BROMLEY & CHISLEHURST DECEMBER 2014

ABSOLUTELY BROMLEY & CHISLEHURST

DECEMBER 2014 / £3.95

WHO’S NEXT?

STRANGER THAN FICTION

ROGER DALTREY ON 50 YEARS OF THE WHO

BUSTING THE MYTH OF NEW YORK

GET STUFFED

LOCAL CHEFS SHARE THEIR YULETIDE RECIPES

Mirror

ALL YOU NEED FOR A FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS

Mirror

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From the Bromley property experts We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Should you and your family be thinking of moving now or in the New Year, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free valuation.

Andrew Roberts Chislehurst Branch 020 8295 4900

Paul Reid Bromley Branch 020 8315 5544 Eddie Youds Beckenham Branch 020 8663 4433

Tony Wood Orpington Branch 01689 661 400 Michelle Briley Locksbottom Branch 01689 882 988

Chris Salt West Wickham Branch 020 8432 7373

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Dece mbe r 2014

58 05 EDITOR’S LETTER c u lt u r e 12 WHAT'S ON Diary dates for December

15 16

WELL READ

Dulwich Books' official round-up of the best reads of 2014

NO SUBSTITUTE

Roger Daltrey talks exclusively to Absolutely about 50 years of The Who

st yle 22 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL Absolutely's winter essentials

35 30 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

December's beauty news, best buys and luxe gifts for the party season

33 HEAVEN SCENT

Lawrence Roullier White's guide to finding the perfect perfume present

food & drink 37 CHEF'S SPECIAL

Helena Drakakis discovers what local chefs will be cooking this Christmas

41

TABLE TALK

Local food news and recipes, all with a festive twist

interiors 46 HOME TRUTHS

Top tips on sprucing up your living space from Lucinda Sandford

49 GIFT GUIDE

Our guide to the best luxury items

k i d s & e d u c at i o n 52 KIDS CONFIDENTIAL C o v e r i m a g e l a n c a s t e r pa r i s l a n ca ste r-p a r i s.com

Jerome Monahan rounds up the local education news

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21 55 APPLE FOR TEACHER

Celestria Noel uncovers the competitive gift-giving in private schools

t r av e l 58 A TALE OF TWO CITIES

Edwina Langley discovers the truth beneath the hype in New York City

PROPERTY 76 PROPERTY NEWS

News and views on the area

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 14:20

Jermyn Street │ Sloane Street │ Blomfield Street │ Canary Wharf │ Westfield, White City │ Selfridges │ Peter Jones, Sloane Square St. Pancras International Station │ Waterloo Station

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EDITOR’S

letter

E

Each year, the beginning of the festive period seems to creep ever further into November, with panettones appearing on shelves and the John Lewis advert playing on a loop; each year the public outcry (or low-level grumbling - we are British, after all) grows louder. My confession? As soon as the first strains of White Christmas reach my ears, I get childishly excited and start counting down the days till I can don my festive jumper, so this issue is dedicated to those who are already counting down with me.

Our festive issue kicks off with an exclusive interview on page 16 with a man who needs no introduction: Roger Daltrey, lead singer of the greatest rock band of all time, The Who. He talks to me about his charity work, his partnership with Pete Townshend and why, after 50 years, there’s still no stopping them.

Turn to page 15 to discover Dulwich Books’ round up of the best reads of 2014 while our perfume expert-in-residence, Lawrence Roullier White, presents the comprehensive guide to choosing the right scent gift this Christmas.

Turkey dinners are all well and good but for those looking to try something a little more adventurous this year, Helena Drakakis finds out what a few of South East London’s local chefs will be cooking up for Christmas. For ginger scones, truffled brie and more, turn to page 37.

Whether or not you're utterly caught up in Christmas or ready to punch the next radio that blares out Band Aid, I wish you the merriest of Christmases and the happiest of New Years.

Joyeux Noël!u

Catherine Hales Editor

Email: catherine@zest-media.com Twitter: @Absolutely_mags Facebook: AbsolutelyMagazines

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DECEMBER 2014

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EDITOR CATHERINE HALES EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELIZABETH HUTTON EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS JEROME MONAHAN, HELENA DRAKAKIS, LAWRENCE ROULLIER WHITE SENIOR ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER LYNSEY SAKER TRAINEE ACCOUNT MANAGER EMILY HAST COMMERCIAL MANAGER TANYA SAMUEL KEY ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR TAMSIN LUCK PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY EDITOR HUGO HUNTER ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE MID WEIGHT DESIGNER TAHIR KAPUCU PROPERTY EDITORIAL DESIGNER ANDREW MAVIN DESIGNER EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN COPY CONTROLLER CHRISTINE MANN FINANCE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS GREG HUGHES, ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN For editorial enquiries please email: catherine@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing christina@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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Fo l l ow Us O n T wi t t e r @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS Fa c e b o o k ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

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10 Things We

ABSOLUTELY

CHRISTKINDL

The beautifully illustrated story of two Bavarian children by Viola M. Jones is made into the perfect clutch for Christmas Eve shenanigans by Olympia Le-Tan. £1,010; theoutnet.com

PUPPY LOVE

Longchamps' iconic Piliage bag turned 20 this year. To celebrate, Alexa Chung returns to front the campaign for a second season. Embodying the casual sophistication of the brand, this time she's joined by a little Jack Russell pup. £765; longchamp.com

TWINKLE TOES

It’s the season to sparkle so slip on these Glitter Kitties and dance the night away. £425; charlotteolympia.com

NO WAY, MOËTT

How anyone could make it through the festivities without a bottle of Moët & Chandon we don't know. Get yours from the great 31Dover. £30; 31dover.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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ABSOLUTELY / LOVES

SILKEN DREAMS

Inspired by the lounging pajamas worn by Coco Chanel and her contemporaries in the 1920s, these gorgeous sets are what we’ll be waking up in on Christmas day. £330; oliviavonhalle.com

GOLDEN FLAME

Capturing the musky smells of the Chinese herbal market, this cinnamoninfused scent is encased in a hand-spun brass mould – the perfect gift for any house-proud gent. £55; tomdixon.net

ON BOARD

It wouldn't be Christmas without a board game.

This year, play in style with this crystal and crocodile backgammon set. £7,900; lalique.com

FESTIVE SPARKLE

Reworking vintage pieces into bold, statement-making accessories, Iosselliani are an Italian power-duo worth keeping an eye on. This Christmas, we're after the gorgeously festive Full Metal necklace. £393; farfetch.com

TIME PLEASE

This glittering and feminine Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch in rhodium-finished white gold and diamonds is what we’re hoping to find in our Christmas stockings. £108,000; cartier.co.uk

CLEVER MAN

For a unique and useful gift, give this USB MAN who can hold up to 2GB of data at a time. If only every man was as useful. £55; gift-library.com

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DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 10:52

RAFFLES

49 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath, SE3 0TJ Tel: 020 8852 0018

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p.12

NO SUBSTITUTE: ROGER DALTREY ON 50 YEARS OF THE WHO

p. 16

© MADAME PERIPETIE, THE ROAD TO ELYSIUM, HEIST GALLERY

> WHAT’S ON

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DECEMBER 2014

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CHRISTMAS MARKET

Un t i l 24 D e ce m b e r G re e nw ich Marke t orget the hellish high street this Christmas and head to Greenwich F Market where stall holders will be selling handcrafted gifts and festive goodies.

With such brilliant variety you're sure find something truly special.

© MADAME PERIPETIE

◆ Greenwich Market, SE10; greenwichmarketlondon.com

SADDLE UP!

The Road to Elysium

14 D ecem b er Aro u n d G reen w i ch ime to grab your chaps, chaps! The T most bizarre race to ever grace the streets of London is back. All proceeds go to the Demelza Children’s Hospice, so dust off your costume and get cantering. ◆ King William Walk, SE1; pantohorserace.org

Un til 12 Jan uary Hei st G aller y

The pictures on show at Heist this month tell of stories conjured from the imagination of a post-apocalyptic world in the distant future. Sound bizarre? It is. Each piece depicts an Arcadian tale through beautifully dreamy fairy tale sets and arresting visions.

Mystical, artistic and inspiring.

41-43 Linden Gardens, W2; heist-online.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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CHRISTMAS WITH THE BAND BAN

1 1 D ecem b er S t Alfe ge Ch u rc h his popular annual event sees the T Royal Greenwich Brass Band play a seasonal selection of songs conducted

by Stephan Maw. With classics such as Stille Nacht (Silent Night) and Frosty the Snowman this concert will leave you full of festive joy. ◆ Greenwich Church Street, SE10; trinitylaban.ac.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE / WHAT'S ON

WONDERLAND

6- 24 D ecem b er T h e Co n s e r v ato i re t’s guaranteed to be a white I Christmas in Blackheath with snow being brought to your doorstep by John Payne and The Conservatoire. The Arctic Explorer inspired installation will see snowflakes fall on the hour every hour while the sound of carols fill the air. With a play area, mini Christmas market, mulled wine and yummy treats, adults will have just as much fun as the children.

The perfect backdrop for a family Christmas together. ◆ Free, 10-4pm; 19-21 Lee Road, SE3; conservatoire.org.uk

Winter Fayre

THE CUTTY SARK

7 December T h e Ec olog y Pa rk

Join the Ecology Park's wreath making workshop and create a beautiful piece of festive decor using the willow cut from the lush greenery of the park itself. After completing the wintery quiz trail, enjoy hot mince pies, barbequed food and a mug of steaming mulled wine before heading home to hang up your creation.

6 an d 7 D e ce mb er Cutty S ark oin the historians at the Royal J Museum Greenwich and create a Christmas harbour scene with paper ships upon a shimmery sea. Be inspired by the Cutty Sark itself and find out how the impressive ship sailed over one million miles through wild waters and high winter storms. Then take your ship home and turn into a lovely Christmas card or hang up as beautiful handmade decoration. ◆ King William Walk, SE10; rmg.co.uk

Thames Path, SE10; greenwichecologypark.com

DON'T MISS 12 December; Oliver's Piano Bar

WILD CARD fter playing at The London Jazz Festival, the organ trio Wild Card will be performing at our favourite local late night cellar club, Oliver’s Jazz Bar. As unpretentious and cool as the venue itself, Wild Card are a Nu-Jazz band with a melting-pot of musical ideas. With their success deriving from a unique combination of urban rhythms and groove, their cool

A

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Latino jazz attitude and sophisticated European vibe means that you'll soon find yourself dancing the night away to their happy-go-lucky beats. A super smooth evening of the most incredible funk, let your hair down and get moving to the music. u 9 Nevada Street, SE10; oliversjazzbar.co.uk

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 13:59

TIERRA VERDE

ARTISAN AND ORGANIC

FOODS FROM SPAIN

We specialize in organic and artisan foods and wines from Spain, including jamon Iberico and unďŹ ltered extra virgin olive oil.

61 NORTH CROSS ROAD LONDON SE22 9ET | 02036451012 | tierraverde.co.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE / COLUMNS BOOK PICKS

CHRISTMAS LIST Chloe Mavrommatis and the team at Dulwich Books recommend their selection of sensational reads – enjoy!

REVIEW SAPIENS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF HUMANKIND

LONDON: THE INFORMATION CAPITAL

Yuval No ah Harar i £2 5 Vi ntage

James Cheshire and Oliver Uberti £25 Pen guin

This history of humankind covers from our very beginnings to the modern day, all told in a wise and immensely readable fashion.

Fun and fascinating infographics about the city we call home. Flick through in an idle moment, or get caught up for an hour.

WE WERE LIARS

LONELY PLANET THE WORLD: A TRAVELLER’S GUIDE TO THE PLANET

E. Lockhart

£7.99 Hot Ke y B ooks

For any and all teenagers in your lives, We Were Liars is one of the best young adult books of the year. Eerie and engrossing with an ending that will leave you reeling.

£22.99 L o n ely Pla n et

THE NARROW ROAD TO THE DEEP NORTH

Laid out in classic Lonely Planet guidebook style, this book contains the countries of the world in alphabetical order, with travel tips and top recommendations for sightseeing in each.

R i chard F l anagan £16.99 Vi ntage

T HE SLEEPER AND

The Booker winner is harrowing, moving, and spectacular. For all the literary bookworms in your life.

THE PECULIAR LIFE OF A LONELY POSTMAN

THE SPINDLE

Neil G aiman £1 2.99 B lo o msbur y

Beautiful gift edition of the fairytale from Neil Gaiman and Chris Riddell. You’ll find it hard to actually give it away.

D e ni s The r i au l t £7.99 Hes pe r us

THE GIRL WITH ALL THE GIFTS

A strange yet wonderful tale of obsession reminiscent of Haruki Murakami and Jean Giono that sucks you into the melancholy and monotonous world of a postman with a questionable hobby.

M R Care y £7.99 O rbit

ANIMALIUM

HOLD YOUR OWN

Je nny Bro o m £2 0 Te mpl ar Publ i s hi ng

Kate Tempest £9.99 Ma cmilla n

Museum-style guide to the natural world. Lush colour plate illustrations of a variety of species from around the world will fire the imagination of budding David Attenboroughs everywhere.

The latest poetry collection from Kate Tempest blends Greek mythology with tales of life growing up in South London in verses that hypnotically tug at every heartstring and emotion.

Completely unexpected, edge of the seat thriller. Put all your genre expectations on hold and prepare to be moved and surprised by this fantastic novel.

Dulwich Books, 6 Croxted Road, SE21; dulwichbooks.co.uk

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SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE Directed by Declan Donnellan

Noë l Cow a rd T h e at re

T

he curtains open on a young William Shakespeare, suffering from writer’s block and repeating ad nauseam ‘Shall I compare thee to… to...’ (many English GCSE students wish he had never finished that comparison). Despite being commissioned by two separate theatres, the young playwright is short of inspiration until, during his desperate attempts to pen the latest hit (working title, Romeo and Ethel the Pirate’s Daughter), he claps eyes on Viola de Lesseps. Viola is a noblewoman with a passion for the theatre who is simultaneously disguising herself as a boy to act in Shakespeare’s own troupe. As their love story unfolds it is mirrored in Shakespeare’s own writing, turning from burgeoning romance to doomed passion, culminating in an eventful performance of Romeo and Juliet.

Tom Bateman’s Shakespeare perfectly captures the Romeo-esque flightiness and hopelessly romantic nature of the young writer, while Lucy Briggs-Owen is mesmerising and effortlessly funny as the spirited Viola. Although buoyed by this strong leading couple, the rest of the cast elevate the performance from charming to truly excellent. David Oakes’s suave Kit Marlowe steals every scene he walks into and Ferdy Roberts as the ruthless moneyman Fennyman shows perfectly how the theatre can get under the skin of even the most brutish and uncultured. More than anything else, Shakespeare in Love is an affectionate send-up of theatre itself. u by Catherine Hales

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 14:49

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No Substitute

The Who frontman Roger Daltrey talks exclusively to Absolutely about music, charity and why the best is yet to come I n t e r v i e w c at h e r i n e h a l e s

I

t feels both impossible and redundant to try to introduce Roger Daltrey. His career with The Who (you may have heard of them) is the stuff of legends and is now in its fiftieth year, the band having been started by Daltrey in 1964 with John Entwistle and Pete Townshend. After the original drummer quit the band, Keith Moon joined up creating the ensemble that would go on to become the best (and loudest) rock and roll band in the world.

Known for his energy onstage and his powerful vocals, not to mention his now iconic microphone spin, Daltrey and the other members of The Who skyrocketed to fame in the 1960s propelled by his charisma and extraordinary voice and by the undeniable genius of Pete Townshend’s songwriting.

Although not always a peaceful partnership, the combination of Daltrey and Townshend has sustained The Who’s success through the tragic loss of two of its members and has seen them embark on their UK tour, The Who Hits 50!, followed by their US tour of the same name next year. Their last UK date is in London at the O2 on 17th and 18th December and when

I ask why they have chosen this venue, Mr Daltrey’s answer is immediate, ‘The O2 is the best place to play in the UK as there are so few big arenas. It’s one of the only places designed for music and even though it can fit 20,000 there, the audience isn’t that far from the stage.’ It’s an odd sensation speaking to Roger Daltrey on the phone. On the one hand, I am aware to the point of distraction that I am talking to one of the greatest rock singers of all time but on the other, he comes across as so down to earth and lacking in airs and graces that I feel put at my ease. ‘The only other places than the parks are Wembley which is horrible and the Royal Albert Hall,’ Roger (Roger!) continues, ‘but to play to the same amount of people in two nights at the O2 would take two weeks there.’

Born in Hammersmith and raised in Acton, Daltrey’s voice retains its west London roots and no nonsense tone whilst simultaneously drawing you in, making you want to know him. Even over the phone, his magnetism and sincerity is undeniable. ‘Its written in the songs and you can’t fake the music,’ he says when I ask him how he maintains the energy on stage that has become his trademark. ‘As

I GET on stage, I’m 20 years old. I NEVER GOT PAST 20 years old TO BE HONEST

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ARTS & CULTURE / PROFILE

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DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 14:02

Pianolobby is based in SE London and we would love to help you realise your musical dreams and match you with your ideal upright piano.Come and try our beautiful range of Yamaha, Kawai,Steinberg, Kemble and Barber pianos.

For more information please contact Julian on 020 3645 3930 or email julian@pianolobby.co.uk www.pianolobby.co.uk

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W

NO O N

PE

Angel’s

AT EN

VI

Tea Room Christmas Shopping Nights on Saturday 6th December and Thursday 18th December

If you like shopping and having your cake too, then this is the perfect night out for you! Mulled wine served with mince pies and Christmas cakes and a wonderful selection of vintage and new gifts from Vien’s Christmas Shop

87 Church Road, Crystal Palace SE19 020 8653 6943

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ARTS & CULTURE / PROFILE I ALWAYS knew it would last... I KNEW IN MY BONES that we would KEEP GOING soon as we start doing that we’ll be done, we’ll stop forever.’ He continues, ‘When I get on stage I’m 20 years old. I never got past 20 years old to be honest [laughs].

The mirror lies!’ When I attempt to probe into the reasons behind the unprecedented success and longevity of The Who, Daltrey is quick to assign the credit. ‘We’ve been very lucky but its also down to Pete. The style Pete writes in is classically based even though its rock and roll and it hasn’t really aged. The words are thoughtful and insightful, they speak to everyone no matter what age and Pete had the courage, the balls, to express the things that other people weren’t saying but what everyone was feeling.’ He adds, without a hint of false modesty or self-consciousness, ‘It’s what music should be.’ I make the mistake of suggesting that perhaps his audience has aged with him, a notion that he is quick to rebut. ‘It’s this lazy journalistic thing of writing and talking about how old everyone has got, “Oh, wrinkles!” It doesn’t matter! In 1964, playing at the Marquee Club we were playing with people like Muddy Waters and Smokey Robinson, all in their 50s and the very best at what they did. Rock and roll’s the same, with the best people age doesn’t matter.’

In truth, age does not seem to have slowed Roger Daltrey down one bit. As well as extensive touring and producing new material with Townshend, The Who

frontman is also deeply involved with the Teenage Cancer Trust, a charity he founded 25 years ago. ‘When I started the charity I never dreamed it would get to this point. We started it because that age group are always forgotten. They worked out that children need teddies and toys, adults prefer a lounger and TV but this whole group ended up so isolated.’ As he gets into his stride, the passion in his voice is evident. ‘Being told you have this disease, especially in your teens, is psychologically devastating and we worked out that the best thing for a young person diagnosed with cancer is to introduce them to other people in the same situation. Fifteen years ago we had four units, now we have 28.’ The charity has also become known for its fantastic concerts held annually at the Royal Albert Hall and which have attracted the very best of the entertainment industry.

This year’s lineup included Ed Sheeran, Suede and The Cure. ‘The TCT is 25 years old. Its the 15th anniversary of the live shows at the Royal Albert Hall and 50 years of the Who. That’s an achievement.’

I have to agree.

At the mention of the band’s anniversary, I ask Roger whether or not he has plans for after the tour. ‘We’re making another

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record at the moment – for some reason we feel revitalised!’ he says, laughing. Did he ever imagine at the beginning The Who would still be going fifty years on? His answer surprises me. ‘I always knew it would last. Even though sometimes it felt like it would end in a week, I knew in my bones that we would keep going.’ Again, there is no lack of deference to his partner in music when he speaks of the band’s continuing success. ‘I always say this: Pete has the intellect to write the best music he’s ever done. He’s like those genius composers who only got better.’ Then, with an impish note in his voice he confides, ‘We’re not going away, much to some people’s annoyance. We’ll still be up there, making that racket we’ve become famous for.’

Well after our phone call is over, a particular phrase from the interview rings in my mind: ‘That’s the spirit of music - no one’s going through the motions.’

As I think about it, I realise that’s what has made them great and is what people watching The Who see today; age doesn’t matter in music when passion, focus and brilliance endure. And that, of course, is just so rock and roll. u Peninsula Square, SE10; theo2.com

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 14:02

As the nights draw in and the temperature drops we hear the first whispers of Christmas. For us, that means big roasts, red wine & mince pies and as always, our full menu will be available during the festive season. It also means it’s time to get on with planning your Christmas party!

020 8670 4052

|

56 Westow Hill, Crystal Palace, London SE19 1RX

|

www.joannas.uk.com

@JoannasRest

Joanna's_Dul.indd 2

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> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL: CHRISTMAS PARTYWEAR ESSENTIALS

p. 22

THAT'S A WRAP: COSY COUTURE

p. 24

HEAR ME ROAR House of Hackney have proven time and again that when it comes to fashion, more really is more. Packed with loud patterns and bold animal prints, their current collection has us convinced. houseofhackney.com

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DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:13

st y l e C e n t r a l

Paint the town red in our favourite Christmas partywear essentials Wo r d s h e l e n b a r o n

LIBERTY STYLE From

Frances Lincoln Publishing

his delightful book surveys eras of taste, from the T various Aesthetic and Arts & Crafts to Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Georgian revival. The thread linking them is Liberty & Co, the West End department store and design house that has served as a byword for style and innovation since its inception in 1875, when founder Arthur Lasenby Liberty first set up shop. The son of a draper, Arthur’s aim was to change the way we look at fashion and interiors by promoting interesting and innovative design.

Liberty & Co soon became the epicentre of London style – Oscar Wilde himself shopped there for Japanese silk – and Martin Wood’s new book provides an exquisite overview of the store’s history in over 200 colour photographs and illustrations. ◆

Thigh Time allsaints

● LIBERTY STYLE £35, Frances Lincoln Publishing, out now

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Knitwear needn’t be dour when you can dress it up with oh-so-ontrend thigh-high boots. More Barbarella than Pretty Woman, we’re coveting this lush ‘Saris’ pair from All Saints. A bit more bang for your office buck considering they’ll take you from day to night – just swap the chunky knits for an LBD. £298; allsaints.com

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FASHION / NOTES

CANDY CRUSH Alexa Jay

Stocked in Anthropologie, Alexa Jay handbags and accessories are available in a variety of shades, including pretty pastel combinations. Perfect for adding a pop of colour to your LBD...

Pastel Mini Clutch, £145; alexajay.com

party pieces

OH SO FAUX net-a-porter

01

The reign of faux fur continues, as exemplified by the new coat collection from Shrimps. The biker jacket is our pick – crafted from brushed felt and interwoven with wool for warmth and durability.

And it’s not all serious – the lightblue faux fur collar adds a typically playful accent. £495; net-a-porter.com

02

03

TOWERING INFERNO mytheresa

What could be better for party season than a towering pair of flame-red velvet pumps from Fendi?

Pretty as a picture, they cast your mind back to the golden age of cinema. Think The Red Shoes and The Wizard of Oz, and let your feet do the talking. £465; mytheresa.com

04

05

FRESH PRINTS

06

net-a-porter

The late, great Oscar de la Renta’s monochrome elaphe clutch mimics woven raffia, is lined in black suede and has an outer patch pocket perfect for storing tickets or business cards (plus all those numbers you’ve scored). £1,105; net-a-porter.com

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07 1. CHRISTOPHER KANE, Layered Organza Shirt, £1,200; net-a-porter.com 2. TORY BURCH, Reva Watch, £295; toryburch.co.uk 3. DOLCE & GABBANA, Embellished Hair Slide, £565; mytheresa.com 4. SAINT LAURENT, Monochrome Clutch, £710; mytheresa.com 5. VALENTINO GARAVANI, Rockstud Boots, £743.41; farfetch.com 6. CHRISTOPHER KANE, Ruched Edge Dress, £1,100; farfetch.com 7. NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD, Peter Pilotto Pumps, £722.41; farfetch.com

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:17

Oatmeal Wool Cable Knit Sweater, £165, by Duffy White Silk and Lace Gown, £600, by Myla Diamond Earrings, £120, by Carat London

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THAT’S A

WRAP Wool blend, cotton and leather are keeping us cosy this Christmas Photography Louise Samuelsen Styling Charlie Moore

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Black Roll Neck Body Suit, £119, by Wolford Black Lace Pencil Skirt, £645, by La Perla Diamond Earrings, £120, by Carat London

Dec_FashionShoot.indd 26

25/11/2014 11:14

Cream Cotton Trench Coat, £795, by Pavane at Fenwick Lace Bra (just seen), £110, by Myla Stockings, £6.25, by Charnos at House of Fraser Diamond Earrings, £120, by Carat London

Stockists amandawakely.com anyahindmarch.com aquazzura.com caratlondon.com corlette.co.uk Photographer - Louise Samuelsen at ONE Represents Stylist - Charlie Moore Hair and Make-up - Wendy Turner at Stella Creative Artists using Bumble & Bumble and Cosmetics a la Carte Model - Darya at Premier

damaris.co.uk Dior Sunglasses 0800 7234 5600 duffyny.com fenwick.co.uk houseoffraser.co.uk jimmychoo.com matchesfashion.com

Photographers Assistant - Sam Jackson

myla.com

With thanks to the Savoy . Strand, Savoy Way, WC2R, 020 7836 4343; fairmont.com/savoy-london

net-a-porter.com

Dec_FashionShoot.indd 27

Wolford 020 7494 4343

25/11/2014 11:15

FOR LUXURY SPORTING GOODS

SHOP LOCALLY SHOP AT INTERSPORT HERNE HILL THIS CHRISTMAS 134A Herne Hill, SE24 / 020 7326 5050 / www.intersporthernehill.co.uk

@intersporthh

INTERSPORT.indd 1

24/11/2014 11:52

Stressed, Anxious, Depressed?

Recovery Fitness provide personal training, specialist nutritional advice and yoga to people suffering from stress, anxiety and depression (including post-natal depression).

Integrity | Loyalty | Focus | Success

Call or email to arrange a free, no obligation consultation with one of our team.

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_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 2

26/08/2014 16:13

25/11/2014 09:36

> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL: BEST HOLIDAY BUYS

p. 30

HEAVEN SCENT: THE CHRISTMAS GUIDE

p. 33

FLAWLESS FINISH Be inspired by the exquisite new ‘Holiday 2014’ make-up collection from the king of lux, Tom Ford. Take your pick from a range of new matte lip shades, rich crème eye shadows and deeply hued nail lacquers. We’re in love.

Prices vary; tomford.com

29 B&C_DEC_Beauty_Opener.indd 29

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 10:57

SA LO N R e v i e w

MYLA & DAVIS East Dulwich

Wo r d s C at h e r i n e h a l e s

Go for gold with our fragrance round up, perfect your pout and revive tired locks

have friends who have had the same haircut for years and I others who change theirs monthly, opting for undercuts and bold colours. I fall somewhere between the two, reasonably adventurous but when I find a style or colour I like, I stick to it. For about a year know I have had the underside of my hair dyed blonde. This has been both unusual and versatile enough to keep me satisfied, but when I booked my appointment with Myla and Davis in East Dulwich I was looking for something new. I had, as it turns out, come to the right place.

My stylist, Vicky, whose sleek bowl cut/bob gave me instant hair envy, understood that I was fond of my current style but that I wanted to add a little edge. She suggested toning the blonde to give it a more icy look and perhaps adding an adventurous colour to the dyed section. I hesitated, unsure as to whether I would suit pink or blue but Vicky talked me through a selection of pastel dyes (new in that week) that would only last about 10 washes, anyway. Swayed by the gorgeous array of colours I opted for a combination of pale blues and violets, mixed in with the newly cooled down blonde. The atmosphere in the salon while I was getting my hair done was relaxed and fun, with the stylists chatting to the clients and each other, offering suggestions and considering changes for their own locks.

Using Bumble and Bumble products (which smelled divine), Vicky proceeded to style my hair into soft waves. The final result was brilliant, a swirl of blue and purple peeking out under my naturally brown hair. I had found my new favourite salon. u

W o r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

Read my Lips Guerlain

French beauty giants Guerlain have the Christmas party season covered with its sultry new winter makeup collection modelled here by the brand’s venerable ambassador, Natalia Vodianova. guerlain.com

â—? M Y L A A N D DAV I S 65 North Cross Road, East Dulwich, SE22; mylaanddavis.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

B&C_Dec_Beauty_Notes.indd 30

30 25/11/2014 10:55

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES the guide to gilded fragrances

HEAVEN SCENT T o m Fo r d

01

Possibly the best fragrance in the world (or at least in our eyes) Tom Ford have launched a small range - perfume, soap and body moisturiser - honouring the scent. Tom Ford, Jasmin Rouge, Prices Vary; tomford.com

02

03

FRESH THINKING

04

S AC H AJ UA N

Heavy night, but no time to wash your hair? Fear not, Sachajuan has it covered with their floral hair perfume, which keeps hair smelling fresh, reduces frizz and adds shine. Sachajuan, Protective Hair Perfume, £40; harrods.com

05

editor’s

PICK FACE IT Kerstin Florian

07

Perk up your face with Kerstin Florian’s Pure Transformation deluxe gift box, which includes a daily cleanser, multi-day vitamin créme SPF 30 and a brightening eye créme. Kerstin Florian, Pure Transformation Kit, £130; kerstinflorian.co.uk

06

08

LOCK IT UP Lee Damany Hair

This South East London salon caters for men, women and children with an experienced team of stylists offering everything from bridal styles to brand new cuts. Prices Vary; leedamanyhair.co,uk

31 B&C_Dec_Beauty_Notes.indd 31

09 1.ELIZABETH ARDEN, UNTOLD ABSOLU, £40; debenhams.com 2. CARVEN, LE PARFUM, £38; HARRODS.COM 3. JOHN VARVATOS OUD, £90; johnvarvatos.com 4. CARTIER, EXTRAIT DE PARFUM LA PANTHÈRE, £121; harrods.com 5. ROJA PARFUMS, AMBER EXTRAIT, £275; rojaparfums.com 6. PACO RABANNE, LADY MILLION EAU MY GOLD!, £60.50; boots.com 7. LOEWE, QUIZÁS SEDUCCIÓN, £44.50; The Fragrance shop, Unit 46, sw18 8. LA PERLA, J'AIME GOLD EDITION, £69; JOHNLEWIS.COM 9. MOSCHINO, CHEAP AND CHIC STARS, £60; harrods.com

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 10:56

MAKING LONDON BETTER

ALL OF YOUR

MEDICAL CONCERNS

MALE WELLNESS

CANCER SCREENING EAR NOSE & THROAT

Grand Bay Boutique Guide london collection available at ‘Grand Bay boutique’ ...mens and ladies xmas jewellery accesories and footwear available...

MEDICAL CONSULTANCY

BLOOD TESTS MINOR OPERATIONS

SNORING NEUROLOGICAL WORRIES

SPORTS INJURIES

CHIROPODY

MINOR INJURIES

PRESCRIPTIONS EAR ACHE AND BLOCKAGES

23 Westow St, Crystal Palace SE19 3RY

grandbayboutique_.indd 1

FOLLOW US

25/11/2014 09:41

BOTOX & FILLERS

ALLERGIES PSYCHOLOGY WORRIES NUTRITION 282 MILKWOOD ROAD

HERNE HILL

LONDON SE24 0EZ

0207 870 9166

WWW.HealthHubLondon.COM

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 3

25/11/2014 09:42

HEALTH & BEAUTY / COLUMN

heaven

SCENT

09. THE RED CARPETEER: dressed to impress, and knows how to pull off a look; oozing sex and insider glamour knowhow. Mary Greenwell: Plum.

10. THE LAND-LOCKED FISHERMAN:

sou’wester jackets and hand knits, Breton tops and canvas caps. Caldey Island: Island Lavender.

04

The ultimate perfume gift guide, with scents for every sensibility this Christmas W o r d s L aw r e n c e R o u l l i e r W h i t e

05 06

C

hristmas perfume gift buying can be a trying task, with so many fragrances out there. This month I match some of the best fragrances from the world’s leading indie brands to their fashion-forward recipients.

03

01. THE BOHO-COUTURE: the Sixties sentiments are the same - freedom and love - but the clothes are better. Perris Monte Carlo: Patchouli Nosy Be. 02. THE MODERN CHAP: sartorial style with attention to tailoring and detailing; crisp cuffs, handmade shoes and a gold pinky.

Frederic Malle: Geranium Pour Monsieur.

07

03. THE DENIM DEMON: denim devotion

04. THE DESIGNER-MAKER: classic couture teamed with vintage finds and handmade items from friends and their own work. Andrea Maack: Craft

is a serious business; the importance of the selvedge, the warp and the weft, the stitching and the dye. Olfactive Studio: Ombre Indigo.

05. THE BEARD AND BUN BOY: laid back, relaxed and happy in his skin and on his bike. Slumberhouse: Pear & Olive.

08

06. THE JOBBING MODEL: sweats and

sloppy joes; scraped-back hair, a freshfaced, casual blank-canvas; ready to board a plane at a moment’s notice.

Juliette Has A Gun: Not A Perfume.

01

09

07. THE PREPPY: colour neutral, preened

and pressed. Cool, calm and collected.

Eight & Bob: Eight & Bob. 08. THE PURRLESQUE: the vintage 02

sex kitten: animal print cardigans stockings, stilettos and always a slash of red lipstick. 4160 Tuesdays: Tart’s Knicker Drawer.

33 Dulwich_Dec_Perfume.indd 33

10

Roullier White, 125 Lordship Lane, SE22; roullierwhite.com

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 14:51

TELEGRAPHPUB.indd 2

26/09/2014 16:02

> CHEF'S SPECIAL: LOCAL CHEFS SHARE THEIR FESTIVE RECIPES

p. 37

TABLE TALK: FOODIE NEWS

p. 41

CHRISTMAS CHEER For man, Christmas is about the food. Luckily, Waitrose is coming through this year with all the firm favourites including turkey, mince pies and panettone - with a few extras such as delicious dressed lobster thrown in waitrose.com

35 Dulwich_Dec_Food_Opener.indd 35

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:23

A Torre Authentic Portuguese Cuisine

Your hosts Jorge & Maria wish you all a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year and invite you to join them in their tradition family run establishment.

y s Da ra stma:30-6pm) foenced

Chri

lu or 3 e inf pp gues 0-3pm (12:3 al Portu ch £39.50 tion lun tradi ristmas Ch

enu A la Carte M Boxing Day m New Years Eve

-6p open from 12 course dinner with three celebration sparkle on tary glass of a complimen pp 5 £4 al riv ar

19 Westow Street, Crystal Palace, SE19 3RY Tel 020 8653 9895 | www.atorre.co.uk

ATORRE.indd 1

24/11/2014 16:37

FISH & WINE R E S TAU R A N T Welcome to Fish & Wine, a new restaurant in Herne Hill.

Specialising in fresh, seasonal fish, meat and selected wines, it’s the ideal setting for your Christmas party.

222 Railton Road, Herne Hill, London SE24 0JT | 0207 274 0555 | www.fishandwinerestaurant.co.uk.

Fish&Winerestaurant.indd 1

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 10

24/11/2014 16:08

25/11/2014 09:43

FOOD & DRINK / LOCAL ROUND-UP SAMMY FAHI

Le Chandelier

Head Chef at L e Chandelier 16 1 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich

come from Algeria. There, the food is rich in flavour and so this Christmas I’ve created a combination of traditional English fare alongside food with an unmistakable Mediterranean outlook. When I bake our Christmas ginger scones, the smell evokes the festive season. I’ve got a main of chargrilled quail and pomegranate on the go too, alongside a smoked salmon and beetroot gravadlax. And, I can’t forget the mulled wine and cocktails! Whatever your influences, Christmas should be about making authentic, homemade grub to create a magical experience for all of your guests.

I

LE CHANDELIER CHRISTMAS GINGER SCONES I n g re di e n ts Scone Mix: • 500g strong white bread flour • ½ tsp salt • 50g caster/golden caster sugar • 5 tsp baking powder • 80g candied ginger • 1 tsp ground ginger • 80g cold, diced butter (unsalted is best) • 2 large eggs • 250ml whole milk Glaze: • 1 beaten egg • Dash of milk, to slacken the mix • 1 tsp caster sugar • Pinch of salt ME T H O D

XXXXXX

Chef's Special With Christmas in the offing, Absolutely discovers exactly what South East London's local chefs will be serving up Wo r d s H e l e n a d r a k a k i s

37 DUL_DEC_CHEF'S_CHRISTMAS.indd 37

01 Preheat oven to 220 degrees. Dice the candied ginger into small cubes, no bigger than the nail on a little finger. Set aside 50g of the flour. In a bowl, combine the remaining flour and salt, and mix well.

Add in the butter in 1cm cubes. Similar to shortbread, rub the fat into the dry mix using your fingertips. Once you have the consistency of fine breadcrumbs, stop.

02 Add the sugar and baking powder, the ground and candied ginger. Crack in both eggs and combine together. You should end up with a yellow hued mix that still hasn›t come together. 03 Make a well in the centre of the mix, and incorporate about ¾ of the milk, until the scone dough is soft and slightly sticky. Using the spoon, bring the mix together gently. Once the mix has nearly come together, use the remaining flour to dust a surface and turn the dough out. Handling it very gently, begin to form it into a reasonably smooth ball. Make sure the surface is well floured. Using your hands, pat the dough down until it is about 1″½ −2cm thick. Using a 5.5cm fluted cookie cutter, push straight through the dough. 04 Place the scones onto a lined baking tray. Brush the tops with the glaze mix. Leave the scones for five minutes or so. The dough will relax and the baking powder will begin to work.

Place in an oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are well risen and brown on top. Resist temptation to eat there and then, let cool, and serve traditionally with clotted cream and jam... Or, for a twist, some lemon curd!

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:07

XXXXXX FOOD & /DRINK XXXXXXX / LOCAL ROUND-UP JANE ALTY

The Begging Bowl

Head Chef at The Begging Bowl 16 8 Bellenden Road, Peckham

’m Kiwi-born and so Christmas for me always used to be about a barbecue, a nice bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, and an afternoon at the beach. I’m in London this year although for the past few years I’ve spent Christmas in Newcastle. My then boyfriend’s mother was Thai and it always made me laugh that she cooked off her roast potatoes in a wok and her friends would be out the back eating rice! At the restaurant this year I’ll be doing stir-fried Brussel tops and a barbecued pheasant marinated in palm sugar, galangal, and soy. It’s Christmas with a twist...

I

THE BEGGING BOWL STIR-FRY BRUSSEL TOPS I n gr e d i e nts • 2 large handfuls of Brussel tops • 2 tbsp oyster sauce • 1tsp thin soy sauce • 1tsp fish sauce • 2tbsp of vegetable oil • 10g of peeled garlic cloves, crushed lightly • ¼ cup of chicken stock • Pinch white pepper • 1tsp of white sugar • 1 long red chilli, cut down the middle with seeds out M ETH OD

Mix the oyster, soy and fish sauce together.

Take a hot wok, add oil and when smoking throw in the Brussel tops. Throw those around in the wok so they get a little colour. Add the crushed garlic and stir-fry until golden.

03 Quickly add the chicken stock and cook the sprouts all the way through. 04 Add your oyster sauce mix, sugar and white pepper.

05 Check your seasoning, pile the sprouts on a plate and sprinkle over your chilli strips for that green and red Christmas vibe. u 01

02

JAMES YOUNGER

Executive Chef at The Palmerston 91 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich

love Christmas and this year my mum is hosting all the family down in Cornwall – there’s eight grandkids so it’s going to be crazy. My turkey is already ordered from Flock and Herd on Bellenden Road and I’ll take a lovely Pinot Noir for the main course. It’s

I

The Palmersron

tradition in our family to crack open the cheese after we’ve had our Christmas dinner so this year I’m making a Truffled Brie de Meaux. On Boxing Day we always do a buffet of cold meats – leftover turkey, roast beef and loin of pork. Perfect!

THE PALMERSTON TRUFFLED BRIE DE MEAUX

with a watercress and radish salad, honey and grain mustard dressing and sour dough crostini Ingred i e n ts Ripe Brie Salad: • 1 bunch of watercress • 3 radishes • 1 shallot MET HO D

Firstly it’s important that your brie is already ripe. Slice open the brie through the middle and lay the top to one side. Thinly slice the truffle and completely cover the cut side. Place the top on the cheese and wrap.

Leave for at least ten days for the flavour to permeate through. This can be done with a small brie depending on the family size.

02 Remove brie from the fridge to warm to 01

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

DUL_DEC_CHEF'S_CHRISTMAS.indd 38

Truffled Brie de Meaux

room temperature before serving and make the salad and dressing. 03 Mix all ingredients together except the oil. Slowly add the oil while whisking to emulsify. 04 Thinly slice 6 slices of sour dough and bake at 175 degrees centigrade until crisp. 05 Pick the leaves from the watercress and wash with the radishes.

Thinly slice the shallots and radishes and toss with enough dressing to coat. 06 Cut a wedge of brie and serve with salad and crostini. u

38 25/11/2014 11:08

Village Tandoori Authentic Indian Takeaway

Award Winning Master Chef (with 26 years experience) ‘London tried & tasted 2014’ Award Winners by customer voted online

Special Discount VIllage Tandoori is offering very high standard in out door catering for any party. (Garden parties wedding & birthday parties) To arrange catering call on this number

020 8693 4915 020 8299 2002 *Village Tandoori is only offering takeaway & outdoor catering services

20% OFF

OFF FOR XMAS & NEW YEAR

Please bring this advert to the restaurant or delivery driver to receive 20% discount

To order a take away please call us on: 020

8693 4915 / 020 8299 2002 www.villagetandooridulwich.co.uk or walk just in

OPENING TIME: 4.30pm to Midnight - 7 Days a week, including Bank Holidays FREE home delivery over £10, 3 miles radius 71 East Dulwich Grove, East Dulwich, london, SE22 8PR (Opposite The East Dulwich Hospital)

VILLAGE TANDOORI.indd 2

25/11/2014 09:44

Fine South East Asian Cuisine

Book Now For Christmas & New Year Parties

Our emphasis is on providing delicious cuisine using the best quality ingrediants which are both pure & natural.

We have the best chefs from the Indian sub-continent who ensure that the food tastes as exquisite as it looks.

Sunday - Thursday: 18:00 - 23:30 Friday - Saturday: 18:00 - Midnight

Exclusive new dishes available to inhouse customers.

10% off collection, cash only

134a Thurlow Park Road West Dulwich, London SE21 8HN

020 8761 9738 | 020 8670 1770 | www.chandnirestaurant.co.uk chandi_.indd 1

24/10/2014 11:47

W

NO O N

PE

Angel’s

AT EN

VI

Tea Room Christmas Shopping Nights on Saturday 6th December and Thursday 18th December

If you like shopping and having your cake too, then this is the perfect night out for you! Mulled wine served with mince pies and Christmas cakes and a wonderful selection of vintage and new gifts from Vien’s Christmas Shop

87 Church Road, Crystal Palace SE19 020 8653 6943

VIEN.indd 1

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 4

24/11/2014 11:44

25/11/2014 09:45

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

COPAS TURKEY TIPS

By ELIZABETH HUT TON

n the first frosty evening of the year, Absolutely joined Brenda and Tom Copas Jr from the critically acclaimed, family-owned Copas Turkeys for a Christmas cookery & carvery masterclass. Having (apparently) mastered the art, here’s what we learnt:

O

TABLE TALK THE PERFECT ROAST 01 Quarter an onion and core a Cox’s apple. Place these in the body cavity with a sprig of rosemary. Only ever stuff from the neck and fill it full of sausage meat and sage. 02 Cook the bird on its back until the last half an hour of roasting. This will keep the breast meat succulent while the brown meat cooks evenly. Insert Copas’ heat-activated pop-up timer into the breast and only remove the turkey from the oven once this has popped-up.

THE SKILLFUL CARVERY 01 Once the turkey has been rested, hold the leg by the knuckle and twist while slicing along the space where the leg meets the body. Once removed, slice large pieces of meat away from the drumstick. To do the same to the wing, simply slice through the joint and pull. 02 For the breast meat, slowly follow the breastbone with your knife and carefully cut from one side at an angle. Cutting along the grain of the meat will make the most out of the turkey and result in evenly succulent slices. 03 Every turkey has an extremely tender and juicy round piece of meat hidden in the middle of its backbone.

This is called the ‘oyster’. To locate, place the turkey on it’s back and poke around – it’s a bit of guess work but dig in and it should pop out.

Stocked at Romeo Jones, 80 Dulwich Village, SE21; copasturkeys.co.uk

’’Tis the season for brilliant bubbles, tasty treats and turkeys cooked to perfection…

GET BAKED

Champagne is essential this time of year; from the glass of bubbly sipped on Christmas Day to the bottle popped on New Year’s Eve, December wouldn’t be complete without a drop of the sparkly stuff.

Our recommendation is Champagne Bruno Paillard, a small, familyowned champagne house known for producing truly excellent fizz. u £49.99 - £64.99; selfriges.com

Box of Delights ho can say no to baked goods, especially when they are delivered directly to your door?

The Sweet Reason Company offer delicious brownies from a local bakery in every conceivable flavour (accompanied

by Teapigs tea) in ready made or bespoke boxes. With Christmas coming up, I know what I’m hoping to find under the tree… u thesweetreasoncompany.co.uk

W

FOOD FACT

Nutella alone uses 25% of the world’s hazelnuts. Insert nut joke here...

41 Dulwich_Dec_Food_Notes.indd 41

FIZZ BIZ

The time for mince pies is fast approaching and with it come gingerbread reindeers and spiced Christmas cakes that Gail’s have been maturing for months. For those to whom the festive period means Yuletide snacks and Christmas goodies galore, a stop at the famous artisan bakery this December is mandatory. u 91 Dulwich Village, SE21 gailsbread.co.uk

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:19

Manuel’s

Come and join us this festive season

‘Great food, friendly and relaxing Italian restraurant and bar’ Manuel’s creates authentic freshly cooked Italian food Subscribe to our website for special offers, plus opera and comedy nights www.manuelsrestaurantandbar.com 020 8670 1843

129 Gipsy Hill, London SE19 1QS

manuelsrestaurantandbar @manuels129ghill

Piece Of Cake Cafe The finest ingredients and traditional methods producing exceptional homemade cakes for any occasion and for any event that requires our outside catering

10% OFFER

ON ANY CAKE ENDS DECEMBER

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year from the team here at Piece of Cake Café

Our suppliers of ingredients are local businesses FOLLOW US ON

PIECEOFCAKECAFE.indd 1

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 5

75 East Dulwich Grove, East Dulwich | Tel 020 86937733 | Open 08:30 - 17:00 www.pieceofcakecafeuk.co.uk | info@pieceofcakecafeuk.co.uk

24/11/2014 16:18

25/11/2014 09:46

ABSOLUTELY XXXXXXXXX//PROMOTION XXXXXXXX

PA R T Y

PERFECT Everything you need for an unforgettable New Year's Eve, from the ideal venue to the best food and wine

A TORRE Come and celebrate your New Years Eve locally in the Traingle - Jorge and Maria welcome you to their family run restaurant serving an array of authentic portuguese cuisine. A set three course dinner is served New Years Eve with a welcome glass of something sparkling on arrival - booking is essential in this intimate establishment.

19 Westow Street, Crystal Palace, SE19 3RY 0208653989; atorre.co.uk

BELAIR HOUSE This New Year’s Eve, visit Belair House for a night of decadence and glamour. With live entertainment and music till late - they’re sure to welcome the New Year with a bang! Evening tickets are £30, with limited four-course dining available at £95 a head.

Belair House, Gallery Road, West Dulwich, SE21 7AB, 020 8299 9788 belairhouse.co.uk

43 DUL_DEC_NYE_ FEATURE v2.indd 43

BOB WINES Staying in is the new going out, especially when you have your local expert BOB to give you a hand in choosing the perfect mix of drinks for your New Years celebrations.

Let us share our knowledge and expertise in helping you choose the right fine wines (we highly recommend our English sparkling wine), champagnes and beers for you to see in the new year with.

29 Anerley Road, SE19 2AS, 02086596092; bobwines.co.uk

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 10:42

NEW KITCHENS @ SHOREDITCH

Luxury European Furniture since 1962

London & M25 Showrooms 020 7760 7558 Wharfeside.indd 1 WHARFESIDE.indd 1 absolutely-ad10.indd 1

absolutelywharfside.co.uk 16/10/2014 11:08 14:27 24/10/2014 16/10/2014 10:15

> HOME TRUTHS: INTERIORS TIPS TO SPRUCE UP ANY SPACE

p. 46

HOME BODIES: INTERIORS GIFT GUIDE

p. 49

DECK THE HALLS Christmas doesn't have to be a garish affair, as demonstrated by Occa-Home's tasteful and understated festive collection. We particularly love the cosy looking GreenGate Woolen Blanket in blue grey. occa-home.co.uk

45 Dulwich_Dec_Interior_Opener.indd 45

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:27

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX ASK THE EXPERTS

HOME

TRUTHS LJS Property founder Lucinda Sanford on interior trends and keeping ahead of the market Interview elaine o'connell

ABS: Property prices in London are increasing by the day. How can people add value to their existing homes and extend the space for growing families?

LS: Houses are valued on paper by their square footage and when I am working with investors that is at the forefront of their minds. The up, side and down principle (attic, side return and basement) remains a clear way of doing that. However, both owners and investors alike need to make sure that additional square footage is useful square footage or nobody will be willing to pay anything for it. A house has to be designed for those that are living in it or buying it and that is what adds value.

ABS: Can you tell us about the most recent project you've completed?

LS: We have just completed the full refurbishment of a Lion House in SW6 and two other properties in the area. These have been designed for real living and decorated with character and style to make them homes that people remember. For the Lion House we added a large basement allowing

ABSOLUTELY: Can you tell us the story behind LJS Property? What services do you provide and what inspired you to start-up?

LUCINDA SANFORD: I bought a flat in 2006 in London that needed full modernisation.

If felt very natural for me to buy a project rather than a done-up flat. After years spent working in an interior design shop, I knew the principles of design. The construction side, however, was newer but didn’t daunt me. On completion of the project I had the bug and wanted to do more. I realised that there was scope in the market for me to offer the whole service rather than one individual aspect. As a company we now do everything from property search through to renovation, build and interior design.

I am lucky – I have an ability to see the end design image but also the messy steps you often need to take to get there and how to work them out in a logical process.

I recognised that there were very few companies offering this holistic approach in the market – especially with consideration for long-term value and budget.

ABS: What do you think are the current trends for people building and designing their houses?

LS: I do a lot of work with families, so the consistent theme is how you balance family living and all the scooters, buggies, bikes and school bags with the reality of a London house. Storage is the continual theme that arises again and again. The last few houses we have designed have seen me adding in a hallway in the central part of a terraced area. This steals space from the traditional ‘double reception’ of a Victorian/Edwardian terrace but makes for real-life living.

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chiswick_Nov_Interior_TrendsV2.indd 46

46 25/11/2014 11:25

HOMES & INTERIORS / DESIGN AND BUILD further space for three young boys, a utility room for ample amounts of laundry, a chic but practical hallway and a guest bedroom and bathroom. Further to this we also created on the ground floor an additional bedroom and en-suite with pocket doors for their nanny that fits the layout of the house but which allows for a grown-up, private and peaceful space.

ABS: What advice would you give to a first-time buyer when looking to renovate their new home?

LS: Beware of the quote! I know clients sometimes see our initial estimates and take a breath. While always competitive on the building work side, we always allow for finishes. Switch and socket plate covers, door handles, wardrobes, carpets, shower screens, a hook for your bathrobe etc are often costs people forget about. However, these figures add up. Each item may only be £10, but if you need 100 of them the cost quickly increases. For this reason we try to show people the whole picture from the very beginning. Without the detail that is how

I RECOGNISED that there were VERY FEW companies offering a HOLISTIC APPROACH in the MARKET people get stuck – and cash flow becomes a nightmare. It is in the contractor and client’s interest to know both these parts of the build and design process. I am currently working on the design side with clients in Brook Green on a large house refurbishment and basement dig out – this is their first large project and the cost of these items has been a big part of the remit so they can stay within budget but not compromise the look of the project. For example, in the kitchen the lighting isn’t all that simple. A kitchen needs to be practical throughout the day for feeding children, but in the evening it should be a space for entertaining. Dining rooms are a luxury space we can’t all have, so I always try to make sure that kitchen lighting is thought about so that at night we can create ambience.

ABS: Where do you source your wallpapers and furnishings? Are they London based?

LS: I love living in London as it gives me great access to Chelsea Harbour and all the smaller design shops around. Although many of my clients know about these places, often they do not have the time to get there so I will go instead. My job is also to

47 Chiswick_Nov_Interior_TrendsV2.indd 47

find suppliers who offer something a little different that they might not know about. I really enjoy showing clients tiles or fabrics that look fantastic but are half the cost of the high street shops. Paint is my favourite way to make things beautiful. There are wonderful colours available at Little Greene and their extremely helpful colour scales mean you can layer colour up. I am also thrilled with the VILLAVERDE lights we have supplied recently and love Bert Frank lighting as well. Decorex this year at Syon Park was another great inspiration. Whilst it’s always good to see the bigger names, there are also smaller, up-and-coming brands to discover, which is always exciting.

ABS: You also own a paint shop. Why did you feel the need to open your own and what colours are currently in vogue?

LS: My husband and I opened our paint shop, Sanford and Shane two years ago - it's down in Bermondsey and it was a natural off-shoot from LJS Property. It means I can offer my clients and general shoppers a huge selection of colours and finishes. I have always loved using colour – my view is that if you are paying someone to paint, then use the investment as a decorative feature.

White has its place but strong greys, blues, and statement colours are back and I love it!

Playing with finishes using matt and gloss and contrasting woodwork colours changes the whole feel of the room. There is often a belief that woodwork should be white – white jeans, for example, though fabulous, do few people any favours, so why should it do anything for a Victorian bannister spindle. This is what I tell my clients! u 128A Lower Road, SE16; jsproperty.com

DECEMBER 2014

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HOMES & INTERIORS / GIFT GUIDE

FORNASETTI

Giardino Segreto Candle, £18; conranshop.co.uk

HOUSE OF HACKNEY Hackney Empire Stripe Teapot, £70; houseofhackney.com

FOLKLORE

Coffee Pot Day, £19.95; wildandwolf.com

ROBERTS RADIO

Revival Mini in Duck Egg, £139.95; johnlewis.com

LALIQUE

ALESSI

100 Points Decanter

by James Suckling, £595; lalique.com

Anna G Corkscrew by Alessandro Mendini for Alessi, £29.95; alessi.com

KRUPS

EA9000 Bean-to-Cup Automatic Espresso Machine, £1,300; debenhams.com

Flock, Cocktail Chairs, £595; shop.flock.org.uk

ROSE & GREY

World Map; roseandgrey.co.uk

SARA SMITH

Cambridge Blue Teacup & Saucer, £80; luxdeco.com

DECOR WALTHER

Copper Soap Dispenser, £165; conranshop.co.uk

ARTISANTI

GIFT REPUBLIC

Cluedo Espresso Cups (set of 6), £24.99; houseoffraser.co.uk

ANTHROPOLOGIE Dachshund Letter Holder, £28; anthropologie.eu

ROB RYAN

Bowes Black and Silver Globe Bookends, £79; artisanti.com

‘My Home’ Cushion, £35; wildandwolf.com

GIFTS FOR THE HOME Our edit of the best gifts for those with an eye for design IITTALA

LOVERAMICS

Taika Tea Towel, £10; cloudberryliving.co.uk

Flutter Gift Boxed Salad Plates (set of 4), £25.50; occa-home.co.uk

PAUL SMITH

Anglepoise + Paul Smith Lamp, £149; paulsmith.co.uk

49 Dec_Homebody_Gift_Guide.indd 49

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 12:04

Pianolobby is based in SE London and we would love to help you realise your musical dreams and match you with your ideal upright piano.Come and try our beautiful range of Yamaha, Kawai,Steinberg, Kemble and Barber pianos.

For more information please contact Julian on 020 3645 3930 or email julian@pianolobby.co.uk www.pianolobby.co.uk

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The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY

Independent co-ed pre-prep & nursery 3–7 years . Founded 1976 . Member ISA

W www.hernehillschool.co.uk.

E enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk T 020 7274 6336

Parents considering September 2015 Kindergarten or Reception admission should register as soon as possible.

Tours available by appointment.

Main entry at 2+, 3+ and 4+.

Sparkly, for life

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We look forward to meeting you!

25/11/2014 09:49

> KIDS CONFIDENTIAL: GIFTS AND LOCAL NEWS

p. 52

AN APPLE FOR THE TEACHER

p. 55

EAST MEETS WEST Channel your inner seamstress with Yoshiko Tsukiori's new book Girly Style Wardrobe, a guide to making clothing for little girls, inspired by the simplicity and elegance of Japanese fashion. ÂŁ14.95; laurenceking.com

51 Dulwich_Dec_Kids_Opener.indd 51

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:34

Kids

14 of the best

KIDS PRODUCTS

CONFIDENTIAL All they want for Christmas and more, plus the local education news from around South East London Wo r d s J E R O M E M O N A H A N

WILD & WOLF

Mr Men & Little Miss Breakfast Set, £14.95; wildandwolf.com

RATATAM

Tiger and Polar Bear Costumes, £88 each; en.smallable.com

GIGI BROOKS

Black UK 3D Boy's Bike, £650; gigibrooks.com

MARKS & SPENCER Santa Dress, £14; marksandspencer.com

MARKS & SPENCER Snowman Plush, £19.50; marksandspencer.com

Ice Princess

HEDGEHOG

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Harrods

Table Football, £2,995; hedgehogshop.co.uk

PROFESSOR PUZZLE

Dinosaur Construction Kits and Activity Book, £5; habitat.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_Dec_Kids_Notes.indd 52

For little girls who have everything, the Disney Store at Harrods has Bibbidi Bobbidi, a boutique that offers a real princess experience. Girls aged three to 12 will be met by their very own fairy godmothers and pampered beyond recognition before emerging as the princess of their dreams. New for Christmas 2014 are the fabulous Frozen packages, transforming children into Anna or Elsa and sending them home with vast goodie bags. Experiences are priced between £100 and £1000; booking is essential. disneyboutiqueatharrods.com

52 25/11/2014 11:30

KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES BRITISH LIBRARY

London in a Bag, £12.50; shop.bl.uk

GOLD STAR Blackheath High School

The school is celebrating having been awarded ‘Artsmark Gold’ by the Arts Council in recognition of its “excellence in arts and cultural provision.” The Award has broad criteria designed to measure a school’s vision, engagement with culture, leadership and community and skills development. stonemarketing.com

GIGI BROOKS

Sofa Moog, £398; gigibrooks.com

HEAR YE, HEAR YE!

HEDGEHOG

Deptford Green

14-year-old student Liam Islam has became the eleventh directly elected Young Mayor of Lewisham. He received 1,210 votes out of a total of nearly 9,000 cast by young people in the borough. Liam’s duties working with a Young Citizens' Panel to inform the work of the Mayor, Council and also oversees a budget of £30,000 lewisham.gov.uk

Indian Teepee, £83; hedgehogshop.co.uk

THE FOLIO SOCIETY The Hobbit, £29.95; foliosociety.com

GRAND DESIGNS John Roan School

The Greenwich school has just opened new and refurbished buildings on both its sites: the result of a three-year programme and one of the last to be funded through the Building Schools for the Future programme. thejohnroan.greenwich.sch.uks

STEIFF

Mickey Mouse, £150; steiff.com

STEIFF

Classic 1935 Fellow Terrier, £135; steiff.com

GIGI BROOKS Rocket

Beanbag, £140; gigibrooks.com

X FACTROR

editor’s

Trinity Laban

Musicians aged 8-21 from Trinity Laban’s Animate Orchestra and Junior Trinity, alongside a 400-strong choir made up of young singers from cross four SE London boroughs recently took to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the final night of a Music for Youth Schools Prom. They performed a piece inspired by Benjamin Zephaniah’s poem The London Breed. trinitylaban.ac.uk

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PICK

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:32

new zest AD SEP 2014:Layout 1

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Independent co-ed pre-prep & nursery 3–7 years . Founded 1976 . Member ISA Independent Co-educational 3-11 years. Founded 1942. ISA & IAPS

Inspiring Brilliant Futures

Open Mornings Thursday 29th January 9.30 - 11.00 Tuesday 17th March 9.30 - 11.00 Tours of the school are held on Tuesday mornings Bursaries available

020-8670 5865 email: admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

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Dancing, for life

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Music and Drama Classes Open NOW! Offering fun, dynamic and enthusiastic teaching on Saturday mornings at

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Verdict from the latest Independent Schools’ Inspection report: The words excellent (highest rating for Whole School and Key Stage 1) and outstanding (highest rating for Early Years) feature an incredible 46 and 12 times, respectively.

See www.isi.net.

Main entry at 2+, 3+ and 4+.

We look forward to meeting you!

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Telephone 020 8693 3568 / 07824 805 135 email info@eastdulwichacademy.org website www.eastdulwichacademy.org

The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY

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KIDS & EDUCATION / CHRISTMAS

AN APPLE FOR THE TEACHER

From homemade cards to designer handbags, Absolutely takes a look at the fierce competition that now surrounds Christmas gifts for teachers Wo r d s C e l e s t r i a N o e l

T

he end of the autumn term is always busy and exciting, with nativity plays and of course Christmas decorations and presents. In the past a card, maybe homemade, was plenty; perhaps a box of chocolates, some bubble bath or a gift set of smelly soaps might be given to a female teacher and a bottle of some kind to a man.

A teacher who had been especially kind or helpful might get a more expensive scented candle or a special CD. Now, however, in certain private London day schools in particular there is an arms race and some parents think it is getting out of control. We are talking watches, jewellery, designer scarves. One teacher spoke quite casually of cashmere sweaters. Another was asked her shoe size by a pupil and presented with a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes. ‘It put the fear of God into me,’ says one mother of three. ‘Queuing to go into school, parents were carrying bags from Jo Malone, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Harvey Nicks… What was in them I don’t know!’ One popular gift is vouchers for Selfridges or Harrods, often for £100 or more, while for male teachers tickets to sports events are an option. The headmistress of one school speaks of spa treatments, the use of villas, the latest designer handbags. However, she says that she does also get bottles of scent which have clearly been tried but not liked, probably bought for wives by husbands at airports to assuage their guilty consciences for never being home. Of course, this escalation is far from universal and would be unheard of in many schools where the culture is different.

THE GOOD OLD APPLE for the teacher may now BE AN APPLE MAC However, parents are increasingly competitive and even bringing in Christmas goodies such as mince pies can soon become open warfare. Are they homemade and if so only with organic spelt flour?

Busy working mothers have been known to distress shop bought pies and cakes. I think the story of the professional artist

55 Dulwich_Dec_PRESENTS_FOR_TEACHERS.indd 55

decorating the gingerbread men is an urban legend but you can’t be sure. Some British parents mutter darkly that generous Americans started the rot, perhaps with brownies and eggnog. Whether or not this is so it certainly seems that the good old apple for the teacher may now be an Apple Mac. Oddly enough the head of one very fashionable school, where some of the pupils come with bodyguards, instructs her pupils and their parents that what really matters is a properly handwritten card, saying thank you to the teacher and wishing them a happy Christmas and New Year. Perhaps things will come full circle and the very chicest choice will indeed be a homemade card, in crayon and sprinkled lovingly with glitter. u

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> A TALE OF TWO CITIES: A JOURNEY TO THE VERY CORE OF NEW YORK (AVOIDING CLICHÉS)

p. 58

THE BIG APPLE Muse of filmmakers, singers and novelists, New York has been thoroughly mythologised on page and screen; is the fiction obscuring the fact? Edwina Langley finds out on her quest to discover the real New York.

57 Dulwich_Dec_Travel_Opener.indd 57

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:39

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX CITY GUIDE

A Tale Of Two Cities The backdrop for so many Hollywood blockbusters, everyone knows New York... or do they? Our reporter travels across the pond to discover the real Big Apple Wo r d s E d w i n a L a n g l e y

I

n my mind, there are two types of New York: the factual and the fictional. The latter is the one I first heard of. It’s Sinatra’s city that ‘doesn’t sleep’; it’s where I would go to eat breakfast at Tiffany’s, to shop on Madison Avenue like Carrie Bradshaw, to discover Tom Hanks (or similar) on top of the Empire State Building.

Then I actually went to New York, and discovered that Tiffany’s is closed for breakfast, that I could afford no more than a pretzel on Madison Avenue and that all I discovered on top of the Empire State Building was that I have vertigo.

Having come to terms with the fact that fictional New York is a myth, I made a return visit to the Big Apple with my eyes open. No rushing round the city, telling myself I’ve come to make it as a writer, like Jo March from Little Women, and absolutely no ‘I [HEART] New York’ t-shirts. I was there to see New York, and New York proper. And nothing was going to get in the way of that...

So, having flopped my jetlagged body onto an enormous bed at the Loews Regency Hotel, and woken up to discover my room overlooked the bustling Park Avenue, I felt none of the exhilaration that, say, Annie might have felt in her

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Central Park

I was there to see NEW YORK, and NEW YORK proper eponymous film, when she woke up at Daddy Warbucks’ mansion on Fifth. None at all. I merely noted, nonchalantly, that in addition to the gigantic bed, and spacious cupboards, the en-suite bathroom featured a TV built into the mirror so I could watch Food Network as I showered.

Yes, and?

Having recently undergone a $100million renovation, Loews Regency New York is undoubtedly one of the smartest hotels Midtown has to offer. An ornate entrance lobby greets you and leads into a bar and restaurant discretely to the left. Famous for its cuisine, food at the Loews Regency is some of the finest you’ll eat in the city, and the ‘Power Breakfast’ is what they’re best known for. Running from 7-10am on weekdays, you have to book well in advance to get a table. When you finally do, it’s obvious why it took you so long.

Because as Wall Street hot shots chat numbers on nearby tables, you too find yourself number-crunching: ‘how many eggs can I fit in in one sitting?’ And then ‘do I have the Three-Egg Omelette, the Eggs Benedict, the Eggs Florentine or the Smoked Salmon Benedict?’ It’s a very taxing decision first thing in the morning.

Upstairs, the 379 guest rooms include 58 suites, all designed in muted colours, classic and chic, and each boasting dramatic views of the city. On the first floor you’ll find the magical Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa, which includes a well-equipped fitness centre and a salon with 32 cutting stations. I went in for the ‘Power Hour’ – three services in 60 minutes – and I tell you, my body has never seen so much pampering. In just

58 25/11/2014 11:35

© QUEEN OF THE NIGHT NYC

TRAVEL / CITY GUIDE

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DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:35

Jennings-Bramly Furniture Ltd Beautiful furniture dovetailed to your needs Drawing rooms Dining rooms Bedrooms Kitchens Libraries Studies

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richard@bramly.co.uk

enquiries@blacklionbuild.com

quoting ABSOLUTELY

24/11/2014 16:23

25/11/2014 09:50

TRAVEL / CITY GUIDE over an hour, my hair had been blowdried so expertly it actually ‘swooshed’, my nails had been polished so well they practically blinded me, and I underwent an extreme MAC makeover. I looked really quite Hollywood – had it been 7am, I could have ordered Tiffany’s for breakfast. Probably.

But it wasn’t 7am, it was 7pm, and since I was dolled up, I needed somewhere to go. Tourists (and fantasists) would take on Broadway, but since I was there to discover the real New York, I did as real New Yorkers would do: went ‘off-Broadway’. Queen of the Night by Randy Weiner (directed by Christine Jones) is an ‘immersive theatre experience’. Set in the Paramount Hotel, it’s a bit like London’s The Box in Soho – a sort of weird and wonderful nightmare (if such a thing exists) made-up of daredevil acrobatics, kinky dance acts and circus tricks. For a Premium Reservation ticket at $190, you enjoy an all-you-can-drink bar tab and an excessively gluttonous dinner (think: towers of hot lobsters served in cages and suckling pigs on platters). Neither the show, nor the dinner, were for the faint hearted. If suggestive codpiece rubbing, or being led backstage to be stroked, don’t float your boat, steer clear. As a closeted extrovert, and after a decanter of wine, I was more than up for both. In fact, I’ve still got the note given to me by my backstage stroker [sic]. Written on a Guest Check receipt, it cryptically reads: ‘Pass your kiss to a stranger that gives you pause’.

When you’re not out kissing strangers like real New Yorkers (apparently) do, perhaps you might consider learning a bit about the city itself. I’m not suggesting a day-long schlep through the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but a morning spent in the city’s finest living museum, Central Park. A tour with the park’s Conservancy Historian and Photographer, Sara Cedar

Grand Central Terminal

Loews Regency

Miller, is the way to do it. Why? Because there’s no traipsing round miles of parkland involved (though, in truth, I’d have also loved that). All it entails is a leisurely drive to various park locations, where you get out to learn about them, and the park’s history in general. Did you know, for example, that Central Park was originally a rocky swampland, chosen as the park’s location because it was cheap to buy? That there is an ‘adopt a bench’ programme where you can adopt one of the park’s 3,000 benches (for $7,500) to support the park’s conservation? That chipmunks have finally returned, and that I got to see one? Sara’s intelligent guide was enchanting; you knew you were in the presence of a passionate pro.

Alternatively, if it’s an indoors activity you’re after, you won’t regret the hardto-book (but totally worth it) ‘secret’ tour round Grand Central Station with Daniel Brucker. The first thing you’ll learn on the tour though, is that the title ‘Grand Central Station’ is entirely wrong. Its real name is Grand Central Terminal. The world’s largest for trains, with over 750,000 people pass through it each day. In his comically loud delivery (guaranteed to shock you out of your Queen of the Night-induced stupor) Daniel divulges all sorts of nuggets of information. Such as: the most expensive artefact in the Main Concourse is the clock (with its four oval opal faces, it’s been valued at between $10-20 million).

And that the lagoon-coloured zodiac on the ceiling is actually one big mistake

61 CH_Dec_NewYork.indd 61

(it was painted backwards). And that there’s a rather large hole in the ceiling too, made from the Redstone rocket displayed there in the late Fifties to counter the Space Race media advantage gained by the Soviet Union following Sputnik’s launch in 1957.

Behind the scenes, you scuttle through underground tunnels before climbing to the highest point of the terminal, to view the Main Concourse via the half-moontopped glass windows. Not ideal for me and my vertigo, but luckily I kept the fear at bay just long enough to realise this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In fact, my entire trip was a once-in-alifetime experience. And I mean that to sound like a cliché, because it ties-in with the fictional New York I had described earlier; the one I thought didn’t exist.

Now I know it does exist. It is possible to explore the factual, actual New York, and still experience an almost too-goodto-be-true, worthy-of-Hollywood, side to it as well. That was probably the most surprising element of my return trip to the metropolis; that and the realisation that (like the mug I bought in Departures at Newark Airport) I really do [HEART] New York. ◆  For reservations or more information about Loews Regency, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or visit loewshotels.com/Regency-Hotel  For flights from London to New York, book via Delta Air Lines; delta.com

DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 11:36

XXXXXXXX / XXXXXXXXX

IT’S

CHRISTMAS! Looking for that alternative gift?

Planning to propose?! Look no further than our local, brilliant businesses

PAPAGAIO Toys and Gifts for Ages 0 - 13.

Santa has been delivering Brio train sets since 1958, but their popularity never seems to diminish. Beautifully made, extremely robust & full of intricate and creative details, it’s easy to see why. Papagaio toy shop stocks the full Brio range & has sets to fit every space/budget, from the classic, to the more modern, like this Monorail Airport set - a perfect starter at £49.99.

83 Church Road, Crystal Palace, SE19 2TA; papagaioworld.com

GRAND BAY BOUTIQUE Grand Bay Boutique are proud stockists of small independent labels such as Guide and Voi Jeans, as well as holding their own brand. There is a vast array of perfect stocking fillers: belts, wallets, ties, cufflinks, Harris Tweed Caps and beautiful hand made brass jewellery. Gift vouchers are also available. You can find them on Shopify to purchase items also linked to Facebook.

23 Westow Street, Crystal Palace, SE19 3RY, 02087681381

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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ROULLIER WHITE Roullier White carries the largest collection of niche and artisan fragrances in the UK. Now housed in the store’s brand new, dedicated ‘perfume salon’ customers can browse over fifty perfume houses in a relaxed and informed environment. Expert advice is on-hand to make gift buying a breeze and prices start at just £12.

125 Lordship Lane, SE22 8HU, 020 8693 5150; roullierwhite.com

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ABSOLUTELY XXXXXXXXX//PROMOTION XXXXXXXX

COCONUT TRADING

DO SOUTH

This exotic shop specialises in an inspiring selection of fairly traded arts and crafts from India, Africa and Asia. The exciting, unusual range of sculpture, furnishings and gift ideas include jewellery, beautiful hand woven silk scarves, leather notebooks, carved animal pens and much more. It’s just the place to find those unique Christmas gifts you're looking for.

73-75 Church Road, SE19, 020 8771 0700 coconuttrading.co.uk

With Christmas fast approaching why not treat your friends and family to something truly unique? We’ve teamed up with Do South, a treasure trove based in Crystal Palace, to offer an exclusive 10% discount. So, whether a quirky giraffe, handwoven basket or a fun mug or coaster set, Do South offers design-led gifts for all. Shop in-store or online, stating the code DO14 to receive your discount.

2 Westow Street, SE19 3AH; do-south.com

SOUTH OF THE RIVER It’s all of a twinkle up at south of the river this year. Their costume jewellery selection is now huge. This great little stocking filler of a bracelet rocks out at ¬£9. With all their other offerings: gifts, cards, Christmas decs, accessories and of course the fashion, why go anywhere else?

Follow them @southofriver, 56 Westow Street, Crystal Palace, SE19 3AF; southoftheriver.co.uk

WIGWAM

SIMON CARTER

Pop into the Wigwam toy shop in West Dulwich for all your children’s Christmas shopping this December. As well as festive themed presents, balance bikes and micro scooters, they have great gift ideas, such as this elegant wooden dolls house with opening windows, shutters and doors. They also sell the matching dolls figures and furniture.

109 Rosendale Road, West Dulwich, info@wigwamfamily.co.uk; wigwamfamily.co.uk

This Christmas, award-winning menswear and accessories designer Simon Carter celebrates his one year anniversary in Blackheath Village.

If you’ve not yet visited, now is the perfect time.

The 2014 Christmas collection is bursting at the sartorial seams with signature printed shirts, classic watches, gloves and scarves, informal bags and of course, Simon’s iconic cufflinks!

9 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath, SE3 0BU; simoncarter.net

BOB WINES The perfect gift for the person who supports local business and appreciates the finer things in life awaits you at B.O.B Wines. Treat them to a selection of locally produced beers, choose from a variety of English still and sparkling wines , or a large selection of wines from Italian producers sourced directly from Italy, invite them to return to us and refill their “Bring our bottle” wine by gifting them a wine by cask.

29 Anerley Road, SE19 2AS, 02086596092; bobwines.co.uk

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Property Absolutely

December 2 014

> PROPERTY ROUND UP p. 78 IN THEIR OWN WORDS p. 82 SHOWCASE p. 84

Yester Road, Chislehurst, BR7

ÂŁ1,500,000

An elegant detached house built in the 1930's, situated within one of Chislehurst's finest gated developments and occupying a premier spot in the Park which supremely boasts an expansive southerly facing rear garden extending to over 200ft. EPC Rating E.

Sinclair Hammelton, Petts Woodsinclairhammelton.co.uk

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Completely at home in South East London.

Our services Sales and Lettings Property Management Block Management Property Solicitors Chartered Surveyors Financial Services Visit kfh.co.uk

With a network of 17 branches in South East London and over 50 across the Capital, our local knowledge and London network will ensure we achieve the right result for you.

Our dedicated South East London branches include • Blackheath • Bromley • Chislehurst • Lee

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Montpelier Row, Blackheath, SE3 £2,350.00pcm Blackheath 020 8297 0181 Email lbl@kfh.co.uk

A stunning two double bedroom newly refurbished flat boasting open plan kitchen and wooden flooring throughout. The property offers direct views of Blackheath and is located in the heart of Blackheath Village, moments from Blackheath train station.

• • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Open plan kitchen Modern wet room Wooden flooring Private garden Fully furnished EPC rating D

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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PROPERTY | AWARDS

The ESTAS awards Why is customer service so important for estate agents? Any agent not providing excellent service will get found out very quickly, especially in this day and age of social media. To help agents we’ve designed an auto Tweet facility so agents can get their positive feedback comments straight out on social media networks creating their own online ‘customer care’ PR campaigns.

Why have the ESTAs joined forces with the Absolutely London titles this year?

We just want to spread The ESTAs message to as many quality agents as possible and Absolutely has lots of those!

They are just the type of agents who would benefit most from taking part.

How can members of the public vote/ rate their agent? Your agent needs to be registered with us before you can rate them so if they’re not let them know and email us via our website.

Absolutely Property is joined by…

SIMON BROWN

Why did you decide to start the ESTAS? My wife Sarah used to work for a local agent and it wasn’t until then that I realised how hard the job was. There are so many different factors to every deal and so many problems that can cause chains to fail. I realised then that most estate and letting agencies have a reputation they really don’t deserve. So I decided to start an award

Has it grown over the years?

Absolutely! It’s gone from strength to strength because the concept is simple and the benefits to agents start as soon as they sign up. The ESTAS logo on an agents’ website sends a clear message to new customers that the agent believes in providing the best service and they’re happy to prove it. As part of the competition process we also provide detailed client feedback reports to all agents taking part which enables them to measure their performance, highlights their strengths and weaknesses and helps them improve their service.

Entries for The ESTAS 2015 competition close on 31st December.

The 12th annual ESTAS ceremony takes place at the Hilton Park Lane on 17th April 2015. The awards will be presented by TV Property Expert Phil Spencer.

Phil Spencer

Founder of The ESTAS, Estate & Letting Agent Awards

scheme which recognises agents for the levels of customer service they provided their clients. However, I didn’t want to go down the route of a judging panel. I think if you’re going to judge any company in any industry on service the best people to rate that experience are the customers themselves. We managed to get Phil Spencer, the TV Property Expert, involved so in 2004 The ESTAS were born.

How can estate agents enter?

Agents can register by completing a simple entry form at www.theestas.com.

theestas.com ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Now launched – come and view our Show Home

BECKENHAM

Worsley Bridge Road BR3 1DR 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes from £719,995

• A collection of new homes in a gated environment, close to the centre of Beckenham

Marketing Suite and Show Home open daily 10am to 5pm

• With nearby shops, schools and amenities, this is a family-focused location • Three local stations make it ideal for commuters – trains to central London in less than 30 mins*

0844 644 2504

lindenhomes.co.uk/century

Photographs show typical Linden homes. Interiors may include optional upgrades or extras available at additional cost. *Source: National Rail Enquiries. From New Beckenham station, approximately 0.39 miles from development. Details and price correct at time of going to press.

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Blackheath Park, Blackheath SE3 Guide Price £3,950,000 Freehold This fine Georgian double fronted house is situated on one of the premier roads on the Cator Estate and offers over 7,000 sq ft of luxurious accommodation arranged over four floors. Located in an excellent position only a short walk from the Village, the house sits back from the road with an ample paved drive providing good off-street parking and a rear garden of approximately 300ft.

› › › › › ›

Five bedrooms Three reception rooms Three bathrooms Spectacular garden No chain EPC rating: C

Contact Blackheath Village Office on 020 8318 1311

The Property Experts

JP.indd 1

@johnpayne

21/11/2014 11:28

The Property Experts.

Pond Road, Blackheath SE3 Guide Price £3,595,000 Freehold Occupying a prominent plot on this highly regarded residential road within Blackheath’s private Cator Estate, this is a beautifully presented seven bedroom, three bathroom Grade II listed Regency style family home, which has been refurbished to an exceptional standard including the installation of a magnificent galleried double height conservatory and beautifully landscaped gardens.

› › › › › ›

Seven bedrooms Four reception rooms Three bathrooms Gymnasium Incredible conservatory EPC rating: B

Contact Blackheath Village Office on 020 8318 1311

Blackheath Village Blackheath Standard Greenwich Lee Property Management

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020 8318 1311 020 8858 6101 020 8858 9911 020 8852 8633 020 8318 0243

1 Montpelier Vale, SE3 0TA 11 Stratheden Parade, SE3 7SX 227 Greenwich High Road, SE10 8NB 119 Burnt Ash Road, SE12 8RA 39 Montpelier Vale, SE3 0TJ

johnpayne.com

24/11/2014 10:22

Property News

£3,350,000

Crooms Hill, SE10 6 Crooms Hill is a fine early Georgian Grade II* listed town house formerly the home of poet laureate C DayLewis and his Oscar winning son Daniel. Wellmaintained panelled houses, which retain almost all of their period features, seldom come onto the market. Nikolaus Pevsner, the celebrated architectural historian, considered

PRIME LOCATION.COM

SUGGESTS

Crooms Hill “the pride of domestic architecture in Greenwich” and he specifically commented on the “excellent terrace of 1721” of which number 6 is a part. The present arrangement comprises six bedrooms, four Reception rooms, including a library, two bathrooms, art room, additional cloakroom, large kitchen with separate utility room/larder, wine cellar and workroom. The property is set back from the road by a 30’ paved garden.

Stone steps lead up to an imposing entrance door through to a broad hall with a generously proportioned staircase featuring “barley stick” spindles. There is panelling to all the principle rooms, high corniced ceilings, pitch pine floorboards and some fine period fireplaces.

If you’re thinking of selling or letting your home, make sure you choose an agent that will advertise your property on PrimeLocation. The vast majority of agents (over 80%) do advertise with us and

understand the importance of making sure that your property gets the exposure it deserves. Find an agent to help sell/let your home here www.primelocation.com/find-agents/

Hamptons, Greenwich 020 8858 1102; hamptons.co.uk

Spotlight on SE10

Average asking price - £547,073 | Average asking rent - £1,911 pcm | Average property value - £598,114

Data provided by ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY | ROUND UP

The INSIDE SCOOP of NEWS in your area

Ask the

Expert Our panel of PROFESSIONALS give you the edge in the property market

What insurance do I need for my property while letting it out?

cover a property when it is occupied by a tenant. These often offer additional cover against damage caused by the tenant so it is advisable to look at several policies before choosing. The other type of insurance available is rental guarantee insurance, which is there to cover you should your tenant not pay their rent. Again, there are many varieties of cover available and it is essential to read the policy in full.

CONTACT

A

SALLY LIVERMORE

Manor Way, SE3,

Mavelstone Road, BR1,

s a landlord, there are several different types of insurance to consider when renting out a property. There is specific buildings and contents insurance that you will need to

£610 Per Week

Associate

Residential Lettings

020 7647 7820; cluttons.com

£785,000 S.O.F.

An elegant three bedroom period property within the sought after Private Cator Estate in Blackheath. The accommodation has well maintained period features including a Victorian conservatory and veranda with shared access to a large communal garden. Upon entering you are welcomed into a beautiful spacious hall with classic high ceiling. The spacious reception with stunning period fireplace and large French doors leads out onto the conservatory and modern fitted kitchen.

This four bedroom bungalow was believed to be the original coach house for the adjoining Baronial style mansion. The accommodation comprises of a large lounge with dual fuel fireplace, modern kitchen, underfloor heating and adjoining conservatory/breakfast room leading onto the private patio garden overlooking 1.75 acres of communal gardens. There are three double bedrooms, the master benefits from an ensuite. There is also a fourth bedroom or study with access to the gardens.

Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings, Greenwich, 020 3440 7010; brlets.co.uk

Langford Russell, Chislehurst 020 8295 4900; langfordrussell.co.uk

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Blackheath Winter Wonderland: ‘Tis the season to be creative. Art and music – not just for Christmas!

T

hanks to John Payne it's guaranteed to be a white Christmas in Blackheath. First, The Conservatoire brought sand to our doorstep with the popular beach this summer and now they are promising snow!

The Arctic Explorer inspired installation opens 6th December, to coincide with the turning on of the Blackheath Village Christmas lights, where there will also be the opportunity to come and make Christmas lanterns to celebrate. Most importantly, there is the promise of snow on the hour every hour through until Christmas! Tipped to be the coolest place in town and popular with all ages, the 120 square metre stretch will be bustling with local craft stalls, the sound of carols, daily children's activities including a mini Arctic sensory play area and art sessions as well as mulled wine and yummy treats. Who knows, maybe there'll even be a special visitor from the North Pole…

This magical Winter Wonderland will also be available to hire for private parties for both children and adults alike – the perfect backdrop for a Christmas get together! The Blackheath Winter Wonderland aims to bring the snow and excitement of the Arctic along with the magic of Christmas to the heart of Blackheath this December for a festive family treat, and what’s more it's free to visit!

Open everyday from 10am - 4pm. conservatoire.org.uk, johnpayne.com

DECEMBER 2014

24/11/2014 17:07

Please call your local office for a free sales or lettings valuation.

HOMESTEAD ROAD, CHELSFIELD PARK BR6

£2,495,000 F/H

Homestead Road is situated in the exclusive Chelsfield Park and this beautiful new home is perfectly suited for family life. Comprising three reception rooms, stunning kitchen/diner, downstairs utility room, six bedrooms with adjoining en-suites, dressing room serving the master and cinema room. Completed in September 2013, the property has an exceptional frontage with twin automated gates, sweeping carriage driveway and integrated double garage. Energy Efficiency Rating B.

Please contact our Locksbottom office for more information: Tel: 01689 882 988 Email: locksbottom@langfordrussell.co.uk

ORPingTOn bR6

£1,650,000 F/h

bEckEnham bR3

£1,425,000 F/h

Exquisite five/six bedroom detached residence situated at the end of a tranquil residential road in Farnborough. Comprising extensive lounge, dining room, stunning open plan kitchen, five double bedrooms, two with en-suites, and a further family bathroom. Upstairs is a large playroom which could double as a sixth bedroom. To the rear is a beautifully manicured garden. Energy Efficiency Rating D.

Magnificent Victorian mansion built in 1890, comprising seven bedrooms, four large reception rooms, three bathrooms and 100ft garden. This property sits on a very large plot and has potential for redevelopment subject to planning. Currently divided into two separate dwellings but there is the opportunity to return this property back to its former glory as one large family home. Energy Efficiency Rating F.

Please contact our Orpington office for more information: Tel: 01689 661 400 Email: orpington@langfordrussell.co.uk

Please contact our beckenham office for more information: Tel: 020 8663 4433 Email: beckenham@langfordrussell.co.uk

The Acorn Group, incorporating:

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Beckenham 020 8663 4433 Bromley 020 8315 5544

Chislehurst 020 8295 4900 Locksbottom 01689 882 988

COURT ROAD, ELTHAM SE9

Orpington 01689 661 400 West Wickham 020 8432 7373

£2,750,000 F/H

An imposing Victorian family home, once the former residence of Kate Bush. Built in 1856 and occupying a generous plot of just under an acre, accommodation comprises six double bedrooms, six bathrooms, study, two reception rooms, large kitchen and orangery/diner. Court Road is within 0.3 miles of Mottingham Station offering frequent services into Charing Cross and Cannon Street. Energy Efficiency Rating F.

Please contact our chislehurst office for more information: Tel: 020 8295 4900 Email: chislehurst@langfordrussell.co.uk

bROmLEy bR2

£1,295,000 F/h

WEST WICKHAM BR4

£799,995 F/H

Set behind iron gates, this charming home comprises grand hallway, reception room, bespoke Italian handmade kitchen, separate utility room, study/family room and formal dining room. An extension provides a stunning swimming pool room, bar and guest WC. The first floor comprises five double bedrooms, two with en-suites, and family bathroom. To the rear is a large garden. Energy Efficiency Rating D.

Ideally located for both highly regarded primary and secondary schools, this substantial four bedroom home offers deceptively ample living space for the growing family. The property comprises spacious lounge overlooking a beautiful garden, large dining room, kitchen/breakfast room and downstairs cloakroom. To the front is off street parking for numerous cars. Energy Efficiency Rating F.

Please contact our bromley office for more information: Tel: 020 8315 5544 Email: bromley@langfordrussell.co.uk

Please contact our West Wickham office for more information: Tel: 020 8432 7373 Email: westwickham@langfordrussell.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY | PROFILE

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Robert Sargent

CEO of The Acorn Group incorporating: John Payne, Langford Russell, Acorn, Start Financial Services, Unique, & MAP Chartered Surveyors Photography: rebecca noonan

W

e all secretly dream of a white Christmas – the kind that the wintry scenes on Christmas cards depict; fresh crunchy snow on the ground, dimly lit lanterns and children enjoying the wonderment of it all.

But for us living in the South East of England, we’ve actually only ever opened our curtains on Christmas morning to see a white blanket of snow four times in the last 50 years.

I remember as a very young boy, staring out of my bedroom window in awe as it fell throughout the night, ignoring my parents’ pleas to close my eyes if I wanted Santa to come. I had two elder sisters still awake downstairs and I could hear the chatter of my nan and grandad as they toasted Christmas Eve in with a sherry.

The next morning, after much wishing and praying, I peeked out to see nothing but undisturbed snow. At least a foot high, it settled on roofs, trees, cars and roads. I excitedly rushed around the house to tell my two still-sleeping sisters, my mum, who was already basting the turkey, my dad who was on the back step lighting a celebratory pipe and my bleary-eyed nan and grandad who looked at each other in vague disappointment. It was only later that I realised they were worried about how I’d be able to test out the brand new bike Santa had left for me! It’s not quite the same when you’re a grown-up, but I hope my children, and their children will share the same nostalgic memories; of warm and fun

festive times with the family, wherever they are.

Because it’s not the house you’re in that makes it so special; it’s the people that live in it that make it a home.

And that’s why, as the South East’s leading estate agency group, which incorporates John Payne, Langford Russell and Acorn, it has always been our ethos to move people instead of selling houses. Behind every move is a real human story and it is not until our team fully understands our clients aspirations that we can really begin to advise you. You may just want to know how much your property is worth, or be a first time buyer looking for a way onto the property ladder. But whether you’re a growing family looking for more space or a retired couple whose children have flown the nest, we have 40 years’ experience of listening and that’s always the first step.

We can’t promise to move you in time for this Christmas, but we can promise you a white one!

The Met Office might not be able to guarantee it, but here at John Payne, we can magic anything up. So if you’re looking to recall your own Christmas memories of years gone by, or create new ones for your children, be sure to visit the Blackheath Winter Wonderland this December in conjunction with the Blackheath Conservatoire.

acorn.ltd.uk; johnpayne.com; langfordrussell.co.uk; startmortgages.co.uk; uniquepropertiesuk.com; mapsurveyors.co.uk

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THE WORLD.indd 338-0241 TheWorld 2Spread 420x297.indd 1

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The sea is our home.

Imagine the ultimate lifestyle that comes with combining both a private yacht and a luxury vacation home. A home that takes you all around the globe, allowing you to wake up to new scenery outside your private balcony every few days.

That is what life is like aboard The World, the largest private yacht on the planet.

Ownership of an apartment on The World affords you the freedom, adventure, and personal detail of living aboard a luxury yacht without all the challenges that usually accompany it.

Owners & Guests enjoy extensive time in each destination, expert guides and lecturers, and in-depth Expeditions unlike anything you could experience elsewhere.

Apartments aboard The World are extremely limited. If you would like to learn more about the Ship or ownership opportunities, please contact your Residential Advisor at ResidentialAdvisor@aboardtheworld.com or +1 954 573 2583.

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INNOVATIVE MORTGAGE ADVICE

elysianfinance.co.uk

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N 4 O 0 W % SO LD

RED LION LANE | WOOLWICH COMMON | LONDON | SE18 4AS

LANDMARK ADDRESS WITH A U N I Q U E H I S T O RY

Mulgrave Mews

East Lecture House

East Cadets’ Quarters

A contemporary collection of only ten new build houses and apartments, many with outdoor space or balcony.

East Lecture House comprises ten new build and refurbished houses and apartments, centred around a communal courtyard.

Just four 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, expertly designed and refurbished with both ground floor apartments featuring private outdoor space.

1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available from £275,000 - £495,000 2 and 4 bedroom houses available from £425,000 - £535,000 Marketing Suite and Showhomes open Thursday - Monday 10.00am - 5.00pm (Sunday 4.00pm)

www.theacademywoolwich.co.uk or call: 020 3689 7868 Computer generated image is indicative of Mulgrave Mews, East Lecture House and East Cadets’ Quarters. Prices correct at time of publication.

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Showcase

limited edition townhouses now available

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY | ASPIRATIONAL LIVING

A beautifully refurbished family home in the heart of Chislehurst

T

his immaculately presented and extended four bedroom family home is situated within close proximity to Elmstead Woods Station, Babington House School and Chislehurst High Street.

Grove Vale, BR7. £1,000,000 Freehold KFH, Chislehurst 020 8285 9900; kfh.co.uk

Greenwich Square is a benchmark for modern city living in the beautiful Royal Borough of Greenwich, offering a limited number of stunning townhouses. The vision will bring to life a vibrant public square including leisure facilities and a range of retail amenities.

• Rare opportunity of 3 storey, 4 bedroom townhouses.

• All townhouses provide a private garden.

• High specification & bespoke interior design.

• On-site cafés, restaurants, retail and a new leisure centre.

• New store now open.

• Short walk to Maze Hill station with direct trains to London Bridge in 11 minutes.*

Prices from £799,950*

Call 0800 077 8177 greenwichsquare-london.com A NEW DEVELOPMENT BY

SUPPORTED BY

OUR FUNDERS

PROPERTY | DEVELOPMENT | FINANCE

A development in association with Urban Capital Greenwich LLP / Topland Group

*Terms and Conditions apply. Prices are correct at the time of going to press. Computer generated images are for illustrative purposes only. Travel & walk time source: www.tfl.gov.uk & www.walkit.com. All townhouses have a predicted Energy Efficiency Rating ranging between 85-87 (B) on the Predicted Energy Assessments (PEAs).

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Smart doesn’t settle for less than the best price.

Make sure your agent is on Zoopla.

ZOOPLA.indd 1 297x210_2014 10 21.indd 1 V1 ZOOPLA Press

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NOW RELEASED 1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS Regent’s Place is an enticing new collection of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in the very centre of Bromley, just off the High Street, and four minutes walk from the station. With London just 16 minutes away thanks to fast rail links, the vibrant contemporary lifestyle you desire is closer than you think.

Contact Sinclair Hammelton for further details today.

Selling agent: Sinclair Hammelton, 23 High Street, Bromley, Kent BR1 1LG

www.crestnicholson.com/regentsplace

020 8464 5566

Digital illustration is indicative only. Travel times taken from Google Maps and National Rail.

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Canary Wharf

£1,400 pw Furnished

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Concierge | Balcony | Amenities Nearby | EPC – C Canary Wharf 020 3417 3748 cw@brlets.co.uk

Eleven offices open six days a week Monday - Saturday Beaufort Park | Canary Wharf | City | Ealing | Greenwich | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park | Imperial Wharf | Kensington | Knightsbridge Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

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London’s Letting Agency

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

info@brlets.co.uk www.brlets.co.uk

020 7319 9783

Greenwich Borders

£325 pw Furnished

Eltham

£340 pw Furnished

1 Bedroom | Reception 1 Bathroom | Apartment Close To Amenities & DLR | EPC – B | Sole Agents Greenwich 020 3503 0529 greenwich@brlets.co.uk

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Parking | Communal Garden | EPC – E | Sole Agents Greenwich 020 3503 0529 greenwich@brlets.co.uk

Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf

£425 pw Furnished

1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Concierge | Lift | Gym | EPC – B | Sole Agents Canary Wharf 020 3417 3748 cw@brlets.co.uk

£520 pw Furnished

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Balcony | EPC – D | Sole Agents Canary Wharf 020 3417 3748 cw@brlets.co.uk

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

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HOMES TO VIEW BRAEBURN HOUSE SE3 – FREEHOLD £1,750,000 – 4 bedrooms EPC rating: C | Ref: BLK140142

VISION MEWS SE22 – FREEHOLD

AURA COURT SE15 – LEASEHOLD

£975,000 – 4 bedrooms EPC rating: C | Ref: BLK140080

£795,000 – 2 bedrooms EPC rating: C | Ref: BLK140118

MEADOWCOURT ROAD SE3 – LEASEHOLD £500,000 – 2 bedrooms EPC rating: B | Ref: BLK140144

cluttons.com

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BLACKHEATH Sales: 020 7768 0969 Lettings: 020 7768 1161 blackheath@cluttons.com

BLACKHEATH PARK SE3 – UNFURNISHED £2,500 per month – 2 bedrooms EPC rating: D Ref: 82453

BURNT ASH HILL SE12 FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED

LOCK CHASE SE3 – UNFURNISHED

£1,350 per month – 2 bedrooms EPC rating: TBC | Ref: 83682

£1,850 per month – 2 bedrooms EPC rating: D Ref: 82506

MONTPELIER ROW SE3 – FURNISHED £2,350 per month – 2 bedrooms EPC rating: TBC Ref: 81622

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langfordrussell.co.uk

Bromley & Kent’s Leading Estate Agency.

Now with six branches across the Bromley Borough.

Call your local office for a free sales or lettings valuation.

Beckenham 020 8663 4433 Bromley 020 8315 5544

Chislehurst 020 8295 4900 Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Orpington 01689 661 400 West Wickham 020 8432 7373

The Acorn Group, incorporating:

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