Your free monthly guide to supporting independent businesses and events in and around Berkhamsted
Find Your Flow: Berkhamsted’s BAY YOGA Studio blends inclusivity, community, and holistic care with yoga, Pilates, and therapies for all stages of life.
Hello!
As the winter days gradually grow lighter, February brings with it a sense of promise and possibility. This month is filled with opportunities to celebrate connections, whether it’s a heartfelt Valentine’s gesture for someone special or creating lasting memories with family during half term. It’s a time to nurture the relationships that matter most and make space for joy amidst the greyness of February.
In this issue of The Guide, we’re embracing everything that makes February delightful. From ideas to help you plan a romantic evening to suggestions for entertaining little ones during their school break, our pages are filled with inspiration to brighten the last stretch of winter. Local businesses are at the heart of it all, offering thoughtful gifts, cosy dining experiences, and ways to make February feel extra special.
Whether you’re marking the season with loved ones, indulging in some self-care, or simply enjoying the promise that spring is on the horizon, we hope this edition encourages you to savour the month ahead.
WHAT’S ON IN FEBRUARY
Your essential monthly guide to events large and small in and around Berkhamsted COVER STAR
Yoga, Pilates, and therapy, Bay Yoga offers something for all stages of life and wellness
SHOP LOCAL
Find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift with our local shopping guide
HALF TERMS IN HERTS
From magic wands to pottery, these adventures will keep kids busy and create lasting memories
TABLE FOR TWO
Discover the best dining spots for a romantic evening this Valentine’s Day
If you’d like to promote your business or share an event in an upcoming issue, drop us a line at info@theguideberkhamsted.co.uk
Make this the year you try a workout that benefits both body and mind - this fourweek Tai Chi course will help beginners master the art of relaxation. See an improvement in your balance, strength, flexibility, coordination, and breathing through this ancient Chinese practice.
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11am - 12pm
All Saints Church Hall
2 Shrublands Rd, HP4 3HY
BOOK: Taichiinthechilterns@gmail.com
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FEBRUARY 6
BERKHAMSTED SOCIETY PRESENTS: HARRY DE CRUZ
London Magician of the Year 2024, Harry De Cruz, brings his acclaimed show Sleightly Impressive to Berko for one night only. A thrilling blend of his hit Edinburgh Fringe performance and the finest tricks from his career, Harry’s magic has wowed audiences across 30 countries and even four Royal Families. Working as Head of Magic for Dynamo and Resident Director for Derren Brown’s Unbelievable, Harry has really mastered his craft. Head down early to enjoy a complimentary drink from 7pm in the Nash-Harris Dining Hall.
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£10, 7.30pm
Centenary Theatre, Kings Rd HP4 3BG
BOOK: Berkhamsted.ticketsolve.com
FEBRUARY 8
POP UP BAZAAR
Shop small, think big! This is the ultimate indoor market for creatives, makers, and independent small businesses; a treasure trove of handmade delights. The Pop Up Bazaar runs alongside the bustling High Street markets we know and love. Meet a curated selection of artists making unique items with true care, from Indian quilts to upcycled lamps.
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Free entry, 10am - 4pm Town Hall, 196 High St, HP4 3AP
INFO: Popupbazaarberko.com
FEBRUARY 9
CHAMPAGNE TOUR AT ASHRIDGE HOUSE
Join an exclusive House Tour at Ashridge House. Step into a world of timeless elegance, where 730 years of history await. Explore the stunning interiors, from the grand Main Hall to the hidden Well House, uncovering secrets behind ancient bookcases and exquisite art collections. You’ll discover Ashridge’s rich past, from its origins as a monk’s refuge to a royal residence and stately home. Price includes a glass of fizz on arrival.
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£32.10 (inc. booking fee), 2pm
Ashridge House, Berkhamsted HP4 1NS
BOOK: Seetickets.com/tour/ champagne-house-tours
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FEBRUARY 9
IVINGHOE BEACON & SUNDAY ROAST WALK
Tackle forest trails while taking in stunning views on this challenging 10-mile circular walk, kicking off with a tough climb that takes you to scenic woods full of wildlife. You’ll double back to the charming village of Aldbury, ending with lunch at The Greyhound Inn (also the start point, by the duck pond on the square). Dogs are welcome but check with the pub first.
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£6, free to Adventure Geek members, 8.45am
The Greyhound Inn, Aldbury HP23 5RT
BOOK: Eventbrite.co.uk
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FEBRUARY 14
VALENTINE’S DAY AT THE REX
Our glorious 1930s Art Deco film house is the perfect place to spend Valentine’s Day (regardless of your romantic situation). Choose from two tales of impossible love: at 2pm, David Lean’s British classic Brief Encounter follows a married woman’s anguished affair, beginning after she finds a speck of coal in her eye at a railway station. At 7.30pm, art-house smash hit
The Lunchbox stars Irrfan Khan (Slumdog Millionaire, Life of Pi ), in a delightful story where Mumbai’s famously accurate tiffin lunch delivery system makes one mistake, connecting two lonely souls through food and letters.
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Three Close Lane, High Street HP4 2FG
BOOK: Therexberkhamsted.com
FEBRUARY 13
COUPLES POTTERY PAINTING NIGHT
Forget candlelit dinners, get your hands dirty on date night. Grab a glass of fizz, choose your ‘canvas’ and let your inhibitions dissolve as you play artist for the evening. Whether your glazed and fired masterpiece will be proudly displayed or hidden in the back of a cupboard two weeks later, you’ll treasure making something uniquely yours, together.
£40 for two, 7pm
The Studio: pottery + creative arts Park Street HP4 1HX
BOOK: Opendoorberkhamsted.co.uk ––––
FEBRUARY 15
MAXIM CALVER CELLO RECITAL
Berkhamsted Music Society’s exceptional evening of music features solo cellist
Maxim Calver and Tokyo-born pianist Kumi Matsuo. Calver, a BBC Young Musician 2018 Grand Finalist, has wowed audiences across the UK and Europe, including a debut at the Hamburg Elbphilharmonie. An exciting chance to hear the likes of Debussy’s Cello Sonata, and Brahms’ Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 2 in F Op 99.
Fresh air, good books, and great conversation. Meeting at the library on the third Tuesday of every month, the group combines gentle walking with engaging literary discussion. This month, you’ll discuss Jean Rhys’s masterful Wide Sargasso Sea, a compelling prequel to Jane Eyre that
the story of the first Mrs. Rochester. It’s a free community event welcoming newcomers and seasoned readers.
Free (donations welcome), 2pm - 3.30pm 185 High Street HP4 3HB BOOK: Eventbrite.co.uk
FEBRUARY 21-23
CALENDAR GIRLS
The heartfelt story of a group of friends with a joyful fundraising idea: a calendar featuring local Women’s Institute members posing nude. With music by Gary Barlow and a script by Tim Firth, this warm, uplifting production celebrates friendship, ageing, grief, and love. The performance benefits The Hospice of St. Francis, providing free care to patients in Herts and Bucks. ––––
£20, 2pm doors open 1.15pm and 7pm doors open 6.45pm. Friday evening show only Sunday matinee show only Centenary Theatre, Kings Rd HP4 3BG BOOK: Stfrancis.org.uk/events
explores
BAY YOGA Studio is transforming lives through yoga, meditation, pilates and holistic therapies.
Wellness for everyone
Since opening its doors in September 2011 (you might remember it as Berkhamsted Ashtanga Yoga - BAY), BAY YOGA continues to evolve. Nowadays clients come for a comprehensive approach to mind-body wellness that meets the diverse needs of local residents.
“Everyone can find their place here; that’s what makes BAY YOGA Studio special,” says owner Kulan Kandasamy, whose vision for holistic wellness has made the serene studio a cornerstone in Berkhamsted’s fitness-focused community.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
The ethos behind BAY YOGA Studio is refreshingly simple: create a space where everyone feels at home. “We are a welcoming team, committed to inspiring and empowering people to embrace healthier lifestyles,” Kulan explains. “Our studio offers a space for everyone - from beginners to seasoned practitioners - to explore and deepen their yoga, meditation, and Pilates practice.”
This commitment to inclusivity is evident in their varied programme, which includes Beginners’ Yoga, Beginners’ Pilates, Ashtanga Yoga, Vinyasa, Yin & Sound, Teen Yoga, Slow Flow, Power Yoga, and Yoga for EveryBody (aka ‘chair yoga’). Mums and mums-to-be can look forward to moments of calm in Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga, and Gong Baths. The studio’s approach actively works to
dismantle preconceptions about who can practise yoga and pilates, proving that wellness has no barriers. “The truth is, if you have a body and you can breathe, you can practise yoga,” says Kulan.
ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES
Exceptional instructors play a central role in the studio’s methodology. “Our teachers bring a variety of authentic styles, ensuring
clients can find a class and instructor that resonates with them,” says Kulan. This diversity of teaching methods creates an environment where practitioners can explore and grow at their own pace. Walk through the door and you’ll find a lot more than just yoga and pilates classes. “We also offer alternative therapies like Osteopathy, Reiki Healing, Aromatherapy massage, Sports massage, Reflexology and Kinesiology,” Kulan points out, describing their beautiful treatment room selfcontained within our tranquil studio right at the centre of the high street.
EXPERT GUIDANCE, AUTHENTIC PRACTICE
For Kulan, taking over BAY YOGA Studio was about more than just business. “I took on BAY YOGA Studio because of its incredible community, built over a decade, and the diverse group of highly experienced teachers who have been instrumental in fostering that community,” he shares. His passion for supporting others on their wellness journey aligned perfectly with the studio’s established values.
BAY YOGA
January to March and September to November are particularly busy at the studio, as people commit (and re-commit!) to their wellness journeys. Asked to recommend the best time to experience the unique atmosphere he’s worked hard to curate, Kulan shares: “Most mornings and evenings, but no matter the day and time, people find their ‘zen’ as soon as they walk into the studio. There’s an authentic vibe; warm and grounded yet energetic.”
COMMUNITY HUB
BAY YOGA’s prime high street location puts it at the centre of Berkhamsted’s thriving independent business scene, something Kulan deeply appreciates. “I like the quality of the shopping. I’m proud to count as one of the excellent independent businesses in the area,” he notes.
The studio’s evolution from a specialist Ashtanga space to a comprehensive wellness destination reflects its commitment to serving the community’s changing needs. Whether you’re seeking physical practice, mental clarity, or holistic healing, you’ll find a welcoming space to explore your potential.
ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES YOU CAN TRY AT BAY YOGA STUDIO…
Osteopathy: A holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing musculoskeletal disorders through physical manipulation and stretching.
Reiki Healing: A Japanese healing technique that involves channelling energy through the hands to promote physical and emotional well-being.
Aromatherapy Massage: A therapeutic massage that combines the use of essential oils to enhance relaxation, reduce stress, and promote overall health.
Sports Massage: A type of massage therapy that targets muscles and soft tissues to improve flexibility, prevent injuries, and aid in recovery from physical activity.
Reflexology: A therapeutic practice that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears to promote health and relaxation in corresponding parts of the body.
Kinesiology: The study of body movement and applying manual muscle testing techniques to identify imbalances in the body’s systems, aiming to restore overall well-being.
Acupuncture: An ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing, improve energy flow, and relieve pain.
BAY YOGA Studio Norman House, 207-209 High Street HP4 1AD Bayoga.co.uk
Quote The Guide upon booking and enjoy 30 days of unlimited yoga & pilates for £30.
Sweet dreams are made of these
Baroque masters meet modern lullabies in a Sunday afternoon of soothing - and surprising - classical music
When did you last treat yourself to an afternoon of total relaxation?
If you’re reaching for your diary, circle February 9th for Lullabies for the Land at Berkhamsted Town Hall, which promises calm, without sending you to sleep.
Behind the Mirror concert series founder Clare O’Connell (cello) joins forces with Eleanor Turner (harp) and Natalie Klouda (violin) to explore the surprisingly rich territory of lullabies. Going far beyond nursery tunes, this trio of acclaimed musicians weaves together threads of ancient and modern compositions, from Ravel to Mendelssohn.
The centrepiece of the afternoon features pieces from Turner’s new
collection Lullabies for the Land alongside works by baroque masters you may not have heard of (Kapsberger, anyone?). But don’t let that scare you off - these are the hidden gems that make Behind the Mirror’s concerts such delightful discoveries.
O’Connell, who started the series in 2011 as a way to bring world-class music to her hometown while juggling young motherhood, has turned Behind the Mirror into Berkhamsted’s worst-kept musical secret. The concerts have evolved into a playground for musical innovation, attracting top-tier talent and contemporary composers to our beautiful High Street venues.
Whether you’re a classical music aficionado or simply in search of a soulsoothing Sunday, this 90-minute concert promises an afternoon of ethereal sounds that might change your view of lullabies forever. And with free tickets for under-18s, it’s the perfect excuse to introduce the next generation to live classical music.
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4pm, adults £25, under 18 free Town Hall, 196 High St, HP4 3AP BOOK: Behindthemirror.org
Nash Partnership redefines property services across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and South Bedfordshire
For nearly 25 years, the independent estate agency
Nash Partnership has been dedicated to sharing inspiring property stories, melding artistic vision and local expertise.
Born from owner Daniel Nash’s former career as a professional photographer, Nash Partnership applies a unique visual perspective to the local housing market.
Using his talent for showcasing outstanding features and capturing unique details through the lens, Daniel built an
estate agency where photography directly elevates properties.
BOUTIQUE WITH REACH
“We’re not just another estate agency,” Daniel emphasises.
“The company takes pride in its carefully curated portfolio. As a privately owned and independent estate agency, we choose quality over quantity – good people and good property.”
Their team shares an eye for personality in both properties and people, handling
everything from elegant townhouses to rural retreats across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and South Bedfordshire. “We only ever handle a small, select number of clients, so our clients can rely on getting our full attention,” Daniel shares. This selective approach allows Nash Partnership to provide exceptional service from Berkhamsted and Tring to charming villages like Aldbury, Ivinghoe, Potten End and Little Gaddesden. ––––
STORIES AND MEMORIES
It is Nash Partnership’s approach to marketing which sets them apart. “We get excited about every type and style of home,” Daniel explains. “We list each property with creative, engaging and individually crafted text, alongside accurate floorplans and stunning photography, all designed to make each home stand out. To tell its story.”
Nash Partnership’s marketing combines high street presence with online, social and traditional channels. “More essence than essentials. Editorial over hard-sell,” Daniel notes. “We won’t photograph the cloakroom sink just to tick a box, but we will capture what makes your home special – be it the delicate colour tones of a bedroom wall or the way the light falls in the hallway through the stained glass front door.”
CHARACTER AND WARMTH
“We see charm in every style, size, period and provenance of properties. And so do our buyers,” Daniel notes. Every property, from idyllic country cottages to midcentury modern townhouses, receives the highest attention to detail in presenting both its past and potential.
It is not just the team at Nash Partnership who understand quality. Their discerning database of buyers values authenticity and recognises potential.
“While some dream of beams and others crave the contemporary, they’re often open to possibilities,” Daniel reflects. “We love introducing them to different areas, or different eras, they might not have considered.”
The team’s detailed approach means getting under the skin of each property. “Historic townhouse? Country cottage? Pared-back retro? We’re all about the bones of the building, the soul of your home,” Daniel explains. “Whether your property has been interior designed and immaculately decorated or happily ‘lived in’ with family bustle, we’re all about understanding its unique character.”
This attention to detail has earned them glowing testimonials. As client Sharon Wilson shares: “We felt as if we were their
“We choose quality over quantity –good people and good property.”
only clients, such was the communication and friendliness demonstrated by everyone.”
ESTATE AGENCY REIMAGINED
Their deep knowledge extends beyond properties to comprehensive area expertise. The team provides invaluable insights about local areas, from historical information to school options and transport links. This understanding helps them match properties with the right
buyers – they have an innate sense for likeminded matches and won’t waste time with inappropriate viewings.
Recent successes include the sensitive marketing of St. Phillips in Berkhamsted’s Charles Street. A beautiful Victorian house set over four floors, right in the centre of town, the property was advertised far and wide, with the team even crafting an editorial for The Times, recounting the property’s history.
“We believe our clients are not just selling a house; they’re selling a home,” says Daniel.
To explore Nash Partnership’s portfolio of beautiful homes or learn more about their services, visit the Berkhamsted office, call 01442 863000 or visit Nashpartnership.co.uk.
For the Lovebirds
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with romantic gifts, from heartfelt tokens to indulgent treats, guaranteed to make hearts skip a beat.
The Berkhamsted Bookshop serves up fresh reads for every mood. Lose yourself in an ingenious mystery, chuckle through a wickedly funny comedy, or ponder mind-expanding ideas that challenge what you think you know. Your new favourite book is waiting…
EFFORTLESS
GREG MCKEOWN
£10.99
Strategist McKeown argues that we believe things are either ‘hard and important’ or ‘easy and trivial’. Proposing a new approach to productivity, he offers a third option; that not everything worth having must be so difficult to come by.
A VIEW FROM THE STARS
CIXIN LIU
£9.99
“We’re as unassuming as fireflies, yet our numbers grow like grass in spring. We sci-fi fans are people from the future.” New York Times bestselling author Cixin Liu’s short stories and nonfiction essays, side-by-side for the first time.
Enjoy 10% off all books featured in this issue at The Berkhamsted Bookshop by mentioning The Guide at time of purchase.
HOW I WON A NOBEL PRIZE
JULIUS TARANTO
£9.99
A young physicist arrives at an island sanctuary for ‘cancelled’ artists and scientists. Taranto’s dark, thought-provoking debut skewers both cancel culture warriors and their opponents through sharp satire.
EXTINCTION
DOUGLAS PRESTON
£9.99
In this breathless thriller, the race to resurrect woolly mammoths collides with eco-terrorism and murder. Jurassic Park meets climate crisis: a chillingly plausible future where human brilliance engineers its own destruction.
THE LAST MURDER AT THE END OF THE WORLD
STUART TURTON
£9.99
On an island surrounded by a poisonous fog, an isolated group of villagers must solve a murder. Turton has a knack for building highconcept mysteries that defy every convention of the genre.
MURDER MINDFULLY
KARSTEN DUSSE
£9.99
“I didn’t kill anyone until I was forty-two. That’s actually a little on the late side for my current professional environment. Admittedly, I did kill almost half a dozen in the week that followed.” This is a comedy crime novel about finding inner peace, violently.
THE REBEL’S CLINIC: THE REVOLUTIONARY LIVES OF FRANTZ FANON
ADAM SHATZ
£10.99
A revolutionary biography of Frantz Fanon, the French AfroCaribbean psychiatrist and political philosopher whose ideas sparked generations of social justice movements.
THE LIST OF SUSPICIOUS THINGS
JENNIE GODFREY
£9.99
A powerful coming-ofage story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire Ripper investigation in 1979. Follow 12-year-old Miv as she uncovers secrets about her town that some residents would prefer to remain buried.
CATASTROPHE ETHICS
TRAVIS RIEDER
£10.99
Do our personal sacrifices - skipping flights, shunning plastic, choosing childlessness - truly impact a planet in crisis? Travis Rieder cuts through the noise to reveal what acts do make a difference.
THE THREE LIVES OF CATE RAY
KATE FAGAN
£18.99
Cate Kay writes bestselling novels, but she’s really Anne Marie Callahan - a woman who vanished years ago. And she calls herself Cass. A literary mystery of hidden identities that will hook Taylor Jenkins Reid fans.
Your ultimate activity guide
Half-term ahead and your kids’ energy levels through the roof? Hertfordshire’s packed with family activities that’ll tire them out create lasting memories. From waving wands to throwing pots via a picnic in a double-decker bus, here’s your cheat sheet to adventures they’ll remember forever.
MOVIE MAGIC WANDER (AND WONDER) AT WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR, WATFORD
‘Magical Mischief’(until 28th April) celebrates the most memorable pranks and mishaps from the Harry Potter films. The whole family can explore iconic sets, discover filmmaking secrets, and toast escaping school with a pint of Butterbeer.
An exciting trampoline park for all ages, where even the coolest teens can’t help but have fun. Multiple activity
zones and play areas make it especially popular with older children.
INFO: Airhop.co.uk
SKI AT THE SNOW CENTRE, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD
Year-round skiing and snowboarding on real snow! With lessons for all levels, from beginners to advanced, kids can drop in for solo practice or join group sessions. Free parking available.
INFO: Thesnowcentre.com
FUN AT KIDZONE SOFT PLAY, BERKHAMSTED
An exciting indoor adventure playground for children up to 12 years old. A multi-level play frame features ball ponds, rope
bridges, slides, a bouncy castle, and a daring drop slide.
INFO: Djsplay.co.uk
SNACK AT MAKE BELIEVE CAFE, BERKHAMSTED
A highly unique, familyfriendly café experience inside a double-decker bus behind Tesco! Enjoy delicious homemade jacket potatoes and soups, with indoor and outdoor seating. Table service and free Wi-Fi.
Open Monday to Saturday; takeaway available.
INFO: Cafemakebelieve.com
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES NAVIGATE NATURE, TRING
Perfect for curious minds aged 2-11, the “Poo, and Other Clues” workshop combines games, crafts and various outdoor activities, teaching kids to identify the secret signs that animals leave behind.
Visitaylesbury.co.uk
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WADDESDON MANOR
Kids go free at stately home Waddesdon Manor, where they can roam in the Woodland Playground, or join a hands-on Outdoor Adventure Workshop. Children aged 6-9 can try den building, fire lighting, and animal tracking, and for older adventurers, there are various outdoor pursuits. Pre-booking essential.
Waddesdon.org.uk
ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
BECOME A VET FOR THE DAY, WHIPSNADE ZOO
A vibrant week of interactive family events celebrates the incredible work of Whipsnade Zoo’s vets. Mini-medics will don lab coats to learn how to diagnose sore throats in giraffes and tackle tigers’ tummy troubles (soft toys only, mind). Side effects may include sky-high career aspirations.
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BOOK: Whipsnadezoo.org
LAMBING WEEK AT MEAD OPEN FARM, BEDFORDSHIRE
Walk the SkyTrail, try rock climbing and see newborn lambs take their very first steps at Mead Open Farm (15th to 23rd February). With over 250 lambs expected to be born, your family might be lucky enough to see one enter the world!
BOOK: Meadopenfarm.co.uk
EXPLORE HOGSHAW FARM, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
A sprawling 44 acres of fun and discovery in the countryside. See rare UK farm animals, learn about European wildlife, and enjoy activities like pedal go-karts, adventure playgrounds, and animal encounters. Think nature trails, a farm shop, and delicious farm-to-fork meals!
INFO: Hogshawfarm.co.uk
CREATIVE CORNERS
LEARN AT TECH CAMP, BERKHAMSTED
The future of fun: kids aged 5-11 can dive into coding, engineering, and circuitry through playful projects and puzzles. Suitable for beginners through to tech wizards, expert teachers make STEM
accessible and exciting, with interactive courses designed to spark creativity while building essential computer science skills.
INFO: Nextthing.education
TRY POTTERY AT POTSTOP, KNEBWORTH
Whether you’re creating baby footprints, organising a children’s party, or looking to catch up with other parents over coffee, Potstop provides everything you need to plan an inventive day out. Can’t face leaving the house? Order a kit online to prove staying home can be just as fun.
INFO: Potstop.co.uk
Managing your willpower battery
Motivation can wane as we navigate February’s short, dark days. Local psychologist and well-being expert Suzy Reading recommends prioritising “health non-negotiables”
Being well-nourished in general helps us to achieve all our goals - from fitness to work. Don’t feel dispirited if your New Year’s resolutions feel hard to keepsimply take a minute to recharge your willpower battery. Identify your “health non-negotiables” - those basic habits that form the scaffolding of well-being - and give yourself time to prioritise them. That could mean rolling out your yoga mat and doing some floor-based stretches, wrapping up warm for a short walk around the block to get fresh air and headspace, scheduling a few early nights, upping your hydration, or carving out just ten minutes of ‘you’ time every day for your skincare routine to de-stress.
STRATEGIES TO BOOST YOUR WILLPOWER
• Make incremental changes rather than sweeping ones
• Reduce daily decision-making where possible
• Remove temptations from your environment
• Be open about your goals so people don’t
unknowingly tempt you
• Practice self-forgiveness over self-criticism
IN MOMENTS OF TEMPTATION, TRY...
• Eating something life-giving when energy dips (fruit, nuts)
• Getting outside for daily doses of daylight
• Scheduling deliberate rest periods
• Watching something uplifting
• Moving your body (gentle stretches count!)
• Using kind self-talk, perhaps using a pet name instead of “I”!
Above all, February is a time to be kind to yourself. Sometimes, the most revolutionary act is permitting ourselves to move slowly, reflect deeply, and approach change with gentleness rather than force.
Follow Suzy on Instagram: @suzyreading
Suzy’s new book Self-care for Winter is hot off the press; find it along with Suzy’s Little Book of Self-care and Rest to Reset at The Berkhamsted Book Shop.
Table for two
From the seductive flicker of a candlelit Greek taverna to sparkling Art Deco glamour at a champagne bar, Berkhamsted’s dining scene shines bright on Valentine’s Day.
THE KINGS ARMS
They had us at ‘apple tarte tatin sharing dessert’, but The Kings Arms’ à la carte menu of classics and ‘extra special’ specials sounds equally tempting. Push the boat out with a bottle of La Cuvee Champagne, and you’ll enjoy £10 off. Most exciting is the brilliant ‘Stay For Free’ deal, available over Valentine’s - simply spend £120 in the bar and restaurant and you can waft upstairs to bed, at no extra charge. Dial up the decadence by adding salted caramel chocolate truffles (and more champagne).
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6 - 10pm
147 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 3HL 01442 866595
Kingsarmsberkhamsted.co.uk
OLIVE TREE
We love this independently-owned taverna, bringing traditional Greek food to Berkhamsted - think tsakistes and Kalamata olives, smoked aubergine and crispy fried calamari. On Valentine’s Day you can pick from a selection of recipes passed down by the owner’s grandmother. Complete your meal with wines carefully selected from around the globe, including, naturally, some stellar Greek varietals. ––––
5pm - 11.30pm
270 High St, HP4 1AQ
01442 876726
Olivetreeberko.co.uk
THE HIGHWAYMAN
From 12th-15th February, romantic specials at The Highwayman will include a rich crab & scallop mousse agnolotti, a hearty herb-crusted rack of lamb, and an Instagram-worthy assiette of soufflé. There’s a competition running to win a magnum of Lanson Rosé, which we reckon is more than enough reason to stop byfingers crossed you’ll be the pair popping it by the crackling fireplace. ––––
Mon-Sat 12pm - 9.45pm (last sitting) Valentine’s time not specified 262 High Street, Berkhamsted, HP4 1AQ 01442 285480
Highwaymanberkhamsted.com ––––
THE GATSBY
You can’t go wrong with some live music on Valentine’s Day, and The Gatsby’s Art Deco glamour turns up a notch with an enchanting live piano performance on the 14th. Start your evening at the champagne and cocktail bar, before sitting
THE HIGHWAYMAN
to try a curated menu of contemporary Mediterranean dishes - think meze plates and beautifully cooked grilled meats.
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6.30 - 9.30pm
97 High Street, Berkhamsted, HP4 2DG 01442 870403
Thegatsby.net
ZAZA
Zaza is proving set menus don’t have to be stuffy with their three-course Valentine’s feast. The menu offers genuine choicedive into starters like crispy mezzaluna croccante or an indulgent goat’s cheese tart, before twirling your fork through fettucine giardino or rich trofie al salmone. Round off your evening with either a silky berry panna cotta or Zaza’s classic tiramisu.
Elegant Silver Jewellery with a personal touch www.marie-blanche.co.uk
111 High Street, Berkhamsted, HP4 2JF
Happy Woofers
Dog walking services that cater to your dog's needs.
Dog sitting in the comfort of your home to minimise stress.
Convenient drop-in services for feeding, playtime, and companionship.
email: sayhello@happywoofers.co.uk 07512 228 324
www.happywoofers.co.uk
Further afield No excuses, the post-Christmas hibernation period is over. It’s time to explore and try something new. Ease yourself out to these spots, just an hour from home…
MEET THE MINI PIGS AT KEW LITTLE PIGS FARM
We’ve sniffed out the ultimate half-term adventure: meeting miniature pigs at an award-winning farm in Old Amersham. Choose between a 90-minute Piggy Pet & Play (£25), where you’ll groom and interact with these affectionate creatures, or the four-hour Pig Enthusiast experience (£75), where you’ll complete farm tasks. All visits include a farm tour, expert guidance, and plenty of photo opportunities. Browse the gift shop for souvenirs (warning: may result in explaining to your partner why there’s a micro pig in the garden - some pigs are on sale, too). If you’re serious about taking one home, a three-hour guide to pig keeping is available for £100. Remember: a micro pig is for life, not just for Instagram…
promises a vibrant celebration of live music while supporting the essential work of Essex and Herts Air Ambulance - our region’s lifeline in critical emergencies. From 6.30 pm ‘til late, immerse yourself in an eclectic showcase of talented performers in this intimate historic venue. The £15 ticket price directly contributes to maintaining our local air ambulance service, which responds to over 2,500 lifethreatening emergencies annually. Enjoy drinks from the theatre bar while mingling with fellow music enthusiasts. A perfect opportunity to make a meaningful difference to our community, and meet like-minded new friends.
£15, 6.30pm - 11pm
Boxmoor Playhouse
72 St John’s Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1NP
BOOK: Boxfest.uk
FEBRUARY 23
CANICROSS CHALLENGER AT WENDOVER WOODS
Sessions run at 10am, 12pm and 2pm. Booking essential
Old Amersham Farm, High St Amersham HP7 0HR
BOOK: Kewlittlepigs.com
BOXFEST ‘25:
MUSIC FOR A VITAL
CAUSE
Transform a dreary winter evening into something extraordinary at the charming Boxmoor Playhouse. BOXFEST ‘25
You and your dog, against the clock! Transform your morning jog into an exhilarating adventure with the Canicross Challenger Series, where you’ll run wild with your four-legged friend through the Chilterns. This beginner-friendly 5K offers the perfect opportunity to bond with your pooch while getting fit. The staggered-start races ensure a calm environment for dogs of all temperaments - perfect for both social butterflies and more reserved pups. Don’t have the gear? Try the post-race guided runs (£15) with demo equipment available. Every finisher receives a bespoke medal, and there’s even a Yellow Dog scheme for dogs needing a little space. Arrive early for pre-race coffee and chats!
£20, 9.30am start. Ages 18+. Dogs must be 12+ months
Wendover Woods, Upper Icknield Way Aston Clinton, Aylesbury, HP22 5NQ
BOOK: Theentrypoint.co.uk
A promise of Spring
February brings mixed weather, with winter’s darkness feeling endless. Yet, as days lengthen, spring’s promise draws near. Local florist Julie Woodford shares seasonal gardening tips.
SIGNS OF LIFE
In the garden, once-dormant beds stir as early bulbs break through the soil, bringing welcome colour and fragrance to lift our spirits.
Wildlife awakens as garden birds pair up and prepare for nesting. Queen bumblebees emerge from hibernation, seeking energy from pollen-rich flowers like primroses, crocus, and grape hyacinths- vital sustenance for early pollinators.
ROSES & ROMANCE
February brings Valentine’s Day, a celebration rooted in Roman times when red roses symbolised love and passion. While roses in the UK lie dormant (making now the ideal time for pruning), consider giving a potted rose instead of imported flowers with heavy carbon footprints. Planted in a garden or container, a potted rose offers lasting beauty and scent for
years to come. David Austin Roses, available locally at Woods of Berkhamsted, are renowned for their exquisite charm.
FLOWER OF THE MONTH
February’s scarce, delicate flowers are precious. While dwarf iris, hellebores, and snakeskin fritillaries charm, this month belongs to the snowdrop (Galanthus - “milk flower”). These pure white, nodding flowers on slender stems symbolise hope and look elegant in simple bud vases.
FEBRUARY GARDENING TASKS
1. Organise seeds, plan growing schedules and prepare containers and compost
2. Sow hardy annuals like ammi majus, snapdragons, and scabious, plus perennials like poppies and delphiniums—sow sparingly to avoid leggy seedlings
3. Cut back ornamental grasses that sheltered winter insects
4. Divide and replant snowdrops and aconites after flowering
5. Select summer-flowering bulbs and tubers for spring planting
6. Mulch beds to suppress weeds and protect roots, adding organic matter and gravel for clay soil improvement
7. Month-end: Apply balanced fertiliser to boost perennial spring growth
With over 2,000 varieties of snowdrops, February presents the perfect opportunity to visit winter gardens and admire sweeping drifts that rival summer meadows—proving beauty thrives even in winter.
Follow Julie’s flower-growing journey on Instagram: @madgeandivyflowers
Madgeandivyflowers.co.uk
How to eat for libido
Revitalise your intimacy with expert advice from nutritionist and hormone specialist Hannah Alderson. Discover libido-boosting foods to enhance connection and balance hormones.
Nutrition plays a vital role in supporting optimal hormonal function, which directly influences libido. While no single food will instantly ignite desire, maintaining a diet that supports overall hormonal health is key to enhancing libido over time. By focusing on diet, gut health, lifestyle, and overall wellness, you can create a strong foundation for balanced hormones and improved sexual health.
For those looking to give libido a more immediate boost, certain foods may have a potential impact. While scientific evidence is still emerging, here are a few options worth considering:
MACA POWDER
This nutrient-packed root is rich in B2, iron, calcium, and flavonoids, known for its ability to promote antioxidants. A 2002 study concluded that maca could improve sexual desire, and a 2015 study suggested it may help reduce sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women on antidepressants.
Maca is typically consumed as a powder and can be easily added to smoothies or oatmeal.
FENUGREEK
Often associated with supporting breastmilk production, fenugreek has also been shown to increase sexual arousal and desire in women. Add fenugreek seeds or supplements into curries, pickles, sauces or yoghurt.
OYSTERS
A classic aphrodisiac, oysters are rich in zinc, a mineral essential for hormonal function and libido. While scientific backing for their libido-enhancing properties is limited, their high zinc content supports overall hormonal health, which is crucial for sexual function.
GINSENG
Used in traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng has long been reputed as an aphrodisiac. It’s believed to enhance sexual behaviour and treat dysfunction, making it a popular natural remedy. Add powder to smoothies, or make Ginseng tea with lemon and honey.
Boosting libido involves more than just adding specific foods to your diet. Research shows that hormone imbalances often stem from genetic and environmental factors, such as dietinduced inflammation, elevated cortisol, insulin resistance, gut dysbiosis, and exposure to endocrine disruptors.
For lasting results, nurture your microbiome by balancing blood sugar levels, and prioritising colourful fruits and vegetables.
Rather than relying on any single food or supplement, adopt this multifaceted approach to create a happy home for your hormones and improve libido over time.
For more follow @hannahaldersonnutrition Hannahalderson.com
My Perfect Weekend
A peek into the weekends of Berkhamsted locals, from Friday cocktails to Sunday lie-ins. Graphic designer and photographer Steve Lancefield shares his favourite spots for breakfasting, biking and browsing in Berkhamsted.
I SPECIALISE IN…
I’m a graphic designer, mainly for museums, I’m currently working on a Holocaust memorial museum in Lithuania. I’m also a commercial photographer.
I’M FROM…
Birmingham, but I went to school in Hemel, found my first flat here and stayed—for over 30 years now. I live just off the high street, with my wife Louise, and our two cats.
BERKHAMSTED IS….
A very friendly town, with a lot of history, what’s left of a castle, lots of independent
shops, a delightful cinema… and a totem pole. I love its proximity to London, but having the countryside on the doorstep. And the neighbours are alright too.
FRIDAY
A few drinks in the pub with friendsThe Riser in the warmer months, or The Lamb. Then home, to get the fire on, and cook. I mostly cook at home, though the odd takeaway from Lots Of Rice or Thai Cottage is always a nice welcome.
SATURDAY
Coffee, first - Fred and Ginger is my favourite - then perhaps a pastry from Nena Bakery. We’ll catch the occasional matinee at The Rex, or head out for some food with friends; we love The Alford Arms, The Trooper, Rosanna’s or the garden at Lussmanns in the summer.
SUNDAY
I like browsing in Cook & Butler or Home & Colonial, and the Italian deli, Mercurio’s. I like to go for a ride out on my old classic Lambretta and meet up with mate for a pint somewhere in the countryside. Maybe a walk or a bike ride up to Ashridge. I’m legitimately old enough to own an electric mountain bike now, which helps with the hills around here…
BERKO TRADITIONS…
I like the Christmas lights turn on and the Remembrance Sunday parade; it’s nice to see the town busy and bump into neighbours.
GOOD TO KNOW…
Try the sausage baps from Simmons.
ONE LAST THING…
The Antiques & Vintage Market is always a good browse.
Whether your property has been interior designed, or crafted through family life over the years, our boutique estate agency sells beautiful, interesting homes and historic properties across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and South Bedfordshire.
Idyllic country cottage or mid-century modern in the middle of town, get in touch and let us bring your home’s story to life.
