Absolutely Essex July 2022

ESSEX

Essex JULY 2022

PLU S

TRAVEL

SIGHTSEER

Why there's plenty to enjoy in Chelmsford •

SPECIAL

12 pages of holiday inspiration, close to home and abroad

FOOD JOURNEY

A trip down memory lane at Channels Estate Brasserie • JULY 2022

BODY OF WORK Exploring over 150 sculptures at Markshall Estate

Look of

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SUMMER KEEP COOL AND BE READY FOR THE SUN WITH THE LATEST FROM BONMARCHÉ BRAINTREE

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The Creek is a multi award winning family run restaurant and bar owned by Terence and Caroline Howard and offering classical British dishes with a European influence using only the best locally sourced ingredients

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH ABIGAIL GARDNER MEDIA CONSULTANTS CELIA GREGORY, CLAIRE YATES FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries: please call 07862 004024 or email: celia@zest-media.com or please call 07861 994764 or email: claire@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588

Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date on what’s happening, new dishes, booking availability & more.

We look forward to welcoming you with a smile.

Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

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Contents J U LY 2 0 2 2

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64 16

C U LT U R E STACEY JACKSON

From Snopp Dogg to Hornchurch

FOOD & DRINK 68 CHANNELS ESTATE

Are taking us on a foodie journey

20 MARKSHALL ESTATE

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23 CHELMSFORD

73 WINE CELLAR

On sculpture returning to the Walled Garden

The many reasons this is a great city

THE ANGEL INN

Inside an historic revamp

Il Vino offer up a taste of summer

FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 38 THE SHOOT

INTERIORS 88 GARDEN NEWS

43 JEWELLERY

90 KIRKBY DESIGN

Cool summer vibes from Bonmarché

Somewhere over the rainbow...

64 TRAVEL SPECIAL The hottest overseas destinations

71

The latest to make the most of outdoor space

On an exciting new design collaboration

95 TREND

Sunny delight with orange inspiration

A B S O L U T E LY- E S S E X .C O. U K A B S O L U T E LY-W E S T E S S E X .C O. U K The online guides to inspirational living and what's on in Essex

O N T H E C OV E R Bonmarché SS22 collection (bonmarche.co.uk)

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RELAX IN THE COUNTRYSIDE …

Sample all that down hall offers, throughout August Children stay and eat breakfast for free Our newly refurbished Fox bar and lounge offers small plates to enjoy or you can enjoy a Pimm’s on the terrace and a game of boules.

The latest trend in sports our own padel tennis court offers the you the chance to play the fastest growing sport to hit the UK, or if you prefer the traditional tennis courts, we have that too.

Feel free to book the spa during your stay whilst the little ones explore the trim trail in the woods.

Matching Rd, Hatfield Heath, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 7AS t: +44 (0)1279 731 441 downhall.co.uk

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DARREN MAYNARD

Welcome As we celebrate Chelmsford this month, Bang & Olufsen’s Darren Maynard waxes lyrical about the city

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Stacey Jackson

THE EDITOR'S July issue highlights

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Travel Special Some of the finest places in the UK to get away from it all

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On Snopp Dogg and filming in Hornchurch

s life slowly returns to normal, it’s so nice to see the city centre gaining momentum with shoppers and visitors. I am lucky enough to be the proprietor of two Bang & Olufsen stores servicing the Essex area, one in Chelmsford and the other in the newly awarded City of Colchester.

We have had our stores representing the Bang & Olufsen brand for over 20 years and we have seen many changes in both the way people shop and enjoy their free time. In recent years there have been many who feared the demise of the high street in favour of online shopping, but I am pleased to say that with such a strong retail offering in Chelmsford, and some fantastic restaurants and venues that continue to encourage people into the city for an evening as well as the day, Chelmsford is a fantastic place to come and spend some of that well deserved spare time.

In July this year we will embark on a complete refurbishment of our Chelmsford store in preparation for new products and to enhance the entire shopping experience for audio visual products for your home. Once complete, visitors to our store will be able to experience Bang & Olufsen in a brighter and more interactive environment. Our Bluetooth speakers, earphones and headphones will be displayed in a way that customers can see all available colours and finishes and our Multiroom audio systems will be presented in a similar fashion.

So here is to an exciting few months ahead, once again showing that Chelmsford really is a great place to visit.

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Chelmsford

A 5-page special celebrating the city

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County Coastline How to follow The Essex Serpent's trail

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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LIBERTY CAPS Stella McCartney's summer 2022 campaign takes a psychedelic trip into nature, grounded in the notion that mushrooms connect us all. The collection’s palette pulls heavily from nature, blending energetic brightness with earthiness tones. stellamccartney.com

SOFT FOCUS Dr Hauschka's colourful new packaging celebrates a 20year partnership with shea nut suppliers from Burkina Faso. Rose Nurturing Body Cream, £27.50 drhauschka.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

BRIGHT EYES Invoke the hypnotic, spellbinding allure of your inner Carnival Queen with Uoma's limited edition high octane, high impact and highly pigmented color palette. £43 libertylondon.com

B L O C K PA R T Y The large, multi-coloured Block Design Round Tray is exclusive to The Conran Shop, designed for serving drinks and snacks with flair. £35 conranshop.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

GLITTER BUG The Joyful Colours collection is full of colour and joie de vivre. Coeur de Lion's beautiful handmade designs incorporate natural stones and high-grade materials. coeur-de-lion.org

COLOUR RUSH Koibird's resort collection spans sarongs, swimsuits and everything in between for the ultimate holiday wardrobe. koibird.com

LINK UP EDG London's Piccadilly cufflinks derive from hand painted abstract works of art, £85. edglondon.com

SW E E T TA L K The new Candy Kittens Loves celebrate the spectrum of love, using bright dopamineinducing colours to inject positivity and happiness into their customers' lives. candykittens.co.uk

R A I N B O W WAV E With its colorful stripes, opulent details, and the ultimate fit, Marie Jo's Camila bikini is perfect for summer. ameliesfollies.co.uk

M AC A R O N LOV E Laduree's purple Napoleon box of 18 macarons includes six Jubilee personalised macarons, six raspberry and six blue MarieAntoinette Tea flavours. £43 laduree.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Sculpture in the Walled Garden Saturday 23rd July - Sunday 4th September Over 150 sculptures, from 33 national and international sculptors will be on display in the stunning surroundings of the Walled Garden this July.

There will be a wide variety of styles and materials to suit every taste, garden, and budget.

01376 563796 www.markshall.org.uk Registered Charity: 256700

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C U LT U R E

SCULPTU RE AT MARKSHA LL 23 JULY-4 SEPTEMBER MARKSHALL ESTATE

The popular Sculpture Exhibition at Markshall Estate will be returning to the Walled Garden from Saturday 23 July. The exhibition includes over 150 sculptures, from 33 national and international sculptors. There will be a wide variety of styles and materials to suit every style, garden, and budget.

Read more about it on page 20. markshall.org.uk

Stacey Jackson 16 • Markshall Estate 20 • Chelmsford 23 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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PHOTO: SHANE FINN

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

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Her dance tracks play in clubs across the globe, but for her latest project singersongwriter Stacey Jackson has been chasing the dream in Hornchurch

By REBECCA PITCAIRN

PHOTO: SHANE FINN

S

inger-songwriter, actress and TV presenter, Stacey Jackson, may well hail from Montreal, but having spent over two decades in the UK, she couldn’t be any more patriotic about Great Britain. “I’m Canadian, but I married an American and lived there for 11 years before coming here so I’m a little bit of a mutt really – but home is England,” she says. “We love living here – it just has the best of everything. It’s so central to the world, I really feel that.”

We are chatting the week following the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and she is still buzzing from the celebrations, in particular the Party at the Palace. “It was by far and away the most extraordinarily well-produced television event I have ever witnessed in my life, on so many levels, it was just incredible,” she gushes.

And Jackson should know. The petite blonde has built a successful career

in the music scene with chart-topping dance hits in the UK and US, including a collaboration with iconic rapper Snoop Dogg in 2010, which she re-released last year for the track’s 10th anniversary.

“I’d written a song called Live it Up, which required a rapper on it. Crazily, it turned out my manager had done a lot of work with some gangsta rappers back in the day and he knew Snoop Dogg, so sent my music to him,” she recalls.

“The next thing I knew I was on a plane to LA and my career just exploded.”

Despite Jackson’s success over the past decade or so, her entry into music wasn’t a conventional one. Having sung with bands in her teens and early 20s, her dream had always been to make it in the entertainment industry. However, when she met and married her husband, entrepreneur Henry Jackson, at college they decided to have a family.

“I’ve often wondered about that sliding doors moment – you know, what might

have happened if things had been different.

But I married young, I married my college sweetheart and we had a family and, as a woman I made a choice, I wanted to be home with the kids and I’m grateful I was able to do that,” she explains.

The 15-year hiatus meant that Jackson didn’t get her big break until she was in her 40s. “I did start a little later in life and it was a bit of a risk because the industry is very ageist,” she says. “A lot of the record labels probably wouldn’t have even looked at me because they wanted to create more malleable popstars who were younger and I’d lived life. But I believe that you don’t know unless you try and I think I’m proof that it’s really never too late to live your dream.”

Her music career has led to other opportunities too. She appeared in a cameo role in the 2020 film, Reboot Camp (a mockumentary about the selfhelp industry), and has also been cast in a TV series called Channel 52, although A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

SHE HAS ENJOYED FILMING IN ESSEX

PHOTO: SHANE FINN

that, she says, was delayed due to the pandemic and now may not materialise.

She also has a range of patented technical fitness apparel, StaeFit, which she created to tackle issues such as breast and sweat rash women may have while working out, together with a StaePumped fitness video.

Now 52, and with her children relatively grown up (three are in their 20s and one is a teen), she has embarked on another music project – her own TV show called Stacey Jackson in the 80s, which is filmed at Hornchurch’s Spotlight Studio.

“I really enjoy being in Essex, it’s such a different vibe from London, but is so close and the people are so sweet, genuine and authentic,” she enthuses.

“It’s beautiful here too and you get so much more for your money than in the city. It’s also a great crowd for my shows

– I’ve done a few PRIDES here and the atmosphere is just fantastic.”

Drawing on her experience of 80s music, the nostalgic weekly show on Sky’s music channel, 365 (Spotlight TV), sees Jackson take viewers on a musical journey through some of the best hits of the decade, from new wave and dance, to pop, rock, heavy metal and more.

“I authentically lived through the 80s – it was when I was in my first ever band, writing original music; my first kiss; when I got my driving licence; my sweet 16, all these momentous teenage things that happen, so I was able to associate the personal experience to the memory lane,” she says.

Jackson researches and writes all the shows herself (55 and counting so far) with episodes including ‘Songs from 80s live concerts,’ ‘Hits from 1980s movie classics’ and ‘1980s music to work out to’ to name a few. The production company who make the show even agreed to use one of her songs, Flipside, as the theme tune, which has since reached Number One on the Global Digital Radio Chart for Independent Music.

“They thought they were going to use a stock 1980s record for the opening credits, but I’d literally just written this song during lockdown and it had an ‘80s vibe to it and so I suggested it and they went for it,” Jackson explains. “That’s the

PHOTO: SHANE FINN

SHE HAS COLLABORATED WITH SNOPP DOGG

only reason I released it, but organically it’s been my biggest song to date.”

July sees the release of a new single, Urgent, a feel-good dance track that Jackson will be performing at various PRIDE events up and down the country and, later in the year, a new album. If that isn’t enough, she also plans to release a book later this year – a comical fictionalised account of her musical journey.

“It’s probably going to be called ‘How a Gangsta Rapper Made me a Better Mum’,” she laughs. “I was going to include Snoop in it, but as it’s fiction it will be more general.

However, you can certainly tell it’s my journey and in the third book the character will launch a TV show like me, so that will definitely be set in Essex (or in a fictional place in Essex), there’s no doubt about it.”

Speaking with Jackson for even a short time, it’s easy to see how the unlikely pairing of a ‘middle-aged’ mother and rapper worked so well – she’s down-to-earth, candid and real.

“Snoop and I are from completely different worlds, it’s quite a juxtaposition, which is what makes it so funny really,” she says. “But our paths ended up crossing and we really got on well and found we actually have a lot in common.

He has this posse of guys that he looks after like brothers and I’m still in that crowd. I’m part of the ‘Dogg’ crowd.” staceyjackson.com

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THE STUNNING WALLED GARDEN

Get to know…

IAN CHANDLER A R B O R E T U M M A N AG E R , M A R K S H A L L E STAT E , C O LC H E ST E R

Q Could you give us a potted history of Markshall Estate?

A A dwelling had existed at Markshall for centuries and also appears in the Doomsday Book. It was left ‘to the Nation’ in his Last Will and Testament by the last owner Thomas Phillips Price on the death of his wife, for the Advancement of Agriculture, Arboriculture and Forestry. Thomas Phillips Price died in 1932. Outlived by his wife by 34 years the intervening years were not kind.

By then the mature Oaks in the Deer Park had been felled, the formal gardens and deer park overgrown, and the Estate scarred by its involvement in the Second World War. The Thomas Phillips Price Trust was established in 1971 and instigated a programme of clearing, landscaping, and renovation with the view ‘to develop a landscape with a range of historical, botanical and geographical experiences and interest throughout the seasons.’

The Arboretum and Visitor Centre was opened to the public in 1992 and the Arboretum houses a collection of trees, planted on a geographical basis from around the temperate parts of the globe. It is also home to a Walled Garden with five contemporary gardens within the old walls.

Q What is your role there and how long have you been working at the Estate?

A My role is Arboretum Manager and have been fortunate enough to work here now for almost 25 years.

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CULTURE • PROFILE

Q What do you love about being a part of Markshall Estate?

A The sense of reward to be involved in creating a unique landscape within the Gardens and Arboretum, and the chance to manage the special woodlands within the Estate.

SCULPTURE WILL TAKE OVER MARKSHALL ESTATE THIS MONTH

Q What can we expect to see at

Sculpture in the Walled Garden?

A A wide range of art pieces of all shapes and sizes for all budgets in the beautifully kept Gardens within the Arboretum. Sculpture in the Walled Garden is an important event for Markshall Charity. We are delighted that the exhibition will be coming back for the fourth time. It was really missed by visitors, due to the pandemic, and we cannot wait to welcome visitors back to see the sculptures.

Sculpture in the Walled Garden is a real highlight on the Markshall Estate calendar.

It is hugely popular and makes more people aware about the important work undertaken by the Charitable Trust, especially this year as the charity celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Driving awareness and encouraging visitors

“Sculpture in the Walled Garden is a real highlight on the Markshall Estate calendar” is vital in securing the future of Markshall Estate for everyone’s enjoyment.

Q Why do you think it is always such a popular exhibition?

A I think it makes people look at their own gardens very differently and realise that the natural plantings can be enhanced with the unexpected.

Q What else is coming up this year at Markshall Estate?

A As well as a popular Sculpture Exhibition this summer, Markshall Estate will be hosting a range of events such as outdoor theatre, photography workshops and an exciting Christmas events programme.

Q Do you live locally?

A I’m actually lucky enough to live

on site at Markshall Estate.

Q Markshall Estate aside, if you had to choose three places to visit where you live or further afield in Essex, where would you decide on?

A I would have to pick RHS Hyde Hall, Beth Chatto Gardens and Audley End Gardens.

Q With summer approaching, do you have any favourite outdoor spots to make the most of the sunshine A Dedham Vale or the Stour Valley has some lovely spots.

M A R K S H A L L E S TAT E Coggeshall, Colchester CO6 1TG 01376 563796 • markshall.org.uk

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Introducing...

The Chefs Table Discover the history of Channels Bar & Brasserie, while Head Chef Dan Pitts and his brigade take your taste buds on a one-off culinary journey through plentiful Essex right to your plate.

The Chefs Table features ‘Menu 25’, inspired by family and childhood memories of Chef Dan and uses only the finest local ingredients sustainably sourced. The majority of our suppliers come from a 25 mile radius of our door, including our own Chef’s Garden and honeybees!

£125 per person includes:

Unique, one off 7 Course Taster Menu with drink pairings throughout Meet our Head Chef Dan while he guides you through ‘Menu 25’ Exciting surprises along your journey Availble Friday lunchtime & evening. Please allow 3 hours to enjoy the whole experience.

Min. booking of four people, max. of eight. Booking requires a £50 non-refundable deposit.

Find out more about this unique experience at: www.channelsestate.co.uk

HOW TO BOOK: Booking can be made via EMAIL ONLY: brasserie@channelestate.co.uk Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East, Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT (Entrance by the Park & Ride)

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CULTURE • AREA FEATURE CHELMSFORD CATHEDRAL

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hen it comes to marvelling about Essex's towns and cities, Chelmsford is one that always stands out for us. The cathedral may well dominate the skyline, but there is so much to see and do, for all the family too.

Overleaf, we have four pages where the experts at Chelmsford For You and Visit Essex suggest where to spend your time, covering everything from woolly mammoths to stunning gardens. Enjoy...

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New Hall School A Catholic independent boarding and day school for girls and boys aged 1-18

380 years of history and innovation at our idyllic 70-acre site Sign up to our Open Morning on 24 September The Avenue, Boreham, Chelmsford, CM3 3HS newhallschool.co.uk | 01245 467 588 | admin@newhallschool.co.uk NEW HALL SCHOOL_JULY 2022_ABSOLUTELY ESSEX.indd 24

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PHOTO: CHELMSFORD CITY COUNCIL / BE INSPIRED

CULTURE • AREA FEATURE

T HYLANDS HOUSE

wo thousand years ago Chelmsford was simply a staging post into East Anglia, but over the centuries it’s become so much more than that.

From historic county town of Essex to city status for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, Chelmsford has built a cosmopolitan presence that offers something for everyone.

Whether it’s the famously abundant parks and open spaces, its flourishing leisure scene with lots of interesting restaurants for food fans, or its popular shopping, it’s an attractive destination throughout the year.

Central Park is a gem in the heart of the city. It’s a great space for youngsters and families, just off the main shopping area and High Chelmer precinct.

Take a break to stroll among colourful flower beds to the lovely fountain, then stop at the café for drinks and cakes.

Youngsters will have fun in the play areas or watching riverside wildlife.

For a touch of heritage in our countryside, visit Hylands Estate, which includes 574-acres of historic parkland, and the neo-classical Hylands House. Roam through Hylands Park with views of the city in the distance, bring the family

City for all

SEASONS Chelmsford – from staging post to Diamond Jubilee city.

Visit Essex and Chelmsford For You give us a guided tour

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E XC L U S I V E READER OFFER

£139.00* RRP £169.00 BEOSOUND EXPLORE

A L L- R O U N D S O U N D F O R T H E A DV E N T U R O U S A durable outdoor Bluetooth speaker with a True360 omnidirectional sound. The Beosound Explore’s grab-and-go shape, optimised weight, and integrated carabiner clip make it extremely portable.

Its unique cylindrical form, together with high-performance drivers and amps, deliver the power and acoustical volume necessary for your listening pleasure while camping or hiking.

To take advantage of this offer, please produce this advert at either of our stores shown below.

Bang & Olufsen of Chelmsford 16-18 New London Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 0SP Telephone: 01245 266117 Email: chelmsford@bang-olufsen.co.uk Web: bang-olufsen.com/chelmsford Bang & Olufsen of Colchester 61 High Street, Colchester, Essex CO1 1DN Telephone 01206 763344 Email: colchester@bang-olufsen.co.uk Web: bang-olufsen.com/colchester *Offer limited to one unit per customer on production of this advert. Offer available until 31st July 2022 at Bang & Olufsen of Chelmsford or Colchester and is not available in conjunction with any other offer.

Hyde Hall Flower Show Wed 3 – Sun 7 Aug Join us for a vibrant show full of inspiration, expert tips and delicious food and drink.

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RHS members go free

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Your visit supports our work as a charity

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PHOTO: CHELMSFORD CITY COUNCIL / BE INSPIRED

along to enjoy the fully accessible Adventure Castle Playground or take a look around the creative hub that is The Stables – an exciting historic courtyard with a café, artist studios, second-hand bookshop and shop with items made especially at Hylands Estate.

The ornate Victorian Pleasure Gardens have several period garden styles to explore, and with planting restoration taking place. There’s always something new to see, including resident wildlife. Hylands Estate is fully open every third Sunday of the month, with a bustling Farmers’ and Crafts Market, and a chance to discover the history of Hylands House.

There’s also an exciting programme of events at Hylands Park. As well as workshops at The Stables and a variety of visiting markets, there will be special events during the summer – and some treats for younger visitors. An outdoor theatre production of Rapunzel on Monday 15 August will offer a brand-new musical adaptation of the classic fairytale, and for fans of the prehistoric there are the thrills of Dinosaurs in the Park from 18 August to 4 September.

Meanwhile, The Stables courtyard will host a summer series of events in

• AREA FEATURE • XXXXX CULTURE XXXXXXXX

CHELMSFORD CITY CENTRE

“You can see, smell, touch and hear Chelmsford’s past as you walk from the Ice Age”

SUMMER AT RHS GARDEN HYDE HALL

July and August, showcasing some of the best upcoming musical talent, with acts such as Sunchaser and Black Pines.

With history in mind, there’s no better place to discover the city’s story than Chelmsford Museum in the beautiful surroundings of Oaklands Park. You can see, smell, touch and hear Chelmsford’s past as you walk from the Ice Age, right through to the present day. Discover the remains of a woolly mammoth, watch a princely Anglo-Saxon burial, and see stunning art by a Turner Prize winner. Open from 10am to 5pm every day (including bank holidays) in the summer season to 30 September.

Oaklands Park also features the awardwinning Hive café in the museum’s stunning Victorian house. It’s in the original drawing room where the sun streams in throughout the day, allowing for breath-taking views of the surrounding park and Rose Gardens. It’s open Monday to Sunday from 8am to 5pm and has the occasional late opening and special pop ups too.

PHOTO: CHELMSFORD CITY COUNCIL / BE INSPIRED

GREAT WALTHAM

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“You will be enchanted by the exciting spaces and natural beauty” ENJOY BAKED GOODS FROM MAURA’S ITALIAN BAKERY

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On the outskirts of Chelmsford you will discover RHS Garden Hyde Hall (rhs.org.uk/hydehall).

For a county not known for its contours, Hyde Hall’s hilltop setting provides visitors with unexpected sweeping panoramas of the undulating countryside that surrounds it.

A far cry from its humble beginnings as a farm, the 365-acre garden and estate is now a major tourist attraction in the East of England. However, even on a busy day you’ll still find a shady spot where you can lie back on lush green lawns, listen to the wonderful birdsong and gaze up at big open skies.

With such an eclectic mix of plants and planting styles from traditional to modern, gardeners and day-trippers alike will be enchanted by the exciting spaces, colourful blooms and natural beauty. The quintessential Hilltop Garden with its Rose Garden and Herbaceous Border is full of English charm, but venture a little further and you will be transported to distant shores with a visit to the Mediterranean-inspired Dry Garden. Children are also well catered for with the spectacular Higgledy Hyde play tower and explorer trails.

Talking children, schools in the area are strong, none more so than New Hall. As an independent co-educational Catholic boarding and day school, their values of care, trust and respect are central to their ethos. New Hall School was founded 380 years ago, yet they never stop innovating and developing, led by Principal Katherine Jeffrey who has been in post at for 20 years.

Of course, there are many other aspects of New Hall that are both remarkable and memorable, not least the fact that the main school building was once part of one of Henry VIII’s palaces and stands within an idyllic 70acre site in Chelmsford, complete with its own farm. Alongside outstanding pastoral care, they pride themselves on excellent academic results and an extensive co-curricular programme.

From drama, chess, rugby, hockey and dance to robotics, mathematics, science, literature, animal care and much more, the breadth of subjects is sure to inspire and enthuse them to learn and to grow in both confidence and ability.

PHOTO: CHELMSFORD CITY COUNCIL / BE INSPIRED

CULTURE • AREA FEATURE

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CULTURE • AREA FEATURE

CHELMSFORD HAS ACCLAIMED THAI RESTAURANTS

“You’ll never be short of options to eat in and around Chelmsford”

PHOTO: CHELMSFORD CITY COUNCIL / BE INSPIRED

Their Open Morning on 24 September is an ideal opportunity to see New Hall in person.

Chelmsford’s High Street offers an array of well-known stores, including John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, Next, Superdry and H&M. But it is not just the large brands; Chelmsford is also home to award-winning independents and family businesses providing the perfect mix for your retail therapy.

Step inside the covered market in the centre of Chelmsford, boasting an array of local family run stalls catering for every need, from fruit and veg to stationery, housewares and clothing. Want to sample some local produce? Cheese, meat and vegetables are among foods to cater for all tastes.

And when you get hungry you can travel the world under one roof for a bite to eat. There’s Lek’s Thai Food, Baah Noodle, Damascus

CHELMSFORD MUSEUM

LEARN ABOUT THE WOOLLY MAMMOTH AT CHELMSFORD MUSEUM

Mediterranean food, Curry in a Hurry or Maura’s Italian Bakery to choose from.

The undercover market is open Tuesday to Saturday. There is also an outdoor market on Chelmsford High Street which is open Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and a special independent pop up market the first Sunday of the month.

You’ll never be short of options to eat in and around Chelmsford. Taste cuisines from around the world across the city or venture into some of the charming villages. Galvin Green Man is an award-winning British pub and modern restaurant, set in the beautiful Essex countryside, close to Great Waltham in a building dating back to 1341. It’s owned

by Michelin Star chef brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin. The Stores, also in Great Waltham, is a lovely café that does pizza at the weekends.

Stock to the south of the city centre also has a great range of gastropubs. The Hoop (with an AA rosette) regularly makes it into best pub listings. There’s also The Bear, The Baker’s Arms and The Harvard Inn to choose from.

Within the city centre there is a host of amazing eateries to tempt you. Fete Grays Yard is a relaxed independent eatery serving brunch, lunch and weekend small plates. Moto Pizza is billed as no ordinary pizzeria, with their dough made on site every morning with Italian flour, and don’t forget one of Chelmsford’s most loved independent venues, Acanteen. Chelmsford also has an amazing selection of cafes, ranging from familiar brands to artisan coffee providers such as Mr Cavendish and Drink.

Want to find out more about Chelmsford? Visit chelmsfordforyou.co.uk and visitessex.com

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the

PERSONAL TOUCH How Clarendon Fine Art brings contemporary and modern art into the homes of the people of Chelmsford

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hen Clarendon Fine Art opened in Chelmsford in 2021, it brought with it a whole new way of engaging with modern and contemporary art.

Anyone who has walked through the doors of this light and spacious destination gallery will know that it offers something a little bit different from other art venues across the county.

Clarendon has a uniquely personal touch, and its Art Advisers are not only knowledgeable and dedicated, they are also passionate about their eclectic portfolio and are always looking for new ways to share the joy of art collecting. So much so that they are happy to pack up their van with paintings and visit clients at their homes, offices or businesses for a bespoke on-site art consultation. This is a gallery that, quite literally, goes the extra mile.

Situated in the heart of Chelmsford in the centre of Bond Street, Clarendon has become an important part of a thriving cultural and retail community, easily accessible on foot, but with plenty of parking nearby. Specialising in modern and contemporary art, the gallery has curated a portfolio with discerning collectors and investors in mind, commissioning and acquiring a superior range of original paintings to cross a wide spectrum of styles and genres. In addition, they seek out the most exciting emerging talents from around the world and have an outstanding portfolio of rising stars.

The gallery is proud to feature many of the most highly-regarded artists from

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

“We work tirelessly to ensure that we offer the most rewarding and enjoyable encounter with the world of art” WORK BY ANTONIO SANNINO

WORK BY CHRISTIAN HOOK

the contemporary arena, from Christian Hook and Jeffrey Pratt to Banksy and Mr. Brainwash. They have a particular expertise in cutting edge pop, street and experimental art from Europe and the US as well as 20th century masterworks from such household names as Hockney, Warhol and Lowry. Clarendon also has a strong showing in the field of sculpture and last year was named as the exclusive gallery partner for Salvador Dali’s bronze sculpture here in the UK. While the team makes no secret of the fact that many of these works are potential investment pieces, they view this as just one of the elements that makes art a valuable asset. As Gallery Director Ian Hobbs points out: “Our intention is to connect collectors with the right piece of art for them, although the high calibre of the artists we represent and the quality of the portfolio means that much of the work will appreciate in price.”

Impressive though the art collection may sound, Clarendon has no vestiges of elitism and the team is always delighted POP ART IS POPULAR

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to meet not only serious art collectors, but also new faces and first time buyers.

They offer an especially warm welcome to those of all ages who have never thought of walking into an art gallery, but are curious to know more. As owner and CEO Helen Swaby says: “We value the experience of our customers above everything. All of our art consultants believe passionately in the joy of collecting and we love nothing more than sharing that passion with others. We work tirelessly to ensure that we offer the most rewarding and enjoyable encounter with the world of art, and we pride ourselves on providing superb service, constant inspiration, and breath-taking art at every opportunity.”

CLARENDON FINE ART Join the team in the gallery for a glass of bubbly and free art consultation at 88 Bond Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1GH 01245 330634 clarendonfineart.com/galleries/chelmsford

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CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

R A Y O F L I G H T Why Carnaby in London's West End is the perfect go-to destination for one off experiences and products you can't find anywhere else

CELEBRATING THE QUEEN'S PLATINUM JUBILEE IN STYLE

“Carnaby has over 100 independent and international retailers, and more than 60 restaurants that span 30 different cuisines” THERE ARE PLENTY OF DINING OPTIONS

C

arnaby is the go-to shopping and dining destination in the heart of the West End. The area has over 100 independent and international retailers, and more than 60 restaurants that span across 30 different cuisines.

Spread across 14 streets, Carnaby includes the creative hub, the Newburgh Quarter parallel to Carnaby Street with an exclusive and independent restaurant and retail offering as well as famed foodie courtyard Kingly Court, where you can explore 25 foodie concepts. Enjoy the Great British summertime and dine alfresco on one of Carnaby’s 1,500 outdoors dining options.

A brand-new installation to mark this year's celebration for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee is now in place. A glistening crown embellishes Carnaby’s Union Flag with two platinum disc arches bookending both ends of the street. The oversized crown sits at the junction of Carnaby Street and Ganton Street above the 3D shimmer Union Flag, which is adorned with 30,000 red, white and blue shimmer discs. Other Intagrammable moments include the oversized colourful bulbs, giant plug and Spirit of Soho mural.

Alongside this, find a Carnaby photobooth located on the ground floor of Kingly Court to capture those summer memories alongside a water fountain to refresh after a long day's shopping. The fountain helps to encourage visitors to refill bottles and reduce plastic consumption – this

DINE ALFRESCO

installation has saved the use of over 100,000 plastic bottles and counting.

Shop and discover some of the new openings such as IKKS Paris or head to NICCE with their immersive store. Gilly Hicks, American Classics, KLORIS and leisurewear brand Just Hype are all new additions to the Carnaby shopping lineup.

Independent and renowned names to shop in Carnaby include Annie’s Ibiza, GANNI, RS No.9 and RÆBURN. Nobody’s Child, Mallet London, The Great Frog and TOAST are all exciting brands to be discovered in Carnaby.

Dine and drink in some of the newest names in the area such as Zahter, which specialises in Istanbulite cuisine, or head to Nightjar for late night jazz performances mixed with delicious cocktails. Leave room for Mamma Pastrama, Marsha and Kanada-Ya. You can taste the flavours of the world without leaving Carnaby; discover a lineup of innovative restaurants in the area which includes Korean Dinner Party, Club Mexicana, Dehesa and Pastaio.

To find out what is happening in Carnaby visit carnaby.co.uk or follow @CarnabyLondon

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Adding a colourful twist to the classic jumpsuit, Oliver Bonas' latest features a white polka dot pattern covering a deep green fabric. With a cropped, straight leg silhouette, this jumpsuit has a tie waist belt for a comfortable fit. A subtle puff sleeve sits at the shoulders, with a v-neckline and shirt collar, this jumpsuit has tailored style pleats at the hips for a classy finish. oliverbonas.com

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Workshops.

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Rainbow Gems Colourful jewellery in celebration of the summer B y R AC H E L H O G G

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

GE T GLOWING CHANEL Chanel is thinking big this summer with these new additions to their Les Beiges collection, designed to get your whole body summer holiday ready. The multi-use products will work wonders to warm up your complexion and give your skin a healthy sunkissed glow, and are applied with ease using the oversized kabuki brush. chanel.com

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ALEX PARREN IS A PERSONAL TRAINER AND NUTRITION EXPERT

Q&A

County

CI RCU IT A personal trainer from Essex shares her secrets for leading a healthy lifestyle B y A L E X PA R R E N

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• XXXXX HEALTH &XXXXXXXX BEAUTY • PROFILE

I

have been a personal trainer for eight years now and have learnt so much along the way. Some people I meet are surprised to find out that I’m not naturally athletic – in fact when I was at school, I wasn’t even allowed to take part in Sports Day because I was so useless at all the events!

I first got into running when I was at University as it was a highly stressful time for me and I found that it really helped to boost my mental health.

Around the same time, I discovered the gym and started to build up my fitness and strength. Having been a very unathletic, weak child and teenager, this new-found power, agility and confidence made a noticeable difference in my daily life.

Once I graduated from University, I decided to train and qualify as a personal trainer so that I could help others to discover the joys and benefits of fitness just as I had done. I never could have imagined what an incredibly rewarding job it would be and I met a lot of wonderful people from my local community.

Living in Essex is a blessing because there are so many great places to go running and we’re spoilt for choice with gyms. There are a lot of independent gym owners who go above and beyond for their members and provide fantastic facilities. It’s easy to make friends with like-minded people who will support you in whatever training you’re doing. Fit Performance in Basildon, run by Aaron Bolton, is one such gym and is where I did my first local powerlifting competition.

HERE ARE MY TOP TIPS FOR LIVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE IN ESSEX: Make the most of your surroundings In Southend and Leigh-on-Sea alone there are a lot of fantastic places to go running and cycling. There may be places you haven’t explored, such as Wakering Stairs, Hadleigh Country Park or Hockley Woods. You can do the Cliff Step challenge by running (or walking)

“Living in Essex is a blessing as there are so many great places to go running” up and down the steps in Westcliff or you can enjoy an uninterrupted run along the seafront. So long as you mix it up, you’ll never get bored.

Try something new

If you find you often lack motivation to exercise, it’s time to try something new.

Learning a new sport is one of the best ways to do this. One of my favourite ways to stay fit is by doing CrossFit because you can be very creative with the way you structure your workout and there’s always something new to try. You can practise gymnastic moves like rope climbs or handstand walks, or you can keep it simple with a metabolic circuit.

There are lots of friendly independent CrossFit gyms in Essex or you can do it at your local commercial gym.

Start the day right

Traditional breakfast cereals are carbheavy, with high sugar and next to no protein – but with 10g of protein and nominal sugar per 32g serving, Superzeros is an appealing option for those that are looking to better fuel themselves in the morning. Products are nut-free, high in fibre and include no gluten-based ingredients. super-zeros.com IT'S IMPORTANT TO START THE DAY WITH THE RIGHT NUTRITION

Find an event that inspires you

We’re spoilt for choice in Essex when it comes to local events and races. A true hidden gem is the annual Rotary Club Foulness Bike Ride. It’s the best way to see this highly secretive and interesting place, which is closed to the public most of the year. If you prefer running, some of my favourite Essex events include Chelmsford Marathon, Brentwood Half Marathon and Rochford 10k.

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With a genuine interest in fitness, many of Fitness Superstore’s staff come from a sporting or personal training background and are able to give unbiased, professional advice. Feel free to try any product on display in-store before you buy, and take advantage of unbeatable pricing and finance options too.

Need a consultation? Stop by their Chelmsford store today to speak to the home gym experts.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

A SIX-PACK MAY NOT BE A DISTANT DREAM

EMSCULPT NEO CAN TONE YOUR BUTTOCKS

H

ave you heard about the six pack and buttock lift treatment in 30 minutes? It seems too good to be true. A 30-minute treatment lying down can strengthen and tone the abdominal muscles, along with the buttocks and, most recently, arms and legs. I simply had to go and try it.

I found a clinic in Harley Street London, The Cranley Clinic, that offers the first and only non-invasive treatment to go beyond eliminating fat cells to strengthen and define muscles, with no surgery and downtime. The treatment is called the Emscuplt Neo. The reason I chose The Cranley Clinic is that they are currently offering complimentary consultations and a taster session on the Emsculpt Neo. It was explained to me on the phone that this procedure can help both women and men build muscle and burn fat and is known to be the world’s first non-invasive buttock lifting procedure. It helps you achieve a slimmer and more athletic body shape. I could not wait to get on the treatment couch.

I laid down on my stomach, and two metal Emsculpt Neo plates were placed on each glute with an elastic band around my waist to hold them in place. When the machine

G I V E Y O U R S E L F A L I F T The founder of Essex’s Brookside Aesthetics on how you can tackle a lack of gym inspiration

By KAREN CHESTER

was turned on, all I could feel were the contractions that were triggered by the device in my glutes. It felt very strange at first; not painful, just strange. The intensity of the machine is turned up gradually as you get more and more used to the sensation. Every few minutes, the vibration changes. Instead of a contraction wave, it becomes a slow, forced tap, which is the machine’s way of removing any lactic acid build-up to reduce soreness. Very clever.

It’s incredible how quickly you get used to the sensation. I was able to read a magazine and scroll through my phone without any discomfort while my glutes were being squeezed away without me having to do a thing.

I had a course of four treatments, which were carried out five to ten days apart, and the results were far better than I had expected in a total of two hours lying on a bed. There was no recovery period, no needles and no paper gowns, and I was able to go about my day as soon as it was over.

I exercise fairly regularly, but I was blown away with the results after two months.

My glutes were stronger, and my butt was curvier with a lift. I definitely couldn’t have achieved this result with the small amount of time I have to exercise these days.

As a health and beauty writer, I’m always sceptical of ‘miracle’ devices that claim to deliver results with little to no effort. But hearing the Emsculpt Neo is FDA approved and backed by at least seven clinical studies definitely put my mind at ease.

The cost of an Emscuplt treatment varies across the UK. It’s around the same price of signing up to a personal trainer to transform your body, and it’s a non-invasive and far more approachable treatment than surgery or liposuction.

EMSCULPT NEO If you fancy a taster session on the Emsculpt Neo, visit cranleyclinic.com/emsculpt-neo A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

THE CUPCAKES WERE A HIGHLIGHT

THE TEAM STAGED THE PERFECT CHARITY EVENT

HAPPY PLACE

local community since 1986. Their team is made up of experienced and dedicated professionals who continually update their training. Their treatment rooms are equipped with the best technology, including intra-oral cameras, a 3D Dental CT Scanner and an iTero scanner.

Not only can the iTero reveal to your dentist the full inner structure of your teeth and jaw, and identify the slightest sign of decay, it is also able to predict what you would look like after having orthodontic work such as Invisalign.

We go behind the scenes of Improve Your Smile Dental Practice’s Platinum Jubilee charity event in aid of Haven House and The Stroke Association

T

he sun shone down on all who came along to the Platinum Jubilee Charity Coffee and Cake Morning on 27 May, held by Improve Your Smile Dental Practice in Woodford Green, in aid of Haven House and The Stroke Association.

There was a real buzz on the practice’s forecourt on Woodford High Road with bunting, balloons and live music from Natural Voices Choir attracting many a passer-by. The choir’s uplifting, contemporary numbers drew in the crowds and it was smiles all round at the Woodford

Green Dental Practice as people enjoyed a hot drink with plenty of delicious cake and lively conversation whilst raising money for these worthy causes.

Thanks to the generosity of patients and visitors as well as local businesses who donated cakes and fantastic raffle prizes to the tune of £1,400, the Improve Your Smile team raised £1,000 to be divided between each very worthy cause.

This was the practice’s third charity coffee and cake morning held in the month of May and due to its continued success, they intend to hold the event again next year.

Improve Your Smile are a thriving and established practice, and have served the

THE NATURAL VOICES CHOIR IN ACTION

I M P R OV E YO U R S M I L E Woodford House Dental Practice 162 High Road, Woodford Green, IG8 9EF 020 8504 2704 improveyoursmile.co.uk

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TRAVEL S

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inside this section: FOLLOW THE ESSEX SERPENT p54 THE BEST UK S TAYC AT I O N S p 5 8 TH E HOTTEST PLACES TO VISIT ABROAD p64

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O N

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TRAI L Visit and stay at the stunning Essex coastline showcased on the Apple TV hit, The Essex Serpent

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TRAVEL • ESSEX STAYCATION

MALDON HIGH STREET

A SCENIC VIEW OF MALDON

THE BEACH HUTS AT MERSEA ISLAND THE BEACH HUTS AT MERSEA ISLAND

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he Essex Serpent, based on the bestselling novel of the same name starring Claire Danes and Tom Hiddleston, has hit the small screen. Viewers are spellbound by an unexpected extra character: the spectacular Essex coastline.

Essex-born author of The Essex Serpent, Sarah Perry, used an amalgamation of Essex locations to devise the fictional village of Aldwinter. Visit Essex, the county’s tourism body, highlights the key filming locations for you to retrace the Hollywood A-listers’ steps, and find the perfect bolthole for a staycation right here in our wonderful county.

THE MARKET TOWN OF MALDON Much of The Essex Serpent was filmed in the historic market town of Maldon. Danes and Hiddleston strolled down the historic high street and were filmed in iconic buildings such as the impressive Moot Hall and the Blue Boar Hotel, which dates back to the 14th century. The pair strolled through the town’s much-loved Promenade Park and filmed by the quayside, amongst the towering red sails of the majestic Thames sailing barges.

Although the town is famed for its sea salt, Maldon also offers a bustling high street full of independent boutiques to enjoy as well as a number of tearooms offering delicious treats. Visitors to the town can also hop onto a Thames Sailing barge operated by Topsail Charters and begin their own search for the mythical beast. Cruises start from £30 per person.

“Much of The Essex Serpent was filmed in historic Maldon” ROAM THE BLACKWATER ESTUARY As well as sailing, you can also amble along the Blackwater estuary, the site where the mythical beast was said to roam. The snakelike saltmarshes provide a stark yet stunning appeal to the film.

The area is perfect for a wander, where you can also view migrating birds and waders. If you’ve got a drone, let it fly high and capture the swirling saltmarshes, which create the most beguiling shots.

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MOSEY ABOUT ON MERSEA ISLAND

SAILING ON THE BLACKWATER ESTUARY

TAKE TO TOLLESBURY Another great film location was the quiet village of Tollesbury, an off-the-beatentrack spot, which time forgot, with its white weatherboarded houses and sail lofts. Wander over boardwalks, admire the sea views, and head out to the iconic red lightship, which stands tall in the saltmarshes.

“The Essex estuaries are often best viewed by boat”

EXPLORE COLCHESTER FROM WIVENHOE HOUSE HOTEL

Danes and Hiddleston were filmed dramatically on a cliff edge at East Mersea looking out to sea. If you head over to Cudmore Grove Country Park, managed by Explore Essex, you can enjoy amazing views of the Essex coastline.

Take a break on the sandy beach, search for fossils on the shoreline, or head to the grasslands for a lunch time picnic.

The country park and visitor centre are open every day from 8am to dusk.

Drive around the coastline to West Mersea where you’ll find an array of seafood huts, serving the region’s world-famous oysters.

Plus there’s colourful beach huts to enjoy and the calm waters are perfect to try out a new skill, such as paddle boarding. Brushup your technique with Mersea Island Watersports – a ‘learn to SUP’ lesson is £45, or if you wish to hire a board it’s just £20.

Places to stay

ALRESFORD CREEK AND BRIGHTLINGSEA The Essex estuaries weave around its stunning coastline and are often best viewed by boat. Jump on a foot ferry from Brightlingsea harbour and travel to East Mersea. Or catch a small cruise boat and head up the river Colne to Wivenhoe where you’ll pass Alresford Creek, a pretty inlet used as the backdrop for the fictional village of Aldwinter. Boat trips from Brightlingsea Harbour run from 10am to 4pm. Trips from Brightlingsea to East Mersea are £4 for adults, £3 for children under 16 years and children under 1 year old go free.

LE BOUCHON,

Maldon

 Le Bouchon is a 300-year-old Georgian hotel that has undergone extensive refurbishment. The original period features have been combined with furnishings and classically styled decoration to complement the hotel. Rooms are priced from £140.

WA R R E N LO D G E S , near Maldon

 Warren Lodges are set in the beautiful natural surrounds of the Warren Estate. The self-catering lodges contain hot tubs and are perfect to spend time with family and friends.

Lodges can sleep from 4-6 people and cost from £1,039 for a 7-night stay.

To discover more, head to visitessex.com

TOLLESBURY

WIVENHOE H O U S E H OT E L Colchester

 The exquisite 18th century hotel is situated close to Alresford Creek and nearby Brightlingsea. With a mix of luxury and contemporary classic rooms, the hotel is perfect for families and couples. Rooms are priced from £105.

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PHOTO: RUSSELL WHEELER

THERE ARE GOOD OPTIONS TO STAY CLOSE TO MALDON

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Introducing Explora Journeys Collection

Explora Journeys is CREATING a collection of journeys that offer the perfect BLEND of celebrated destinations and less-travelled spots, both seen from a new and ORIGINAL point of view that will inspire and EXCITE in equal measure.

All journeys include high speed unlimited Wi-Fi, access to sophisticated dining across a choice of nine culinary experiences, unlimited beverages, fine wines, premium, spirits, a welcome bottle of champagne, on board gratuities and more.

FEATURED JOURNEYS Coasts of Culture & Sunsets in Santorini

Epic Fjords & The Artic Circle

11 JUNE – 17 JUNE 2023 6 NIGHTS

11 JULY – 23 JULY 2023 12 NIGHTS

ATHENS – PATMOS – BODRUM – KASTELLORIZO – SANTORINI – ATHENS

SOUTHAMPTON – KRISTIANSAND – HELLESYLT / GEIRANGER – ÅLESUND – MOLDE – TRONDHEIM – NARVIK – HONNINGSVÅG – TROMSØ

Ocean Suite fares from GBP 3,300 pp Ocean Penthouse fares from GBP 4,500 pp Ocean Residence fares from GBP 6,800 pp

Ocean Suite fares from GBP 6,300 pp Ocean Penthouse fares from GBP 9,150 pp Ocean Residence fares from GBP 12,300 pp

Fares are cruise only, per person; subject to availability, Terms & Conditions apply.

Please call 020 8559 9007

www.atlantistravel.co.uk

16 Brook Parade, Chigwell, Essex IG7 6PF

CALL US FOR THE LOWEST PRICES IN THE UK

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BRACKEN

COUNTRY A look at some of the UK’s finest staycation spots

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TRAVEL • UK KITTISFORD BARTON

Am Bathach S C OT L A N D, S L E E P S 2

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ruralretreats.co.uk

m Bathach is part of a traditional working croft where Hebridean Sheep can be seen grazing and running on the surrounding hills of heather.

The cottage is part of an extensive refurbishment carried out on the original cow barn using traditional stonework and cedar logs from Pioneer Log Homes of Canada.

Tastefully decorated using local tweeds and traditional furnishings complemented by modern appliances used in a contemporary way.

The area is world renowned for its stunning scenery, wildlife, food and drink and friendly local communities.

Not so well known is the low rainfall and mild climate due to the Atlantic Gulf Stream, with glorious summers and beautiful long sunsets throughout the year. The dark sky is a stunning sight with the stars clearly visible, particularly here in Altass. The cottage is situated in the small hamlet of Rosehall which is surrounded by magnificent salmon fishing rivers and trout lochs, woodland walks and a welcoming local hotel serving delicious food. A perfect base for touring, being based midway between west, north and east coasts, where the varied coastline is a magnet for wildlife and birdwatching.

Kittisford Barton

Wo r k i n g Fa r m s

S O M E R S E T, S L E E P S 6

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glampinghideaways.co.uk

Bracken

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ituated in a beautiful and rural area of North Dorset on a working farm, with extensive views of Bulbarrow and The Blackmore Vale, Bracken is one of three unique, detached eco retreats, constructed to an exceptionally high standard in 2020. The light and spacious, open-plan accommodation is all on the ground floor with cosy under-floor heating throughout, courtesy of the ground source heat pump. Sleeping up to six guests in three bedrooms, Bracken is an ideal choice. Outside, the terrace and garden enjoy breath-taking, far-reaching rural views, not to mention the decadent hot tub. With the Wessex Ridgeway on your doorstep, walking opportunities are endless. In the nearby village of Ansty you will find a charming farm shop, post office and good local pub.

AM BATHACH

urrounded by beautiful countryside and yet close to many fun days out and transport links, Kittisford Barton glamping site is the best of both worlds. Set on a working organic farm with over 260 acres of ponds, woodland, fields and trails, it has a real sense of peace and tranquillity. Spacious safari tents comfortably sleep up to six people, with three separate bedrooms. There’s a gas-powered shower and WC, so no need to stumble across the site during the night. Sit and eat at your own inside wooden table and chairs, or relax on the comfortable sofas.

There’s also a fully equipped kitchen area, complete with double gas hob and working sink plus a wood-burning stove, which also has space to cook on. Light up the outdoor firepit and toast marshmallows, or cook yourself an evening meal over the flames.

The tents even have the option of a wood-fired hot tub. It’s the perfect combination of modern comfort and the great outdoors, and you’re bound to leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

There is no electricity at the site, making this an ideal opportunity to switch off and spend quality time with the people you love.

BRACKEN

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FURLONGS

Furlongs

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dorserhideaways.co.uk

urlongs is a fabulous property with ample space for up to ten guests to experience a special holiday in this most unique location. Furnished and equipped to exacting standards, the cottage offers all that one would wish for on a luxury break. Located at the end of a quiet lane from the centre of Abbotsbury village, Furlongs sits proudly just a few steps below the iconic 14th century St Catherine’s Chapel. From every window the views are spectacular across the surrounding beautiful Dorset landscape, and you can stroll out of the front door to enjoy the popular village with its tea rooms, local pubs and shops, or nearby Swannery, Tropical Gardens or famous Chesil Beach. With a choice of sitting rooms,

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the property is perfect for getting all the family together, and there’s also plenty of space for relaxing in a separate snug. The generous property has three super-king size bedrooms and two twin bedrooms. The bespoke well equipped kitchen has a natural limestone tiled floor, twin ovens and an American-style fridge freezer and leads to the large, light-filled dining space with french doors out onto the terrace. Outside is a covered dining, barbecue and games area. Dorset Hideaways offer 4 nights travelling December 2021 from £1,187.

“FROM EVERY WINDOW THE VIEWS ARE SPECTACULAR ACROSS THE DORSET LANDSCAPE”

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TRAVEL • UK

Goshawk

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glampinghideaways.co.uk ocated on a 240 acre farm on the banks of the Afon Usk (River Usk) in the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park, Goshawk offers a stylish home-from-home glamping experience. After a day spent in the glorious surrounding countryside, this luxurious safari tented lodge offers a welcoming place to unwind.

Inside, the cosy seating area with its comfortable sofas is the perfect place to kick back; the wood-burning stove will ensure you are always warm and toasty. The kitchen is well-equipped with a gas hob, microwave, fridge with freezer compartment, kettle and toaster. Yes - there is electricity too. Seating six, the spacious dining table is a great sociable place to relax and the stylish main bedrooms are furnished with proper beds dressed with Egyptian cotton quality linen and gorgeous traditional Welsh blankets. Your own private woodfired hot tub completes this special hideaway. Nestled beside Goshawk, this is the perfect place to relax.

VICARAGE COTTAGE

Cedar Tree Properties for 2…

Apple DORSET

CLAYTONS COTTAGE

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dorsethideaways.co.uk ne of a pair of bespoke handmade oak shepherd’s huts, Apple comes complete with a kitchenette, a cosy slumber area with a double bed, and heating provided by a wood burning stove. Outside is a lawn with a wooden picnic bench and firepit where you can sit and enjoy the fabulous countryside views. Located in the grounds of the marvellous wedding venue Stockbridge Farm Barn, these two quaint shepherd’s huts of Apple and her sister Blossom sit side-by-side and offer a peaceful retreat in the glorious Dorset countryside. Situated just four miles south of the historic and popular town of Sherborne, the huts have delightfully styled interiors, with plenty of rural charm and outdoor space.

In summer open up the double doors and let the sunshine in, as you sit and enjoy breakfast with your loved one in the peaceful surroundings. Come the evening you can sit by the fire pit long into the night as you stargaze to the heavens. On cooler days the wood burner will keep you nice and cosy throughout the day and night.

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glampinghideaways.co.uk his lovely shepherd’s hut in the grounds of Peak House Farm is the perfect romantic bolt hole for two.

With views looking onto the North Wessex Downs, yet still only two miles from the pretty country town of Whitchurch, it’s the ideal location for a relaxing stay. This gorgeous shepherd’s hut comes with a fully fitted kitchen, a cosy sleeping area with a 4’6 double bed, sumptuously finished with quality linen, plus a shower room with walk-in shower. Access to an outdoor swimming pool is available when heated (May-September). Peak House Farm is a working dairy farm and a top producer of raw milk, which is available for you to enjoy during your stay. Cole Henley is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Two miles away is the country town of Whitchurch, while just a little further away is Watership Down, made famous by Robert Adams. There are an abundance of walking and cycle routes for you to explore.

“THIS IS A WORKING DAIRY FARM AND RAW MILK IS AVAILABLE DURING YOUR STAY”

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TRAVEL • PARTNERSHIP

include Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands with its stunning beaches and delightful Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestoned streets paired with Halki, a tiny island where time has stood still and friendly locals welcome you like long lost friends.

Another addition is Kefalonia, an island brimming with sublime beaches, endless natural beaty and opportunities for infinite adventures twinned with Zante and its golden sands, buzzing nightlife, traditional charm, beautiful countryside and romantic seclusion.

OLD PORT, SKIATHOS

SYMI, DODECANESE

TRUE BLUE Explore the best that Greece has to offer with an Olympic Holidays island-hopping experience

W

hen it comes to choosing a Greek Island escape you are spoilt for choice.

But if you’re struggling to decide on which to visit this year, don’t limit yourself to just one. Why not island hop your way around Greece to experience the very best this incredible country has to offer?

Choose two, three or several islands and explore the different cultures of each while meeting the locals and experiencing warm Greek hospitality.

Whether you’re looking for peace, quiet and reflection in a small, deluxe hotel, some cultural immersion or perhaps you want to try scuba diving followed by partying ‘till dawn’, Olympic Holidays offers a range of bespoke island-hopping holidays with something for everyone.

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Destinations include the Saronic Islands (Poros & Spetses) and Dodecanese (Rhodes, Symi & Kos), which are delightfully different and easily connected by ferries and catamarans. The Southern and Cyclades Islands (Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos, Paros & Crete) each with their own unique personality make them ideal for combining into one trip. The Sporades (Skiathos, Skopelos & Alonissos) with their fantastic beaches, crystal clear sea and lush green forests as well as the Ionian Islands (Corfu, Kefalonia & Zante), home to caves and lakes, ancient ruins and windsurfing hotspots plus five-star hotels with Michelin-star cuisine.

New island hops for this summer include their ‘Jewel in the Crown’ which takes in Skiathos, Alonissos and the Pelion Peninsula, a relatively untouched part of Greece which is characterized by sweeping mountain vistas, enchanting villages, local charm and the splendour of a winding coastline. Other new options

Island Hopping Olympic Holidays have an award-winning, dedicated island-hopping team to help your trip

•

EMERALD GEMS

Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonisos, a 10-night Island Hop includes 5* accommodation and all ferries and private car transfers between the ferry port

•

SANTORINI, NAXOS & MYKONOS

A 9-night Island Hop package includes 5* accommodation and all ferries and private car transfers between the ferry port olympicholidays.com

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d n a l s i e n O h g u o n e r is neve

This is our home; experience the best of Greece with the island hopping specialists Every Greek Island has its own unique personality, so sometimes one just isn’t enough. And because no one knows the islands quite like we do, you can expect a little more from an Olympic Holiday.

Tailor-made island hopping Family-owned, arranging holidays to Greece, the Greek islands and Cyprus for more than half-century Flights from 26 UK airports Choice of islands, accommodation, length of stay and more Low cost to luxury, simple to special occasion British Travel Awards winner for nine consecutive years, with votes submitted by the public Why leave it at just Greece?

Island hop with us across the Canaries or Malta & Gozo

Tailor-made island hopping with Olympic Holidays.

Use code ISLAND200 to save £200pp*

Go Island Hopping, Go Olympic call 020 8492 6840 visit olympicholidays.com/island-hopping OLYMPIC ESSEX.indd 63 AbsolutelyHOLIDAYS_JULY Magazines Advert2022_ABSOLUTELY – July Travel Issue.indd 1

Terms & Conditions: ISLAND200. Save an extra £200 per person on all new Island-Hopping holidays for two people or more with no minimum spend. Can only be booked through the call centre and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, voucher code or offer. Discount code must be added at time of booking and cannot be added post transaction.

22/06/2022 16/06/2022 13:49 15:59

MACHU PICCHU, PERU

W O R L D

I S

Y O U R

OYSTER Atlantis Travel in Chigwell highlight why there is plenty on offer across the globe for a truly memorable summer holiday

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he demand for holidays has gone through the roof with the travel restriction map of Europe becoming a sea of green.

Covid-19 restrictions in Europe are becoming a thing of the past with most countries across the continent having now scrapped all travel rules. Spain and Greece have become the latest countries to end Covid restrictions. It has been so long since we’ve been able to look forward to our holidays, which we all work so hard for.

This demand significantly increases call waiting times for airlines and tour operators, which are sometimes up to two hours or longer, but the beauty of booking through Atlantis Travel is that you don’t have to do that, they do it for you.

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TRAVEL • OVERSEAS

CROATIA

HERITAGE LE TELFAIR, MAURITIUS

THIS MONTH’S TRAVEL NEWS

Eco-friendly sustainable resorts are very much at the forefront of people’s minds when choosing a place to travel. “Take only photos, leave only footprints” sums up environmentally friendly travel perfectly. Peruse some of Atlantis Travel’s favourite resorts with robust sustainability initiatives, so you can indulge in your own slice of eco-chic luxury: • Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort, Mauritius • Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives • Kokomo Private Island Resort, Fiji • Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman • Soneva Kiri, Thailand • Six Senses Kaplankaya, Turkey Now that most countries in southeast Asia are opening their doors, there’s never been a better time for you to explore this enriching part of the world. Discover some of the most amazing resorts across the region, from Bali to Borneo, famed for their flawless service, vibrant cuisine and extraordinarily beautiful surroundings.

Qantas is to start non-stop services from Sydney to London and New York by the end of 2025. The airline has ordered 12 Airbus A350-1000s capable of operating ultra long-haul routes up to 20 hours in duration.

Qantas started running direct 17-hour direct flights between London and Perth in Western Australia in 2018. Passengers on the new direct routes will be able to access a ‘wellbeing zone’ in the centre of the aircraft – with a self-service snack bar and space for stretching and movement – to combat the effects of spending 20 hours in the air.

METT HOTEL & BEACH RESORT MARBELLA , SPAIN

A new opening for summer, the Mett is on the sun-drenched shores of the Costa Del Sol. Housing 254 guest rooms, a bespoke swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym and a modern spa designed to soothe, pamper and de-stress guests. The art of dining and entertainment at its heart, the resort will feature several international lifestyle brands.

ATLANTIS, THE ROYAL

The long-awaited Atlantis, The Royal will debut next door to Atlantis The Palm in Dubai, creating a hospitality and entertainment destination spanning roughly 63 hectares. Guests can expect to check-in to one of 795 rooms and suites, keep cool at more than 90 swimming pools – including a striking infinity pool 90m in length and soaring almost 96m above The Palm – and dine at outposts by some of the world’s most acclaimed chefs, including Heston Blumenthal and José Andrés.

ATLANTIS RECOMMENDATIONS SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX 2022 F1 PACKAGES ON SALE NOW

Atlantis Travel is excited to be in partnership with an authorised partner of the F1 Singapore Grand Prix. You can combine three days of action-packed racing at the Marina Bay circuit with legendary hospitality and world-class entertainment. Go for their twin centre package to wind down in the Maldives after the unmissable Singapore Night Race.

LUXURY HOTEL NEWS/ OPENINGS SAII LAGOON MALDIVES

Opening this summer is SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton. Families, couples and groups of friends will love this 198-room property (featuring rooms as well as beach and overwater villas), with interactive, personalised experiences that start on arrival – guests get to choose a scent for their bathroom amenities from the hotel’s Aroma Lab.

FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX

Where’s Hot C r o at i a

is less than two and a half hours from the UK. It is one of Europe’s ‘must-visit’ destinations, perfect for those seeking to combine historic exploration with a relaxing Mediterranean getaway.

With its many islands, it’s the perfect pick for sailing and yachting holidays, affording travellers multiple stops and many opportunities to experience something different and new.

•

Egypt

is riding high, thanks to the latest archaeological discoveries and renewed interest in Nile cruises following Kenneth Branagh’s big screen adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile. Egypt is the treasure trove that keeps on giving, with new finds almost daily. It’s the best winter sun option for those looking to combine sun, sea, history and adventure.

TAILOR-MADE ADVENTURE

If you are ready for an adventure this year or beyond, Atlantis Travel have selected some of their favourite tailor-made tours that will really get you into the heart of a destination. Whether you long to be immersed in rich culture throughout Asia, come face-to-face with incredible wildlife in the Galapagos Islands or island-hop through the Indian Ocean, find your next great adventure here: • Galapagos with Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley • Adventures in Madagascar with Mauritius and Seychelles • Highlights of Sri Lanka • Highlights of Vietnam • Thailand West Coast Beaches and Islands • Manitoba’s Polar Bears and Beluga Whales.

For more on any of these travel destinations, call 020 8501 0917 or visit atlantistravel.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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IL Vino Our new tasting room is now open for private and corporate events.

Carefully selected outstanding wines from around the world, paired with delicious meats & cheeses for a truly memorable experience.

Give us a call to discuss your requirements.

28 Queens Road Buckhurst Hill  020 8504 8799

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FOOD & DRINK

DRINK IT IN WIVENHOE HOUSE

The Brasserie at Wivenhoe House already boasts relaxed gourmet food, cocktails and an extensive wine list, but it’s gone one step further in its creativity by delighting customers with their own labelled lager, dark and gold ales, IPA, and cider brewed locally at Brentwood brewery.

The Brasserie IPA is a pale lightly hopped session bitter, the Brasserie Lager is clean and crisp, but the customer favourite is the Brasserie Gold, a light golden ale with a subtle sweet malt character. wivenhoehouse.co.uk

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HEAD CHEF DAN PITTS

JOURNEY OF

discovery We head to Chelmsford to find out how Channels Estate are taking us on an Essex foodie trip like no other

By MARK KEBBLE

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• XXXXX FOOD & XXXXXXXX DRINK • INTERVIEW

“I’ve been hugged.

We’ve had guests in tears after remembering their own childhood food memories”

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ood and memories are indelibly linked. I had a very unadventurous childhood when it came to food, but I smile when I think back to my obsession with corned beef sandwiches and brown sauce. My palate diversified somewhat into adulthood, and working as a journalist I have had incredible food experiences that I will never forget. And, now, it looks like Channels Estate in Chelmsford will be adding to that list.

Under the expert eye of head chef Dan Pitts, they have recently launched a Chef’s Table, something that has been bubbling away in the background for some time. “I wanted to do a regular tasting menu for a small number of guests to really showcase the amazing producers we have here in Essex,” Pitts

THE CHEF’S TABLE

THE BEAUTIFUL SETTING

takes up the story. “The Chef’s Table is also tied into having our own chef’s garden and beehives on site, so we can use our own produce throughout the year, as well as the honey. It gives the team and I the chance to be much more creative and makes the whole experience have more meaning for our guests.”

The Chef’s Table, which takes place every Friday, with either lunchtime or evening bookings for a minimum of four people and maximum of eight, certainly packs a lot in. For a start, the history of Channels is interwoven into the event – “There is so much interesting history about the venue that goes back over 50 years,” Pitts points out – and it’s a real showcase for what Essex has to offer, as Menu 25 shows.

“My idea when first thinking about the menus for this experience were to use locally produced ingredients as much as possible,” Pitts explains, “including fruit and veg from our garden, honey from our hives, fresh fish from Mersea, and local farms, all within a 25-mile radius of us here at Channels.

“It’s very important to support and use local suppliers as these little, often family-owned businesses have been going for generations,” he continues.

“They know their craft and you get the best ingredients lovingly produced from start to finish. You can tell the difference using local produce.”

What’s more, Menu 25 features a whopping seven courses. “Every course is named,” Pitts says. “We have The Beginning, Flour & Water, The Garden, The Sea, The Farm, The Sweet and The Finale. The Beginning consists of different bite sized snacks. Flour & Water is the bread course featuring our

homemade sourdough and treacle bread made with local beer and my 67-year-old sourdough starter, served with a chicken butter that is smoked at the table under a glass cloche. The Garden course is based around fruit and veg from the garden, The Sea is the fish course, and The Farm is the meat course. Then, we crossover from savoury to sweet. The Sweet course is the dessert course. The Finale is the last course – a surprise to round up the food journey around Essex.”

The response, it appears, has been quite something. “We have done a few now and it’s always such a great night,” Pitts smiles. “I’ve been hugged, we’ve had guests in tears after remembering their own childhood food memories brought back to life throughout the journey. Every guest always leaves with a smile on their face and hearing their positive comments at the end makes all the work we put into this worth it.

“I take a lot of inspiration from my childhood in my cooking,” he adds. “I grew up in the industry as my parents ran different public houses around Essex, so if I wasn’t watching chefs in their kitchen, I would be spending a lot of time with my grandmother who I cooked with all the time. We have based some dishes around trips to the seaside and The Finale course is inspired after my great grandmother and her iconic chocolate tin.” I’m ready for a new experience to be added to my food memory bank.

C H A N N E L S E STAT E To find out more about the Chef’s Table and to book, email brasserie@channelsestate.co.uk or visit channelsestate.co.uk

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Nestled in the beautiful village of Stoke-by-Nayland, The Angel Inn makes for a perfect luxury getaway.

The newly refurbished restaurant and gardens offer modern British dining, with a la carte and tasting menus available lunchtime and dinner.

Join us for an unforgettable experience.

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FOOD & DRINK • FOCUS

Reasons to CELEBRATE The Angel Inn in Stoke-by-Nayland has opened its revamped doors. We take a closer look at what it offers guests

CHEF RUBEN AGUILAR BEL AT WORK

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aving just re-opened in the pretty village of Stoke-by-Nayland after an extensive two-year refurbishment project, The Angel Inn is a new independently owned gastronomic “restaurant with rooms” set in an historic, heritage 16th century building in the heart of the Suffolk countryside.

Having been lovingly restored it features the most irresistible restaurant with large open fireplaces, locally made furnishings and even a 100ft deep, glass topped well. The addition of the landscaped gardens that were designed by Thomas Hoblyn, Chelsea Flower Show Gold winner 2022, have created an oasis for guests to enjoy a light lunch, or afternoon drinks.

The Angel Inn offers 11 en-suite luxury boutique rooms that are designed for peaceful relaxation. Each room has been designed to incorporate style and comfort using locally

produced furnishings and luxury finishes.

Chef, Michelin trained Ruben Aguilar Bel from Spain, has crafted all the menus, which reflect seasonality and sustainability making use of fine local and British produce.

Focussing on innovation and invention, diners may choose between the a la carte and the tasting menus (including a vegetarian option), beautifully presented on bespoke handmade dinnerware.

Gastronomy runs through every element of the restaurant and working with the best suppliers has become an important principal Ruben and his team work strictly to. The menu boasts wagyu beef from Dunblane in the Scottish Highlands, rabbit from the Lake District, hand dived scallops from Cornwall, Suffolk brown crab and locally foraged herbs.

Good food deserves good wine and at The Angel Inn, head sommelier Valerio Vallani has chosen many vintages that can be paired with the Tasting Menu for a truly memorable experience.

Bar manager, Juan Perez Gomez, has developed a fantastic cocktail menu from the vast spirit list boasting many small independent UK producers of gins, vodkas and whiskies. A signature ‘orange smoked old fashioned’ is a popular choice and presented at the table in a smoke-filled cloche.

This charming period restaurant and hotel still has many of the features that date back to its time as a coaching inn. Respecting the history of the building, the interiors have been sensitively renovated in a pared-back contemporary fashion, careful to create a tranquil and elegant interior, where guests will feel a world away from the bustle of everyday life. Not only is Dedham Vale and Constable country on the doorstep, but so too the medieval village of Lavenham, well known by Harry Potter fans, the gastronomic destination of Bury St Edmunds, historic Cambridge, and the new city of Colchester.

With a relaxed atmosphere, The Angel Inn is the perfect destination for a foodie experience, a weekend break or afternoon drinks in the garden.

THE ANGEL INN is open Thursday to Sundays for lunch and dinner. For bookings visit angelinnsuffolk.co.uk

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EXCLUSIVE OFFER Enjoy a free glass of Miraval Rosé when dining with us throughout July & August.

Offer valid for bookings made for our main restaurant only.

Please hand this advert to a member of the team to redeem.

One glass per person with every meal purchased.

We look forward to welcoming you.

OUR RELAXING RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS IN CHARMING LITTLE DUNMOW

The Flitch of Bacon, The Street, Little Dunmow, Dunmow CM6 3HT T: 01371 821 660 E: reservations@flitchofbacon.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK • WINE

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Tony Long’s three picks for July

Feudi di San Gregorio, Cutizzi Greco di Tufo 2021, Campania, Italy  £21

WINE CELLAR

DOWN ON THE BEACH The founder of Il Vino in Buckhurst Hill gets into the holiday spirit

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By TONY LONG

ummer is finally here and it’s amazing how the aromas and flavours of a particular wine (just like a favourite fragrance) can transport you back to a particular place or time.

Getting away from it all for a relaxing break is an opportunity to experience not only new countries and cultures, but also to sample some outstanding local wines.

So much of our enjoyment on holidays is connected to the food and wine we experience, and in combination they can be truly memorable. A simple plate of freshly caught frutti-di-mare with a wonderfully

crisp white wine can be something of incredible finesse and immense pleasure.

Whether it’s the azure blue sea and lemon-scented groves along the Amalfi coastline, or the array of gastronomic pleasures in Galicia from Bilbao to San Antonio, or a balmy evening on the beach at Biarritz, these are the memories that holidays and good times are made of.

Wherever you go in the world there is a wonderful selection of wines that will make the perfect choice for a picnic on the beach or a BBQ party at home, so taking the aforementioned destinations as inspiration, to the right are three delicious wines that you will want to come back to time and time again.

The essential ingredients for these kinds of wines are fresh citrus aromas, juicy tropical and stone fruits, and crisp mineral notes with a touch of coastal salinity, which these wines all have in different combinations.

A lot of local wines are made in relatively small quantities and many do not get exported, but when you find a delicious new wine you absolutely love, remember to make a note or just take a photo of the label, as finding these little gems again will be much easier when you come home.

Mid straw colour with lovely light Italian aroma of citrus, peach and almond blossom, complemented by lots of characteristic mineral complexity from the region's volcanic soils.

Light, refreshing and juicy with notes of nectarine, yellow apple and a lingering mineral apricot finish.

Gallina de Piel, Manar Dos Seixas Blanco 2018, Ribeiro, Spain  £23 A blend of Treixdura with a small amount Godello, Albariño and Loureiro Blanca. A fresh nose with green apple, peach, citrus, lychee. Medium bodied on the palate with fine acidity, yellow fruits, peach, some green herbs.

Alain Brumont, La Gascogne 2020, Côtes de Gascogne, France  £14 A wonderful combination of Sauvignon Blanc and Gros Manseng giving great balance between acidity and sweetness. A complex nose of lime, grapefruit, peach, yellow apple, pineapple and mango leading to refreshing notes of lemon, apple, elderflower, lychee and a lengthy finish. Crisp and refreshing for summer. ll Vino is the premier independent wine merchant in West Essex, offering a selection of outstanding wines, champagnes, and cognacs and cigars from around the world.

Il Vino is now offering customers private and corporate wine tasting events at their shop in Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill. ilvino.co.uk

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NOW RANKED 22nd BEST PREP SCHOOL

by The Sunday Times Up seven places from last years rankings

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E D U C AT I O N

LAYING DOWN ROOTS OA K-T R E E G R O U P

This month we take a closer look at the OakTree Group of Schools, made up of Braeside in Buckhurst Hill, Coopersale Hall in Epping, Normanhurst in North Chingford, and Oaklands in Loughton. Each school in the Group welcomes children from 2½. We explore the many benefits that come with attending a nursery attached to a school – and also meet an incoming head. oaktreeschools.co.uk

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PAINT A PICTURE Children’s Art Week falls in July, an ideal time to bring out that inner creativity within the younger generation

By S U E L A I D L AW

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or those of you who have young children or, indeed, remember when you did, you will recall, very clearly, the pride that you had in their drawings and scribblings on paper. No toddler says that they can’t draw! However, as children grow a little older things can change. Over the years, it has always saddened me when children claim that they can’t draw. What they mean is that they find it hard to create a representative image on paper. Some go on to say that they “don’t like art”.

Many years ago, I took a Reception class to the National Gallery to see the Wright of Derby exhibition, as part of a bigger project on Light. I still take joy (and a little bit of pride) in proving some of my colleagues wrong. They didn’t think that five-year-olds would be able to cope with such an exhibition, but the children proved them wrong. They sat cross legged on the floor in front of the paintings, mesmerised by the National Gallery education guide who regaled them with stories, encouraged them to really look at each painting and engage in conversation with her about what they saw. They all loved it.

In our Laidlaw Education classrooms, we enjoy all the wisdom and creativity of

“What they all discover is an outlet for exploring emotions” a particularly amazing art teacher – she has just celebrated her 80th birthday.

Diana shares her passion for words and art with each child, whatever age, and those who are keen and those who say they don’t like it – or can’t do it! What they all discover is an outlet for exploring their thoughts and emotions. Amazingly, from there emerge wonderful pieces, but it is how they discover a satisfaction and sense of themselves, through Diana’s gentle child-led guidance and teaching that is more important. Adolescent boys who have previously hated creative outlets are a particular triumph.

So, we come to July and a time when we are celebrating Children’s Art Week.

In fact, it is not a week but three weeks (29 June-19 July), and is a celebration for children of all ages to enjoy. There will be opportunities to participate and discover so much about the world of art – online, at home, and in museums and art galleries.

For all children who are naturally drawn to art in any form, this is a bonanza to be explored. However, for your children who utter the words of not liking art, exclaim that they cannot draw or simply show no interest, here is a real opportunity to open up new worlds to them, for each of them to grow in confidence, to find new ways of expressing themselves and connecting with their emotions – or simply having fun.

Art is around us everywhere, and I hope that you will have opportunities to explore, with your children, during the course of these exciting weeks.

Sue Laidlaw is founder of Laidlaw Education LLP, who offer educational advice, lessons and courses for children of all ages through their centres, including Laidlaw Hall supporting children with special needs, and the Laidlaw Virtual Academy. For more information, call 020 8487 9517 or visit laidlaweducation.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Stagecoach Chingford

HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS!

Put on the show in just 5 days! Everything from casting to costume and performance in an exciting production week ending with the show.

25 - 29 JULY 2022 WHEN YOU WISH...

Age: 4 - 7 year olds Time: 9.30am - 12.30pm Performance: Fri 12.00pm Cost: £125 (£100 for siblings)

MAGICAL MUSICALS Age: 6 - 16 year olds Time: 10.00am - 4.00pm Performance: Fri 6.00pm Cost: £185 (£135 for siblings)

Venue: Longshaw School, Chingford. E4 6LH. stagecoach.co.uk/chingford

01234 709 600

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Nurture

Curiosity

Creativity

Excellence

Independent Co-educational Day School For 3 - 11 Years

Join us at our next Open Event Find out what all the noise is about!

Register interest via - www.wgprep.co.uk

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Tel: 0208 504 5045 Email: admissions@wgprep.co.uk www.wgprep.co.uk

22/06/2022 13:52

EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

Branching OUT We chat to Gretchen Copeman, the incoming head of Oaklands School in Loughton, about her aspirations for her new role within the Oak-Tree Group

Q How exciting is it for you to be

taking over as head of Oaklands School in September?

A I am both delighted and excited to be the head of Oaklands from September.

To lead an already successful school that has been at the heart of the Loughton community for 85 years in the next phase of its journey is an opportunity I feel privileged to have been offered.

Q What does Oaklands School offer?

A Oaklands is a warm and friendly school

in the heart of the local community. Staff take the time to get to know families extremely well and, by doing this, the school enables pupils to be the very best they can be. They have a strong sense of self and make excellent progress by the end of Year 6. Oaklands values individuality and ensures the curriculum caters to all pupils by encouraging the talents and strengths of every child.

Q Which elements of daily school

life make Oaklands stand out?

A I’ve already seen the purposeful buzz.

Q Why were you so keen

to take on the role?

A I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as deputy head at Braeside, but the opportunity to lead a successful school such as Oaklands comes along very rarely. Remaining in the Oak-Tree Group is extremely important to me because

child-centred learning is at the heart of the education process throughout the four schools and this aligns completely with my approach to educating children. To be able to say I really do love my job is fairly unique and many people do not have that luxury.

GRETCHEN COPEMAN

It is an incredibly happy school and the confidence of the pupils really stands out when you visit. Staff know what helps them learn and what excites and motivates them. Class sizes are deliberately smaller than elsewhere so that every voice and idea is heard. Each pupil is valued and challenged at their own level.

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EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

OAKLANDS SCHOOL IN LOUGHTON

Q What aspects of the school are you

most looking forward to seeing?

A Having the opportunity to work with

such a creative, dedicated teaching team and children who welcome challenge and strive to be the best version of themselves is the most exciting part of being the head of Oaklands. It is a busy school, but small enough for me to get to know pupils and their families extremely well. I am looking forward to guiding them, not only in their primary education, but also preparing them for life beyond Oaklands.

“It is a time to inject magic into the curriculum” Q What does the Oak-Tree

Group offer its families?

A All four of the Oak-Tree Schools are

family orientated and together we make one big family. Each of our schools is unique, as are the staff and pupils. The real strength is that every member of staff and each pupil can truly be themselves. Staff regularly meet up with their counterparts in other schools to share ideas, explore new initiatives and develop the curriculum.

Our pupils often meet up with each other for many different events such as camping, performances, sports fixtures, learning days and competitions. We offer the best of both worlds as individually we are smaller, nurturing schools and together we can share ideas and compete on a much larger scale.

Q What are your hopes for

the new school year?

A September is always full of excitement for the year ahead, and even more so this

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year for me. I am looking forward to getting to know the families at Oaklands and continuing the fantastic work of the staff and pupils. I’m particularly looking forward to working with our large Early Years department as the beginning of a child’s educational journey is extremely important in shaping the learner they will become. It is a time to inject magic into the curriculum and provide opportunities for children to grow and learn. Similarly, working with the older pupils and helping them to shape their futures will be an exciting part of my job.

OA K L A N D S S C H O O L 6-8 Albion Hill, Loughton, IG10 4RA 020 8508 3517 oaklandsschool.co.uk

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7+ ENTRANCE EXAM & SCHOLARSHIP Applications now open

For further information and to request an application form please email registrar@ahsprep.co.uk

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happily feliciter

St. Aubyn’s School For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar registrar@staubyns.com 020 8504 1577

co-educational independent ages 3-13

Bunces Lane Woodford Green Essex IG8 9DU www.staubyns.com

central line Woodford Registered Charity No: 270143

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Open Day

Saturday, 17 September 2022 8.30am - 1.00pm Forest is a large, vibrant independent school for more than 1,450 boys and girls aged 4-18yrs, offering outstanding academic progress and personal development. Forest benefits from a tremendous location: surrounded by ancient forest but situated within a wonderfully diverse part of North-East London with 30 acres of grounds.

Forest - Where People Grow

0208 520 1744 | E17 3PY | www.forest.org.uk | admissions@forest.org.uk

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

HISTORY MAKERS

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Woodford Green Preparatory School are celebrating 90 years of offering a top learning experience for their pupils – and they want to hear from you

stablished in 1932 as a Christian, coeducational preparatory school, Woodford Green Preparatory School are proud to have been entrusted with delivering a first-class education for generations of pupils. They are a forward-thinking, diverse and inclusive community, welcoming children of all faiths and none; their approach is to enable children to learn with enthusiasm and flair, and they aim to equip children with the skills and knowledge to get the best out of themselves and those around them.

They want to ensure that each child’s curiosity and love of learning is harnessed, nurtured and developed, so that they are inspired and prepared for their life-long journey of discovery. They promote politeness, hard work, curiosity, creativity and independence. They want every child to do their very best and they are dedicated to ensuring that everyone is given the necessary support and challenge.

The school crest reminds all that they are here to ignite a passion for learning and to ‘let each flame burn brighter.’

Parents are advised to make a very early application to the school for entry

“There are lots of plans to mark the 90th anniversary” at 3+ via the website. Means-tested Assisted Places, of up to 100% of the full fees, are available for 7+ entry or above.

Occasionally places are available in other year groups; please email c.allan@ wgprep.co.uk for more information.

September 2022 marks the start of the school’s 90th anniversary year and they have lots of exciting plans to celebrate this landmark occasion. It has been a remarkable 90 years thanks to everyone involved in the school’s evolution, and as part of the fabric of the school, they are keen to reconnect with past pupils (Old Reds) and past staff, governors and parents (Friends of WGPS). They have been organising their

archives to discover the people, memories and events that have shaped WGPS over the years, and they want to hear from their past community to share your memories and experiences so that they can understand even more of their history.

You can join either the Old Reds or Friends of WGPS by registering for free on the school website under the Old Reds tab. You’ll receive regular updates and information about the school, as well as invitations to events such as the 90th Anniversary Ball at Chigwell Hall on 10 September, 2022.

So whether you just want to reconnect and become part of the wider WGPS community, or whether you have memories to share, they’d love to hear from you.

For school registration and to attend their September open event, plus more on the anniversary celebrations, visit wgprep.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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THE WONDER YEARS Why should you be considering a nursery attached to a school?

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ith so many options out there, choosing the right nursery or school for your child can be a daunting experience. Braeside in Buckhurst Hill, Coopersale Hall in Epping, Normanhurst in North Chingford, and Oaklands in Loughton make up the privatelyowned Oak-Tree Group of Schools.

All four schools have well-established and popular Kindergartens, catering for children from 2½ years.

To find out more, here we talk to Matthew Hagger, Group Managing Principal, about the benefits of starting with the OakTree Group in Kindergarten before continuing up through the school.

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Q What are the benefits

of attending the Oak-Tree Kindergartens rather than a local nursery?

A One of the biggest benefits of an independent Kindergarten is the smaller class sizes. Uniqueness can be celebrated, and the individual needs of each and every pupil are considered. Classes also benefit from having qualified teaching assistants to support each class, meaning each child receives a high level of attention from the very beginning. Additionally, specialist subject teachers enrich the children’s experiences with other activities such as sport and music, dance, and computing.

“All-through schools provide the smoothest of transitions for children as they move up”

EDUCATION • FOCUS

Pupils have access to a huge range of resources across the school site, such as the school libraries, computer suites, and banks of iPads.

Most of the schools have extensive grounds, offering huge potential for outdoor learning. The Group also has a fleet of minibuses that open up the wider world exponentially, allowing regular visits to the farm, museums, trampoline parks, and the zoo, helping to broaden young minds.

Q Will starting at Kindergarten

provide automatic entrance to Reception and beyond?

A Starting in Kindergarten will help parents secure a place for their child in Reception, saving them from having to go for further assessments and interview processes at age four. This means that the child will be moving to a new class with the security of his or her friends, already used to the school environment.

Currently, at Coopersale Hall, pupils are able to stay until Year 6, but from September 2023, pupils will also gain automatic entry to our new senior department.

Q What is the transition like from

Kindergarten to Reception?

A Primary schools and all-through

schools are well suited to offering pre-school provision as they provide the smoothest of transitions for the children as they move up to Reception. The teachers across the school have got to know the children and form relationships with them from an early age. It is not only with the children that firm relationships can be built, but also with parents from the very earliest opportunity, enabling trusting engagement as the children move through the year groups.

For more information visit oaktreeschools.co.uk

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INTERIORS

I CO NIC D ESIG N CA R L H A N S E N & S Ø N

Design company Carl Hansen & Søn is a third-generation family-run Danish business. They believe that iconic design is a combination of simplicity, aesthetics and functionality brought to life through skillful work with the highest quality materials. carlhansen.com/en

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GARDEN M A KEOV E R Ideas, designs and styles for your garden

By PENDLE HARTE

SUN WORSHIP CONRAN SHOP

Enjoy the great outdoors with a whole host of al fresco options for sitting, eating and socialising under the sun, including the brand-new and exclusive teak collection

by The Conran Shop and revived icons by Pierre Paulin for GUBI. Stay sheltered and protected in all weathers under Matthew Hilton’s stylish and minimal Eos collection. conranshop.com

PAT T E R N CU T S COX AND COX

This paisley Beach Chair in waterresistant premium hardwood, with UV and water-resistant woven cotton canvas has a large zip-up back pocket and padded backpack straps so the English weather never catches you off-guard.

There's a matching shelter too. £295 coxandcox.co.uk

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TA K E FIVE Picnic essentials ANTHROPOLOGIE Sarah Campbell dining plate, £9 anthropologie.com

GOOD FO R M

LO U N G E LOV E R

CARL HANSEN

COCO WOLF

Fabulously sculptural and sensuously curved, Coco Wolf's Largo collection radiates minimalist elegance with a modern twist. The organic silhouettes evoke the glamour of a bygone age, making it a perfect match for classical and modern settings. cocowolf.co.uk

Comprising furniture by notable designers, the Carl Hansen & Søn Outdoor Furniture Collection balances form and function to create dining and side tables, deck and dining chairs, footstools, trays and benches with all the hallmarks of their exceptional craftsmanship: lasting, high-quality and natural materials, and expert artisanry. carlhansen.com

AURINA Acrylic wine goblet, £9.95 aurina.co.uk

PRO COOK Melamine serving bowl, £10 procook.co.uk

FENWICK Outdoor entertaining accessories, from £36 fenwick.co.uk

RAW MATERIAL LIBERT Y

KITCHENCRAFT Colourworks tumblers, £8.99 kitchencraft .co.uk

Originally drawing inspiration from exquisite 19th century Chinese artworks and textiles, Liberty's Jade story is transformed for outdoor use into a richly verdant palette of bold palm greens and vibrant accents, perfect for cushions and day beds. libertyfabric.com

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P A T T E R N C

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Eley Kishimoto’s second collection for Kirkby Design is bold, striking and distinctive Words P E A R L B OY D

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INTERIORS • PROFILE

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reativity and excellence are paired with humorous fantasy in Kirkby Design’s second collaboration with ‘the patron saints of print of the fashion world’ Eley Kishimoto.

Kirkby Design and Eley Kishimoto originally joined forces back in 2017 with a range of textiles and wallcoverings that captured the vibrancy, originality, and personality of both brands.

For 2022, with the same visionary values, the two brands have reunited, taking the collaboration to new sophisticated heights by further exploring Kirkby Design’s experimental nature and penchant for extreme textures with Eley Kishimoto’s daring and decadent use of colour and pattern.

Kishimoto’s Mark Eley says: “I believe that with the integrity and quality of our relationship, we

can continue with our collective vision to make the interior world a prettier, more comfortable space.”

Distinctive in its eclectic and contemporary appeal, this collection of fabrics, wallcoverings and accessories effortlessly combine signature graphic designs with innovative textures.

The collection includes six different prints.

Flash is an Eley Kishimoto signature and comes in a decorative weave in distinctive wool bouclé, as well as a handwoven wallcovering.

The natural texture of handwoven raffia provides a contemporary backdrop for this digitally printed, strikingly modern design.

A Kirkby Design Studio fantasy collaboration, Graphic Fairytale is a distinctive and playful hero piece which has everything. Using elements from across the collection to narrate a story, this design is eclectic, retro and yet contemporary. Woven on a traditional loom, a tapestry like quality displays a graphic scene that combines design elements from across the Kirkby Design x Eley Kishimoto II collection.

Not just a pretty face, a floral design of highly stylised roses and thorny geometric shapes offers the perfect hybrid of graphic and organic design in Jagged Roses, which is a decorative velvet elevated by a unique contrast of scale and texture, a bed of sharp, thorny roses is illustrated through a fine cut and uncut cotton velvet. Woven on a traditional loom, this design offers fascinating luxury.

Home Centre takes its inspiration from honeycomb, the iconic structure created by

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INTERIORS • PROFILE

bees. The simple interplay of hexagons and circles uniquely allows for multiple design interpretations in the quintessentially playful style of Eley Kishimoto. In the decorative weave formed by cut and uncut velvet, geometric shapes create a sophisticated, smallscale design with a satin sheen ground.

With an unapologetically bold aesthetic, the Home Centre wallcovering sees metallic inks printed onto a natural wood pulp, adding further intrigue and an element of the unexpected in this three-colour design.

In Origami Rockets, the effect of multiple folded paper aeroplanes in flight is created by an arrangement of basic geometric shapes in a range of muted and colourful shades. Complexity and simplicity characterise an endlessly intriguing design. The decorative velvet comes in six new shades and the 3D appearance of the design is accentuated through textured cut and uncut velvet. For the printed wallcovering, the perfect complement to Flash and Jagged Roses, this textured plain is presented in a range of contemporary shades. A handwoven, natural raffia wallcovering which creates subtle texture and a stylish statement.

Jordan Mould’s influential British interiors brand, Kirkby Design, has a contemporary and

“OUR COLLECTIVE VISION IS TO MAKE THE INTERIOR WORLD A PRETTIER, MORE COMFORTABLE SPACE” sometimes playful approach to innovative design and colour. Creating distinctive textiles, Kirkby Design has also pioneered unique collaborations including the successful Underground collection with Transport for London.

Established in 1992, print studio Eley Kishimoto gained global notoriety through a plethora of outputs ranging from fashion, to diverse architectural and design collaborations.

Although initially celebrated for their vibrant fashion collections, the company has now become renowned for their ability to decorate everything. Having created designs for top fashion houses including Marc Jacobs, Alexander McQueen and Louis Vuitton, Eley Kishimoto also have their own successful fashion label.

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Visit one of our display showsites to discover our premium range of luxury gazebos W W W . B R E E Z E H O U S E . C O . U K

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Ultimate Choice Bathrooms, Kitchens and Washrooms

ultimatechoicebathrooms.co.uk 01375 361666 | info@ultimatechoicebathrooms.co.uk ULTIMATE CHOICE_JULY 2022_ABSOLUTELY ESSEX.indd 94

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INTERIORS • TREND YES COLOURS Electric Orange 1 litre emulsion paint, £21 yescolours.com

VARIER Ekstrem chair in orange, £2,699 backinaction.co.uk

COLLAGERIE Dipped vase, £90 conranshop.co.uk

ASHLEY JAY KITCHENS Coloured glass splashbacks, £POA ashleyjaykitchens.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

WATERS BATHS OF ASHBOURNE Ellipse Countertop Basin in bespoke orange, £425 watersbaths.co.uk

JOE BROWNS Boho garden parasol, £304 joebrowns.co.uk

BURNT ORANGE

CULT FURNITURE Heather Dining Chair burnt orange velvet brass, £109 cultfurniture.com

Rich shades for summer

By P E N D L E H A R T E LOLA & MAWU

CASTRADS Mercury four-column cast iron radiator, from £297.60 castrads.com

Decorative Bolga Fan Khamsin in orange, £28 lolaandmawu.com

CUCKOOLAND Lhasa outdoor rug, £54.95 cuckooland.com

TALKING TABLES Orange Glass Candle Holder small, £10 talkingtables.co.uk

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Hall Bros staircase advert designs Jan 2022.qxp_Layout 1 11/01/2022 16:58 Page 1

Making an entrance with Hall Brothers’ staircases Whatever type of home you live in – a period property, a barn conversion or a modern house – Hall Brothers’ bespoke staircase designs will complement your style and fit the exact space.

We can also offer matching wooden flooring to complete the look.

For more information call 01206 735287 / 01473 365167 or visit www.hall-brothers.co.uk

CONSERVATORIES | ORANGERIES | KITCHENS | DOORS | WINDOWS | STAIRCASES | BARNS | CONSTRUCTION | FURNITURE

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PROPERTY

RECTORY CHASE CM2 OFFERS IN EXCESS OF

£2,250,000

urden & Hunt welcome to the market this exceptional, seven-bedroom Queen Anne style detached home in the picturesque village of Sandon, Chelmsford. It's a Grade II* Listed building, dating back to 1765 and listed in Pevsner's Book of Buildings in England with a rich history. Set on approx four acres, the restored, refurbished and extended property boasts over 6,500sq ft.

D

DURDEN & HUNT ONGAR

01277 402068 ongar@durdenandhunt.co.uk

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Ongar 134 High Street Ongar, Essex CM5 9JH | ongar@balgoreshayes.com | 01277 369 925

WE LOVE WHAT WE DO. WE LOVE TO MAKE THE BUSINESS OF SELLING AND LETTING YOUR HOME AS SIMPLE, SUCCESSFUL AND STRESS-FREE AS POSSIBLE.

T

he award winning Balgores Hayes Ongar office is located in a prominent position on the High Street. Our professional team is led by Director Paul Hayes MNAEA and backed up by Associate Director Joe Hayes MNAEA who can both offer years of experience and expert local knowledge. The team will be on hand to offer an outstanding service to those looking to purchase or sell a property in Ongar and surrounding areas, making Balgores Hayes a superior choice of estate agents in the locality.

When it comes to marketing your property, we have a range of tools including modern, attractive window displays to ensure that your home is given maximum exposure and is showcased at its best. We use professional photography to

Basildon t: 01268 271 110

Brentwood t: 01277 216 800

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Chelmsford t: 01245 492 424

provide the most beautiful images of your home and these are used to create premium listings of your property on popular portals including Rightmove and Zoopla.

Dagenham t: 0208 592 1038

Gravesend t: 01474 369 955

Hornchurch t: 01708 470 756

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balgoresproperty.com

Manor Road, Chigwell

Starling Close, Buckhurst Hill

First floor luxury apartment Balgores Loughton | Guide Price £1,100,000

Four bedrooms, meticulously refurbished Balgores Loughton | Guide Price £1,250,000

Magdalen Laver, Ongar

Brentwood Road, Ongar

Four bedrooms, Delightful semi-rural location Balgores Ongar | Asking Price £750,000

Detached period home Balgores Ongar | Guide Price £675,000

Norton Heath, Ingatestone

Ingatestone Road, Blackmore

Detached barn, desirable gated development Balgores Ongar | Guide Price £775,000

Grade II listed home, 3.25 acres Balgores Ongar | Guide Price £1,400,000

Loughton t: 0208 502 1559

Ongar t: 01277 369 925

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Romford t: 01708 755 507

South Woodham Ferrers t: 01245 323 729

Upminster t: 01708 259 539

Wickford t: 01268 763 477

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HIGH ROAD, CHIGWELL

EPPING NEW ROAD, BUCKHURST HILL £1,675,000 2 5

4 £1,650,000

AMBERLEY ROAD, BUCKHURST HILL £1,095,000 2 4

2

2

2

PALACE GARDENS, BUCKHURST HILL PRICE £700,000 - £725,000 2 2 3

BUCKHURST WAY, BUCKHURST HILL

HIGH ROAD, BUCKHURST HILL

PRICE £700,000 - £725,000

OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £400,000

4

3

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1

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The key to your future

Sa l es ■ Lettings

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3D WALKTHROUGH

Theydon Road, Epping

£4,250,000

A truly exceptional family residence, situated within the highly desirable area of Theydon Bois. It sits behind secure electric gates and is surrounded by circa three acres of delightful private grounds. The ground floor comprises of grand entrance hall, cloakroom, spacious vestibule with fireplace, open plan German made Urban Myth kitchen with built in appliances which include a Sub-Zero fridge freezer; two Miele pyro ovens and microwave, Nespresso built in coffee machine, Siemens dishwasher and Grohe instant boiling water tap. The property also features a stunning leisure complex complete with bi-folding doors, 20 metre swimming pool, sauna, changing room, shower room and separate toilet.

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3D WALKTHROUGH

Tamara Court, Chigwell

£2,995,000

A new and exclusive residence comprising of a collection of five luxurious apartments.

Tamara Court is where timeless design meets the height of contemporary living on one of Chigwell’s most desirable roads – Stradbroke Drive. In a place renowned for its high expectations and sense of style, the arrival of Tamara Court sets a striking new standard.

Every detail of this remarkable new property has been carefully chosen to create the ultimate setting for luxurious living and entertaining. Each of the apartments at Tamara Court offers beautifully designed interiors, impressively grand proportions, and opulent finishing touches.

0208 0165 333 | 165 High Road, Loughton IG IO 4LF www.ejpr.co.uk |

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3D WALKTHROUGH

Alderton Mews, Loughton £1,300,000

• • • • •

3D WALKTHROUGH

Four Bedroom Detached House Gated Development Driveway and Double Garage Three Reception Rooms Principle Room and En-Suite

3D WALKTHROUGH

William Court, Chigwell

Ardmore Lane, Buckhurst Hill

£2,750PCM

£2,650PCM

• • • • •

• • • • •

Luxury 3 Bedroom Flat Set over three floors Two Bathrooms Access to South Facing Terrace Parking Available

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Available Mid July Five Bedrooms Two Bathrooms Unfurnished Garage

22/06/2022 14:07

AT T H E T O P O F O U R G A M E

ELLIOTT LAWLOR

JAKE LATCH

NICOLA LAWLOR

HOLLY DONALDSON

JAMES LAWLOR

HEIDI FOSTER

ANNABEL KABEL

FREDERICK CASSFORD

GRACE PERRY

HOLLY DUNCAN

REBECCA HAWES

WILL PURKISS

CALL TO ARRANGE YOUR MARKET APPRAISAL

3D WALKTHROUGH

3D WALKTHROUGH

Lesley Court, Loughton

Forest Terrace, Chigwell

£1,300PCM • Available in August • Modern Throughout • Unfurnished • No Parking • Station Location

£2,600PCM • Four Bedroom House • Heart Of Chigwell • Spacious • Station Location • Modern Throughout

0208 0165 333 | 165 High Road, Loughton IG IO 4LF www.ejpr.co.uk |

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Follow us on social media | Search ‘ejpr165’

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Showroom opening times: Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10am–4pm Wednesday: 10am–4pm Thursday: 10am–4pm Friday: 10am–4pm Saturday: 10am–4pm Sunday: Closed

We are currently working by appointment only

Contact T: 01992 760 500 | info@harrisonskitchens.co.uk

21 Highbridge Street Waltham Abbey EN9 1BZ Essex United Kingdom

You can find us on Facebook and Twitter, or why not visit our Showroom in Waltham Abbey.

Harrisons Kitchens & Bedrooms

@HarrisonsDesign

Italian Woodfired Pizza ovens by Sunday Grill

Visit or phone our Essex showroom now to discuss your cosy new fireplace Showroom at: Takeley Business Centre Dunmow Road, Takeley, Essex CM22 6SJ

OrionHeating.co.uk Wood Burning Stoves & Cookers Quaruba XXL Garden stove by RB73

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01279 813591

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PROPERTY • INSIGHT

REASONS TO BE

CHEERFUL Hayley Hunt suggests the happy vibes during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee will continue into the summer property market

H HAYLEY HUNT

ow better to kick start the arrival of summer than with the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. From a property perspective, however, it continues to feel very spring-like out there, with high levels of activity from buyers and sellers alike, which is something to be celebrated, too!

The buoyancy of the market can be largely attributed to that fact that stock levels are on the rise – up a healthy 19 per cent on this time last year if the research of Knight Frank is to be believed. What’s more, around 20 to 30 per cent of sales are happening before properties even hit the portals, snapped up by so called ‘hot buyers’, those that either have nothing to sell or their property is already under offer.

But could storm clouds be gathering on the horizon, as inflation increases, pushing the cost of living even higher? Throw hikes in the interest rate into the equation, and a tempering of the market does seem likely, but it will be just that, a gentle counter-balancing that certainly won’t see property prices going

into free fall – quite the opposite, in fact, with industry pundits predicting a three to five per cent increase this year. Admittedly this is lower than the 11.2 per cent price rise reported by the Nationwide last month, but a healthy and more sustainable rise nevertheless.

Why such confidence? Well we’ve got unemployment levels at a record 50-year low at just 3.7 per cent, which is far removed from the 8 and 12 per cent that accompanied the recessions of 1990 and 2008. Meanwhile, the current bank rate is at just one per cent (and this is after recent increases). During the previous recessions the Bank of England base rate was at 14 per cent and 5.5 per cent respectively, so there’s a substantial difference there. All of which leads one to conclude that the only thing that’s going to fall is the rate of growth, not prices. Demand is still strong, with buyers who have been waiting to act, now doing so, with many further incentivised by a desire to lock in fixed rate mortgage deals.

At Hunt, we love helping people to move by building connections that might not otherwise have happened, and even if you’re just starting to consider making a move, we’d love to hear from you. Such are the market conditions, now is not the time to procrastinate, so call us today on 020 8502 7667. We’re always happy to help.

H U N T P R O P E R T Y S E RV I C E S Hayley Hunt is the founder of Hunt Property Services located at 732 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 8AL, 020 8502 7667 huntpropertyservices.co.uk

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Hunt Property Services is an independent boutique estate agency with a portfolio of luxury properties for sale and rent in London and Essex.

We are also the agent for Repton Park, an exclusive gated development in Woodford Green, where founder and Director Hayley Hunt has been a resident for over 20 years.

Our award winning team of experts will provide you with an outstanding bespoke service to guide you through every aspect of buying or selling a property.

We have also been recognised for providing excellence in property renovations, proudly winning Woman in Build Award two years running.

The Hunt team are available for consultations, market appraisals and viewings seven days a week.

BUCKHURST HILL Set in the heart of Buckhurst Hill sits this charming five bedroom detached Victorian family home full of character.

Guide Price £1,100,000

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tunning detached period property located in the heart of Buckhurst Hill, recently renovated, set over three floors. Newly fitted open plan kitchen/ family room with bi-fold doors opening directly onto the private garden.

Contemporary designed summer house located at the end of the garden offering space to create a desirable room of your choice. Separate downstairs utility plus a WC. Master bedroom with stunning en suite and dressing room on the second floor. Three further bedrooms and a family bathroom on the first floor. Located within walking distance to Queens Road and Buckhurst Hill station. Chain Free. Sole Agent £1.1M

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Epping New Road, Buckhurst Hill

Price Range £650,000 to £685,000 A wonderfully stylish townhouse which offers superb family accommodation. The house is ideally situated for the highly regarded St Johns Primary School with Queens Road and Epping Forest close by.

Features include a superb kitchen / diner, a spacious first floor lounge, four well appointed bedrooms with an en suite to the master.

Lords Bushes Court, High Road, Buckhurst Hill

Guide Price £425,000

This wonderfully spacious two bedroom top floor apartment is presented in excellent decorative order, and located in a superb spot with both Queens Road and Knighton Woods on the doorstep.

Beautifully styled with a contemporary fitted kitchen, modern bathroom, en suite shower room, with parking and communal garden to the rear.

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0189 BTMK Services 210x297mm.qxp_Layout 1 09/06/2022 09:33 Page 1

YOU’RE LOCAL, WE’RE LOCAL For you and your business

For you and your family

Business Law From start up to close down, from growth to recession, we’ll see you safely through the minefield of regulation, legislation and small print.

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Employment Law Our complete HR and Employment Law service offers bespoke advice and support designed to meet the needs of your business. We specialise in advising on business restructures, redundancies, insolvency and TUPE. Debt Recovery Our robust system for collection gets your money and it needn’t cost you a penny.

Insolvency Our experts work with professional advisers and clients ranging from individuals seeking IVAs or averting bankruptcy, to family-run companies and major multinationals.

Commercial Litigation Our specialist team gets quick results where necessary or seek alternative resolution channels that save you money and disruption to your business.

Intellectual Property Our expert brand management team are here to help you protect and exploit your valuable intellectual property assets.

It takes years of training and experience to handle sensitive personal problems. We’ve got more than our fair share of both.

Wills, Trusts, Probate and Tax Planning You’ve worked hard for your money. We’ll protect it for you and your future generations.

Litigation and Dispute Resolution Our Specialist team can help you resolve disputes over land, property or money. We keep the costs in check and end in sight.

Property If you’re moving home or own a property portfolio, our property solicitors are as safe as houses.

Employment Our specialists advise employees and directors on all aspects of their employment including discrimination and unfair dismissal and frequently advise on exit packages and contractual restrictions. We provide representation for Employment Tribunal claims and mediations.

Personal Injury Claims Our team of claimant lawyers are among the best negotiators of injury settlements in the business, from relatively minor road traffic accidents to complex brain injury cases.

N 03300 585 222 (24/7 all offices) E info@btmk.co.uk

www.btmk.co.uk (live chat 24/7)

Offices in Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea and Rayleigh. Meeting space available by appointment in London.

BTMK Solicitors Limited is a limited company registered in England and Wales under registration number 05466421 whose registered office is at 19 Clifftown Road, Southend on Sea, Essex SS1 1AB.

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