round-up showcases beautiful spaces full of character, charm, and connection to the Island’s landscape.

Built in the 1930s, this impressive, detached residence offers generous living space throughout. Ideally situated within easy walking distance of Shanklin town centre and the beach, the home offers convenient access to local shops, transport links, and coastal walks – putting everything you need right on your doorstep.

Lovingly renovated to a high standard by the current owner, the property has been thoughtfully modernised and offers exceptional flexibility as the spacious accommodation is perfectly suited to family life or multi-generational living.

Externally, the home boasts ample off-road parking to the front and a remarkably large, private rear garden – ideal for outdoor entertaining, children’s play, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully updated, characterful home in a sought-after location. hose-rhodes-dickson.co.uk

Shanklin Agent: Hose, Rhodes, Dickson

A charming and surprisingly spacious house set in a quiet position with delightful gardens, ample parking, and westerly country and sea views

The property occupies a great location within the sought-after coastal village of Gurnard, adequately elevated to provide wonderful views over the surrounding countryside and western Solent, including sunsets for the majority of the year. The village’s amenities including local shop, active sailing club, two pubs, and café, are within walking distance. The internationally renowned sailing centre of Cowes, with its wide range of independent shops and restaurants along with frequent passenger ferry service to Southampton, is just a few minutes’ drive.

The original period cottage has been substantially extended over time to provide deceptively extensive accommodation with an abundance of character combined with modern comforts. The

kitchen/dining room, with its extensive windows and French doors opening to the superb terrace, takes in the views, whilst there is a characterful, good-sized sitting room and charming snug in the older part of the house. The flexible accommodation includes two really spacious ground floor bedrooms along with two shower rooms and a useful boot room/utility, whilst on the first floor are two further double bedrooms, a study and a well-appointed bathroom. The property benefits from a mature garden on both eastern and western sides, as well as two separate driveways providing ample parking and boat storage. The house retains an array of period features and has double glazing throughout.

spencewillard.co.uk

Church Road, Gurnard Agent: Spence Willard

COUNTRYSIDE LIVING

After a slow Sunday brunch in the ever-charming village of Godshill, a visitor wandering westward along a footpath they had never taken before might stumble across something unexpected: a pocket of new homes that seemed to rise gently out of the landscape, rather than interrupt it.

It’s helped, no doubt, by how the boundary between old farmland and the new homes feels almost non-existent — the fields seem to roll right up to the gardens. Step outside a front door here and one is met with rows of cauliflower, and a public byway that meanders all the way through to The Chequers.

At first glance, the development might be mistaken for a renovated farmhouse estate, but on closer inspection, it becomes clear that this is something a little more considered. The original farmhouse still stands, its character intact, while the surrounding homes, new as they are, feel as though they have taken cues from it. There is a calm coherence to the place, from the use of stone and slate to the subtle layout that avoids the uniformity often seen in modern builds.

What stands out most is not just the aesthetic care, but the quiet sense of community already taking shape. Neighbours chat from

afar, while others pass by with dogs, pausing to admire the view across the open fields. There is an ease to it all, as though the countryside is not just nearby, but part of daily life.

One detail easily missed is how environmentally minded the setup is — the homes have solar panels, and EV chargers sit unobtrusively by the driveways. It feels like a quiet, practical nod to the future, without overshadowing the past.

A visit to the sales suite reveals a friendly team, noting that most of the homes are already spoken for. There is an openness here that is hard to replicate.

Lily Cross Farm comprises 107 homes, from two to four bedrooms, just off West Street in Godshill. 3-bedroom homes start from £324,995.

Show Homes are open Sunday – Thursday, 10am – 5pm, a perfect opportunity to experience the blend of countryside and contemporary living for yourself.

captivahomes.co.uk

Lily Cross Farm, Godshill

The beauty of the coast doesn’t end with summer, it simply changes its rhythm.

At Wight Stone Luxury Townhouse, the Isle of Wight’s shoreline takes on a softer, quieter magic as the seasons shift. From crisp winter walks along the beach to evenings spent watching the tide roll in from your private balcony, this elegant four-bedroom retreat captures the timeless allure of seaside living. Perfectly positioned on Sandown’s golden coast, it offers an inviting escape where modern comfort meets the gentle rhythm of the sea.

From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this is no ordinary holiday home. Just steps from the beach, the townhouse is flooded with natural light, highlighting the elegant furnishings in the calming interior, exuding an effortless, welcoming feel. Whether you’re enjoying a slow morning coffee with sea views or gathering for dinner on the rooftop terrace, every moment here feels unhurried.

Sleeping up to eight guests across four beautifully designed bedrooms, Wight Stone Luxury Townhouse offers flexibility for couples, families, or friends. Two of the bedrooms feature zipand-link king-size beds, giving guests the freedom to tailor their stay. Three stylish bathrooms ensure comfort for everyone, while

a fully equipped kitchen and elegant dining space make it easy to share meals and create lasting memories. The rooftop terrace and balcony bring the outdoors in — perfect for soaking up sea air, winter sunshine, or starry skies.

What sets this townhouse apart is its seamless blend of relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of two inflatable paddle boards, ready for a morning on the water, or step out to explore Sandown’s charming cafés, independent shops, and long stretch of sandy beach. The sea is your neighbour here, and its beauty is as enchanting in winter as in summer.

This season, consider giving more than a gift. Give a getaway — a seaside escape wrapped in golden light, fresh air, and the promise of unforgettable moments. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a base for exploring the Island, or a special place to make new memories, Wight Stone Luxury Townhouse offers a warm welcome every season.

mermaidholidaysiow.co.uk

Wight Stone Luxury Townhouse, Sandown Agent: Mermaid Holidays

Wight in the World: Bulls, New Zealand

If you ever find yourself driving north from Wellington, you’ll come across a small New Zealand town with a big personality — and an unexpected link to the Isle of Wight. Bulls, in the Rangitīkei District, is famous locally for its sense of humour, proudly plastering puns across every shopfront. The police station sign reads “Consta-bull,” the library is “Read-a-bull,” and the local café serves its coffee under a banner that says “Delight-a-bull.” Behind all the wordplay lies a genuine international friendship — one that connects this farflung farming town with Cowes, on the Isle of Wight.

Bulls and Cowes might seem worlds apart — one surrounded by rolling pasture, the other by sea — but since the early 2000s they’ve been officially twinned. The relationship began through local councils and community groups, recognising that both places shared a sense of independence, coastal roots (the Rangitīkei River isn’t far away), and a close-knit community spirit. Over the years, school exchanges, letters, and visits have helped keep the connection alive, and the people of Bulls speak fondly of their English counterpart.

The town itself was named after English settler James Bull, who established a general store there in the 1860s. But it’s the modern twist — pairing with Cowes — that gives Bulls its global charm. You can even spot the friendship marked on signs and tourism boards, giving visitors a small jolt of surprise when they see “Cowes, Isle of Wight” mentioned in a New Zealand paddock town.

Bulls’ sense of humour is its trademark, but there’s something genuinely touching about the link. It’s a reminder that even

the quirkiest of connections can bridge hemispheres. Both places share that mix of tradition and eccentricity — Cowes with its regattas and seaside nostalgia; Bulls with its rustic hospitality and endless wordplay.

So, next time you’re in New Zealand and spot a sign that says ‘Welcome to Bulls — a town like no udder’, remember it’s not just a joke, because there are no Cowes without Bulls, right?

visitrangitikei.nz