Some of our favourite luxurious rooftop bars in the UK
16-19
Bank holiday festival highlights Creamfields, Notting Hill, Reading and Leeds
20-21
London Design Festival
Back for its 22nd year
22-23
London Fashion Week 12-17 September 2024
26-27
Swealthy travel guide The Maldives
28-29
Wedding Day gift guide
Luxury gift guide for this year’s wedding season
30-31
Fairytale wedding venue Orchardleigh Estate
32-33
Renovation
Living in the lap of (little) luxury
36-37
Chat with chef – Tom Wells + Recipe Harborne Kitchen
38-39
Harvey Nichols
Summer wine selection with Paul Creamer
40-44
Swealthy FOOD BIBLE The ultimate guide to fine Midlands fine food and drink
49-62
Property edit Arden Estates
69-71
What’s on Midlands + highlights from Birmingham Hippodrome
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Hello!
We’re so ready for August and cannot wait to share with you, the latest issue of Swealthy Luxury Home & Lifestyle!
This issue we celebrate everything summer has to offer. We look at the latest Summer fashion trends with our friends at Harvey Nichols, visit some of the UK’s finest rooftop bars and bring you the low-down on the bank holiday’s hottest festivals.
And if a UK summer isn’t quite hitting the temperature markhow about a trip to the Maldives? Everything you need to know about tropical paradise.
All that sunshine is sure to make you hungry, so turn to our food edit for some hot-spot inspiration. This issue also brings you the brand new SWEALTHY FOOD BIBLE. Our food and drink gurus have been incredibly busy putting together a collection of our favourite finds across the Midlands and we couldn’t be more excited to share this with you (let us know what you think!!)
SO what are you waiting for? Read on to elevate you summer.
We love you too!
ADVERTISE WITH US
If
SUNSHINE-READY STYLE: Fashion edit
Unveil summer sophistication with Harvey Nichols Menswear essentials. From breezy linens to versatile staples, discover the perfect balance of style and comfort to elevate your wardrobe this season from our top picks.
1 / SAINT LAUREN
LEATHER WASH BAG
£415
The Saint Lauren wash bag is fully lined and made from pebbled leather. Stamped with the signature motif, this wash bag creates a look that’s loaded with Parisian sophistication.
3 / POLO RALPH LAUREN
LOGO EMBROIDERED STRETCH-COTTON SHORTS
£120
Experience effortless sophistication and comfort with Ralph Lauren’s logo embroidered shorts. The classic silhouette and iconic polo emblem epitomize timeless American style.
5 / RAY-BAN
STATE STREET TORTOISESHELL WAYFARER SUNGLASSES
£157
Elevate your eyewear with the timeless Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. A contemporary classic and effortlessly cool accessory to finish your summer look.
2 / VEJA
ESPLAR WHITE LEATHER SNEAKERS
£120
Kick back in style with these Veja sneakers, sustainably crafted from ChromeFree leather. The neutral finish ensures versatility for any outfit.
4 / COLORFUL STANDARD
COTTON-BLEND SHIRT
£90
Crafted from l 00% organic cotton, this Colorful Standard shirt is a summer wardrobe essential. The short sleeve style is available in four colours to add to your collection.
The Tawny
A DECONSTRUCTED LUXURY STAYCATION
It’s highly unlikely you’ve ever stayed anywhere quite like The Tawny Hotel in Staffordshire. Set out across a 70-acre rewilded estate, the venue takes the traditional idea of a hotel and separates the rooms out so that there’s no need to ask for a room with a view – it’s guaranteed! You get the privacy and connection to nature that you get with camping, but with the service and comfort of a luxury hotel room.
With that in mind, we spoke to General Manager Josh Chadwick about what makes this hotel one that you’ll want to stay in forever.
“In the restaurant we use the freshest and finest ingredients, locally sourced, to create everchanging seasonal menus and specials – and we’re also developing a kitchen garden and orchard.”
A RURAL GARDEN PARADISE
“We offer relaxed luxury. Although our bedrooms are submerged in nature, they’re filled with home comforts and are beautifully appointed so you can truly relax and unwind in style. With so much outdoor space, guests have the freedom to make themselves at home and explore at their pace.”
And there’s a lot to explore. There are five lakes and 26 follies, created at specific vantage points across the estate so you can stand and drink in the view before you. But these follies were hidden underneath overgrown weeds and bushes when the family took over.
“We’re a family-run, independent business that opened in 2021- transforming a once-forgotten estate and preserving the previous owner, Mr Podmore’s legacy, into a haven for wildlife and nature. Keep an eye out for ducks, deer, kingfishers, and a whole variety of birdlife!”
SUSTAINABILITY AT THE HEART
You can’t create a wildlife sanctuary without considering the sustainability of your business.
“It’s a key factor in every decision we make for the business. As a family-run hotel, there’s a shared sense of passion and importance for balancing every business decision with environmental impact.
“For example, our whole 70-acre estate is rewilded, offering a biodiverse habitat of gardens, lakes, and woodland – we border the RSPB nature reserve and sit within a recognised dark sky area too.
“Last summer we invested in a significant new renewable energy initiative by installing 108 solar panels and a solar battery on site, alongside 15 EV chargers for guest use. This means the hotel generates and uses more renewable energy, enough to power a large proportion of the day-to-day operations and creates a 20-ton decrease in carbon emissions.
“In the restaurant we use the freshest and finest ingredients, locally sourced, to create ever-changing seasonal menus and specials – and we’re also developing a kitchen garden and orchard.
DECADENCE IN NATURE
With all this attention on wildlife and sustainability, you’d be forgiven for assuming you’d be staying in a tent or basic room. But the opposite is true. The Tawny does an incredible job of balancing the needs of the environment with the comfort and wellbeing of guests.
“In addition to our unusual design and range of facilities, what really sets us apart is our team – we genuinely care about the guests who we look after and are often praised for creating a welcoming and friendly environment. We see it as a privilege to be able to help make stays extra special – so it’s our high standard of service, with a focus on the overall guest experience that we value most.”
Every room is unique, but with all the high-end touches you’d expect from a five-star hotel. “Bedrooms aren’t a one size fits all. Designed to invite a sense of the outdoors in, there’s a choice – from treehouses to shepherds’ huts, boathouses and luxury retreat suites – peppered amongst the woodland.
“Interiors are contemporary, with all mod-cons and clever touches to feel right at home (the goodies of handpicked local products in the mini-bar hits the spot). And each comes complete with an outdoor spa bath, perfect for stargazing or admiring the view by day. And there’s a range of dog-friendly rooms, so you can bring the pooch too.”
They’ve recently opened some larger lodges for groups, which each have exciting additions like swimming pools, cinema rooms and Big Green Egg BBQs.
Then there’s the outdoor heated pool, on-site restaurant, e-buggy porter services, treatment room and garden tours. You can hire bicycles, go for hikes or run along the many beautiful routes. The hotel puts on weekly experiences like private yoga sessions, kombucha workshops complete with foraged snacks and refreshments, abstract painting and mixed media classes, mindful stargazing and Raku Pottery experiences.
The Tawny really has got it all!
The Plumicorn Restaurant
The Tawny Hotel Accommodation
ROOFTOP bars
All we want is to sip cocktails in the sunshine whilst sitting in the lap of absolute luxury. We don’t think that’s too much to ask – do you? If you dream of the same thing, we bring you some of our favourite luxurious rooftop bars in the UK, so all you have to do now is work out which one to visit first!
Sky Lounge
LEEDS
For over 15 years, Sky Lounge has been the ultimate rooftop destination in Leeds, with a list of classic cocktails and bar favourites that will have you returning time and time again. The terrace is heated so you can sit long after the sun has set, enjoying the beauty of the Yorkshire skyline.
The Phoenix
STRATFORD UPON AVON
When you sit out on the rooftop terrace of the Phoenix in the sunshine, you really could be anywhere in the world. The holiday vibes are helped bythe lush green surroundings and white decor, while exquisitely crafted cocktails and plentiful pizzas mean you’ll never want to leave. And, if the sun does dip out of the sky, the indoor area is just as welcoming.
Epping Roof Garden
ESSEX
This floral delight is one of the most insta-worthy cocktail bars you can ever hope to visit. With cocktails crafted by expert mixologists and themed menus and attentive service from the staff, nothing is too much trouble for patrons of this bar.
Chaophraya
EDINBURGH
If you want luxurious surroundings in the Scottish capital, then you must visit Chaophraya. With decor heavily influenced by Thailand, you’ll find Buddha figures a-plenty and earthy tones that help set a mood of tranquility. This rooftop wonder is actually a restaurant, but you have to try a Mai Thai while gazing out over the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh.
20 Stories
MANCHESTER
If you’re looking for fancy comfort in Manchester, then you need to head to 20 Stories. Offering 360° views of the city, the vibe here is laidback luxury, with white furnishings and potted trees creating a natural canopy. There are outdoor fireplaces, ensuring you stay warm no matter what the weather is doing and a cocktail list that celebrates the diversity of Manchester.
RED Sky Bar
GLASGOW
There’s only one way to view the lights of Glasgow and that’s from the dizzying heights of RED Sky Bar at Radisson RED Glasgow. With its rich dark wood decor and low lighting, it sets a romantic tone with some delicious cocktail options. When the weekend hits and the sun sets, the bar comes alive with live music from resident DJs bringing good tunes, good cocktails and good vibes!
Jin Bo Law
LONDON
Of course, the most obvious place to look for luxurious rooftop bars is the City and Jin Bo Law does not disappoint. Beautifully decorated in marble and bronze furnishings, this decadent space gives you views out over all of London’s most famous landmarks, including the Gherkin, the Shard and Tower Bridge. We recommend trying a Sichuan Fresh cocktail, made of tequila, peppercorn syrup, lime and basil, with a satisfying twist of pineapple for a fruity treat.
Above
NEWCASTLE
Offering 360° views of Newcastle, Above is a real treat for cocktail enthusiasts. The decor is stunning, really adding to the chilled lounge atmosphere and the craft cocktails have to be tasted to be believed. You can also order light bites inspired by different places around the world.
August bank holiday weekend is one of the busiest days of the year, with festivals happening all around the UK, appealing to a huge audience of different people. Have you got your ticket for one of these big events yet?
Creamfields
22nd – 25th August
If you prefer your music with an electronic dance edge, then you should be at Creamfields. One of the biggest music events of the year, it regularly attracts some of the biggest acts in the dance world. This year’s line-up includes the return of heavyweights such as Calvin Harris, Tiesto and Skepto as well as some newbies to the scene that you won’t want to miss.
The brainchild of event organisers, Cream, Creamfields started as a one-day event in Hampshire in 1998, with an attendance of over 25,000 people and headliners including Daft Punk, Paul van Dyke and Sasha, so it was always destined to go down in history, but it has grown from strength to strength ever since.
Back then, a ticket was only £37.50, but now they have a range of ticket options starting from £75 for a day ticket, up to £430 for a four-day Gold ticket. The different ticket types determine the level of comfort you can enjoy while staying at Creamfields.
• The standard ticket gives you basic facilities where you can pitch a tent and access to the main arena.
• The bronze ticket includes hot showers, ‘proper’ toilets and access to the main arena.
• The silver tickets gives you the same, plus a pamper tent and free car parking ticket.
• The gold ticket gives you all the above plus access to the Gold Hospitality Arena which includes one complementary meal a day and a cocktail bar.
There are also standard and gold day tickets. While a standard day ticket just gives you access to the main arena, the gold ticket also offers free parking, hospitality arena, food and ‘proper’ toilets. And we all know how important ‘proper’ toilets are at a festival!
Set over four days in Cheshire, tickets are now extremely limited, but you can camp on site, making for a proper festival experience. There are also glamping spaces, for those that want a few more luxuries and if you really can’t bear the thought of sleeping in a field, then there are plenty of local hotels.
There is on-site parking, which has to be booked in advance, and shuttle buses running to and from all the major local towns, such as Liverpool, Warrington and Manchester, so it’s easy to get to the campsite. Once you’re in, there’s no nipping out to collect more supplies, as security won’t let you back in, so you’ll need to be well prepared before you leave.
Join the madness at
24th - 26th August
Notting Hill Carnival
The very first Notting Hill Carnival took place in 1966, led by local activist and human rights campaigner, Rhaune Laslett. The aim was to bring all the local inter-cultural communities together, so they could live in London in peace, without any racial or cultural tension. Entertainment was provided by a local West Indies pan band and had the desired effect of drawing local Caribbean people to the event. The band made its way along Portobello Road and drew a huge crowd.
The event is now an important event on the capital’s calendar and is bigger than Laslett could ever have dreamed. It is now the second largest carnival in the world (only Rio Carnival in Brazil is bigger), drawing over five million people each year. To accommodate so many visitors, it is set out over the three-day weekend, with paid and unpaid events throughout London.
Steel bands still form a key part of the event, with the UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition in Pleasance Park on the Saturday. Sunday is the main day, with a J’Ouvert early morning launch following Caribbean tradition, followed by an Official Opening Ceremony, Children’s Day Parade, Dutty Fun/ Mas (you will get messy!) and then the Sound Systems, where you can dance to reggae music all afternoon long. Monday features the adult parade and more Sound Systems. You’ll be able to enjoy Caribbean food all weekend and there are always some big headliner acts announced. You’ll have to keep an eye on the website and Notting Hill Carnival socials to find out who they are – some aren’t announced until the very last minute!
If you’re travelling down from the Midlands, it’s probably best to travel by train and then jump on the tube once you’re in London. It’s a nine-minute walk from Notting Hill Gate which is accessible by the Circle and District or Central Line. Alternatively, you could stay in London for the weekend, but Air BnBs, hotels and guest houses fill up months before and prices go up in preparation for this busy time of year, so it’s best to book as far in advance as possible.
Find out more about the event and get tickets here:
23rd – 25th August
Reading & Leeds
If your idea of a good weekend is rocking out to some of the biggest names in rock, indie and alternative music, then you can’t miss the Reading and Leeds festival. As the name suggests, the event is held over three days at two different venues, with the same line-up but on different days, appealing to people from the north and south of the country. The bonus of this arrangement is that if you miss out on tickets to one of the festivals, you might still be able to make it to the other one, with coach tickets available from some of the bigger cities.
Since its inception, Reading and Leeds has constantly moved with the times,
reflecting current trends in the musical zeitgeist, organically evolving into the much-loved festival that it is now. With an array
of genres from its rock roots to dance and pop, headlining this year are some of the biggest artists in music, such as Lana Del Rey and Fred Again, Blink 182 and Liam Gallagher. With seven stages with jam-packed schedules, your biggest dilemma will be choosing which acts to watch!
Weekend tickets are £325 each for standard camping. There are also day tickets available and VIP tickets for those that need a little more glamour to their festival.
The venues are easily accessed via public transport, with links via shuttle bus, train, coach and even shuttleboat! And car parking tickets are also available. There are places to stay around the festival if camping is not for you, but they book up early and you don’t get the full festival experience this way!
Looks like you’re set for a musical bank holiday! Find out more about get your tickets at: www.readingfestival.com
www.leedsfestival.com
THE ULTIMATE CELEBRATION OF DESIGN
LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL IS BACK FOR ITS 22ND YEAR, PROVING THAT THE BRITISH CAPITAL REALLY IS THE HOME OF DESIGN AND CREATIVITY. AS THE HUB OF DIVERSE DESIGN, IT IS AN EXCITING EVENT WITH UNEXPECTED INSTALLATIONS AROUND EVERY CORNER.
This nine-day event is an opportunity for those in creative industries to showcase their work, find inspiration and network with like-minded individuals. It is set in various locations around London, with talks, exhibitions, workshops and installations attracting people from all over the world. For an idea of the true scale of the festival, the 2019 event boasted a record-breaking 600,000 attendees from 75 countries. This year is likely to be even more popular, making it the best platform for up-and-coming designers to launch their career and open their studios up to the world.
Some of the stand-out showcases from last year included pieces from artists like Henry Moore, Dylan Glyn and Rio Kobayashi. Alongside the fine art installations and unique sculptures, visitors were surprised to see a botanical display from Lego, showing that this festival is for creatives of all types.
WHAT TO EXPECT THIS YEAR
The festival likes to highlight topical issues through design. The last few years have seen more exhibitors tackling subjects like sustainability, AI and inclusivity, which are likely to be key themes this year too. But we are also seeing the idea of play
becoming a strong theme, with its ability to strengthen bonds, improve wellbeing and enhance creativity.
Some of the highlights you can look forward to this year include an exciting innovation from Johnnie Walker, the Vert installation at the Parade Ground of the Chelsea College of Art and the suspended installation Duo at the Royal Naval College’s Painted Hall.
THE STORY OF LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL
The festival is the brainchild of Sir John Sorrell CBE and Ben Evans CBE, who wanted to bring a focus to the emerging design industry in the UK. The first event was held in 2003 and has been a huge boost to the economy. This first design festival became the template for other festivals around the world as other countries tried to emulate its success. But, as we know, nobody could do this quite like London!
The Mayor of London is a huge supporter of the event, which has helped the festival secure the necessary funding to make it bigger and better than ever before. Since he publicly declared his support in 2019, the Mayor has boosted festival sales by £66
million – this really is the event for struggling artists to finally make their mark.
But it’s not just about the extra income that the event creates. The London Design Festival gives creatives the chance to find new inspiration and learn new skills. They can learn from each other to bring a more holistic approach to their work, spreading their artistic knowledge to help create a richer design community.
This ethos and support means the organisers could have their pick of large conference venues in London to use. But it is never confined in one space, spilling out across the capital into artists’ own studios and unique spaces, divided into 11 design districts. Each district offers something slightly different, with its own personality and are located close to each other, so you can easily stumble out of one and into another. The districts are: Bankside Design District, Battersea Design District, Brompton Design District, Chelsea Design District, Dalston to Stokey Design District, Fitzrovia Design District, Greenwich Peninsula Design District, Mayfair Design District, Park Royal Design District, Shoreditch Design Triangle and William Morris Design Line.
Visitors to the city may come across installations as they dash for the tube or stroll through one of the public parks. It makes a trip to London all the more exciting – who knows what you will see?
LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL 2024 DETAILS
The London Design Festival is running from the 14th to the 22nd September 2024. Most of the events are free to attend, so you don’t have to book your place. It is worth noting, however, that some shows and exhibitions are likely to get crowded quite quickly, so you want to arrive as early as possible for the best experience. Find out more about the event at
www.londondesignfestival.com
12 - 17 SEPTEMBER 2024
LONDON FASHION WEEK
Why we still love London Fashion Week
After 40 years of our favourite fashion event, we love LFW more than ever. With some critics questioning if the biannual showcase is still relevant, we look at the history behind our favourite calendar entry and celebrate all the reasons why it is still important to the industry.
The founder of fashion
The story of the famous Fashion Weeks begins with a man called Charles Frederick Worth, also known to many as the founder of haute couture and modelling. Based in Paris in 1850, he wanted to increase his customer base and had the original idea of presenting one collection at a time to his audience. By doing this bi-annually, he had two opportunities a year to display his work to a larger potential customer base all at once.
This was unique in the world of fashion at the time. The first fashion show wasn’t recorded in New York until 1903, so Worth was years ahead of his time. The New York show was held at the Ehrich Brothers store and was so popular that suddenly every designer wanted a show of their own. By 1910, fashion shows were regular events in department stores across America.
At that time, America was still heavily influenced by Parisian fashion, but when the Second World War began, this fashion avenue was closed off to the rest of the world.
The PR queen
The second hero of our story is a lady called Eleanor Lambert. She was the founder of the Met Ball and began the International Best Dressed List. And she took it upon herself to establish the American fashion scene independently of Paris.
The first New York Fashion Week was in 1943 and was created to showcase the brilliance of American designers. It was then called New York Press Week and was set up for press to attend only – fashion buyers had to make appointments to view the collections.
In 1958, Milan joined the party with its first Fashion Week held by the National Chamber for Italian Fashion. There are reports that there may have been earlier events held in Florence too. And then Paris had its first official Fashion Week in 1973, supported by Lambert. This was a ‘competition’ between French and American designers, giving the event an exciting edge. Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Cardin flew the flag for France, while America was represented by Oscar de la Renta, Anne Klein and Stephen Burrows.
The Big Four is complete
In 1984, London completed the ‘big four’ with its first Fashion Week. It boasted the debut of John Galiano and other design giants like Vivienne Westwood. Despite being the last to join in, London has had some forward-thinking ideas, being the first to live-stream a Fashion Week event in 2010. It now attracts more guests than Milan and Paris and is a key event on the fashion calendar.
With fashion becoming ever faster in our digital society, some have questioned the relevance of Fashion Week today. However, these events are still considered to be huge marketing, influencing and networking opportunities. They help to forecast trends, tell a story through the medium of clothing and transport us to a fantasy world. Buyers rely hugely on the events to decide what will be the biggest sellers in their stores. Without Fashion Week, there would be very little strategic
planning on our high street and online stores and the industry just wouldn’t be what it is today.
A capital event
This year marks 40 years since the very first London Fashion Week, organised by Lynne Franks, and of course, the February event was not going to pass without some kind of celebration of this milestone. It was a colossal event, with 67 designers, 46 catwalks and 36 events in total and an amazing opportunity to see creations by established designers like Burberry and Simone Rocha, as well as up-and-coming names like Olly Shinder and Camille Liu. Trust us, these are names you will be seeing more of soon!
It was also a great excuse to look back at some of the most iconic moments from the event over the years. Who can forget Prince’s surprise performance at the start of a Matthew Williamson show in 2008 and the Alexander McQueen dress that was spray painted by robots on the catwalk in 1999? Naomi Campbell’s fall in 1993 has gone down in history – no one else could have turned such a potentially embarrassing moment into one of iconic brilliance as well as she did. And did you ever think you would see a coffee table become a dress, like the one Hussein Chalayan displayed in 2000? You never know what to expect at LFW!
On to the next one
The next London Fashion Week is scheduled for 12th – 17th September 2024 and looks likely to be as fantastic as ever. Most of the action happens at 180 The Strand, but some designers prefer to hold their shows at different locations around the city, making for an eclectic event.
LFW SS25 will showcase designs for the upcoming Spring/ Summer season and, as usual, will be an invite-only event. But you can still catch the action from home, as most designer showcases will be streamed at www.londonfashionweek.co.uk and many brands put them on their own social media accounts too.
At the time of writing, the schedule had not yet been finalised or any exhibitor details confirmed. But if AW24 is anything to go by, it is sure to be an event to remember.
DO YOU DREAM OF LUXURY AND STARS?
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking amongst the stars, then the Maldives is the destination that will fulfil all your desert island fantasies.
Maldives
By day, you can kick back on a sandy beach, with the sun in the sky, cocktail in hand, palm trees in the background. By night, you can stroll through the bioluminescent phytoplankton that live in the shallow waters. These tiny sea creatures create a bright blue glow to ward off predators and make it look as though the stars have fallen from the sky and landed in the sea. It’s an impressive sight, but it can only happen when the environmental conditions are just right. No matter where you stay in the Maldives, this is a phenomenon to watch out for.
A tropical paradise
The Maldives is made up of over 1000 islands, some of which have been transformed into private tourist destinations. These islands are divided up into 26 atolls located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka. They maintain a constant temperature of 25-30°, meaning you are almost assured perfect temperatures when you visit. However, monsoon season starts in April and ends in June, so you might want to avoid those months.
The Maldives has made its name as a romantic destination for honeymooners and there are several resorts that cater for adults only. So, if you plan to travel with children, your island options will be determined by which resorts will host you. Not that it really matters – all the resorts are incredible and some even come with a private butler to attend to your every whim. And all the islands are surrounded by lush green vegetation that ensures perfect views no matter which way you look. If, however, you are planning a few weeks of rest and relaxation without the distraction of children, you are in the right place. The Maldives boasts some of the top spa resorts in the whole world!
Joali Being is possibly the most famous spa resort, dedicating its service to total wellbeing. Instead of a TV in your room, you can enjoy musical instruments. The incredible food is all about fuelling your body – there’s no junk food on this island and the spa itself offers unique treatments such as a cryotherapy chamber and salt room.
Other resorts include exciting features such as slides from your bedroom that lead into the crystal-clear seas and hammocks that hang right over the water.
A magical ocean playground
The islands make the best use of their most abundant asset – the sea. If water sports are your thing, there is nowhere better in the world to be – the waters are so warm, you might even forgo the wetsuit! You can enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling, or you can be really brave and swim with sharks! There are plenty of places to hire jet skis, waterskies, surf boards and kayaks, or you can enjoy the view of the ocean from the safety of the sandy beaches or one of the many boat tours. Look closely and you might even be able to see dolphins frolicking in the water.
Sustainable luxury
While this all sounds like pure freedom, there are certain laws that tourists are expected to abide by. The Maldives are Islamic islands, which means you can only drink alcohol in the privacy of your resort, and you won’t be able to bring any off the plane with you. Drug possession is a jailable offence.
And they are big on sustainability too. So don’t even think of dropping any litter or picking any coral! The Maldives is a clean, tropical paradise because the locals have worked hard to keep it that way. On your travels, you might like to visit one of the many turtle sanctuaries or nature reserves to see the effects of the Maldivian conservation for yourself.
These islands are a true testament to what can be achieved when you work with nature and not against it. You can have incredible luxury and still appreciate the environment around you.
Maldives
Wedding Day
GIFT GUIDE
What do you buy the couple who already have everything they could ever want in each other? We’ve put together a luxury gift guide so you can navigate this year’s wedding season with ease.
2...
Luxury Wool Cashmere Throw
Perfect for the winter nights snuggled up on the sofa as they binge-watch their favourite Netflix show, this super-soft Luxury Wool Cashmere Throw will elevate their comfort levels. The stylish grey colour is modern and tasteful, ensuring it works with any style home, and it doubles up as a decorative feature on their marital couch.
£185
www.thewhitecompany.com
BISCUITEERS
Wedding Bells Biscuit Tin
Surely the best way to start married life is with a really fancy box of biscuits? And these biscuits come with a cute keepsake box that can double up as a memory box of their big day. The weddingthemed biscuits include one heart-shaped design that can be personalised with the names of the happy couple, adding an extra special touch.
£49.95
www.biscuiteers.com
LE CREUSET
Cast Iron Shallow Casserole
Every newlywed couple should have a Le Creuset casserole dish in their kitchen. These versatile cooking tools are perfect for meat, vegetables and almost any combination of the two! The heatresistant knob makes serving easy while large handles make it easy to transport while wearing oven gloves. And it looks good in this gorgeous Chambray shade too!
£285
www.lecreuset.co.uk
5...
Silver-Plated Large Champagne Bath
What is a married couple to do with all the bottles of bubbly they will inevitably receive on their wedding day? Be the guest that gives them a solution – this beautiful Silver-Plated Large Champagne Bath holds up to four bottles of champagne comfortably and comes in a beautiful gift box, making it a much more special offering.
£139.95
www.annabeljames.co.uk
7...
Chantecaille Flower Harmonizing Cream
Wish the happy couple a harmonious marriage with this beautiful Flower Harmonizing Cream from Chantecaille. When they stand side-by-side performing their skincare routine each evening, they can neutralise any stress they are feeling by reaching for the same pot and touching hands. Plus, it has special ingredients that help reduce inflammation and stimulate collagen production - a winner in everyone’s eyes!
£110
www.harveynichols.com
DIPTIQUE PARIS
4...
Baies Hourglass Diffuser
When you’re in love, time seems to stand still, so this hourglass diffuser is a beautiful way to celebrate that. And it smells incredible too, releasing a delicate berry fragrance throughout the day, turning the happy couple’s marital home into an aromatic, fruity place to be! An ideal gift for summer weddings.
£152
www.diptyqueparis.com
Yoga Luxe Gift Set
Are the betrothed couple off on a yoga retreat for their honeymoon? Get them a Yoga Luxe Gift Set each and they’ll have everything they need to bend and pose through every session! Each set contains a Sefa Organic Cotton Peshtemal, a Circular & Co Recycled Water Bottle and a Black Cotton Waffle Eye Mask. Just think how cute they’ll look with their matching kits!
£89
www.thepositive.co
Feather Table Lamp
If the couple you are celebrating is a little more adventurous with their home design, then this Feather Table Lamp will fit in perfectly. Part of the Coldharbour Light’s latest product launch, it is chic and unique, with a stand made of walnut wood and soft hen and goose feathers interspersed with vintage crystals. The effect is eyecatching and all-the-more powerful when the light is on.
£420
www.coldharbourlights.com
fairytale wedding
ORCHARDLEIGH ESTATE
If you’re looking for that fairytale wedding and a celebration that lasts for longer than one day, then Orchardleigh Estate could be the venue of your dreams.
Four days of love
The stunning Victorian mansion is set in the middle of 500 acres of beautiful scenery and is rented exclusively to bridal parties for three or four days at a time. That means you have complete creative control of how you would like your wedding weekend to be. You don’t have to leave at midnight (dance for three days straight if you want!) and you can add any extra special touches to make the day uniquely yours.
Chris and Heather Vincent have owned the property since 1999 and they’ve seen some incredible sights in that time. Some of Chris’ favourite touches were when a couple arrived to their wedding by helicopter. And he loves a singing waiter – to him, entertainment is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle.
“Our beautiful countryside 500-acre estate has a three-mile drive and no neighbours, allowing drinking and dancing till dawn!” That means there are no restrictions on how long you can have entertainment – you could throw a whole wedding festival if you wanted!
A million ways to get married
There are lots of options for where to hold the actual ceremony within the estate. St Mary’s Church sits on an island in the middle and has space for up to 100 guests. There’s also All Saints Church nearby with space for 150 guests.
But if you don’t want a traditional religious ceremony, you can get married absolutely anywhere within the grounds of Orchardleigh! There are a few options that lend themselves more naturally to a civil ceremony, including the countryside pergola, the Belvedere lawn and the garden terrace overlooking the lake. If you’d prefer to marry inside, there’s a Ballroom and a Great Hall that would be perfect for the occasion.
There are so many options, but Chris breaks it down into what is most popular: “Our packages are inclusive of food, unlimited reception and wedding breakfast drinks – there’s no extras here, everything is included.”
Beds for everyone!
And there are plenty of sleeping options too. Most popular is, “A castle with hot tub usually for the girls and a lodge for the boys, sleeping a total of up to 35 for the night before. And there’s the
ORCHARDLEIGH ESTATE
amazing Lakeside Boathouse for the couple the day after to relive the day.”
The accommodation for the guests is just as inviting and there’s space for up to 165 people at any one time. The beauty of a three-day wedding is that you can people come and go as necessary, and you know you’ll definitely have time to talk to all your guests.
And you can be sure nobody will be bored in a venue like this either! With facilities for golf, fishing and shooting on site, there’s always something to entertain your guests – that’s if they’re not too busy soaking in their splendid surroundings!
A little Orchardleigh history
The venue itself has been around since 1856, replacing the original house which dated back to the Norman conquest. William Duckworth built the current mansion, and it stayed in the family for five generations. The final generation had six girls and so they decided to sell up and split the cash.
Chris and Heather bought the site in 1999, but the building was in a bad state, having been empty for 15 years. As the house is a Grade II listed building, it was on the English Heritage risk register with a repair estimate of £6.6m.
But this story had a happy ending, with Chris and Heather doing the necessary work to get the building back to its sparkling self. Four years later, they held their first wedding and that is what they’ve been doing ever since!
With that in mind, Chris is in the perfect position to offer advice to prospective couples. His top tip is to “Relax and enjoy every minute” of your wedding day. And when it comes to choosing a venue, “Shop around look at everywhere then come to us and book our unbeatable package.” Wise words indeed!
LIVING IN THE LAP OF LUXURY(LITTLE)
When Imogen Stead and her husband Tom moved into their terraced house in London, they thought they’d have a little bit of decorating to do and that would be it. But once they started stripping wallpaper, their plans escalated, and they turned their little house in London into a luxurious home for them and their baby girl.
LEARNING AS THEY GO
Imogen and Tom bought their first home together in 2020 and started ripping down walls a few days later. With no renovation experience between them, they had no idea of the project they were about to embark upon. And then lockdown happened. Imogen said, “We ended up with a house full of rubble that we couldn’t take to a tip until they reopened months later!”
Of course, they’ve had lots of contractors involved in the job, “We’ve had a fair amount of help. We had a specialist contractor to do the front of the house, removing the pebbledash, restoring the brickwork, repointing, replacing the bay window. We also hired a loft conversion company who did that conversion for us as well as some of the work on the first floor like adding a bathroom in. We hired a builder to take out the downstairs bathroom and do the kitchen renovation for us.”
Her favourite room is currently the kitchen, but Imogen says that every time they finish a room, it becomes her new favourite. “We knocked down the old bathroom which sat in the middle of the floorplan downstairs when we moved in and made a big full-width kitchen area, with a snug off to the back and I feel like this just adds a bit of wow factor to the house. We’ve just added some fitted cupboards and a library wall to the snug and it’s the perfect place to sit now. I love it and I’m looking forward to how cosy it’s going to be in the winter too.”
Of course, it’s not all been easy going. And the kitchen may be her favourite room now, but there were some challenges in getting it finished. “We had a nightmare with our builders on this project and it kept getting delayed, with lots of things finished poorly or not at all. So much so that we ended up having to get the new flooring completely replaced and finish things ourselves just to get them done. It was awful to live through as I was pregnant at the time and we were living without a kitchen, off ready meals, washing up in the bath and only had our bedroom as a living space as we had to use all the other rooms to store the things we had in the kitchen before building work started. It’s such a shame as I love the room now, but it shows how important it is to find good trades and how they can make or break your whole renovation experience.”
Imogen has learnt a lot about what goes into a renovation during the project, and a bit about herself too. “I love researching and coming up with new ideas for projects and design schemes for rooms. So much so that I’m now considering redoing some of the rooms we finished first and possibly venturing into helping others design their homes too!”
FRONT DOOR
Of course, she’ll have to work around Eliza, her nine-monthold daughter. The birth of her baby girl did stop renovation proceedings slightly, but they’re back on it now! “A lot of our reno work was done pre-baby which was lucky as it’s been a lot harder and slower to get things done now she’s around! We pretty much did nothing for the first six months of her life but now we tend to do our DIY projects during nap time, after bedtime or one of us will do the work whilst the other looks after Eliza. But it’s very much a juggle that we’re still trying to get used to!
“We’ve got a long list of snagging jobs like painting doors or skirting boards which haven’t been done yet, but the only major project we need to finish is the garden now. We’re hoping to try and get that done in the next month or two before autumn. Then I’d really like to redecorate our front bedroom, and possibly our living room as I have some new ideas for these rooms now!”
And her top tips for newbie renovators? “Look for the bones of the house. If you don’t have to do a lot of structural work, it’ll be cheaper to renovate. The kitchen extension had already been built on ours, so it was just internal layout changes which have enabled us to create our new kitchen space. Consider the cost and the time – everything is so much more expensive now than when we first bought this house, so you need to make sure you have the money, or you’re willing to wait and save money and complete jobs as and when you can. Nothing about a renovation is quick, so having patience and knowing an end will come, even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment, is critical.”
Check out Imogen and Tom’s incredible renovation journey on Instagram:
LIVING ROOM
In its
third BirminghamyearRestaurant
Festival 2024’s line-up is stronger than ever, with two Michelin-listed restaurants, here’s all you need to know...
“Birmingham Restaurant Festival is a fantastic celebration of the city’s dining scene and the list of participating restaurants showcases the incredible variety our city offers.”
Michelin-starred Purnell’s and 670 Grams are offering great value tasting menus as part of this year’s festival
Birmingham Restaurant Festival, the annual event that makes fine dining accessible, has revealed the menus that will be available from the participating restaurants throughout the Festival, from 1st-31st August.
The Festival is a celebration and showcase of the fantastic restaurants across Birmingham, which was crowned the Most Exciting Foodie Destination in 2022 by the Good Food Guide.
Every year, participating restaurants create an exclusive, great value, dinner menu, with some also offering a lunch menu. Throughout August, the public is invited to make reservations at as many venues as they please, to sample these special, accessible menus.
Among the participating venues are:
670 Grams, the modern and eclectic restaurant, known for their creative tasting menus and unique flavour combinations. 670 Grams comes recommended in the Michelin Guide.
Lasan, which offers exquisite Indian dining and was the proud winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Best Local Restaurant in the UK and BBC’s ‘The Great British Menu’.
The Oyster Club, the second restaurant in Birmingham by Michelin-starred chef Adam Stokes.
Qavali, where diners are served an Indo-Persian menu in a Persian Garden setting surrounded by pomegranate trees. Qavali’s accolades include the Best Restaurant in Birmingham from the British Restaurant Awards 2023/2024 and the Best Fine Dining Restaurant from the 2024 WOWs Awards.
Purnell’s, Glynn Purnell’s, also known as the Yummy Brummie, Michelin-starred, flagship restaurant, offering bright and modern dishes.
The menus vary in cost, offering a range of accessible, exclusive dining experiences.
Under £20
Rosa’s Thai, Aluna, Bistro Pierre, The Alchemist, Indian Street Brewery and Malmaison.
Issac’s will offer diners a choice of Gochujang Chicken Wings, Rocket Burrata Salad, or Caesar Salad for the starter; a Beef Burger, Tagliatelle Alfredo or Cod Creole for the main course; followed by The Billionaire Cookie or NY Cheesecake for dessert.
Guests at Indian Brewery Snowhill during the Festival will be able to choose from Pakora Pops or Chicken Wings for a starter; Chicken Run, sliced chicken tikka on a bed of rocket salad, or Big Plant, aubergine and potato curry on a bed of salad, for the main course; and Gulab Jamun, warm dough balls glazed in sugar syrup served with ice-cream.
Under £35
Chapter, Trentina, The Oyster Club, Primitivo, Chaophraya, Chung Ying, Dishoom, Lisa & Pann, Jam House, and Plates by Purnells, Michelin-starred chef, Glynn Purnell’s second restaurant in Birmingham.
The Oyster Club will offer diners Tempura King Prawns with a sriracha dipping sauce or a Warm Tomato Salad with burrata, harissa, and basil emulsion for the starter; Stone Bass with new potatoes, spinach and salsa verde or a Lamb Rump with Borlotti beans, peas & lamb bonbon for the main course; followed by
Purnell’s Restaurant
Hotel du Vin
Eton Mess or a Cheese Selection with chutney and crackers.
Plates by Purnell’s will offer a selection of tapas that will feature Pan Con Tomate (bread with tomato), Berenjenas con Miel y Trufa (aubergine chips with honey and truffle), Croqueta de Queso y Albahaca (mozzarella and basil croquettes), Besugo Frito con Patatas (pan-fried Sea bream with saffron and garlic potatoes and piquillo peppers) or Barriga de Cerdo (pork belly with sumac yoghurt ZaAtar and Vadouvan glaze), and Tarta de Queso Vasca (basque cheesecake)
Purnell’s tasting menu will feature Beetroot with dill and BrillatSavarin, Pain de Campagne with Marmite and honey butter, Scallop Ceviche with peas and wasabi, Brixham Cod with baby gem lettuce and beurre blanc, Wiltshire Downlands Lamb with smoked aubergine and Amelia tomato, and Blueberry & Buttermilk Tart with lemon.
670 Grams will offer the choice of two tasting menus. Their shorter dining experience will feature Curry Cured Salmon, BBQ Flatbread, ‘Lamb Dressed As Mutton’, and Strawberry & Pea (pea ice cream, strawberry custard and a sour cream scone).
Meanwhile, the full tasting menu will feature Curry Cured Salmon; BBQ Flatbread; Jersey Royal, with wild garlic potato custard and lamb fat; Keema, with wild rice, Tikka, almonds and Digbeth honey; Half-Time Balti Pie; ‘Lamb Dressed As Mutton’; Crossover (Fresno Pepper Sorbet, compressed pineapple, Diplomatico Rum); Strawberry & Pea; Fruit & Nut; and ‘Custard Factory Tart’.
Alex Nicholson-Evans, Founder & Director of Living For The Weekend, organiser of Birmingham Restaurant Festival, said: “Birmingham Restaurant Festival is a fantastic celebration of the city’s dining scene and the list of participating restaurants showcases the incredible variety our city offers.”
“From Indian street food and independents serving the best of British produce, to contemporary Chinese cuisine and Michelin-starred restaurants, Birmingham Restaurant Festival truly captures the cultural diversity of the city and its culinary landscape. We’d encourage everyone to use the Festival as an excuse to try a restaurant they’ve never visited before and explore the city.”
To view each restaurant’s full menu and when they are available during Birmingham Restaurant Festival, diners should go to:
birminghamrestaurantfestival.co.uk
Each restaurant’s page will let diners know how to book the dining experience and you can stay up to date on news from Birmingham Restaurant Festival by signing up to the e-newsletter!
Purnell’s Restaurant
670 Grams
670 Grams Trentina
Zero waste & 100% taste
Harborne Kitchen is not just an amazing place to eat, did you know it is also a zero-waste champion? Alongside listings in the Michelin and Good Food Guides and its two AA rosettes, the business is also doing its bit for sustainability.
We caught up with head chef Tom Wells to find out more about this exciting neighbourhood eatery.
Working sustainably
Starting at the beginning, Tom told us all about his restaurant career before Harborne Kitchen. “I have worked for Jonathan Fraiser at the Bath Spa Hotel, and he had a great influence on my career. In terms of work ethic, he was exceptional - always first in and last out. I also worked for Tom Aikens, running his Birmingham restaurant, and this opened my eyes to zero waste and using every part of the animal or the vegetable in dishes.”
Since then, the idea of zero waste has been at the forefront of Tom’s working ethic. “At Harborne Kitchen, we have developed multiple tactics to help us create a zero waste, more sustainable kitchen.
“Not only do we use ingredients grown in our teams’ gardens and local area, but we have also found new ways of using the kitchen ‘leftovers’ across other areas of the business, especially in the bar. For example, the cocktail, Rhubarb Fizz, came from the team noticing that we always had rhubarb syrup leftover from the Forced Yorkshire Rhubarb pre-desert in the tasting menu, and so we decided to use the syrup to create a delicious cocktail. This is also relevant for several other cocktails on the bar menu.”
Fine dining with a conscience
Perhaps it’s this approach that has made Harborne Kitchen such a success. Tom describes the restaurant as, “a super relaxed, casual fine dining restaurant, somewhere you can pop in for a couple of cocktails and some bar snacks or an elevencourse tasting menu and spend a few hours being wined and dined.
“We have always been very consistent in terms of our offering and how we deliver it. Amazing food and drinks all made with love and care; we’re here to look after our guests as if we are welcoming them into our home.”
He believes the definition of fine dining is changing as a new generation starts to enjoy good food. “I think we are seeing a
younger guest coming through the doors. Fine dining is a lot more relaxed than it used to be, without the white tablecloths and pretentious service.” That said, he is not motivated by following food trends, “Trends in general will come and go. High quality food and drink produced by passionate people will never go out of style.”
Designing dishes you’ll love
There’s a new menu at Harborne Kitchen right now and Tom is very excited about it. “We have a small plates menu where you can come in anytime and have a few beautiful dishes to share and enjoy with a cocktail or a nice glass of wine. We have some great cured meats, burrata, chicken liver parfait and some fantastic British cheeses.
“My favourite dishes at the moment are our Amela tomato dish served with tomato ponzu, lovage and a Parma ham that we make in-house. I also love our new dessert which is Yuzu and burnt white chocolate cheesecake, meringue and yuzu sorbet.
“We always start our dishes with what’s in season, then it’s all about the flavour. Get those two right and the rest is easy!”
A passion for excellence
Harborne Kitchen opened in 2016 and Tom took over as head chef five years ago. His work ethic is unstinting,with his shifts starting at 8am and ending at 11pm most days.
When growing the team he’s looking for chefs with similar qualities. “The people that work at Harborne Kitchen are not just staff, they are like my family. They are all hard working, dedicated, loyal and hungry to achieve things in their lives. Some of us have worked together for over seven years in different establishments but above all, they are all really amazing cooks.”
He has high hopes for the future of Harborne Kitchen. “Onwards and upwards for us all! We have an amazing group of people working at Harborne Kitchen and together we just want to make all our customers happy. If awards come along, then that’s a bonus.”
• Reduce Maderia, brandy and port with the shallots and garlic until reduced by half.
• Blitz the livers with the reduction in a blender until smooth. Add 1 egg at a time, blending for 3-4 minutes until smooth. Add melted butter a little at a time while blender on low speed, season with pink salt.
• Pass the mixture through a fine sieve into the terrine mould and cover with foil. Place into deep oven tray and fill with warm water until two-thirds of the way up the terrine. Cover the oven tray with foil too.
• Cook for 55-60 minutes and, using a temperature probe check the temperature has reached 70 Degrees C for a minimum of 2 minutes.
• Cool the terrine in an ice bath in the fridge; it’s important to chill the terrine within 90 minutes until core temp is below 5 degrees.
For White Chocolate
• While the parfait is cooking, heat the chocolate in a Bain-Marie until melted then transfer to a small blender and blend with the tofu until smooth, transfer to a piping bag and set aside.
For Strawberry Gel
• Steep the strawberries and vinegar under vacuum at 80 degrees C in a water bath for 2 hours. Alternatively, use a mixing bowl and Bain Marie. Drain the liquid, bring to the boil and add the agar agar. Whisk and bring to the boil, then transfer to a suitable container. Once set blend the mixture, then pass through a fine sieve, transfer to a piping bag and set aside.
For The Chicken Skin and Oats
• Pre heat oven to 180 Degrees C (fan).
• Scrape and remove the fat from underneath of the skin, then place the skins on a baking tray. Bake for 25 minutes or until crispy. Chop and set aside.
• Pre heat oven to 95 Degrees C (fan).
• Combine the rest of the ingredients and bake in the oven for 2 hours or until crunchy texture is achieved.
• Combine the chopped chicken skin and crunchy oats to make the topping.
To Serve
• Plate as shown in picture.
SUMMER WINE SELECTION
FROM HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM
Harvey Nichols Birmingham wine specialist, Paul Creamer, shares his favourite seasonal wines currently available at the luxury Mailbox store.
1/ 4/ 2/ 5/ 3/ 6/
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rèserve NV
£52
This family-owned Champagne house is certainly one of my favourites. Flavoursome and impeccably balanced in the mouth, the citrus and orchard notes are integrated with suggestions of bread and honey.
Bodegas Zuleta – La Goya Manzanilla (half-bottle)
£9.50
No summer is complete without a good dry sherry alongside some al-fresco nibbles. This delightful, fortified white is bone-dry with a delicious saline kick to the finish.
Domaines Ott – By Ott Blanc 2021
£25
This stunning southern French white is a crisp and refreshing blend of Sémillon and Vermentino. The wine has notes of lemon and acacia flower.
Louis Jadot – Marsannay Clos du Roy 2020
£39.00
It’s always a pleasure to enjoy good Pinot Noir in the warmer months. This bottle is from the historic burgundy producer Louis Jadot who has been making fine wines for over160 years. Expect black cherry notes and hints of peony.
Gainzta – Txakolina Rosé
£22.95
This spritzy, low alcohol wine has a smooth and fresh character with flavours of cranberry and wild strawberry. The Lazkano family only make a limited number of bottles, owing to the single hectare plot and the 50-year-old vines.
Alvaro palacios – Camins del Priorat 2021
£27.50
Alvaro is one of the most respected winemakers in Spain. It bursts with red cherry and blueberry flavours and is a must-try for any Spanish red wine fan.
You’ve probably noticed we’re obsessed with good food and drink over here at Swealthy. We’re also obsessed with sharing the finer things in life.
So our new regular feature will come as no surprise; our food gurus have been incredibly busy over the past few months putting together the
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 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’s made it onto the list - you’re in for a treat!
This list is based on the opinion of our food critics! To host, feature, remove or amend email: magazine@swealthy.co.uk
THE WILDMOOR OAK
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW
Address: Top Road, Wildmoor, Bromsgrove, B61 0RB
Date of visit: Thursday 20 June 2024
Time: 19:00
Review
We’d heard a lot about the Wildmoor Oak – its £500k renovation, its new head chef – Peter Jackson (who has a Michelin star restaurant background!!) and the acclaimed owners, Bex and Sarah who are well known for their time at the Highfield Edgbaston. It’s fair to say our expectations were high.
To enter, we crossed the quaint stream that runs through the stunningly renovated outdoor dining area and were immediately greeted by the lovely Bex and her team – we knew straight away we were in for a treat.
The interior has a cosy-chic décor and soft ambiance, creating the perfect back drop for any occasion.
We were served by Jade who was friendly, attentive and went above and beyond to make it an enjoyable and memorable evening for us both. What really came across was how much the entire team genuinely wanted us to have the best time.
On to (arguably) the most important part – the food and drink...
We went for:
TO START
• Cod cheeks with tartare sauce
FOR MAIN
• Hake, asparagus and butter sauce
• 28 day dry-aged flat iron steak, peppercorn sauce and fries
• Glazed Chantenay carrots
Coupled with a bottle of house white (naturally) TO FINISH
• Sticky toffee pudding, vanilla ice cream
• Cappuccino and Ammericano
The dishes we tried were bursting with flavour and prepared to perfection. If you’re a foodie (like us) – you will love this place. With a special mention to (honestly) the best peppercorn sauce that has ever entered my mouth!! It’s fair to say our expectations were well and truly exceeded.
Kudos to Bex, Sarah and team for transforming the Wilmoor Oak into a country-gastro (destination!) pub, bursting with a friendly welcoming atmosphere and exquisite food and drink – exactly what the area was crying out for! Would we recommended a visit? ABSOLUTELY!
Vicarage
6 3 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Petherton presents a remarkable opportunity for those seeking a truly exceptional property, situated in the highly sought after location of Tanworth-In-Arden, Solihull. This six-bedroom residence spans three floors and has been meticulously renovated and restored to an exceptionally high standard, blending traditional and contemporary design. Positioned on 2.0 acres (approx.) of idyllic south facing grounds, this grand country home boasts 3800 sq. ft of accommodation including a well appointed kitchen/diner, two reception rooms, three bathrooms and a double garage. In addition, this property benefits from a summer house, natural wildlife pond, stables with paddock and captivating views of rolling fields on all sides. Whilst situated on a secluded plot, this residence is within easy reach of nearby shops, amenities and schooling.
Coopers
7 5 4
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
A rare opportunity to purchase a truly exceptional residence and arguably one of the finest examples of late Victorian architecture in the area. Built in 1891 and kept within one family for the majority, ‘Woodlands’ is a most impressive property with great character. Nestled amidst lush, meticulously manicured grounds of almost 2 acres (approx.), the extremely generous accommodation (amounting to almost 5,000 sq. ft spanning over three floors) is of exceptional quality and provides modern conveniences whilst still retaining many of its period features, including the original french polished mahogany entrance hall and the more recent addition of a heated swimming pool. Located on a particularly prestigious road and surrounded by remarkable greenbelt countryside, this imposing residence offers a serene escape and yet is just 0.8 miles from a mainline train station to Birmingham and less than a mile from amenities within both Alvechurch and Barnt Green.
Feckenham | OIRO £1,350,000
3
3 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS It’s
Situated on the outskirts of Inkberrow and Feckenham village is Bean Hall Mill, a truly remarkable former Watermill set on an estate spanning approximately 5 acres, with extensive outbuildings. Dating back to circa 1591, the property is rich in historic charm, whilst having been meticulously and lovingly restored by the current owners in 2019.
Bromsgrove | £1,250,000
5 4 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS It’s who you move with.
Nestled within a generous plot of over 3 acres in the semi-rural area of Wildmoor, Bromsgrove, Meadow View is a spectacular five double bedroom detached house, offered with an additional self-contained one bedroom annexe and renovated stables. This fine country residence, which enjoys 360 degree country views, also boasts no upward chain, spacious accommodation throughout with high quality fixtures and fittings, and impressive and extensive grounds and gardens incorporating a heated outdoor swimming pool, duck pond and a paddock.
3 2 3
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
The Stables is a delightful three bedroom detached residence, situated in Finstall, Bromsgrove, which has been lovingly refurbished throughout by the current owner. Located within a quiet and idyllic position at the top of a private drive with just three other properties, this characterful residence that still maintains original features throughout, benefits from three reception rooms, a breakfast kitchen, large dining room and separate study area. Upstairs there are three bedrooms, a dressing area, plus two bathrooms, one being a Jack ‘n’ Jill en suite. The garden room, which currently serves as a fourth guest bedroom, is another additional feature of this property.
4 2 3
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS It’s who you move with.
An impressive four double bedroom family home offered with stunning open concept kitchen and dining room with separate utility, two reception rooms, en-suite to the master bedroom, family bathroom and downstairs wc, extensive rear garden, driveway and garage, situated in Lickey End, Bromsgrove.
4 2 3
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
An outstanding barn conversion boasting approximately 2,100 sq. ft of accommodation with an abundance of charming character features and located on a 0.14 acre plot (approx.) in an idyllically semirural yet accessible location, just a short distance from the train station, local village amenities and the Midlands motorway network.
Shrubbery Avenue
Worcester | £675,000
4 2 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Step into a world of Victorian charm and modern sophistication with this executive period family home. Nestled on one of Worcester’s few remaining Victorian streets lined with trees, this property is a true testament to the perfect blend of style and practicality. From the stunning fireplace with a log burner and feature bay window in the lounge to the bi-folding doors in the kitchen that bring the outside in, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to create a warm and welcoming home. With ample space for entertaining guests, relaxing with family, and working from home, there’s no limit to what you can achieve with this property. With convenient amenities nearby such as RGS Worcester, local convenience stores, doctors’ surgeries, and Gheluvelt Park, Shrubbery Avenue truly has it all. Come and discover all the possibilities that await you in this stunning property - the perfect place to call home.
Cannon Street
4 3 2
NO ONWARD CHAIN - Discover the ultimate family home on Cannon Street, a detached double fronted Victorian property dating back to approx 1880s. Set on a hill, this grand home offers stunning views of Worcester Cathedral and the Malvern Hills. As you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the impressive marble fireplace, original tiled flooring, high ceilings & multiple log burners. The perfect blend of Victorian character and modern functionality adds an extra layer of charm to this impressive property. With ample space for entertaining guests, spending quality time with your family, working from home, housing independent family members, or hosting Airbnb, this home is truly versatile and unique. Hidden in a desirable suburban area between London Road and Cromwell Crescent, providing easy access to a range of convenient amenities, including Waitrose, primary schools, and the motorway. Don’t miss out on the perfect home!
Brewery Walk
Worcester | £625,000
3 2 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
A double fronted Grade II listed, elegant Georgian property with a contemporary feel. High quality, modern fixture and fittings, to create a luxury homely feel, whilst keeping in with the age of the property. Located in a prestigious area of Worcester, just off Britannia Square, close to town, Pitchcroft racecourse, and well regarded private schools. Spanning over four floors and boasting approx. 1456 sq foot of versatile living, the property in brief comprises; kitchen/breakfast, utility, w/c, lounge, family room, three/four bedrooms, bathroom and shower room. The property benefits from gas central heating, double glazing? garden is to the front, double garage, and parking. Viewing is recommended to really appreciate the location and versatility of this beautiful home.
who you move with.
Key features
6 3 4
Bed Bath Reception
Built circa 1840, this stunning Grade II listed country home comes complete with a separate two bedroom cottage and large timber framed barn. Set in approximately 1.8 acres of stunning gardens, Shenstone House is ideally located between Lichfield and Sutton Coldfield and within easy reach of local amenities in the beautiful village of Shenstone and provides easy access to the Midlands rail and motorway network.
• Beautiful Grade II listed home
• 6/7 bedrooms
• Separate cottage with garden
• Large barn with vaulted ceiling and mezzanine
• Wrap around gardens
• Set in approx. 1.8 acres
2 1 1 £1,175,000 £395,000
2 Amington Hall Ashby Road B79 0BX
Bed Bath Reception
A delightful two bedroom apartment is set in the stunning Amington Hall, a beautiful period country home located just off the Ashby Road on the outskirts of Tamworth. Located in a conservation area at the end of a sweeping tree-lined driveway, the grade II* listed property dates back to the early 19th century and was converted into three apartments approximately 60 years ago.
Key features
• Grade II listed
• Rural location
• Period features
• Private garden
• Two garages
B74 3AW
5 4 3
Bed Bath Reception
Located in a secluded and picturesque setting on the sought after and exclusive Little Aston Park, this spacious family home offers plenty of space with five double bedrooms, four bathrooms, flexible living room with mezzanine level, modern kitchen, utility room, double garage, home gym and games room. The well-tended gardens are an oasis of tranquillity and are the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Key features
• Exclusive Little Aston Park location
• Five double bedrooms
• Double garage
• Mature gardens
Avoncroft
Four Oaks Estate, Four Oaks B74 2SR
8
6 6 £1,950,000 £2,150,000
Bed Bath Reception
Located on the illustrious Four Oaks Estate and being one of the original houses, this elegant Grade II listed Arts and Crafts property enjoys beautiful interiors with a plethora of period and original features. Dating back to circa 1900 and built by renowned architects, Crouch & Butler, this wonderful home boasts a flexible layout with six reception rooms (including a large games room and bar), dining kitchen, up to eight double bedrooms, six bathrooms, double garage, gated driveway and beautiful gardens.
Key features
• Exclusive Four Oaks Estate
• Grade II listed Arts & Crafts style home
• Seven/Eight bedrooms
• Gated driveway
• Beautiful, landscaped gardens
• No upward chain
6
3 5 offers over £2,000,000
Four Oaks Estate B74 2QN Bed Bath Reception
A rare opportunity to purchase a six bedroom home sitting in a substantial 1.2 acre plot (approx.) on the exclusive and highly regarded Four Oaks Estate. The current property extends to approximately 4,500sqft with six bedrooms, three bathrooms, large open plan living spaces, modern kitchen, family room and double garage. Offered with no upward chain, this represents an incredible opportunity for someone to create the most wonderful home on an incredible plot.
KEY FEATURES
• Prestigious Four Oaks Estate
• 1.2 acre plot
• Huge potential
• Gated in & out driveway
• Large open plan living space
60 Streetly Lane Four Oaks B74 4TA Bed Bath Reception
5 2 2 £960,000
This beautiful period property set opposite Sutton Park will captivate you from the moment you step foot through the front door. With a plethora of original features and plenty of charm and character, this gorgeous family home feature five double bedrooms, two bathrooms, two large reception rooms, home office space, utility room, stunning kitchen, and fantastic garden. This wonderful home also benefits from being within easy reach of The Arthur Terry School and the local amenities at Mere Green.
KEY FEATURES
• Located opposite Sutton Park
• Period features
• Easy reach of the highly regarded Arthur Terry secondary school
• Five double bedrooms
• Mature gardens
What’s on?
There’s lots of fun to be had over the next few months. Are you attending any of these events in the Midlands?
1st August – 1st September
BEYOND VAN GOGH AT THE NEC, BIRMINGHAM
Experience the magic of one of the world’s most famous postimpressionist artists in a whole new way. This immersive experience puts the viewer in the center of each masterpiece, so you can imagine yourself in Van Gogh’s mind. Over 300 works of art are displayed to music, taking the visitor through a journey of dark and light and bringing these incredible paintings to a new audience. Even if you’ve never appreciated his work before, you will after this experience.
The event has been curated by Annerin Productions and Paquin Entertainment Group, who have carefully put the exhibition together in a way that tells Van Gogh’s incredible story. Covering 30,000 square feet and using the latest in digital technology, this is an art experience not to be missed!
www.thenec.co.uk
11th August
WORCESTER SHOW AT PITCHCROFT
Is it a summer fete? Is it a festival? Is it a county show? The Worcester Show has got it all and a funfair, and is a key date in the diary for all the locals. With entertainment for the whole family, the Worcester Show attracts over 20,000 guests each year, as people compete to win the coveted prize of the biggest carrot or other such important accolades. With over 100 street stalls to shop at and the most exciting festival atmosphere, this really is an unmissable event. The Worcester Show aims to celebrate local produce, horticulture, crafts and community. So, get involved or simply appreciate the efforts of others. This year promises to be even bigger and better than last year – come and see what’s new. www.visitworcester.co.uk
17th August
MURDER MYSTERY EVENING AT COOMBE ABBEY HOTEL, COVENTRY
If you love a good who-dun-it, you’ll love the Murder Mystery Evening organised by Coombe Abbey Hotel. The event is set in 1855 and you’ve been invited to a very special banquet hosted by Lord Craven. Don’t get too comfortable though, because somebody is going to die and it’s up to you to solve the mystery!
Your ticket includes a three-course dinner, a glass of sparkling wine and a post-show disco, as well as the evening entertainment. You can dress up too if you like, in the dinner style of the period. It’s not compulsory but it adds to the fun of the night. These events are held monthly, so if you turn out to be a super detective, maybe you’ll return in September! www.coombeabbey.com
18th August
ANTIQUES AND COLLECTOR’S FAIR AT HIMLEY HALL AND PARK
Are you ready to find your treasure amongst the many stalls at Himley Park? The Antique and Collector’s Fair is full of unique items of value, but do you have what it takes to spot the key pieces? Perhaps you want some antique ornaments for your home or maybe you’re an enthusiast who likes to find items that might be worth more one day. There’s no better place to look than here!
You’ll find furniture, jewellery, coins, ceramics, toys and much more at this Fair. Open from 9am, you could easily spend a whole day here, getting lost amongst the treasures of yesteryear. This is a regular event, held sporadically through the year, so if you miss this one, there’ll be other opportunities to boost your antique collections. www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk
24th - 26th August
LICHFIELD FOOD FESTIVAL, LICHFIELD CITY CENTRE
Everyone’s favourite Festival of the bank holiday weekend is back! Lichfield Food Festival is a three-day food extravaganza that is fun for the whole family and is sure to keep all your tummies filled! Organised by Cocker Hoop Creative, this annual event is always well-attended. It is open from 9am till 5pm every day of the bank holiday weekend and entry is free. Vendors from all around the county will be ready to serve up some of your favourite snacks, meals and drinks! www.cockerhoopcreative.com
6th – 7th September
GO YOUR OWN WAY – FLEETWOOD MAC LEGACY AT SUTTON COLDFIELD TOWN HALL
The music of Fleetwood Mac is immortalised in this incredible show, which is back after a very successful run last year. Including performances of some of the band’s most famous songs, including Dreams, Everywhere, Don’t Stop and Little Lies, you can relive the glory days of the 80s, 90s and early 00s.
If you’re a Fleetwood Mac fan, this is a show not to be missed! And there are after-show drinks in the Sir Doug Ellis Bar too, so you can really make a night of it!
www.suttoncoldfieldtownhall.com
13th September
DUNGEONS AFTER DARK AT WARWICK CASTLE
Fancy dinner with a scary twist? Dungeons After Dark offers up a sumptuous banquet for all, along with the kind of terrifying entertainment you might expect on Friday 13th. Enjoy a tour through the Castle Dungeon before sitting down to a three-course meal with wine and a show.
This experience is open to over 18s only and there are two options to choose from for your meal – one is a meat option and the other is vegetarian/vegan. You can expect jump scares, small spaces, strobe lighting, smoke effects and lots of spiral staircases – all things to consider before booking!
www.warwick-castle.com
21st – 22nd September FESTIVAL OF FOOD AND DRINK, THORESBY PARK
With over 150 stalls to drool over, this is a festival you’ll want to attend with an empty stomach! Taking place in the gorgeous grounds of Thoresby Hall, you can enjoy street food and cocktails, and buy homewares, crafts and gifts. Plus, there will be entertainment throughout the weekend, ensuring fun for the whole family.
As if that wasn’t enough, there will be talks from TV chefs including Phil Vickery and Rachel Allen, and bookable workshops such as cocktail making, coffee tasting and children’s arts and crafts. At just £10 a ticket, this is a must-attend event for your calendar.
www.festivaloffoodanddrink.com
25th September
MOZART AND SHOSTAKOVICH AT THE CITY OF BIRMINGHAM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Two hours of silky symphonies await you in this glorious orchestral event. Enjoy music from Idomeneo, a story of gods, kings and queens and then go on a journey through a twentieth century classical bassoon in Bb Major. Prepare to be dazzled by Mark Simpson with his Concertino for Trumpet and Orchestra and then finish your afternoon with Shostakovich and Symphony No.9.
Tickets range from £26-£62 and you can upgrade your ticket to include afternoon tea afterwards, which is the perfect way to finish the event on a high.
www.cbso.co.uk
29th September
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP – RAILWAY REENACTMENT
There’s an art to getting the perfect railway shot, but Lee Chapman of Chappers Photography is the man to do it! Spend the whole day on the Severn Valley Railway, learning tips and tricks to capturing the scenery at its best. You’ll take pictures of different settings and in different scenarios, filling your camera with some amazing images. And you don’t have to be an experienced photographer to join in – all you need is a camera and some enthusiasm! But if you are looking to brush up on your current skills or fine-tune your technique, you’ll love this workshop too.
The workshop starts and finishes at Kidderminster Station, with our perioddressed reenactors, and there will be photo opportunities at Arley and The Engine House in Highly. Tickets are £80 each and you’ll have a thoroughly enjoyable day on the Severn Valley Railway.
www.svr.co.uk
What’s on?
BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME
9th July – 31st August
HAMILTON
How much do you know about Alexander Hamilton? As one of America’s founding fathers, he was an immigrant who helped shaped the country as we know, working alongside George Washington during the Revolutionary War. Hamilton tells his story, with an incredible soundtrack and a whole host of awards and accolades behind the play that prove this is definitely one to watch.
Showing until the end of August, this play will take you on a rollercoaster tour of a pivotal moment of America’s history. By the end of it, you will think you know Alexander Hamilton very well!
10th - 14th September
A CHORUS LINE
The musical masterpiece, A Chorus Line comes to the Birmingham Hippodrome for five nights this September as part of its UK tour. Set in 1975, this incredible play tells the stories of 17 wannabe performers as they audition for eight places in a new Broadway musical. Some will make it; others will have their dreams shattered.
This play is heart-warming and emotional, a classic on Broadway and with all the powerful songs that theatregoers expect. If you love a musical, this is a must-see play.
21st September
BOTOWN
Just imagine what would happen if someone combined the spirit of Bollywood with the coolness of funk and you’ll have an idea of what a night of Botown sounds like. This unique band performs musical masterpieces for one night only at Birmingham Hippodrome, and when you’ve seen them once, you’ll be following them as they tour around the country! Get ready for a night of fusion that you could never have dreamed of before. This two-hour set includes an interval. Make sure you’ve got your dancing shoes on, with hits from legends such as RD Burman, AR Rahman, Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar and many more, you’ll be up on your feet all night!
16th – 18th August
BYMT UNBOUND
Ready to see something new? This lively musical takes songs from the 80s to tell the story of Iris, a young girl who moves from home-schooling to Black Lake High, where she is finally able to enjoy a “normal” life. Until she unwittingly frees a witch and becomes part of a coven, that is. With a list of new powers and a school to win over, chaos is sure to ensue! This play is on for three nights only, so make sure to book your ticket while you still can.
25th – 28th September
BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET – LA FILLE MAL GARDÉE
This ballet has it all – love, laughter and live music by the Royal Ballet Simfonia. It’s a heart-warming tale of Lise, a lady with a choice to make. Does she want to live a comfortable life with the rich man her mother thinks is perfect for her or should she follow her heart and go with the poor farm boy who she adores? The path to true love is paved with ponies and clog-dancing dames, making for a very entertaining show. At the Hippodrome for four days only, we recommend you book your tickets soon to get the best seats!
26th – 28th September
FOUR FELONS AND A FUNERAL
Want to know why someone would steal an urn full of ashes? Then you need to get tickets to Four Felons and a Funeral. This chaotic show was a huge hit at Edinburgh Fringe Festival and now it’s come to Birmingham for a few nights only. Follow the story of Millie and her friends as they drive down the M6 with a large decorative urn and a car full of crisps.
Presented by the GOYA Theatre Company, this is a feel-good story that battles with the idea of grief and celebration of life. This is definitely one to watch with your nearest and dearest.
16th – 21st September
HAIRSPRAY
Still smoking hot from its Broadway run, Hairspray comes to Birmingham Hippodrome for one week this September. Telling the story of Tracy Turnblad, who dreams of a life of dancing, you’ll follow her through the ups and downs of teenagerhood as she battles against the odds to perform on the Corny Collins Show.
With a pop-themed soundtrack that you won’t be able to get out of your head, you’ll be dancing all the way home after watching this fun, upbeat show.
