We bring you some of the most elite properties on the market across the Midlands
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8-11
Travel Edit
The French Riviera
12-15
34-37
What’s On
Top tips on what to do across the Midlands this June and July
38-45
16-19
Festival Line Up Summer 2025
20-22
Harvey Nichols
Step Forward into Summer
23-25
Wimbledon 2025
Get your strawberries and cream ready!
Royal Ascott Millinery Collective 2025 26-29
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SWEALTHY FOOD BIBLE
Your go-to Midlands guide to fine food and drink
46-47
Birmingham Restaurant Festival First Wave of 2025 Line Up 30-33
48-50
Upstairs with Tom Shepherd + Scallop Satay Recipe
52-54
Calthorpe Estate Sporting Excellence across Edgbaston Village
Father’s Day Gift Guide 2025 58-79
Property Edit Meet Grove. Properties
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Hello!
Welcome to your June Edition! We trust many of you have been enjoying the exceptional weather we’ve experienced recently. It’s not every year that May brings temperatures reaching the mid-20s - a welcome start to the summer season.
For those seeking even warmer climates, stunning coastlines, exquisite seafood, and rich cultural experiences, be sure to read our feature on the French Riviera. This article highlights key destinations that promise an unforgettable escape.
Closer to home, we spotlight the elegant designer millinery expected to be showcased at Royal Ascot this July. Summer in the UK also brings with it a vibrant festival scene - our guide covers not only the four major events but also introduces several unique gatherings worth considering.
Golf enthusiasts will enjoy our curated list of ten of the finest courses across the UK, perfect for planning your next round in beautiful surroundings.
Culinary aficionados should consider a visit to Upstairs in Lichfield, the Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by Tom Shepherd. His British-Asian inspired menu, especially the scallop dishes, comes highly recommended.
Whatever your plans this summer, we wish you a joyful and relaxing season. Here’s hoping the sunshine continues well into the coming months - some of us won’t be making it to the Côte d’Azur until later in the year!
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The French Riviera
Côte d'Azur
Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall were fascinated by its glorious light and stunning landscape while Scott Fitzgerald swooned over the mansions and villas of the Cap d’Antibes. But you don’t have to be particularly creative to experience the extraordinary charm, old school glamour and magnetism of the Côte d'Azur (also known as the French Riviera).
Set in the southeast of France, this beautiful Mediterranean coastline of white beaches and sparkling blue sea stretches from Massif de l'Esterel to Menton, a town near the Italian border. Here you’ll find glamour in the form of celebrity-filled Cannes, Monaco, SaintJean-Cap-Ferrat (do visit the fantastic Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild), and Saint Tropez as well as natural beauty in the lavender fields of Grasse. You’ll also find a fascinating medieval legacy in Eze and modern magic in up-andcoming Marseilles.
There are plenty of hot spots but turn the page for some of the most talked-about destinations this year...
The French Riviera
Côte d'Azur
SAINT-TROPEZ
It's impossible to mention the Côte d'Azur without a nod to the original celeb hang-out, Saint-Tropez. Former film star Brigitte Bardot was one of the crowd who brought the pretty coastal resort to prominence. The luxury yachts and their wealthy passengers did the rest. Pampelonne Beach is ideal for perfecting your tan and being seen. While for culture check out the modern art collections at the Annonciade Museum. When it comes to dining, there’s no shortage of Michelin-starred restaurants.
ANTIBES
Picasso lived and worked here just after WW2, his home now the Musée Picasso and one of the town’s most-visited locations. Wander through the colourful Provencal food market, the Cours Masséna and make sure you visit the medieval Le Fort Carré in the picturesque old town.
CANNES
This city’s wonderful old quarter is enchanting, with its pastel coloured homes at Le Suquet. There you’ll also find a medieval fortress overlooking the sparkling blue marina. Go inside and be impressed by the ethnographic art at the Musée des Explorations du Monde. Stroll along the grand La Croisette boulevard, the annual home of the Cannes Film Festival. To get away from the crowds take a short ferry ride - and picnic - to the island St Honorat with its pretty working monastery and forest groves.
GRASSE
In keeping with the quiet theme, the medieval village of Grasse, nestled between Cannes and Nice, has much to entrance. There are the beautiful fields of lavender to photograph and marvel over, for instance, and you can tour the world-famous perfumerie Fragonard. Visit in August and join in the three-day celebrations for the Jasmine Festival.
ÈZE
Sitting 1400 feet above sea level, this medieval village boasts beautiful stone houses and winding alleyways stretching back to the 14th century. Its medieval fortress appeared in Hitchcock’s movie To Catch a Thief. Today, it’d be an injustice not to visit the exquisite Jardin Exotique.
MONACO
Famously a playground for the very well-heeled (you can’t fail to notice the luxury yachts in the splendid harbour), Monaco has much to offer in a cultural sense too, thanks to Fort Antoine, the Prince’s Palace and the Cathedral. Finish the day with a bet or two at the famous Monte Carlo casino.
MARSEILLE
The country’s second biggest city after Paris, Marseille is vibrant, exciting and the new go-to destination for the young and wealthy. Its beautiful harbour at the Port Vieux is filled with luxury yachts, while the area is dotted with wonderful seafood restaurants and trendy wine bars. Formerly a European Capital of Culture and a favourite cruise-stop destination, Marseille really is not to be missed.
OLD TOWN, NICE
Culture and beauty abound in Nice’s pretty Old Town. Its labyrinthine streets are filled with smart restaurants, galleries, cafes and artisan shops. Shop for food and antiques at the outdoor market Cours Saleya then stroll along the Promenade du Paillon where you can admire the beautiful botanical blooms. Visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art or people watch at the Promenade des Anglais where you’re also guaranteed beautiful views of the bay.
Where to stay
Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat
This luxury hotel, owned by the Four Seasons group and a favourite of Elizabeth Taylor in the 50’s, dates back to 1908 and sits just 2.8 km from Paloma Beach. Rooms all boast terraces, while the penthouse has a hot tub and steam bath. There’s a celebrity swimming instructor and the ubiquitous Michelinstarred restaurant.
Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel
Nestling beside Les Pêcheurs Beach, this grand 19th century mansion turned contemporary hotel is a mere 3 km from the Musée Picasso. Enjoy the food while overlooking the sea at the upmarket restaurant, or enjoy a cocktail on the private beach. Then again, while away an hour or two in the heated infinity pool and Sisley spa.
Hotel Sezz - Saint-Tropez
A champagne bar and beautiful Michelin-starred restaurant terrace are two favourite hang-outs for residents of the Hotel Sezz. Sitting just 8km from the wonderful Plage de Pampelonne beach, the rooms are wood-panelled and high-ceilinged with a very modern outlook. Luxury villas have private pools. A shuttle service takes guests into town and the beach at will.
Hôtel du Couvent - Nice
Set in the heart of Nice’s Old Town, this hotel was, as its name suggests, originally a convent. It’s now owned by hotelier Valéry Grégo and is perfect for exploring the traditional parts of Nice. But if you don’t want to wander then exploring the two beautiful gardens - traditional and tropical - are lovely way to pass some quiet time without distractions. This hotel is more about preservation and the environment than glamour and bling.
Carlton Hotel, Cannes
More than a century old, this grand dame of a hotel has been refurbished by the Regency Group. It still retains its Art Deco looks but with modern additions, such as the largest infinity pool in the city and 37 luxury residences for those who fancy staying in Cannes for more than a couple of nights.
What to eat & drink
Throughout the Côte d'Azur you’ll find a blend of French, Mediterranean, and Italian cuisine. Expect to sample plenty of fresh fish, olives, olive oil, thyme, lavender, dried fruits and nuts, lemons, garlic, and tomatoes.
Specialities include ratatouille, salad nicoise, bouillabaisse (fish stew) and chichis chichis frégi (a churros-type delicacy). Aniseflavoured Pastis is refreshing aperitif while the white wines are always chilled and crisp.
When to visit
You’re pretty much ensured warm weather all year round but arriving during the shoulder seasons of May, June and September will ensure you get sunshine without the crowds.
How to get there
Fly to the Côte d'Azur Airport near Nice or to Marseille-Provence. Both airports have good train, bus and hire car connections. Or, make a grand arrival by yacht. Once there, why not hire a vintage car and give your holiday some mid-century glamour?
ROYAL ASCOT
With Ascot only a few weeks away, if you haven’t started planning your outfit yet, then there’s no time to lose!
Everyone knows that Royal Ascot is as much about the fashion as it is about the horses. In fact, for the first time this year, the Royal Ascot Millinery Collective displayed this season’s must-have hats and fascinators at London Fashion Week. This is the first time any sporting business has been accepted into the most famous fashion event in the world, with the designs displayed in a special salonstyle show.
This is the 10th year of the Royal Ascot Millinery Collective, led by British fashion designer Daniel Fletcher. The creative fashion icon has selected some special upcoming British designers and established brands to create a capsule collection of hats and fascinators, providing inspiration for those attending and setting the tone for the event. At the same time, he shines a spotlight on a new generation of millinery talent, helping to ensure the future of fashion and hat design. This year, Daniel has worked with some incredible designers, who have produced headwear worthy of the catwalk. Let’s look at these designers, and their exclusive pieces in a little more detail.
MILLINERY COLLECTIVE 2025
ALEXANDRA HARPER
Frenzied Moment is an enormous picture hat that combines drama and femininity, taking inspiration from My Fair Lady’s famous ‘Ascot Gavotte’ scene. Alexandra Harper wanted to create a timeless celebration of Royal Ascot millinery, with understated shades of grey and white and a flurry of sustainably sourced ostrich feathers. The oversized dome headpiece features a light, floaty fringe, creating mystery and glamour.
STEPHEN JONES OBE
No Royal Ascot collection is complete without a piece from the prolific British milliner, Stephen Jones. His Glamazon hat is inspired by some of his creations from the mid 1980s, with space-age vibes that certainly catch the eye.
KATHERINE ELIZABETH
Katherine Elizabeth is no stranger to the catwalk, having shown her designs at London and Paris Fashion Weeks and being the first British milliner to showcase UK designs in Bahrain. Her creation for Ascot is called Solar Noir and is designed to make an impact.
Katherine is a country girl at heart, with a love for architecture, and these two things played a huge inspiration in her design. The sun is also a key theme, as she wants her hat to make people feel happy, motivated and uplifted. She believes the sun plays a large part in making us feel energised, empowered, healthy, happy and relaxed.
“I wanted to create something sculptural but uniformed, that is in harmony with itself and well-balanced. The feathers are quills and goose arrowheads; the main body of the hat is a Percher and made from two button blocks that have been covered in bamboo silk in a pleated spiral form with lace applied onto it. I’ve then adorned it with Swarovski crystals.”
CARRIE JENKINSON
Carrie Jenkinson’s headwear merges artistic design with wearability, so that each piece makes a statement in the best way. Whether you’re looking for something elegant, timeless, bold or avant-garde, these hats and fascinators are sure to make an impact.
Just ask stars like Lady Gaga and Beyonce, who have both had the pleasure of wearing Carrie Jenkinson pieces. She’s also designed for the royal family and worked with fashion icons like Vivienne Westwood and Mario Testino, so she has great references! And after 14 years in the industry, she more than deserves her spot on the Ascot Millinery Collective.
“Ascot is the pinnacle of style and elegance, where headwear isn’t just an accessory but a statement. My designs are created with this in mind — pieces that elevate an outfit while allowing the wearer to express individuality with confidence.”
MERVE BAYINDIR
Ever looked at a sweeping Art-Nouveau style-staircase and thought it would make a good hat? Merve Bayindir took the idea and ran with it, inspired by the vintage aesthetic, graceful curvature and endless elegance. The sculpted hat creates a sense of upward motion and ascension, symbolising growth, progress and higher ideals. The hat makes use of light and shadow, just like grand architecture, bringing a sense of movement to 'Helix'.
JANE TAYLOR
Jane Taylor has been designing headwear for the Duchess of Edinburgh for the past 16 years, so she knows a thing or two about style. For Royal Ascot, she wanted to create a hat that would stand out while maintaining a timeless feel – the Luna certainly ticks that box!
“For the Royal Ascot brief, I researched headwear from different decades and felt the design needed a timeless shape and finish. Monochrome is effortlessly elegant and never ages, making it the perfect choice for Royal Ascot. The piece features a hand-shaped, wide-brim oval, creating a beautifully flattering silhouette. I also incorporated a silk headscarf as a nod to classic equestrian style - worn through the ages but reimagined with a modern twist. The scarf drapes into a soft, delicate bow at the back, adding femininity and refinement to the overall look.”
ELIURPI
Eliurpi’s Sculptural Hat brings an air of mystery to your look, with traditional and cultural nature elements. You’d expect nothing less from this Barcelona-based duo, who are as comfortable creating millinery delights as they are working on sculptures and art installations. If you are looking for a work of art for your head, to set off a simple, elegant outfit, then this piece makes total sense.
AWON GOLDING
A little bit of leopard print in a sea of monochrome designs, 'Wild Cat’ is both timeless and contemporary, inspired by the classic disc hat shapes of mid-century couture. Awon set herself the challenge of combining vintage and modern styles, creating something both elegant and striking. Using the leopard print design as a neutral power print, it is balanced with black duchess satin bows to bring softness, movement and drama.
SALLY-ANN PROVAN
When Sally-Ann Provan was asked to create a millinery showpiece for Ascot, she knew she could meet the brief. After all, all her designs are intended to be show-stoppers, and she even has hats on display in the National Museum of Scotland’s ‘Fashion and Style’ gallery. You’ll also find her work on catwalks around the world.
“My headpiece is a playful expression of flowers caught on a breeze, dancing and shedding petals as they move. The colour subtly changes from black through to ivory and is made from nearly 70 of my signature origami flowers, all carefully made by hand from duchesse silk and crystal pearls.
“Royal Ascot is such a special event that deserves the utmost in elegance, it brings out a sense of joy and exuberance through dramatic hats and headwear and encourages you to be bold and impactful.”
LISA TAN
Lisa Tan must have been an obvious choice for the Royal Ascot Millinery Collective. Her razor-sharp focus on special occasion millinery ensures she is always busy at this time of year. Taking a turn from the delicate, intricate and feminine pieces of the last few years, Lisa wanted to make a statement with her 2025 collection, favouring bold colours, graphic lines, and a dose of 80s styling.
“The "Aurelia" takes direct inspiration from the title, Crowning a Decade of Style, using my signature sinamay petal crown as the starting point and developing it into the most intricate, elevated version possible. Forty-nine sinamay petals have been painstakingly hand-rolled and hand-sculpted into shape, over the course of almost as many hours as there are petals. The petals are hand-stitched to form layers of swirling halos, suspended by wire into a coolie silhouette which appears to float above the head.”
Festival line
IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR AGAIN - SUMMER - AND THAT MEANS FESTIVAL SEASON!
For the line-ups of the UK’s biggest festivals - read on, because we have the inside info right here. We also list some of the more popular esoteric festivals out there...
Reading & Leeds Festivals
Travis Scott, Chappell Roan, Bring Me the Horizon, Becky Hill and Hozier are all headlining this year’s Reading and Leeds Festivals. Both take place on August 21 to 24, with different acts appearing on alternative days.
There’ll be plenty of mosh pits to dive in to and also the openair, immersive, Chevron Stage – first introduced last year – with capacity for up to 40,000 people.
Reading initially launched in 1961 as a jazz festival but over the years it began to follow music trends. The smaller Leeds festival appeared on the scene in 1999 and grows in popularity every year. Expect to pay £325 for a weekend ticket. www.readingandleedsfestival.com
line up: Summer '25
Glastonbury
Attracting 200,000 visitors annually and beamed in to thousands of UK homes over an entire weekend, Glastonbury needs no introduction. After all, Worthy Farm is the location for the largest - and most fabulous - greenfield festival in the world. And this year is set to be no exception. Incidentally, 2026 is a fallow year so 2025 should be particularly busy and crazy. Expect to see more than 100 stages,
Headliners for 2025 are Olivia Rodrigo and The 1975. There’s rumours Madonna will make a special appearance. It’s also been whispered that Sam Fender and Harry Styles may also pop by. Rod Stewart (who’ll perform in the Legend spot on Sunday afternoon) and Neil Young have already confirmed they’ll be at this year’s event, which is happening from June 25 to 29. Other big names include Alanis Morissette, Gracie Abrams, The Prodigy, Lola Young, Charli XCX and Biffy Clyro www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
Latitude
More chilled than many other festivals of its size and ilk, Latitude is great for parents introducing kids to a first big music gathering. Taking place over four days (24 to 27 July) at Henham Park in Suffolk, headliners include Snow Patrol, Sting, Fatboy Slim, Kaiser Chiefs, Elbow and Basement Jaxx. But, of course, it’s not just about music. You can also pass the time watching plays, tuning in to poetry and literature readings, or laughing your head off at organised and impromptu stand-up comedy. Then there’s the dance workshops, yoga, silent disco and a myriad of crafting activities to become engrossed in. An adult weekend ticket costs £308. www.latitudefestival.com
IMAGE CREDIT: Callum Baker Photography
Festival line up: Summer '25
Lost Village
Described as a ‘boutique and glamping festival,’ Lost Village is billed as an immersive forest experience with pre-pitched tents and Michelin-starred chefs serving up gourmet food at banquets and glamorous pop-up restaurants.
Stages in this enchanted Lincoln forest, consist of aircraft hangars, scrapyards and the odd lost cabin or two. Embrace wellness, while enjoying comedy. When it comes to music, expect to see Caribou, Four Tet, Joy Orbison and Barry Can’t Swim this year from August 21 to 24. Tickets cost £330 plus a £5 booking fee.
www.lostvillagefestival.com
Houghton
Norfolk’s celebrated dance and music festival, Houghton is set in a huge Sculpture Park in the grounds of Houghton Hall. Popular with celebrities (Kate Middleton turned up last year apparently), expect to see many recognisable faces from stage and screen. DJ Craig Richards puts the sounds together – and has been for eight years now - while local artists provide tours and therapists show you how to reach peak wellness.
Jump aboard the floating pagoda restaurant and indulge in the many culinary delights. Opinionated? Then check out some of the discussions planned for the space-age like Armadillo.
Tickets start from £270.
www.houghtonfestival.co.uk
Wilderness
A more upmarket festival than most (Sponsored by Audi), Wilderness offers a weekend of wellness, amazing food and the option to stay in a tepee. And if that’s not enticing enough, how about a sound bath or a quick sauna? Set in Cornbury Park, a nature reserve in Oxfordshire, Wilderness takes place from July 31 to August 3. Headliners include rock band Supergrass, Nineties ravers Orbital, and Brit Award-winning indie-rock duo Wet Leg. Look out for Basement Jaxx, who’re returning to a live stage for the first time in a decade. Tickets start from £283.
www.wildernessfestival.com
Isle of Wight
One of the first events to kick off the festival season and now in its 23rd year, since the revival in 2002, the Isle of Wight has been around for even longer than Glastonbury. This year it boasts a fabulous line-up of mainstream music from the likes of Sting, Stereophonics, Justin Timberlake and Faithless. Then there’s Olly Murs, Jess Glynne, James, Elle Eyre, Paul Heaton, Razorlight and Supergrass.
The picturesque setting of Seaclose Park is a star in itself, while there’s the fun of the ferry ride across and back for the 55,000 or so festival attendees. Tickets for this event, from June 19 to 22nd, start from around £290 for a weekend camping ticket.
www.isleofwightfestival.com
Step forward into summer
This season, Harvey Nichols keeps the momentum going with the launch of its bold and expressive Summer 25 campaign: Staying In Step.
Building on the creative stride established earlier this year, the campaign brings the brand’s distinctive SS25 illustrations to life in vibrant real-world scenes that celebrate movement, expression and relevance. Shot on the streets of London, it captures the city’s energy and distinctive atmosphere. The resulting imagery champions the season’s standout pieces across womenswear, menswear, accessories and beauty, presented through high-impact edits that reflect Harvey Nichols’ unmistakable point of view.
“Summer 25 is all about setting the pace – capturing the energy of the season through bold style, creativity, and a strong sense of individuality,”
said Kate Phelan, Creative Director at Harvey Nichols. “With our Summer 25 edit, we’re not just showcasing the best of the season’s fashion – we’re creating a mood, a moment and a point of view that feels right for now.”
The campaign is designed to engage customers in meaningful ways, with a tailored media strategy that maximises both reach and impact. Out-of-home placements across key London locations from Notting Hill to Shoreditch, ensure visibility in the heart of the city, while a digital rollout spans multiple platforms to connect with fashion-forward audiences wherever they are. Digital screens in Harvey Nichols' windows will further amplify the experience, bringing the energy of summer to the in-store customer through vibrant animated visuals.
SS25 TOP PICKS
Shop the edit instore or book in with one of the expert style advisers for a personal shopping experience: PrivateShopping.Birmingham@harveynichols.com
1 / DAY BIRGER ET MIKKELSEN
CAMILLA SATIN MIDI DRESS
£230.00
A wardrobe staple embodying the SS25 campaign, the Camilla satin midi dress by DAY Birger et Mikkelsen captures standout simplicity. It is effortlessly refined in a soft satin finish and delivers modern minimalism through a fluid silhouette.
2 / STELLA
LOGO FAUX LEATHER CROSS-BODY BAG
£725.00
An elevated classic, the Stella Logo faux leather cross-body bag redefines everyday luxury. Its signature boxy frame offers a modern, minimalist edge, while Stella McCartney’s commitment to eco-conscious design ensures style with substance. A standout piece in any wardrobe.
3 / CHLOE
WOODY LOGO CANVAS SLIDERS
£370.00
Chloé’s Woody canvas sliders capture the brand’s effortless, freespirited style. With bold logo embroidery and a laid-back silhouette, they’re a go-to for chic, easy summer dressing.
4 / CELINE
TRIOMPHE SQUARE-FRAME SUNGLASSES
£400.00
Celine’s Triomphe sunglasses channel a bold, architectural silhouette with effortless Parisian polish. The oversized square frame and deep burgundy acetate strike the perfect balance between statement and sophistication.
Wimbledon 2025
Get your strawberries and cream ready –Wimbledon is back for another year, and we can hardly wait! For two weeks this summer, you’ll find us glued to the action of the oldest and most prestigious tennis championships around the world. This is the event that all tennis professionals dream of winning, and since Andy Murray retired in 2024, all eyes on Jack Draper, to see if he has what it takes to replace him as the nation’s tennis sweetheart.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the players who will be tearing up the tennis courts this summer.
Jack Draper
Jack has been playing tennis since before he could walk, when he surprised his family by hitting a ball with a racquet at just one year old. Now only 23 years old, Jack has plenty of time to prove himself on the courts and he certainly has the energy and enthusiasm to take him to success.
At the time of writing, Jack was ranked as the 4th best tennis player in the world, making him the only British tennis star in the top 75 of the ATP Rankings. Wimbledon could give him the chance to move up the board even further. Could he be the UK’s next big tennis star?
Novak Djokovic
Once ranked as the number one tennis player in the world, Novak currently sits at 6th place in the ATP Rankings. But that doesn’t mean you can rule him out just yet. The Serbian took home a gold medal in the 2024 Olympics, the oldest player to ever win the top award, so he is still a formidable competitor on the court.
That said, Novak has said he will be scaling back his tennis commitments this year, preferring to focus on family life instead. So, it remains to be seen whether we will see him at Wimbledon at all. We’re keeping our fingers crossed, because any match he’s in is one worth watching.
Jannik Sinner
The 23-year-old Italian was a star of the tennis scene last year and is currently the number one men’s player in the world, but he has yet to win a Wimbledon Championship. The prize will surely be in his sights this year after reaching the quarter finals last year, and the semis the year before.
He is the first Italian to reach the number one position on the ATP Rankings, but he wasn’t a natural-born tennis player like many of his contemporaries. He didn’t really start to find his feet in the sport until his teens, but he continues to practice and improve, so we definitely haven’t seen the best from Jannik yet.
Carlos Alcaraz
This Spanish tennis pro is 2nd in the world, so he’s already proven that he can compete with the best of them. He's also won the men’s singles event at Wimbledon for the past two years in a row, so he must have his eye on a hat-trick.
He might be 2nd at the time of writing, but he’s been top of the ATP Rankings in the past. In fact, in 2022, he was the youngest tennis pro to ever top the Rankings at just 19 years old. With such skill so young, you can only imagine what this passionate player will be capable of with more experience. Carlos is not just one to watch at Wimbledon, he’s one to watch for many years to come!
Aryna Sabalenka
Currently sat at the top of the WTA Rankings, Aryna surely has a Wimbledon trophy in her sights, especially as she was forced out of the competition last year with a shoulder injury. She has already won a couple of Australian and US Opens.
The well-known Belarusian will be the woman all the other players will be looking to beat on the court. She has an aggressive playing style and will be defending her Number One World Title for all she’s worth – make sure you tune in to watch any match she’s in!
She may be young, but Coco is certainly making an impression on the tennis world. The American is 2nd on the WTA Rankings, having won a Grand Slam and proving more than a match for other more experienced players. Many have compared her to Serena Williams, who also achieved similar success at a similar age, so let’s hope she brings as much excitement to the court.
At age 15, she was the youngest player to ever qualify for Wimbledon, so she’s no stranger to these courts. Her parents both have a sporting background, but gave up their own aspirations to help their daughter become a tennis pro. Their hard work certainly seems to have paid off!
Elena Rybakina
This 25-year-old has been making an impression at Wimbledon for the past few years and won the women’s singles competition in 2022. She hasn’t managed to retain that title, however, and will be keen to add another win to her CV this year.
She is currently in 11th place on the WTA Rankings as a Kazakhstani national, but Elena’s career actually began in Russia, where she was born. She started playing at the age of six and played her first professional match when she was 15. She has been plagued with medical issues in the past, so here’s hoping for an injury-free season where we can see this talented player shine!
Barbora Krejcikova
Sitting at 15th on the WTA Rankings, Barbora surprised the world last year when she took Wimbledon by storm. Nobody had expected her to do well, but she held her own against those with far more tournament experience and took home the biggest prize. She’ll be looking to hold onto that trophy again this year, but she’ll be under far more pressure with the eyes of the world on her.
Something tells us this won’t bother the Czech player though, who has been hitting tennis balls since she was six years old. She even has a couple of Olympic medals to her name, so expect more great things from Barbora this year.
Of course, this is only a few of the tennis pros hoping to make an impression on the Wimbledon court this summer. You’ll also want to keep an eye on skilled players such as Jasmine Paolini, Marketa Vondrousova, Ons Jabeur, Daniil Medvedev and Cam Norrie is expected to be on the court too. Wimbledon 2025 starts on the Monday 30th June and all the action will be available to watch on the BBC and iPlayer. Make sure you’ve got your best seat lined up in front of the television! (Rankings correct as of 27 May 2025)
Whether you’re a pro or just starting out in the sport, there’s no better place to explore the world of golf than in the UK. Scotland is the birthplace of the game after all, while England is fourth in the world for the number of golf courses it boasts. Then again, Ireland’s two top links courses have some of the most beautiful scenic shots in the world. If you’re not already gripped by the sport, then you will be after a round or two at some of the following courses – 10 of the best in the UK as far as we’re concerned. See if you agree.
Royal St George’s
Kent England
An Open Championship venue for more than 130 years, Royal St George’s in Kent boasts Britain’s deepest golf bunker on the fourth hole. This course lies alongside the English Channel and has impressive long fairways. It’s unconventional to say the least, thanks to those massive bunkers and its figure of eight-style design. The majority of holes have blind spots or hazards and keep golfers literally on their toes all the way round. Happily, there’s plenty of wildflowers and thick, green dune grass to add colour to the occasion. This course has hosted 15 Open championships. Royal St George costs £165 to play in Winter, £330 during the Summer months.
NORTHERN IRELAND
Royal Portrush Golf Club
Portrush
The Venue for the 153rd Open Championships in July this year, Royal Portrush is loved for its dramatic (sometimes cliff top) views, and that of the Irish Sea in particular. Appreciated for its welcoming and ‘non-stuffy’ atmosphere, this course, also impresses with its elevated and spectacular dunes. There are only a couple of holes demanding blind shots and the rest is very playable – even the rough isn’t that bad on a good day. Toughest hole here is the 14th, aptly named Calamity. The current course dates back to 1929 (although the club has been in existence since 1888) and in 2019 two new holes were added. Playing here will cost you £295 during the Summer (the course is closed in winter).
Royal County Down Newcastle
Many consider it a travesty that the Royal County Down course has never hosted The Open. It has, however, delighted fans of the Walker Cup, Curtis Cup, the now disbanded Irish Open Amateur Championship and, on nine occasions, the Ladies’ British Open Amateur Championship. The current world champion, Rory McIlroy visits frequently. What makes Royal County Down so special and challenging is its size (7,200 yards from the furthest tees) an idiosyncratic wind and several blind corners. Then there’s the bunkers disguised by thick grass. On the plus side, the views of the Mountains of Mourne are majestic. Sitting in the Murlough Nature Reserve, there’s a different and spectacular view form every hole. Costs for a round are £425 April to October.
Royal Lytham & St Annes
Lytham St Annes England
Royal Lytham & St Annes is a true icon of links golf. This worldfamous course, with its 174 bunkers and subtle terrain, has been the setting for 11 Open Championships and countless dramatic moments in golf history. Lytham is a thinking player’s course, where placement and precision are key. The first hole - a unique par 3 - immediately signals that this is no ordinary round. With the sea breeze often in play, every shot demands attention. A Summer green fee of £350 grants access to one of the finest and most historic tests in the game.
ENGLAND
Royal Birkdale
Southport
Sitting resplendent amongst impressive dunes, the 18 holes of the Royal Birkdale all boast elevated tees, making it very popular for those who don’t enjoy blind corners. The fact the course is ‘through’ the dunes, rather than alongside them adds an extra challenge. This course – just 40 minutes north of Liverpool - is also an Open Championship favourite, having hosted the event 10 times now. Play on a day when the nearby Irish sea has a strong wind and this enjoyable course becomes a nightmare for those unaccustomed to such meteorological shenanigans. An off-season weekday game is £240, and it’s £370 at the weekends in Summer.
Sunningdale Golf Club (Old)
Ascot
The first inland golf course to impress back in 1901 when it was designed, Sunningdale in Surrey, sits amongst what was once a pine forest. Great for those who enjoy putting, there are big greens with cross-bunkers and hazards of sand necklaces, as well as banks of heather – all designed to cause diversions, and, of course, add to the beautiful surroundings. The 18-hole course has played host to The Walker Cup, Curtis Cup, Senior Open Championship and the European Open. Alongside the Old Course sits the New Course (which reportedly is more difficult to play). Sunningdale’s Summer green fee is £325 for both the Old and the New courses. Pay £550 a day to play both courses together.
The Old Course at St Andrews
St Andrews
It may be the oldest golf course in the world, but that doesn’t detract from its challenges or the beauty of The Old Course at St Andrews. With features such as Hell Bunker and Swilken Bridge, not to mention its undulating nature, even champions are often flummoxed on first arrival here. And talking of champions, a besotted Jack Nicklaus famously announced there was ‘no other golf course even remotely close to” The Old Course. If you fancy a round yourself at this Wembley of the golfing world, just make sure you’re within the maximum permitted handicaps – 24 for men and 36 for women. Summer prices are £340, reducing to £160 in the low season.
Muirfield at Gullane Gullane
The fourth ever golf course to stage The Open, Muirfield is regarded as an eccentric course thanks to its concentric layout ie nine holes are encircled by a wider nine holes. Then there’s the wind, which hits from all directions. To date the club has staged a total of 15 Open Championships, as well as the first Ryder Cup. But that’s not surprising when you consider the astonishing sea views, deep bunkers (which can be incredibly difficult to emerge from) and the eerie cry of curlews as they soar past. The 9th hole with its seven bunkers is the toughest on this course. The entire course is long, measuring 7,192 yards. The green fee is £325 a round in the Summer months, reducing to £125 in Winter.
Royal Troon in Ayrshire Troon
Described as “a supreme test of shot making, nerve, power and skill,” Royal Troon on Scotland’s more rugged west coast, hosted The Open last year. And, in fact, it’s hosted the famous championship 11 times now – the first in 1923. Royal Troon is the local club of golfing great Colin Montgomery, whose father was once greenkeeper there. The first hole starts at the beach with views of Ailsa Craig in the Irish Sea, and a bit further up, the Isle of Arran. Famous holes include number eight, the ever narrowing and neat Postage Stamp and number 11, The Railway. Known as the toughest hole of all, a train passes down one side while there’s impenetrable gorse down another. And, as if that wasn’t difficult enough, a fierce wind is often thrown in to the mix too. Book for £420 in Spring/Summer.
Royal Dornoch
Dornoch
Scotland
A four-hour drive from Glasgow, Royal Dornoch may be one of the more remote of the prestige golf courses to access, but that just makes it all the sweeter on finishing. Rated fifth best in the world by Golf Magazine four years ago, it’s not difficult to see why. Not only is the course challenging, fair and fun, but the game is played with the wild North Sea and white sandy beach by your side - regardless of which hole you play. Known for its elevated greens, not to mention the spectacular and colourful scenery, Royal Dornoch is memorable to the say the least. “Spellbinding” is another adjective regularly used to describe this northerly course. Fees are £280 for a Summer round and £155 in Winter.
Every year he’ll grumble that you don’t need to buy him anything, and every year you’ll ignore his protests, because Dad deserves to be spoilt on Father’s Day! Here are some gift ideas he’ll love.
Father’s Day Gift Guide
Utopia Headphones
Focal: £4,699
Does Dad love listening to music on the go? Or perhaps he likes to have his favourite podcast in his ear? Headphones don’t come much better than these. The perfect combination of high-tech and comfort, he won’t ever want to take them off his head!
www.focal.com
Tiffany & Co 1837 Vintage Cufflinks
Annabel James: £175
If Dad has a lot of fancy events to attend this Summer, he’ll need a pair of cufflinks that will see him through the season. These vintage Tiffany & Co cufflinks are perfect, adding a classy edge to his look without being ostentatious. His wrists will be the talk of every event and he’ll feel a million dollars!
www.annabeljames.co.uk
Midway Legacy Arcade Machine
Arcade1Up: £435
Give your gaming Dad the ultimate Father’s Day gift by bringing his favourite classic arcade game into his home! This full-sized machine let’s him enjoy the iconic action of Mortal Kombat just as he used to!
www.arcade1upeurope.com
Cleanstation
Simple Human: £199.95
The high-tech way to clean your phone, your Dad will love the simplicity and effectiveness of this smart device. Sanitising 99.9% of bacteria on his phone, it takes 30 seconds to do and requires minimum effort. If he likes things really clean, then Cleanstation will do the job!
www.simplehuman.co.uk
Oura Ring 4
Oura: from £349
The ultimate in wearable health tech, the Oura Ring is perfect for health-obsessed Dads. It comes in various metallic colours and has a battery life of up to eight days, so he can monitor his sleep, activity, stress and heart rate, along with a whole list of other markers. And it looks good too, making it a great gift.
Spoil Dad this year with a really good watch. This stunning Longines piece from Johnsons Jewellers is the perfect blend of style and performance, with a stainless-steel strap and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass case with several layers of anti-reflective coating. This classy design is water-resistant up to 100m and will give Dad instant style points!
www.johnsonsjewellers.co.uk
Knife Set (in Walnut)
Katto: £390
If Dad loves to spend time in the kitchen creating gourmet meals for the family, then he’ll need a good set of knives to enhance his cooking skills. This Katto Knife Set contains the only three knives he’ll ever need, made of AUS-10 Japanese steel with an Equipoise weighted handle for perfect handling.
www.katto.shop
The Cheese and Wine Hamper
Fortnum & Mason: £165
Is there a more indulgent way to spend Father’s Day than surrounded by wine and cheese? This luxurious hamper brings together some of Fortnum & Mason’s most delicious offerings, including red and white wines, olives, crackers, pickles and a selection of cheeses, all in a large wicker basket he can use again. It’s what Dad’s dreams are made of! www.fortnumandmason.com
Luxe Cafe Premier Espresso Machine Ninja: £549.99
If your Dad loves a gadget and a morning coffee, then this Ninja coffee machine is about to boost his hot drink game! The Luxe Cafe can do it all, with 19 settings, a dual froth system and assisted tamper. He can make cold brews, filter coffees and it even has a coffee bean grinder and scale!
www.ninjakitchen.co.uk
Redbreast 12-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
Harvey Nichols: £65
If your Dad loves a drop of the hard stuff, he’ll adore this beautifully aged Irish Whiskey from Redbreast. Made from a delicious blend of malted and unmalted barley triple distilled in a copper pot, it's a very traditional variety that's been maturing in a combination of Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks for the past 12 years. If you’re lucky, he might even share!
www.harveynichols.com
JUNE
2nd
SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR
The singer and her band embark on their biggest UK tour ever, stopping off at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall early on. Go along and hear her massive hit Murder on the Dancefloor, along with Groovejet and latest single, Freedom of the Night. www.bmusic.co.uk
3rd - 7th
CRUEL INTENTIONS: THE MUSICAL
This musical adaptation of Cruel Intentions is a modern-day retelling of Les Liaisons Dangereuses. Step-siblings Sebastian and Kathryn indulge in a cruel bet on whether the former can seduce the headmaster’s virtuous daughter, Annette. Packed with plenty of 90s pop classics. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
4th
NELLY WITH EVE & SPECIAL GUESTS: WHERE THE PARTY AT TOUR
Get ready to party big time with global superstar Nelly and his musical entourage. The 3-times grammy winner is hitting four continents on this world tour. www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk
3rd - 7th
THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
Aslan, talking beavers and the White Witch all feature in this magical adaptation of the wonderful CS Lewis classic. It’s simply a case of taking a seat then stepping through the wardrobe into Narnia. For age six years and upwards. www.atgtickets.com
5th
JAZZ JAM FT. TANI FAKILE
Up-and-coming Jazz musician Tani Fakile is guest performer at this popular jazz session. Influenced by Ella Fitzgerald and Anita O’Day, Tani has firm roots in Gospel and old-school Afrobeat. www.theboxbar.co.uk
5th - 8th
NT LIVE: A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (CERT TBC)
A stellar movie cast, including Gillian Anderson (Sex Education and The X-files), Vanessa Kirby (The Crown), and Lone Survivor’s Ben Foster get to grips with this Tennessee Williams’ classic tale. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
5th
RHYS DARBY: THE LEGEND RETURNS
The Kiwi icon and ‘simple dad with slightly tight jeans’ is back and this time rifting about AI and robots. Relax, sit back and enjoy a night of laughs. www.bmusic.co.uk
5th
RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS FEATURING THE RED HOT CHILLI DANCERS
Glastonbury festival favourites, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers play the traditional Scottish bagpipes like you’ve never heard before. And now they’ve got the moves too. An energetic performance like no other. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
6th
THE MERSEY BEATLES
Regarded as the world’s best Beatles tribute band, the Mersey Beatles are all Liverpudlian born and bred. And it shows. The team have been belting out Fab Four numbers for the last two decades and are still going strong. www.walsallarena.com
6th
THE D-DAY DARLINGS
This all-female group belt out our favourite war time tunes, from We’ll Meet Again to Pack up Your Troubles and everything in between. The former Britain’s Got Talent finalists have even performed in front of the Royal Family. www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
6th
HOLLY JOHNSON
The legendary Frankie Goes to Hollywood star is still going strong 40 years after his debut album Welcome To The Pleasure Dome proved a huge hit.
www.bmusic.co.uk
6th
LIONEL RICHIE
The musical maestro is delighting audiences with his Say Hello to the Hits UK and European headline tour. The US singer/songwriter is appearing at just five UK arenas –Birmingham being one of them. www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk
6th
MUSICAL TOUR OF 16TH CENTURY EUROPEAN MUSIC
Fans of the lute will love this summer concert from Ayres and Graces. Held in the Anglican Chapel, it promises a delightful mix of both old and modern songs from this volunteer choir. www.historiccoventrytrust.org.uk
7th
WALK RIGHT BACK - THE EVERLY BROTHERS STORY
Cathy’s Clown, All I Have to Do is Dream and Bye Bye Love – this musical includes classic Everly Brothers tunes. At the same time, it tells the story of the brothers fall-out and their subsequent reunion. www.atgtickets.com
7th
MET OPERA: IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA (CERT 12A)
Rossini’s popular comedy, the Barber of Seville, is broadcast live as part of the Metropolitan Opera’s 2024–25 HD season. Figaro proves the voice of reason amid young love’s foolishness. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
8th
NATIONAL OPEN YOUTH ORCHESTRA: RING OUT! NO MORE BARRIERS, JUST GREAT MUSIC
Fifteen brilliant young disabled and non-disabled musicians delight audiences with their performance. Includes acoustic and electronic pieces, with input from the Clarion accessible instrument. www.bmusic.co.uk
10th
REBECCA FERGUSON: 15 YEARS: STRIPPED BACK
The Liverpudlian songwriter and singer performs an intimate show for her audience at the Arts Centre. Ferguson has appeared on stage with Lionel Ritchie, Burt Bacharach and John Legend. She’s also written five albums. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
10th
BMOS PRESENTS LES MISÉRABLES "LET THE PEOPLE SING"
See Les Misérables performed at Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre this summer. BMOS Musical Theatre Company celebrates four decades of this wonderful musical. www.atgtickets.com
11th - 12th
PENGUIN
Hamzeh Al-Hussien’s story is full of both beauty and humour. He’ll take you to his village in the Syrian mountains and the Za’atari camp in Jordan. Then there’s Gateshead and inside his own mind. www.belgrade.co.uk
11th - 12th
RED HOT AND READY
Watch Strictly Come Dancing professionals Dianne Buswell and Vito Coppola strut their magic onstage. The pair are joined by a cast of multi-disciplined Burn the Floor dancers. There’s also live music to have you tapping your feet yourself. www.theatresevern.co.uk
11th - 14th
PEAKY BLINDERS - THE REDEMPTION OF THOMAS SHELBY
The Birmingham Hippodrome is once again the venue for the Shelby family story and which is performed via song, dance and music. Ballet lovers will adore this, as will fans of the popular TV series. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
12th
SHAPARAK KHORSANDI: SCATTERBRAIN
This comic favourite tells of her ADHD diagnosis and invites the audience in to her ‘cluttered’ mind. She describes her early years as a comic and how she lived life as a scatterbrain. The show is based on her recent memoir. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
12th
FUN! WITH BARBARA NICE
She portrays herself as an ordinary housewife, but Barbara Nice is anything but as you’ll find out if you come along to her hilarious one-woman show. Lively, with plenty of laughs, it’s a night out with a difference. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
14th
BOOGHE TOY STORE: I LOVE ANIMALS LAUNCH PARTY
Join the Booghe team between 2 - 6pm for your chance to meet Rhia Official, win exciting prizes, join fun activities and free face painting. Find out more about Booghe on page 55. www.booghe.co.uk
14th
SINFONIA OF BIRMINGHAM SUMMER CONCERT
St Hilda's Church in Warley Woods is the venue for the sublime Sinfonia of Birmingham’s summer concert. Expect to be delighted by the works of Britten, Warlock, Elgar and Tchaikovsky, to name but a handful. www.sinfonia.org.uk
15th
IRISH ANNIE'S
From music to comedy and everything in between, come down to landlady Annie’s show and celebrate everything Irish. That also means plenty of singing and dancing too, of course – courtesy of 5-piece band Shenanigans. Features Ricky Tomlinson, Lynn Francis and Asa Murphy. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk
14th - 21st
UNDER MILK WOOD
Dylan Thomas’s classic Under Milk Wood tells the tale of four inhabitants of a small Welsh village and how they deal with the tough hand life has dealt them. www.crescent-theatre.co.uk
16th - 18th
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM
This adaptation of arguably Shakespeare’s most popular comedy, a Midsummer Night’s Dream is fast-paced and hilarious. Expect live music, plenty of laughs and even a hunting dog or two. www.belgrade.co.uk
17th - 21st
DEAR EVAN HANSEN
This Grammy award-winning musical has appeared on both Broadway and the West End. Now it’s touring the rest of the UK. A modern production which will ring a bell with teenagers everywhere. www.atgtickets.com
17th - 28th
TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL
The musical outlines the star’s poverty-ridden childhood in Tennessee to her multiaward-winning career in later life. Expect to hear classis such as The Best, What’s Love Got To Do With It? and Private Dancer. It’s already a West End hit. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
18th
PAUL CARRACK
It’s 50 years since local singer songwriter Paul Carrack put together and sang How Long with ACE. Since then he’s had a remarkable career, performing with major stage names. Now he’s delighting fans by returning to the stage. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
18th
KAZUKI CONDUCTS RACHMANINOFF & TCHAIKOVSKY
Hisako Kawamura brings out the surging power of the solo role in Rachmaninoff’s second Piano Concerto while Kazuki and the CBSO delight with Tchaikovsky’s symphonic journey going from despair and heading to triumph. www.bmusic.co.uk
18th
NT LIVE: DR. STANGELOVE
Filmed live from the Noël Coward Theatre, comedy genius Steve Coogan appears in the world premiere adaptation of Stanley Kubrick’s comedy Dr Strangelove. The premise is a nuclear attack which is triggered by a rogue American general. www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
18th
AN EVENING WITH AMI
Sit back and enjoy the delightful vocal harmonies of barbershop quartet Ami in the beautiful surroundings of Drapers’ Hall. You’ll also be treated to some outstanding Capella and light classics. www.thedrapers.co.uk
18th
GREG DAVIES FULL FAT LEGEND
Star of the Inbetweeners and Task Master, the stand-up comedian is touring for the first time in seven years. Expect to hear about his dodgy prostrate, butt dialling and his 1970s youth in Shropshire. www.resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk
19th
AN EVENING WITH RORY BREMNER
Vocal mimicry combined with razor-sharp political commentary – Rory Bremner has been entertaining for 40 years now. This show sees him combine comedy with conversation, along with several surprising revelations. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
19th
KAZUKI CONDUCTS ELGAR & TCHAIKOVSKY
Solo performer Sheku Kanneh-Mason plays one of Elgar’s best works, the Cello Concerto. This rich blend of melody and melancholy has one of the most powerful opening bars ever written for the cello. Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony comes later. www.bmusic.co.uk
19th - 22nd
SOLIHULL MUSIC FESTIVAL
This year’s line-up includes UB40s Ali Campbell, singer Louise and Maxi Priest amongst others. The family fun event also consists of face painting for kids, a sticker trail and as much continental street food as you can shake a stick at. www.solihullsummerfest.co.uk
20th
SOMETHING ABOUT LENNON - THE JOHN LENNON STORY
Not surprisingly, this live stage show based on the life and work of John Lennon comes from the same team who produced a similar show on the late George Harrison. It’s touring the UK. www.theatresevern.co.uk
20th
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
This is no stuffy costume drama, rather it’s a fun and witty adaptation which is sure to make you laugh out loud. You may even share a tear or two of joy. This Illyria Theatre performance celebrates the novelist's 250th birthday. www.winterbourne.org.uk
20th
LEO GREEN & THE ICONS ORCHESTRA: CELEBRATING THE SONGS OF DAVID BOWIE
Bowie fans won’t want to miss this show with Leo Green & The Icons Orchestra. The concert will feature classics such as featuring many songs from the Bowie catalogue, including: Starman, Oh! You Pretty Things, Ashes To Ashes and Rebel Rebel together with the later China Girl and Let’s Dance. www.bmusic.co.uk
20th
THE MAKINGS OF A MURDERER 2
The UK’s top true crime show features senior investigating officer Colin Sutton, who caught serial killer Levi Bellfield and ‘Night Stalker’ Delroy Grant. He outlines his career and describes what chasing and catching a serial killer feels like. www.albanytheatre.co.uk
21st
IRON MAIDEN
It’s now 50 years since the band first set out to wow the rock world. Lead singer Bruce Dickinson describes this year’s tour as ‘a once-in-a-lifetime live experience’ for Iron Maiden fans. The set list includes songs from all nine studio albums. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
22nd
LIVE ON THE BANDSTAND: BLACKWELL CONCERT BAND
Enjoy some live music while strolling through the gardens this summer, courtesy of the Blackwell Concert Band. They’ll play jazz, blues, rock, and even calypso – ensuring there’s something for everyone. www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk
25th - 27th
STUDIO 61 PRESENT: THE THRILL OF LOVE BY AMANDA WHITTINGTON
Ruth Ellis was the last woman in Britain to be hanged. This adaptation of her story finds Ruth back working in night clubs where she meets the racing driver David Blakely with whom she became obsessed. www.wolverhamptonartscentre.co.uk
25th - July 5th
MARRIAGE MATERIAL
Written by Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti and based on the well-received novel by journalist Sathnam Sanghera, Marriage Material is the tale of three generations, two love stories and one big family secret. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
27th - 28th
THE FINAL SHOWDOWN
Secret friendships, forbidden love, identity crises and of course, coming of age experiences – these are all experienced behind the curtains of the Showdown between theatre and musical theatre in the year 2075. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
27th - 28th
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
Presented by the Crescent Theatre Company, this classic Oscar Wilde play is also appearing at Harvington Hall, Selly Manor and The Old Rep Theatre. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
29th
JUKEBOX IDOLS
Strictly star Nadiya Bychkova appears with vocal harmony group. The Overtones, in a production celebrating music’s iconic decades. Songs from Elvis, The Beatles, The Bee Gees and Take That all feature in this feel-good night out. www.atgtickets.com
JULY
2nd
REVEREND RICHARD COLES: BORDERLINE NATIONAL TRINKET
The Sunday Times bestselling author and popular broadcaster will talk about his new novel 'A Death On Location.' The book is due out this summer. Tonight’s chat is sure to include several revelations. www.atgtickets.com
4th
WHODUNNIT!? … IN THE GARDENS
This lovely open-air venue is the setting for this improvised murder mystery. The script is pretty much made up as it goes along, ensuring every performance is unique. Foghorn Unscripted promise plenty of laughs and suspense. www.castlebromwichhallgardens.org.uk
6th, 10th and 12th
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
Presented by the Crescent Theatre Company, this classic Oscar Wilde play is also appearing at Harvington Hall, Selly Manor and The Old Rep Theatre. www.crescent-theatre.co.uk
10th - 16th
TILT FESTIVAL
Learn circus skills with world-class artists and see circus, dance, and physical theatre performances up close. This is a week of classes with shows from Friday night and all weekend. www.tiltfestival.com
11th
THE LADYKILLERS
This classic Ealing Comedy, first aired in 1955, involves five bank robbers pretending to their landlady that they’re actually classical musicians. Lots of laughs, confusion and plenty of entertainment. www.crescent-theatre.co.uk
13th
UNPICKING THE HEM – STORY BAZAAR WITH PETER CHAND & DAVID HUGHES
Storyteller Peter Chand returns for his fifth year at this fascinating event incorporating traditional world-class storytelling. Enjoy a drink in the café while being enthralled by the tales on offer.
www.wolverhamptonartscentre.co.uk
13th
LIVE ON THE BANDSTAND: KINGSWINFORD CONCERT BAND
Kingswinford Concert Band is set to delight in the gardens this summer with renditions of Abba songs, popular Glenn Miller tunes and even a number or two from the musical Oliver. www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk
13th - 19th
THE NIGHT WATCH
Based on Sarah Waters’ story of heroism and love in post-WW2 London, this Hattie Naylor drama looks at three love affairs. All contain desire, secrets and, ultimately, regret.
www.crescent-theatre.co.uk
15th - 19th
TWISTED! THE MUSICAL
The grown-up Oliver Brownlow becomes entangled with an adversity-facing, workingclass flower girl called Jane. Around 15 years after Nancy’s death, Oliver navigates an adulthood set in Victorian London. www.oldrep.co.uk
15th - 10th August
THE ADDAMS FAMILY
It sold out at the London Palladium last year and now the musical comedy that is The Addams Family hits the Midlands. The script, by writers Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice is accompanied by music and lyrics by Tony Award-nominated Andrew Lippa. www.curveonline.co.uk
16th - Aug 23rd
MARY POPPINS
Everyone’s favourite nanny comes to the stage in this spectacular musical by Cameron Mackintosh. A Disney production, the multi award-winning musical that is Mary Poppins is flying in to Birmingham for six weeks. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
18th
GARDENS THEATRE: SENSE AND SENSIBILITY
A funny, fast-paced and faithful new adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic tale Sense and Sensibility, the Pantaloons Theatre Company don’t disappoint. A performance featuring live music and audience interaction. www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk
18th - 27th
BIRMINGHAM JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL
More than 200 performances of jazz and blues features across the city for 10 musicfilled days in July. You’ll find impromptu stages and musicians in trams, parks and even shopping centres. www.birminghamjazzfestival.com
19th - 20th
SANDWELL AND BIRMINGHAM MELA
Europe’s largest South Asian music festival, you’ll find a whole host of lively dance and music performances. With the food village and shopping bizarre, there is plenty to see and do.
www.birminghammela.com
20th
CIRQUE: THE GREATEST SHOW - REIMAGINED
Death-defying acrobatic circus acts combined with music theatre – Cirque is back and is bolder and bigger than ever. This Greatest Show is definitely not for the fainthearted amongst us.
www.atgtickets.com
22nd - 26th
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN
And talking of electrifying shows… Young Frankenstein is funny, entertaining and at the Core Theatre in Solihull this summer. This film with have both you and Frankenstein in stitches.
www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
24th - 25th
HOT MESS: BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME PREVIEWS
It’s about love, hope and an eventual break up with a difference. Check out this magnetic new musical from the creators of 42 Balloons. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
24th - 26th
THE KOALA WHO COULD
Learn how great life can be when you try something new. That’s what happens for Kevin the Koala and his kangaroo and wombat pals. Based in the Australian outdoors, it’s a laugh-out-loud adventure. www.belgrade.co.uk
27th
YEH DOSTI - CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SHOLAY
Bollywood Fans will love this show, performed by LuvEntertainment and featuring mesmerising dance performances choreographed to the movie’s legendary soundtrack. Expect dazzling costumes and vibrant sets. www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
27th - 30th
WARWICK FOLK FESTIVAL
Richard Thompson, Kate Rusby and Martin Simpson are amongst the performers at the Warwick Folk Festival. You’ll also find Morris Dancing, children’s entertainment and a whole host of workshops. www.warwickfolkfestival.co.uk
29th
THE BIG… BAD …WOLF
An outdoors rock ‘n’ roll musical that the whole family can enjoy. Folklore’s notorious villain, the Big Bad Wolf, lives in a deep, dark wood and parties to rock music nightly. But where’s Red Riding Hood and the 3 Little Pigs? Age 3 and upwards. www.castlebromwichhallgardens.org.uk
our review of ISAAC'S on page 44
Following the launch of our FOOD BIBLE in issue 23, it’s fair to say the response has been phenomenal with our list fast becoming the go-to guide for fine food and drink across the Midlands geography!
Keep your eyes peeled for new additions to the list and our Insta story which lets you check off and share those venues you’ve tried and tested.
Oh, and if you think we should be adding a venue, let us know with haste at: magazine@swealthy.co.uk
SWEALTHY FOOD BIBLE
A collection of our favourite finds across the Midlands, grouped by postcode. You’re welcome!
You will notice as the issues pass by that some will stay, some will go and our new finds will enter the FOOD BIBLE.
We’re keeping it simple - classified by fine dining / gastro and our humble opinion regarding food, drink and ones to watch (in other words - they’re already great but they’re set to smash it!)
One thing we’re sure of, if it has made it on to the list - you’re in for a treat!
This list is based on the opinion of our food gurus!
To host, feature, remove or amend, please email: magazine@swealthy.co.uk
The High Field
Address: 22 Highfield Road, Birmingham B15 3DP
Date of visit: 23 April 2025
Time: 13:00
Overall rating: S S S S S S S S S S
TO START
• Spiced Gordal olives
• Garlic and paprika king prawns with roasted tomato on sourdough
FOR MAIN
• Gemma Ogston’s rainbow lasagne
• Pan-fried hake with new potatoes
TO FINISH
• Raspberry sorbet
• Banana brûlée old fashioned cocktail
The new Spring menu at The Highfield in Edgbaston is a bright, seasonal celebration of fresh produce, creative cooking, and relaxed dining. During our recent visit, we sampled a range of dishes that reflected both careful technique and a clear passion for flavour, all served in the stylish yet comfortable setting the Highfield is known for.
We began with a duo of starters that set the tone for what was to come. The spiced Gordal olives were a wonderful opener—plump, meaty, and expertly marinated. Alongside these, we tried the garlic and paprika king prawns with roasted tomato on sourdough. The prawns were succulent, generously portioned, and infused with a deep smokiness from the paprika. The tomatoes had been slow-roasted to draw out their sweetness. The garlic didn’t overwhelm but enhanced each bite, and they were so moreish we found ourselves mopping up the oil with bread.
For mains, we sampled both a plant-based option and a fish dish. Gemma Ogston’s rainbow lasagne was a vibrant, nourishing surprise. Layers of succulent vegetables tucked between sheets of pasta and a velvety dairy-free béchamel and fresh pesto, all brought together with a tangy tomato ragu. The dish felt wholesome without being heavy, and it was bursting with both colour and flavour. It’s a dish that proves plantbased can be indulgent and satisfying.
On the pescatarian side, the pan-fried hake with new potatoes was a masterclass. The hake was cooked to perfection: crisp-skinned, flaky, and moist, served over buttery new potatoes and seasonal greens with a delicate lemon dressing. It was a dish that let the ingredients speak for themselves - fresh, balanced, and utterly Spring-like.
Dessert brought a refreshing close to the meal. The raspberry sorbet was intensely fruity, tart enough to cleanse the palate but with a natural sweetness that lingered pleasantly. It paired surprisingly well with the banana brûlée old fashioned cocktail, a clever, boozy nod to a dessert in a glass. The banana flavour was subtle but present, rounded out by the deep caramel notes of the bourbon and a whisper of burnt sugar from the brûlée twist. It was a fun and thoughtful take on a classic.
To finish, we lingered over excellent coffee, served strong and smooth, which rounded off a very enjoyable meal.
Overall, The Highfield’s new Spring menu is a confident and wellexecuted offering that caters to a range of tastes without compromising on quality or creativity. Whether you're after a casual bite or a more leisurely meal, it's well worth a visit this season. Have you dined from this menu yet or are you planning to soon?
Isaac's
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW
Address: 1 Church Street, Birmingham, B3 2FE
Date of visit: 4 May 2025
Time: 13:30
Overall rating: S S S S S S S S S S
TO START
• Mixed Sicilian olives
FOR MAIN
• Isaac's triple roast
• Leg of lamb roast
TO FINISH
• Crème brûlée
• Amaretto coffee
Sunday Elegance at The Grand Hotel: A Lunch to Remember! There’s something wonderfully indulgent about a Sunday lunch, and nowhere does it quite like The Grand Hotel, Birmingham. Nestled in timeless elegance, the hotel’s dining room blends refined atmosphere with the warmth of traditional hospitality. On our recent visit, we were treated to an exquisite experience that touched all the senses - from the aroma of roasted meats to the lilting notes of a pianist filling the air. Every detail was meticulously crafted, creating a lunch that was both comforting and memorable.
We arrived to a live pianist playing softly in the background - an elegant touch that immediately elevated the ambiance. From the start, the service was faultless; attentive without being intrusive, with just the right balance of friendliness and professionalism.
To start, we shared a plate of mixed Sicilian olives. Though simple, they were packed with flavour.
For mains, we chose two classic roasts: a three-meat roast and a lamb roast from the award winning butchery supplier Aubery Allen. The
three-meat option featured slices of 28-day dry-aged sirloin of beef, slow-roasted leg of South West lamb and confit belly of Tamworth pork. Each cut was expertly cooked, retaining moisture and flavour without being overly heavy. The lamb roast was outstanding - rich, slightly pink in the center, and complemented by beef fat roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables including honey-glazed carrots, sweet parsnips, tenderstem broccoli and cauliflower cheese along with a delicious braised beef stuffed Yorkshire pudding and a red wine gravy that added depth without overpowering the natural taste of the meat. The portion sizes were generous, but each bite was so well-prepared that we found ourselves savoring every mouthful.
To accompany the mains, we each enjoyed a glass of wine. The wine list was thoughtfully curated and reasonably priced.
Dessert was a classic crème brûlée: a silky vanilla custard beneath a perfectly torched, crackling sugar top. It was served with delicate madeleine biscuits - sweet, simple, and utterly satisfying. Alongside, we ordered an amaretto coffee, a luxurious and lightly boozy conclusion to the meal. The warmth of the liqueur paired with rich coffee created a sophisticated end to the dining experience.
What truly set the lunch apart, however, was the overall harmony of the experience. From the gentle ambiance set by the live pianist to the pacing of the courses and the attentiveness of the staff, everything felt deliberately unhurried, allowing us to truly relax and enjoy. It was clear that this wasn’t just a meal, it was an occasion.
The Grand Hotel delivered a Sunday lunch that managed to be both traditional and elevated. Whether you’re a local looking for a refined yet hearty meal, or a visitor hoping for a quintessentially British dining experience, this is a place that understands the art of Sunday indulgence. With its charming setting, exceptional food, and graceful atmosphere, The Grand Hotel turns lunch into something truly special.
Birmingham Restaurant Festival Reveals First Wave of 2025 Line-Up
In the longest preview list since inception, Birmingham Restaurant Festival has revealed the first 31 restaurants taking part, including 670 Grams, Orelle, Chapter and Dishoom.
Birmingham Restaurant Festival is set to return from 1st to 31st August 2025 for its 4th year and has today revealed a preview list sharing the first restaurants set to take part.
Each year Birmingham Restaurant Festival takes over the city, giving foodies exclusive menus to enjoy for incredible value throughout the month. With a variety of lunch and dinner menus on offer, diners can make as many reservations as they like to experience the very best food and drink that Birmingham’s restaurants have to offer.
Among the first venues announced are four of the restaurants voted by festival-goers as having the best menus during Birmingham Restaurant Festival 2024:
• 670 Grams, by Michelin-trained Kray Treadwell, who curates innovative and exciting tasting menus using the best local produce
• Lasan, the Indian fine-dining restaurant serving iconic dishes with a contemporary twist
• Trentina, a neighbourhood gem serving up freshly-made pasta, seasonal antipasti and more
• Bistro at Hotel Du Vin, the much-loved bistro serving classic French dishes with a contemporary twist
The city-wide celebration will shine a light on Birmingham’s vibrant culinary scene and melting pot of cultures, through the carefully-curated line-up of restaurants located in the city and surrounding suburbs.
In the city centre, participating restaurants include Orelle, the fine-dining restaurant located 24 floors above the city, Bombay-
inspired favourite Dishoom, modern Chinese restaurant Tattu, contemporary Indian restaurant and celebrity haunt Asha’s and the newly re-located home of bao buns and rice bowls, Tiger Bites Pig.
Over in the Jewellery Quarter, restaurants such as Michelin Good Food Guide listed, Spanish-inspired Txikiteo, popular music and dining venue The Jam House and Victorian public house The Church Pub & Dining Room, are taking part.
Diners can also head to Edgbaston to enjoy an Argentinian barbecue feast at Fiesta Del Asado, or the best of British produce at Chapter.
Other restaurants on the line-up include Primitivo Restaurant & Bar, The Alchemist, Gaucho, Zindiya, Milan Indian Cuisine, Bhancha Nepalese & Indian Restaurant, Chaophraya, Chung Ying Cantonese, Zocala, Malmaison Bar & Grill, The Woods, Aluna Cocktail Bar & Pan Asian Restaurant, Siamais, Lulu Wild, Inju and Saint Pauls House.
The final restaurant line-up and exclusive Festival menus will be revealed closer to the event.
Alex Nicholson-Evans, Founder & Director of Living For The Weekend, organisers of Birmingham Restaurant Festival, said: “I’m so excited that Birmingham Restaurant Festival is back to showcase the very best of our city’s culinary scene for a fourth year. We’re revealing our biggest preview list to date and it’s amazing to see so many fantastic restaurants lined up to take part.
“There are plenty more still to come and we can’t wait to share those with foodies from Birmingham and beyond in the coming months.”
While some restaurants may have the capacity for walk-ins, to guarantee access to the exclusive festival menus, diners must
book in advance. Diners do not need to purchase a ticket or wristband.
Menus will go live, and reservations will open on 19 June. To make a booking during Birmingham Restaurant Festival, diners need to visit www.birminghamrestaurantfestival.co.uk and follow the directions given on the individual restaurant pages, to ensure the Festival menu is available on the desired day.
Stay up to date on news from Birmingham Restaurant Festival by signing up to the e-newsletter:
Now in its fourth year, Tom Shepherd’s Michelinstarred restaurant Upstairs, remains a big destination-draw for foodies.
And it’s not just for the 34-year-old’s signature scallop dishes or his infamous Desperate Dan pie or Banana Dessert – both of which he served up on the TV programme Great British Menu in 2023.
Guests travel far and wide for Tom’s taste-led menu which champions the best of British produce while weaving in bold, Asian-influenced flavours. Many are also enthusiastic about the ‘relaxed but refined’ vibe – an atmosphere Tom describes as “warm and welcoming without being stuffy.” Overall the food is, in Tom’s own words “a balance between precision and creativity” and served in a setting which manages to be both elegant and approachable.
There is definitely a celebrity clientele at Upstairs. It includes other chefs keen to see what they’re currently up against, footballers and creatives. Tom’s used to mixing with famous faces though, cooking regularly at Wembley for England
matches and at events such as Royal Ascot and the cricket at Edgbaston. He’s keen to stress though that every guest at Upstairs is treated like a VIP.
In fact, Tom is very much a local man and keen to support his community.
“Supporting local businesses is absolutely fundamental to what we do at Upstairs,” he stressed. “Having grown up in Sutton Coldfield, and now running a Michelin-starred restaurant in Lichfield, it’s really important to me that we play a positive role in our community.
“Whether it’s sourcing ingredients from Staffordshire farms, working with local artisans, or being an ambassador for local charity Kids' Village in Wychnor who are building a purpose-built holiday village for sick children and their families, we’re proud to give back to the place that shaped me. It’s about more than just business – it’s about building something sustainable and meaningful in the area I call home.”
With 37 covers, there is a real sense of intimacy and personality at Upstairs. The restaurant is small, which allows Tom to focus
on the finer details – not just in the food, but in the service and the atmosphere. He and his team are constantly evolving and pushing themselves creatively.
Upstairs (which is upstairs from his father’s jewellery shop) opened its doors towards the end of 2021. Tom received his Michelin star just four months later – an experience he describes as “surreal.”
Beyond the awards, the local support for Upstairs has been phenomenal. “The people of Lichfield and Staffordshire have really embraced us,” said Tom. “To be the only starred restaurant in the county is something I’m incredibly proud of".
Tom thrives on the creative freedom involved in running his own restaurant.
“Every element of Upstairs reflects my vision, from the menu to the decor to the team culture,” he said. “That’s incredibly rewarding. But there’s also the challenge and pressure of running a restaurant. I thrive on that, and it keeps us all striving to be better every day.”
Not only does Tom run the restaurant and carry out consultancy work, but he and wife Charlotte have also started up Twofold
where the pair can indulge their experience in creating their own drinks.
“The launch of Twofold has been really exciting,” said Tom. “We have a Banana Rum and a Thai Green Gin which are selling incredibly well. There’s definitely scope to do more.”
As for time off? It’s rare, but it does still happen. “I love spending time with my wife and daughter Grace whenever I can – even simple things like going for a walk or having a quiet evening together are how I reset.
“I’m also into carp fishing and the gym, and I’ll take the Porsche out for a long drive when I need some headspace. I do try to carve out a bit of downtime here and there and I’ve just come back from celebrating my birthday in Paris which was lovely.”
And as for the future? He’s currently looking for a second site for a more casual dining concept. Watch this space…
WWW.UPSTAIRS.RESTAURANT
Scallop Satay Recipe
Ingredients
• 4 hand-dived Scallops
• 50g unsalted butter, diced
• Half of 1 lemon
• Salt
Method: Prep the scallops, place on J-Cloth, in fridge until 30 minutes before cooking.
Get a non-stick pan hot, add a small amount of oil to the pan, season the top of the scallops, place seasoned side down in the pan and season the bottom also, caramelise until golden, add butter, and start basting, add a squeeze of lemon juice, turn scallop over and rest for 1 minute.
Satay sauce
• 3 shallots, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, sliced
• 1 deseeded chilli, sliced
• 40g peeled ginger, sliced
• 75g unsalted butter, diced
• 150g light soy sauce
• 400g peanut butter
• 800g coconut puree
• 150g vegetable stock
Method: Confit shallots, garlic, ginger and chilli in the butter, until completely soft. Set aside. Warm the soy, peanut butter, coconut puree and stock in a pan and place everything in a blender. Once finished, season and pass through a fine sieve –it doesn’t have to be super smooth.
Pickled radish salad
• 1 red meat radish
• 1 blue meat radish
• 1 black radish
• Micro coriander
• 250g sugar
• 250g rice wine vinegar
• Salt
Method: Bring sugar and rice wine vinegar to boil, set aside to cool. Slice all 3 radishes to 1mm thickness and place in the pickle liquid once it’s cooled for 1-2 hours, remove and make a slice from the centre of the black radish to the edge and fold over to make a cone shape. Slice the other 2 radishes directly in half and fold on top of the black radish to form a rose, top with micro coriander.
Dashi Gel
• 500ml water
• 12g instant dashi
• 40ml light soy sauce
• 20ml mirin
• 10ml rice wine vin
• 10ml dashi vinegar
Method: Add water to dashi powder, bring to boil, add remaining ingredients to a bowl and add dashi stock to the bowl too. Thicken with ultratex and place in vac pack machine so draw the air out, pass through a fine sieve and bottle.
Garnish: 15g white and 15g black sesame seeds - toasted in the oven at 160c for 5/6 mins. Add a splash of soy over the top and bake for a further 3/4 mins, until dry.
Drizzle over some coriander oil to finish – this is a bunch of fresh coriander blended with a pinch of salt and vegetable oil and pass through a J cloth.
Sporting excellence across
Edgbaston is home to some of Birmingham's most prestigious sporting venues, from the lush greens of Edgbaston Golf Club to the iconic courts of Edgbaston Priory, it has long been a hub for world-class sports. Whether you're enjoying a match at Edgbaston Stadium, perfecting your swing at the Golf Academy, or joining in the friendly atmosphere at Central Edgbaston Bowling Club, there’s something for everyone. This Summer, Edgbaston comes alive with events and activities for sports lovers of all ages and abilities, making it a destination where every match is a celebration of community and excellence.
Edgbaston Priory Club
Sir Harrys Road, B15 2UZ
Celebrating its 150th anniversary, Edgbaston Priory Club stands as a cornerstone of Birmingham’s sporting heritage, with roots tracing back to the birth of lawn tennis on Ampton Road, Edgbaston. Over the decades, the Club has nurtured local talent, welcomed sporting legends, and built a vibrant community around racquet sports and lifestyle. For those seeking a blend of history and elite sport, Edgbaston Priory remains the heart of racquet sports in the city.
This June, it hosts the Lexus Birmingham Open featuring both men’s and women’s tennis for the first time, marking a new chapter in its world-class legacy and setting the stage for the road to Wimbledon.
Central Edgbaston Bowling Club
44A Harborne Road, B15 3HE
Central Edgbaston Bowling Club is a cherished local venue where tradition meets community spirit. Located in the heart of Edgbaston, this Club offers a welcoming space for bowlers of all abilities. With a beautifully maintained green and a supportive atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a friendly match or connect with fellow enthusiasts. For over a century, this club has been a staple of Edgbaston’s sporting culture, fostering connections and passion for the game.
Edgbaston Golf Club
25 Church Road, B15 3TB
Edgbaston Golf Club offers a unique combination of tradition and modernity, with a stunning course that suits golfers of all levels. For beginners, the Edgbaston Golf Academy’s Learn to Play in 10 Hours course is the perfect start, offering six hours of expert coaching. With all equipment provided and personalised lessons, beginners can focus on building skills in a serene environment. Whether you’re here for a relaxing round or a competitive game, Edgbaston Golf Club provides an exceptional golfing experience.
Edgbaston Croquet Club
Richmond Hill Road, B15 3RP
Tucked away on Richmond Hill Road, Edgbaston Croquet Club has been part of the area’s sporting landscape since 1915, when it moved from its original home at the Plough & Harrow Hotel. With roots dating back to 1907, it’s one of the Midlands’ most historic croquet clubs. Over the years, it has welcomed everyone from local enthusiasts to international champions, hosted major events, and weathered everything from world wars to floods. Today, the Club remains a tranquil haven for this timeless sport offering immaculate lawns, a friendly welcome, and a rich tradition of strategy, precision, and community spirit.
Edgbaston Archery & Lawn Tennis Society
14A
Westbourne Road, B15 3TR
The Edgbaston Archery & Lawn Tennis Society, one of Birmingham's oldest clubs, offers a refined space for lawn tennis. Established in 1856, the club continues to attract local talent and national champions alike. With facilities set against Edgbaston’s peaceful greenery, it provides a welcoming environment for both seasoned athletes and beginners. Whether perfecting your serve or honing your skills, this historic club remains a true gem of Edgbaston’s sporting landscape.
Or find your zen at Yoga Sanctuary
Now open on Greenfield Crescent, the Yoga Sanctuary offers a mindful alternative for those seeking a calmer, more balanced form of fitness. With classes for all levels, it’s the perfect place to stretch, strengthen, and find your inner calm. Discover a new way to move in Edgbaston Village.
A
new chapter at Simpsons Elegant dining, reimagined
Simpsons has unveiled a new three-course set lunch menu at £49.50, offering a more accessible way to experience one of Birmingham’s most iconic dining destinations. With two refined options for each course, the menu showcases seasonal flavours and signature creativity - think Isle of Wight tomatoes with basil seed and tomato sorbet, or sea bream with crispy potato and smoked eel cream.
Set against the backdrop of the newly refurbished terrace, this latest addition invites guests to enjoy Michelin-starred dining in a more relaxed and open setting. It’s everything you love about Simpsons, expertly crafted food, genuine warmth, and timeless style, now with a fresh sense of ease and possibility.
A WORLD OF WONDER: INSIDE THE UK'S FIRST EXPERIENTIAL TOY SHOP
When online toy retailer Booghe decided to open its first physical location, the owner did not want just another toy store. The vision was bigger. It was to be a space where technology, creativity, and play came together to create a fully immersive experience for families. The result is the United Kingdom’s first experiential toy shop, brought to life by Andrii Yeksarov, founder and creative director of ATRIO Design & Build.
Known for his bold ideas and precision-led delivery, Andrii led the project with the same immersive approach he brings to his award-winning hospitality and entertainment spaces. Under his leadership, ATRIO transformed an ambitious brief into a vibrant, two-storey destination that redefines how children and adults engage with retail.
CONCEPT
DESIGN & BUILD FROM @atriouk
On the ground floor, guests are welcomed into a playful, visually rich environment. On the first floor, the centrepiece is The Dragonfly Cafe, home to a four-metre dragon sculpture that was delivered in sections and assembled on site. Downstairs, a bright yellow submarine playground with thirteen portals invites discovery and movement. The entire space feels alive because it’s a place where colour, light and form spark curiosity.
Upstairs, the experience becomes more immersive. A custom-designed virtual reality zone offers guests the chance to box, fly jets, or race supercars. Each VR machine was carefully dismantled, transported to the first floor, and rebuilt in situ. Every installation was executed with precision to meet technical requirements without compromising the atmosphere.
“Each space had its own character, its own set of challenges,” says Andrii Yeksarov. “Designing for retail, hospitality, and entertainment all under one roof meant every detail had to be tailored. The real creativity occurs in the solutions.”
The project was completed in two phases. The ground floor opened within six months, just before the summer holidays. The first floor followed ahead of Christmas, introducing the VR experience in time for the festive season. Throughout both stages, ATRIO provided full-service delivery, from concept and spatial design to on-site coordination and final detailing.
Customer experience was a key focus from the beginning. Digital ordering screens allow toys to be selected in store and delivered the same day, often before the customer leaves. This frictionless blend of digital and physical design reflects ATRIO’s commitment to building spaces that are not only engaging but intelligent.
The chosen material also plays a vital role in the sensory appeal. Walls are finished with natural lime-based Venetian plaster by ELFDECOR UK. Furniture is sculpted from liquid metal. The ceiling, curved and coated in metallic paint, casts a soft, glowing reflection that enhances the overall atmosphere.
The colour language of the shop evolves by floor. The ground level features bold reds and yellows. Upstairs, soft pinks and blues take over. Rainbow-striped stairs guide visitors between the two, while motionsensitive LED lighting in the corridors tracks footsteps and changes colour with every pace. These layered experiences were crafted not only to impress but to invite play, pause, and presence.
“There is a story in every corner,” Andrii explains. “We designed Booghe as a place where families can explore together, where the experience is the memory. That is the power of immersive design.”
Booghe is more than a retail launch. It is a case study in what happens when vision is matched with expertise. Through ATRIO Design & Build, the space becomes more than a store. It becomes a destination. It’s a place built with imagination, precision, and, of course, heart.
COMPLETION
@atriouk
TONY LUNE: CO-FOUNDER, PROPERTY PROFESSIONAL & MINDSET ENTHUSIAST
Tony is one of the two founders and owners behind Three2SIx - a growing business. With a strong passion for the property market and a genuine love for working with people, Tony brings a unique combination of experience, energy, and empathy to everything he does.
His journey in property began with a desire not just to build a successful business, but to create lasting impact - helping clients make informed decisions, grow their portfolios, and build a resilient future. Tony believes that success in property is about more than numbers; it’s about people, relationships, and mindset.
Outside the world of business, Tony is committed to personal growth and wellbeing. He has a deep interest in spirituality, mindfulness, and self-development, which he incorporates into both his work and daily life. He also thrives on physical challenges that test discipline and resilience and as a most recent testament to this, Tony recently returned from a HYROX fitness event in Berlin—an experience that left him feeling recharged and ready to bring fresh focus to his work with clients.
Whether you’re navigating property investments, personal development, or both, Tony is someone who understands the journey and is here to support you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to work with Tony and the wider team, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out using the contact details below:
Rowney Green Lane Rowney Green
B48 Bed Bath Reception
5 3 4 £4,750 pcm
KEY FEATURES
Greeted by electric gates and a circular in and out driveway, this exceptionally well presented 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 4 reception, detached executive home, situated in the heart of the highly sought-after village of Rowney Green is now available to rent.
The property provides extensive and extremely flexibility with the addition of a detached 2.5 bay garage with a one bedroom plus bathroom annex attached, ideal for multi-generational living. The gardens, lawns, windows and hot tub maintenance are included in the monthly rent.
Brook Cottage is a charming five-bedroom detached home set behind secure electric gates, featuring a detached double garage and beautifully landscaped gardens with a stream and a summer house. Inside, it offers five bedrooms with a large master suite with a dressing room and ensuite bathroom, a main bathroom and downstairs WC, three reception rooms, and a cosy conservatory. The property also includes a separate one-bedroom annexe, Bank Cottage, with its own bathroom, kitchen and living space, garden and private driveway. Set in a private sought-after lane, the property is close to local amenities and travel infrastructure.
• Five bedrooms
• Master ensuite
• Main bathroom
• Two wood burning stoves
• Separate large laundry/hobby room
• Summer house and landscaped gardens
• Annexe with separate access
• Detached double garage
• Wine cellars
• Sauna
Fine & Country Stourbridge and Kidderminster The Old Custom House, 1 Church Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1LT 01384 958811
fineandcountry.com
stourbridge@fineandcountry.com
4 3 £1,000,000
Melbury House, originally built in 1958, is the perfect equestrian home with 2.5 acres and 360-degree uninterrupted views
• Detached equestrian home with two paddocks - totalling 2.5 acres
• Extensively extended & renovated
• Four bedrooms & three bathrooms
• Two brick-built stables, tack room & hay store
• Uninterrupted countryside views
• Exceptional hacking in the surrounding areas
• Separate vehicular access
• Steel- framed open-fronted store
• Enclosed steel sectional barn - ideal for storing classic cars
• Great location for commuters to Droitwich, Worcester and Birmingham
Guide Price
Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 3AL
5 2 £950,000
Set within circa 1.5 acres, including a designated paddock with stabling, The Crabmill is a beautifully appointed five-bedroom dormer bungalow, offering versatile and luxurious rural living. Nestled behind a private gated access, this unique home effortlessly blends contemporary elegance with traditional country charm.
• Dormer bungalow with annexe & equestrian facilities
• Five bedrooms
• 1.5 acres with paddock and stabling
• Extensively extended & renovated
• One-bedroom annexe
• Two offices
• Open plan kitchen/diner/sitting area
• Outdoor kitchen
• Planning permission for additional garaging Fine & Country Stourbridge and Kidderminster The Old Custom House, 1 Church Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1LT 01384 958811 fineandcountry.com stourbridge@fineandcountry.com
6
3 £2,850,000
5
Nestled off Brake Lane, Hagley with picturesque views, this stunning Grade II listed Georgian home offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern living.
Set within an expansive 19.64 acres of tranquil grounds and land, this detached five-bedroom residence, with additional dwellings is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being conveniently located.
Grove Properties Group | Hagley Office Worcester Road, Hagley, DY9 0NN 01562 270270 grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk hagley@grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk
4 6 5 £2,250,000
Clent Hall, Grade II listed, is situated in the pretty Worcestershire village of Clent and is a wonderful base for those looking to enjoy the obvious benefits and tranquillity of some of Worcestershire's most unspoilt countryside yet within easy reach of urban civilisation.
Nestled at the foot of the ever-popular National Trust Clent Hills and near to the historic village of Belbroughton. Surrounded by beautiful themed gardens with extensive outbuildings and stables. Clent Hall oozes with charm and periodic features which all tell a story of the home’s history.
Springfield Bromsgrove Road
Clent, Worcestershire
3 5 5 £1,890,000
Welcome to Springfield, a beautifully renovated five bedroom detached property in the quiet village of Clent. Comprising a large welcoming entry hall with feature staircase, open plan kitchen with dining and living areas, utility with separate laundry room, study and two further reception rooms.
On the first floor you will find the five double bedrooms, four with ensuites, the main with the addition of a dressing area and the family bathroom. The garden boasts a fabulous lawn with large patio area and ample space for children to play or a perfect place for entertaining. The two large paddocks are an excellent addition for those looking to have equestrian land.
Grove Properties Group | Hagley Office Worcester Road, Hagley, DY9 0NN 01562 270270
grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk
4 6 3 £1,350,000
This exceptional detached house on Field Lane set in approximately two and three quarter acres presents an outstanding opportunity for families seeking a spacious and comfortable home.
Boasting six generously sized reception rooms, two of which could be used as further bedrooms, this property offers ample space for both relaxation and entertainment, making it perfect for family gatherings or hosting friends. On the first floor the residence features four well-appointed bedrooms, including a master suite complete with an ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and convenience for the homeowners. One of the standout features of this home is the large games room, providing an ideal space for leisure activities and family fun with ample room for a full size snooker table. Grove
Guide price
2
The Barn
Spring Lane
Romsley, Halesowen
3 £1,300,000
4
Newly refurbished to the highest of standards, with standout features throughout. This family home is the perfect opportunity who those who want to have a tranquil escape when they walk through the door but still be within easy proximity to the local amenities and transportation links. The Barn has a remarkable split level open kitchen living space, that is versatile for everyone’s needs.
On the first floor the four bedrooms have been well designed and thought through, allowing all floor space to be utilised. Our Vendor loves that The Barn is open and spacious lending itself seamlessly to entertaining. Barbecues in the summer are a must or just being outside in the garden on clear day when you can see nothing other than trees, sky and the Malvern Hills in the distance.
Grove Properties Group | Hagley Office Worcester Road, Hagley, DY9 0NN 01562 270270
grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk
hagley@grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk
Guide price
The Old Vicarage
St. Leonards Square
Clent, Worcestershire
3 7 3 £1,750,000
In the picturesque St. Leonards Square, Clent, The Old Vicarage is a stunning Grade II listed detached house that beautifully marries modern updates with the timeless charm of its Georgian heritage. This remarkable family home boasts an impressive seven bedrooms and three bathrooms, providing ample space for family living and entertaining.
The grounds are tranquil that span approximately 2 acres. The meticulously maintained gardens feature lush lawns, two serene ponds, and established borders, creating a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Additionally, the property includes a further 1.4 acres with two paddocks, offering further opportunities for outdoor pursuits or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.
Guide price
Pottery Barn
66a Mucklow Hill
Halesowen, West Midlands
Guide price
3 5 6 £1,200,000
A truly unique and tranquil barn conversion, being fully converted and extensively refurbished by the current owners in 2019. This impressive and well-appointed property offers stunning views.
Pottery Farm & Barns are steeped in history, dating back to between the 16th and 17th centuries, with the development being the last ‘upland’ hill farm within the West Midlands. Pottery Barn is accessed via a shared access driveway, leading up to the electric gates, entering into the wrap-around driveway that makes its way to the rear of the property
Grove Properties Group | Halesowen Office 18 Hagley Road, Halesowen, West Midlands, B63 4RG 0121 550 5400 grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk halesowen@grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk
3 4 4 £1,400,000
Located within the beautiful countryside of Romsley, welcome to Pinewood Lodge.
This stunning four bedroom detached property has been renovated extensively throughout with key features such as the Brazilian granite worksurfaces in the kitchen and study, the wrap around decked balcony, cinema room and large windows in each room giving ample opportunity to appreciate the far reaching views.
The ground floor comprises a double bedroom with ensuite shower room, cinema room with soundproofing and fully fitted bar, laundry room, garden store and large double garage.
The first floor open plan living space is the real heart of the home- the living room, kitchen and dining area are all wonderfully established spaces yet retain the open plan feel. Following on from the dining area, the internal hallway leadings to a dressing room, bathroom, another double bedroom and through to the master suite with dressing area and ensuite.
Grove Properties Group | Hagley Office Worcester Road, Hagley, DY9 0NN 01562 270270
A traditional, red brick Grade II farmhouse dating back to 1800-1850, set within 12 acres of land and offering countryside views across to Abberley Clock Tower. Waters Farm has been renovated throughout by the current vendors. The property is offered to the market for the first time in nearly 25 years and includes a bespoke triple garage, and various outbuildings – two of which have active planning.
3 It’s who you move with.
Norton Grange is a Grade II listed family country home of exceptional size benefitting from wonderful views of the Malvern Hills - ideal for larger families, home offices, holiday rentals, or entertaining in style. Alongside the main house, the property also includes two self-contained annexes and several outbuildings. The interiors are full of character, beginning with the striking hallway, featuring the original front door and oak staircase. We highly recommend a viewing to truly appreciate the property. Hatfield
Worcester | Offers Over £1,000,000
5 4 3 It’s who you move with.
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Linthurst Road
Barnt Green | Offers Over £1,750,000
5
3 5
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
An elegant 1930’s Tudor style residence boasting approximately 4,400 sq. ft of accommodation which has been extended and beautifully refurbished throughout to an exceptionally high standard in a sympathetic and classic fashion. Located on one of Barnt Green’s most prestigious roads, the property is set behind electronic gates and occupies incredible formal grounds of approximately 1.45 acres.
It’s who you move with.
Dale Lane
Bromsgrove | Offers Over £1,750,000
6 5 7
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Nestled in a picturesque countryside setting just two miles from the sought-after village of Barnt Green, this exceptional farmhouse seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. With origins dating back to the 16th century, the property—once two separate houses—has been thoughtfully extended and meticulously refurbished to an impeccable standard by the current owners. Offering IN TOTAL an impressive 9,200 sq ft (including garaging, cellars and outbuildings).
It’s who you move with.
Brockhill Lane
Alvechurch | Offers Over £1,450,000
5
4
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Located at the top of Weatheroak Hill lies this exceptional Grade II listed barn conversion, offering approximately 3,795 sq. ft. of beautifully crafted living space and outbuildings, set within an idyllic 1.3acre plot bordering the prestigious 170-acre Kings Norton Golf Course. Originally converted in 2007 to an exemplary standard, this stunning home boasts an array of characterful features blended seamlessly with modern luxury.
3 It’s who you move with.
Normanhurst is a breath-taking six-bedroom Edwardian residence set on a plot of approximately 0.5 acres, located within a small, exclusive development of just three impressive properties on Normanhurst, a peaceful residential area off the highly sought-after Marlborough Avenue in Aston Fields, Bromsgrove. Originally built in the early 1900s, this exceptional property has been extensively refurbished to the highest standards, offering an expansive 4,153 sq. ft of living space across three floors.
Staged
Barnt Green | £1,375,000 BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS 5 3 4
Nestled in a coveted locale of Barnt Green, this grand 3,510 sq ft detached residence has been meticulously refurbished throughout with no expense spared, offering an unrivaled blend of luxury and style.
Impney
Droitwich Spa | £1,250,000
4
2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTION
An exquisite four-bedroom country residence, Mill Cottage has been extensively extended and meticulously renovated to an exceptional standard throughout. Seamlessly blending timeless charm with modern comfort, the property retains a wealth of original period features. Privately nestled within the grounds of the historic Chateau Impney, it enjoys a truly idyllic setting with captivating views over the surrounding parkland.
1 It’s who you move with.
5 4 2
This outstanding family home offers nearly 3,000 square feet of beautifully designed living space, combining contemporary luxury with practical, high-spec features throughout. Set behind electric gates, the generous driveway comfortably accommodates multiple vehicles, offering both privacy and curb appeal.
Billy Lane
Barnt Green | £1,200,000
4
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
An imposing country residence (with original parts dating back to the early 1900’s) enjoying a harmonious blend of timeless charm and modern comfort making it a dream home for those who appreciate the beauty of the past and the convenience of the present. Set upon a private 1.08 acre (approx.) SOUTH FACING plot , the property boasts approximately 3,140 sq. ft of accommodation.
4 5 It’s who you move with.
Transforming staircases into bespoke masterpieces.
Elevate your home with a bespoke staircase, expertly crafted to exceed expectations.
At A&T Stairs Ltd, we specialise in transforming staircases into timeless masterpieces. Using premium solid oak and precision craftsmanship, we create a stunning centrepiece that combines elegance and functionality.
From your initial consultation to flawless installation, our seamless process ensures every detail is handled with care.
Have a question?
Every interior designer worth their weight will know the virtues of great lighting. It can create space where it is limited, open a dark corner, highlight a feature and make a room cosier than it actually is. But in 2025, lighting, and in particular sculptural and statement lighting, is one of the biggest interior design trends, and we are loving it!
Sculptural chandeliers and bold pendants are becoming focal points of the home as we leave boring, non-descript lamps and lights behind. A superb chandelier can be the centrepiece of a room and command as much attention and as many compliments as a well-chosen piece of art.
Drawing attention to a luxury kitchen island or dining table, or to a feature bath, it is time to be bold and have some fun with the way you light each room of your home.
In our showroom, we have placed beautiful Murano glass pendants from Italy above a luxurious bath and whilst people always comment on the fabric pressed between glass that surrounds the tub, the pendant light is almost always requested as a finishing touch.
In both our contemporary and unique shaker inspired kitchens, we have added statement chandeliers, again an exclusive brand to us from Italy, and a larger-than-life pendant that looks incredible in a client’s warehouse penthouse.
World famous, the Taccia lamp has a special place in design history, Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni designed the Taccia table lamp with the idea of turning a ceiling lamp upside down. Its distinctive, architectural shape and style immediately earned it a place in design history. It sits stylishly within our cinema room and is talked about as much as the film on show!
So, be brave, great lighting is an investment that pays off, and with time, chandeliers and Murano pendants can often increase in value too!
Visit our showroom for some inspiration.
The power of art when selling property
Selling a property - especially in the competitive luxury market - requires more than just listing it online. To truly capture buyers’ attention, your home must stand out, evoke emotion, and spark imagination.
Unless you're an interior designer or have a strong passion for architecture and decor, it can be challenging to know how to present your property in the best possible light. One of the most effective strategies is professional staging: tailoring the interior aesthetic to reflect the lifestyle and tastes of your ideal buyer. This allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space, rather than trying to imagine how they might make it work.
While high-quality furniture and fabrics play a vital role in staging, incorporating art is a powerful - and often overlookedelement. Not just any artwork will do. Carefully selected pieces that align with current design trends and complement your home's character can elevate the perceived value of your property. Think of your staging agent as part interior stylist, part art curator.
Strategic placement is key. Even the most compelling artwork can fall flat if poorly positioned. Use art to accentuate your home’s best features. Tall, vertical pieces can highlight soaring ceilings, while wide, horizontal works can draw attention to focal points like fireplaces. Coordinating artworks across rooms can create a sense of continuity and flow throughout the home.
For maximum impact, hang art at eye level. Display large pieces individually, and group smaller ones to form a cohesive gallery wall. While art should be visually engaging, it shouldn't dominate the space. Its role is to enhance the overall aesthetic - not distract from it.
7 Reasons to Incorporate Art in Home Staging
1. Demonstrates Potential: Art reveals how a room can be transformed, helping buyers imagine their own touches.
2. Highlights Unique Features: Cleverly placed artwork can draw attention to architectural elements and charming details.
3. Sets the Mood: Art creates ambiance and emotional resonance that words alone cannot convey.
4. Adds Warmth: The right piece can soften stark spaces, making them feel inviting and lived-in.
5. Enhances Flow: Coordinated artwork in consistent colors or themes can unify rooms and guide the eye.
6. Introduces Accent Colors: Abstract or bold art can bring vibrant highlights to neutral settings.
7. Encourages Exploration: Strategic placement draws buyers deeper into the space while showcasing key features.
Introducing Swealthy Staging's Print Builder
At Swealthy Staging, we offer a curated collection of artwork prints designed to complement a wide range of interior styles. Our print builder allows you to customize artwork to suit your color palette - whether you’re enhancing a cohesive theme or adding contrast to minimalist decor.
Each print is available in three sizes; A3, A2, and A1 to fit your staging needs. Simply select a design, choose your preferred color variation using our interactive chart, and order directly online with ease.
The
- Swealthy Staging are here to help, advise and guide you through the process
Melissa Yeadon: SWEALTHY STAGING | CEO
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