Absolutely Yorkshire June 2022

YORKSHIRE

Yorkshire JUNE 2022 / £3.95

JUNE 2022

SPECIAL Over 30 pages of inspiration and insight

Going

GREEN EMBRACE THE OUTDOORS WITH STELLA MCCARTNEY PLUS ZEST.YORKSHIRE

CITY LIGHTS What we love about York SIOBHAN PHILLIPS Having a laugh with the Wakefield comic MASTER AT WORK Visiting Sheffield restaurant Raffina by Reece Elliott

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT

• ABS_YORKSHIRE_June22_COVER with SPINE.indd All Pages

20/05/2022 15:39

ROLEX.indd 2

20/05/2022 14:45

ROLEX.indd 3

20/05/2022 14:45

S TAY I N B E D The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave

1 5 W I GM OR E ST REET I LO N DO N W 1U 1P I M ARYL EBONE@CAR PED IEMBED S.C O.UK I +44 ( 0) 20 3982 3252 I CAR PE DIE M B E DS .C O .UK CO P EN HAGEN

GOT HENBURG

LOND ON

NEW IN

CARPE DIEN.indd 4

SEOUL

STOC KHOL M

Z UR IC H

AND OTHER FINE LOCATIONS

FUR NITUR E THIR D FLOOR

20/05/2022 14:45

Bed: Vindö I Fabric: Designer´s Guild Glenville Oyster I Carpet: Light Beige I Bed Linen: Havsbris White I Bedside table: Holme

CARPE DIEN.indd 5

20/05/2022 14:45

CONTE JUNE 2022

16 14

C U LT U R E AGENDA

64

Our pick of the best events across the county in June

16

SIOBHAN PHILLIPS

The Wakefield comic who wowed Britain's Got Talent

26 YORK

From Vikings to chocolate heaven, an historic tour of the city

OUTDOORS 34 DEAN BOLTON-GRANT On one year of The Northern School of Gardening

38 WHITBY ABBEY

Get your teeth stuck into the past of this iconic landmark

40 RAITHWAITE SANDSEND Visiting the hotel that is using nature to the max

FOOD & DRINK 46 FOOD NOTES

The latest launches and tasty updates from across the county

FA S H I O N & B E A U T Y 60 CLOBBER SWAP The Huddersfield local tackling the issue of fast fashion

64 THE SHOOT

Stella McCartney's summer colletion at Morgan Clare, Harrogate

74

BENTHAM GOLF CLUB

Celebrating a century of bringing the sport to Yorkshire

26

48 REECE ELLIOTT

The talented chef taking the Sheffield foodie scene by storm

51

DRINKS

Raising a glass to the work at Ellers Farm Distillery

6

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CONTENTS.indd 6

20/05/2022 14:45

NTS

E D I T O R'S

Picks

W H I T BY A B B EY

How the landmark is celebrating a special Dracula anniversary

R A I T H WA I T E S A N D S E N D H OT E L

114 E D U C AT I O N 86 SIGN LANGUAGE

A B S O L U T E LY H O M E 108 TOP TEN

89 TALKING HEAD

110 AMY WILSON

What the pandemic has taught us about communication

An inspiring interview with the head of Sheffield Girls'

The Leeds interiors designer who has had quite the year

114 RODGERS

95 SCHOOL NEWS

140 LITTLE BLACK BOOK

Absolutely Yorkshire heads to three local schools to discover how they are offering something different

LIV HARLAND

The singer talks about growing up in Harrogate

Our pick of the best fabrics and wallpapers

93 ACKWORTH SCHOOL How they are incorporating technology into the classroom

Why they have installed a forest garden and what it will offer

The iconic York destination on contemporary design

Three pages of Yorkshire businesses who will answer all your interior design questions

A B S O L U T E LY YO R K S H I R E .

C O. U K The online guide to inspirational local living.

O N T H E C OV E R Stella McCartney summer collection, found at Morgan Clare in Harrogate stellamccartney.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CONTENTS.indd 7

7

20/05/2022 14:46

Call Just Shutters today on

01757 602 459

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SAMANTHA SCOTT MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS MEDIA CONSULTANTS AMANDA KEY, MELANIE HARDCASTLE, RACHEL STEAD, BECKY BAIRD FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER

r e tt Shu en v a e H

Enhance the style of your home

MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07818 690 386 or email: craig@zest-media.com

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

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYYORKSHIRE T wi t t e r @ABSYORKSHIRE In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELYYORKSHIRE

justshutters.co.uk

We b si t e

9.94/10

absolutelyyorkshire.co.uk Average Score

A Local Family Business Based in Yorkshire

T2990 JS APR 2022 Absolutely Mag 90x277.indd 1 FLANNEL.indd 8

19/04/2022 10:04 20/05/2022 14:46

ABSOLUTELY • THIS MONTH YORK MINSTER

LISA BYRNE

Yorkshire YATTER

Lisa Byrne reflects on our county’s affection towards the royal family and marking the Queen’s Jubilee in style

T

he people of God’s Own Country have always had huge affection for our royal family. Throughout history, Yorkshire has held our monarchs in very high esteem, with many supporting the Royalists during the Civil War, and despite being dead for over 500 years, King Richard III still retains huge loyalty in the City of York.

Though perhaps King Henry VIII didn’t feel so warm towards the north back in 1536 during the pro-Catholic rebellion Pilgrimage of Grace. But then Yorkshire folk had to take drastic action to try and stop our glorious monasteries being smashed to pieces.

I doubt there will be any rebellions to quash during this very special Platinum Jubilee month. Flares are to be lit across the county, there will be celebratory luncheons, street parties and general merriment that would put the lively court of King Henry VIII to shame. And after a rather ghastly few years, don’t we all deserve a break to celebrate the longest living monarch in history.

THE IVY HARROGATE

HM Queen Elizabeth II has visited Yorkshire many times throughout her reign, including being guest of honour when her cousin, the Duke of Kent, married our very own beautiful Katharine Worsley of Hovington Hall in 1961 at York Minster. And the Queen’s beloved aunt, Princess Mary, lived at Harewood House after marrying Henry Lascelles, the 6th Earl of Harewood.

I was lucky enough to be presented to the Queen in 2011 at Buckingham Palace as part of a media reception for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. HM had recently been on an historic tour of Ireland, and her face lit up when I asked after her state visit. “It was utterly glorious,” she said, with a beaming smile.

Sadly, I later made a major faux pas, placing a delicious looking hors d’oeuvre into my mouth at exactly the same moment as the late Duke of Edinburgh stormed in, hand extended to shake mine. Unfortunately, the canapé was boiling hot, and I started fanning my face to try and bite into this Vesuviuslike treat. The Duke was not amused.

Thankfully, the younger royals have proven to be rather less terrifying. HRH Princess Beatrice was utterly charming when I spoke to her at York Theatre Royal, and I enjoyed a very relaxed chat over a bottle of beer with HRH Prince William at a polo event.

If past celebrations are anything to go by, without doubt, our glorious county will do itself proud over the jubilee festivities.

Email lisabyrneyork@gmail.com with launches, events etc, and follow on Instagram lisabyrnepr and Twitter LisaByrnePR

My highlights for the month of June…

Chilling out at a three-night yoga retreat at Avalon Wellbeing, hailed as Europe’s greatest sanctuary on the Broughton Estate near Skipton.

•

Joining actor Mathew Bose for the worldwide Twitartexhibit in aid of encephalitis, hosted at York’s Hiscox Building (25-26 June).

•

Treating myself to a Yorkshire Rose Fabergé Egg Pendant from Bradley’s Jewellers.

•

Toasting HM The Queen with a Jubilee Afternoon Tea at The Ivy in Harrogate.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LISA BYRNE.indd 9

9

20/05/2022 14:46

Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

FINE FLORALS Basak Baykal is a fine jewellery designer whose primary source of inspiration is nature itself, but her references span from Art Nouveau masters to movies and poetry. Through these inspirations she has intertwined this with natural elements to create ethereal, fine, floral jewellery. bbaykal.com

B L O C K PA R T Y These dreamy block-printed robes are made by a team of female artisans in India from super soft , ethically produced organic cotton, hand-block printed using azo-free dyes. £60 shadesofcoollondon.com

PRETTY PRINTS Yolke and Penelope Chilvers have collaborated on a beautiful design capsule that celebrates Yolke’s nostalgic signature print clothing complemented by Penelope Chilvers artisanal espadrilles, the Africa and the Valenciana. penelopechilvers.com

LEAF ART Caroline Byrne has gone beyond what exists in nature to create her own statement art houseplants, made of high quality materials in lots of shapes and colours. brazenbotany.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

PENDLE HARTE

10

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WISHLIST.indd 10

20/05/2022 14:46

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

TROPICAL SUMMER Lise Charmel's stylish tropical print swimwear is available at Amelie's Follies, where a fitting service promises the perfect match. ameliesfollies.co.uk

P E TA L P O W E R East End Press' wooden prints are made from sustainable sourced birch ply and printed by hand on both sides with a colourful floral bouquet print – perfect for adding a pop of colour. eastendpress.com

BLOOM BLOUSE The Indi by Kika Vargas is a square neck dress in an oversized, romantic silhouette. Featuring a gathered hem, balloon sleeves, and frill detail, it slips on with a simple tie closure. koibird.com

PEONIE PINNY

FLORAL FA N C Y

Sarah Campbell's lovely floral pinny for Anthropologie is the perfect apron for summer hosting. anthropologie.com

The first Sculpd Home Collection features five different kits that include everything needed to make specific pieces of homeware, from a body form vase to a stylish candlestick holder. sculpd.co.uk

IN BLOOM Emma Dodi's creative cake designs range from stunning hand piped floral designs to modern architectural pieces and colourful jovial creations. emmadodicakes.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WISHLIST.indd 11

11

20/05/2022 14:46

Mark Richardson Loafers Vinyl & Coffee

Together we are Halifax! discoverhalifax.co.uk DISCOVERY HALIFAX.indd 12

20/05/2022 14:46

C U LT U R E

D ISCOV E R H ALI FA X Being an historic market, mill, minster and inventive town, the captivating story of Halifax can be seen through its buildings, industries, arts and culture. The town has weathered the pandemic better than many, and lots of its businesses, venues and cultural programmes are actually thriving right now. Turn over to read more about a summer of fun to come. discoverhalifax.co.uk

Agenda 14 • Siobhan Phillips 16 • York 26 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CULTURE OPENER.indd 13

13

20/05/2022 14:46

The Agenda

E V E N T S N OT TO M I S S I N YO R K S H I R E

EV E NT

St Leonard's Jubilee Walk 18 June YO R K C O L L E G E Get your crowns, corgis, tiaras and tutus at the ready to celebrate this very special royal year with St Leonard’s Jubilee Walk. They want to turn the streets of York red, white and blue so wave your Union Jack flags, and don't forget your glow sticks, as everyone can join Ben Fry from York Mix and 'Sir' Thomas Clubbercise for a right royal knees up. stleonardshospice.org.uk

EV E N T

Kynren 6 AUGUST-1 0 S E PTE MB E R . E L EV E N A RC H E S F LAT TS FARM, BISHOP AUCKLAN D

An early heads up about this extravaganza, which delivers thrills and gasps on a truly cinematic scale. Prepare to be transported back in time as 2,000 years of history is brought to life with the award-winning blockbuster open-air performance. From Boudicca’s battles with the Romans to two world wars, via Vikings, Tudors, Stuarts, Queen Victoria and the Industrial Revolution, Kynren is a spellbinding, family-friendly experience.

11arches.com

14

T H E AT R E

Rock/Paper /Scissors 16 June-2 July S H E F F I E L D T H E AT R E S Rock / Paper / Scissors are three new plays by Chris Bush (Standing at the Sky’s Edge). The centrepiece of Sheffield Theatres’ 50th Anniversary celebrations, the plays will see all three Sheffield spaces – The Crucible, Studio and Lyceum theatres – unite to stage the new trilogy of plays. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

AGENDA.indd 14

20/05/2022 14:46

CULTURE • DIARY

ROYAL

C E L E B R AT I O N T H E AT R E

Bat Out of Hell

PHOTO: CHRIS DAVIS STUDIO

7-11 June A L H A M B R A T H E AT R E , BRADFORD In Bat Out of Hell – The Musical, the electrifying rock songs of Jim Steinman propel an epic story of rebellious youth and passion as Strat, the immortal leader of The Lost, has fallen in love with Raven, the beautiful daughter of the tyrannical ruler Falco. Bat Out of Hell – The Musical wowed critics and the public back in 2017-2019. bradford-theatres.co.uk

Our pick of the best Yorkshire events marking the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

SCARBOROUGH OPEN AIR THEATRE Yorkshire’s very own singing star Jane McDonald will light up Scarborough Open Air. She will be joined by a host of special guests for Yorkshire’s Platinum Jubilee Concert taking place at Britain’s biggest outdoor concert arena on Saturday 4 June.

THIRSK & SOWERBY INSTITUTE The Institute would like to welcome everyone to join them to mark the Queen’s Jubilee with an extra special garden party on 3 June from 12pm-6pm. The garden activities are all free of charge for everyone to enjoy, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

EV E N T

SUMMER FUN June onwards H A L I FA X There’s a lot to like about summer in Halifax this year. From Calderdale Pride and Yorkshire Day celebrations, to the wonderful Halifax Heritage Festival, there really is something for everyone. All of your favourite museums and attractions have their own great summer programmes to enjoy, so make sure you check online and book ahead for any ticketed events. discoverhalifax.co.uk

THE MANOR ROOMS, SOUTH CAVE Since 2009 the annual Big Lunch has encouraged communities to celebrate and connect. So, to mark the wonderful occasion of the Queen’s Jubilee, head to The Manor Rooms on 5 June for a very special celebratory afternoon tea and live entertainment from Hep to the Jive.

This Month’s Must See

THE PIECE HALL

BODY V E SSEL CL AY

A

24 JU NE - 18 SEPTEMBER. YORK ART GALLERY

new exhibition is coming to York Art Gallery, home of the Centre of Ceramic Art (CoCA). Body Vessel Clay: Black Women, Ceramics & Contemporary Art explores artworks by three generations of Black women artists working with clay. Clay is one of the oldest forms of making, with indigenous pottery traditions existing in almost every location in the world, with variations from culture to culture. yorkartgallery.org.uk

LADI KWALI TAKEN BY W.A.ISMAY COURTESY OF YORK MUSEUMS TRUST

THE PIECE HALL, HALIFAX

The Piece Hall will be turning red, white and blue for four fun filled days of free events to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee. A highlight is on Saturday 4 June, when The Piece Hall will come alive with the sound of music when a Concert for the Queen is held.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

AGENDA.indd 15

15

20/05/2022 14:46

“I noticed having a great voice wasn't enough to keep audiences interested”

16

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LEAD PROFILE.indd 16

20/05/2022 14:46

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

Spinning a

YARN

The story of Wakefield’s Siobhan Phillips, from bar room brawls at early gigs and comedic inspiration from Ken Dodd, to eventually wowing millions on Britain’s Got Talent

By MARK KEBBLE

I

n today’s reality TV obsessed world, there’s something rather comforting about the trajectory of Siobhan Phillips’ career. The singer-cross-comedian has done the hard yards to get to where she is today, with plenty of downs as well as ups, but talking to her is a gas – and, yes, she’s even done some reality TV too.

The Wakefield local won the hearts of the nation when she appeared on Britain’s Got Talent in 2019, going all the way to the final with her fabulous combination of stand up comedy and jaunty songs. Before impressing Simon Cowell and co, though, Phillips had already been on quite the journey. “I have always loved music, but I was unbelievably shy as a child,” she says on her childhood growing up in Dewsbury. “We didn’t have much money, so when I begged my mum for piano lessons aged eight, she was obviously hesitant and didn’t want it to be just a passing whim. We managed to find a free piano in the local paper – it was beautiful and I remember being so excited when it appeared in our front room. Mum said that if I was still showing interest in a year’s time, then I could have the

lessons. Over that year I found I had a talent for listening to songs I loved and being able to play them by ear. My enthusiasm never wavered and eventually I started my lessons.

I can read music and I did my theory exams alongside the practical ones, but I still feel that year of experimenting and playing by ear gave me more than any formal training ever did.”

Rather than growing out of music and losing interest, Phillips remained steadfast in what she wanted to do with her life. “All I ever wanted to be was a performer,” she states, a desire that saw her take to the road at the precocious age of 16. “I would look in the paper for all the local talent competitions and when I was 16 I entered one at The Frontier [formerly Batley Variety Club, which hosted stars such as Shirley Bassey, Roy Orbison, and Dusty Springfield to name but a few]. I won all my heats, then the final. I remember I sang Alone by Heart and I still love that song to this day. Using the prize money, I bought a sound system and an agent from Leeds approached me, and got me my first gigs in pubs and clubs locally.” Was this quite a lot for a 16-year-old to take on? “I was in sixth form doing my A-levels

at the time and I remember my mum was worried I would neglect my work in favour of fame chasing,” she chuckles. “My dad used to drive me to the gigs, some of which were in quite rough areas. Looking back, if my own daughter was to announce she was doing the same at that age, I would freak out!”

It's a response that is typical of Phillips and her wonderful humour, such as when we discuss memorable gigs in the years that followed. “There were plenty, but for all the wrong reasons,” she laughs. “I had a bad habit of shutting my eyes whilst singing [in the early days]. Once I was warbling away, eyes shut tight, when the crowd started shouting. I took this as their appreciation of my key change.

Turned out, when I opened my eyes, two fellas were chucking bar stools at each other! I kept my eyes wide open from that night onwards.”

The evolution of her act to incorporate comedy happened over the years, with a key inspiration being a stand up legend. “Early on in my career I noticed that having a great voice wasn’t enough to keep audiences interested,” she explains. “You can have the best voice in the world, but if you don’t A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LEAD PROFILE.indd 17

17

20/05/2022 14:46

CULTURE • INTERVIEW SHE LOVES NEWMILLERDAM

WAKEFIELD CATHEDRAL

engage with people and make them feel part of something, then they soon drift away. In my club days I worked with lots of comics. I was in awe of their confidence and the power they had over the crowd, who wouldn’t even dare to venture to the loo in case they were singled out. Being able to make people laugh and forget their troubles for a while seemed like such a gift.

“It wasn’t until I did a support spot for the wonderful, late Ken Dodd that I realised I might be funny,” she adds. “I was 23 and it was a Royal Variety charity bash in Liverpool.

He watched me and said I had a wonderful voice, but more than that he said, 'Young lady, you have a natural comedic ability and the best thing is you don’t even realise it'.

I now understand what he meant. I never try to be funny, I tend to work off the cuff and it seems to just appeal to people. I try to stay authentic and true to myself.”

Fast forward several years and many millions got to see for themselves when she took to the Britain’s Got Talent stage. “After having my daughter in 2016, I took some time out to concentrate on being a mum. It was a very different world to the one I’d been used to and I didn’t want to give up my career all together, so BGT seemed like a good vehicle to showcase my act and remind people I was still alive! When I look back it all seems like a dream and like it happened to someone else. It was a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. I loved how people related to me and was glad I could sum up their parenting experiences in my songs.”

Off the back of that, Phillips’ career blossomed once again – and then a pandemic came along. “Shortly after my tour started we went into the first lockdown. Things were going so well, and I was finally living my dream of people actually buying tickets to come and see me, but unfortunately it came to an abrupt end. Talk about luck – if it was raining soup, I’d have a fork! Never mind, I am a grafter and I’m made up of good old Yorkshire grit, so as long as I am here and breathing, I’ll be OK.” And she is, with things picking up once again for Phillips, which she juggles with being mum to six-year-old Cerys. As she says, there is so much more to her than what we all saw on BGT, so when a new tour comes around make sure you take up the chance to see the real Siobhan Phillips.

For tour date information and more, follow her @siobhanphillipsofficial

THE BGT JUDGES

Phillips’ picks The comic/singer on her favourite spots close to home Q How long have you lived

in Wakefield and what do you love about it?

A I’ve lived in Wakefield for 20 years now and I love the attitude and sense of humour people have here.

Q If possible, can you pick out three

of your favourite places to visit?

A It’s easy to take places for granted

AI WEIWEI, CIRCLE OF ANIMALS ZODIAC HEADS (DETAIL), 2010.

PHOTO © JONTY WILDE, COURTESY YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK

18

when you live here. But we are lucky to have so many beautiful places on our doorstep. I love Newmillerdam, it’s so peaceful and a great place for families and dog walks.

The cathedral in Wakefield city centre is well worth a look too.

The acoustics are phenomenal.

I also love the Yorkshire Sculpture Park – we are very cultured us Yorkshire folk!

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LEAD PROFILE.indd 18

20/05/2022 14:46

LISTER HORSEFALL.indd 19

20/05/2022 14:46

FUN ON THE STRAY

Q In only two years, you’ve built up a

following of 1.5 million fans on TikTok, over 93,000 followers on Instagram and your videos get over 2 million views. Where did it all start?

A I’ve been singing since I was really young and doing stage school, but in 2017, I started going out busking. In lockdown, I started an account on TikTok and would put my singing on there. Once the lockdown ended and I could go out again, I started live streaming my busking directly to TikTok. I grew a massive following quite quickly, and the live stream started doing really well. I set it up whilst I’m out singing, and I do it live onto the platform. People are watching me and they can securely donate gifts – people have been really generous in the past.

Get to know…

LIV HARLAND H A R R O G AT E - B A S E D S I N G E R

20

Q You were offered a nine-song record deal

last year off the back of your busking videos, what can we expect to see from you with this?

A Hopefully, all being well, you’ll see a song every two months from me. It will be a mix of new music, so some original songs from me. I think it will be a combination of around five originals and a few covers. It all depends on how well certain songs do, but the general plan is to keep releasing music over the next year and a half, and see how and where it goes from there.

Q You’ve been busking for around four

years now. Do you think it’s changed a lot since when you first started?

A A lot more people definitely do it now, compared to then. With me busking on TikTok, I think that’s helped a lot of people and has helped them to see that they could do it too. People want to do it more

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LOCAL Q+A.indd 20

20/05/2022 14:46

CULTURE • PROFILE

A NICE SPOT FOR A COFFEE

now. The Times voted me the most viral busker in the UK, which was pretty cool.

Q You say you quite like being able

to perform to people all over the world through your phone, but do you hope to be able to do more live performances to big audiences, too?

A [At the time of writing] I have my own headline shows in May. One is in London on 25 May and one on 28 May in Leeds at Headrow House with a 150 person capacity. It’ll be nice to see people in a show environment. I sold out my VIP tickets in the first five minutes after release. I have a really close relationship with my fans, I can recognise some of them from their comments and from them reaching out to me.

Q What have been the highlights

of your career so far?

A I would say being in TikTok’s Top 10 Most

Viral Lives of 2021 with Ed Sheeran and Liam Payne. That was pretty cool because I was the only woman. So, that was for last year, and over the whole of the UK, I was in three of TikTok’s top 10 live moments.

Q Have you lived in Yorkshire all your life?

A I have always lived in Harrogate, born and

bred. Growing up and living in Yorkshire has made me appreciate the incredible

SHE LOVES GOING TO THE TOP OF ALMSCLIFFE CRAG

SHE HAS LIVED IN HARROGATE ALL HER LIFE

“The Times voted me the most viral busker in the UK, which was cool” people, scenery and walks that are on our doorstep. Whenever I go elsewhere it just makes me realise how lucky I was to be brought up here – it’s just the best!

I feel like everyone is so lovely, everyone comes together and I’m proud to represent the north and Yorkshire with busking.

ON THE BUSKING TRAIL

Q Where are your favourite

such fond memories of walking around there as a child, and it’s definitely one of my favourite places in the local area.

A I used to walk to school every morning

Q You’ve been known to sing at

spots in Harrogate?

across The Stray and I still love to go back there now and reflect on old memories. For food, I always make sure to visit Hoxton North when I’m at home in Harrogate.

They have the best coffee and brunch!

Q Do you have any favourite

places to walk and escape?

A I like to spend time by the river and it is

my favourite thing about Knaresborough, which is just next to Harrogate, so I like to go clear my head there and take my dog for a walk. Swinsty reservoir in the Washburn Valley is incredible too. I have

amazing Yorkshire beauty spots, where do you like the most?

A I like to go to the top of Almscliffe Crag.

That’s what I did in lockdown, I’d head up to the top of the cliff at the Crag, take my mic and people would enjoy me singing while they were only allowed to go out on walks. I love looking out over the whole of Yorkshire from up there and watching the sunset – it has incredible views and I love it. It feels more freeing to sing out there, and I find it inspiring.

Follow on Instagram @livharlandmusic A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LOCAL Q+A.indd 21

21

20/05/2022 14:46

F e a s t

o f

F E S T I V A L S We have all been starved of live entertainment over the past two years, but Yorkshire’s summer events are back with a bang. We take a closer look at three not to miss

22

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ARTS FOCUS.indd 22

20/05/2022 14:47

• FESTIVALS • XXXXX CULTURE XXXXXXXX

THE HARROGATE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL 25-26 JUNE, THE STRAY

T

he Harrogate Food and Drink Festival will return to The Stray for its second year on 25-26 June, celebrating internationally inspired, locally produced artisan food and drink.

The family foodie festival focuses on a huge selection of freshly made international cuisine, independent bars and breweries, an artisan market featuring local produce, craft and wellbeing businesses, a stage with live music, entertainers and performers, an extensive children’s activities programme and a selection of fairground rides. Expanding on current attractions for 2022, the organisers promise a jam-packed weekend of food, drink and entertainment, with new performances, musicians and interactive activities for all ages, as well as a larger artisan market of over 90 independent traders.

“After a sell-out 2021 show, we're thrilled to be returning to this town-centre location,” says the festival director, Michael Johnston.

“COVID-19 restricted the event significantly last year – despite this, we received huge support from the people of Harrogate.

We're looking forward to putting on our full, non-restricted experience in 2022.”

IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT FOOD AND DRINK

Taking pride of place at the festival will be the Cookery Theatre, sponsored and hosted by Leeds Cookery School, which will showcase professional, internationally renowned chefs demonstrating their favourite dishes live to an audience of attendees all weekend.

“It was amazing to see the community of Harrogate come back together in 2021 after such a difficult year, and we’re proud to continue to provide a place to celebrate local talent that the whole family can enjoy,” adds Hannah Dewhirst, festival co-ordinator.

“We can’t wait to get back to The Stray.”

Harrogate Food and Drink Festival will be raising money for MIND in Harrogate, who support those suffering with mental health difficulties, having already raised over £45,000 for the MIND charity. harrogatefoodfestival.com

ANNA LISTER

YORKSHIRE FEASTIVAL

A

25-26 JUNE, PATELEY BRIDGE

brand new festival celebrating all the very finest things from Yorkshire will be taking place in the Yorkshire Dales this summer. Supporting small businesses, artists, entrepreneurs and musicians, the event has been created to bring the talented people of Yorkshire together.

Set in the heart of Nidderdale Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Yorkshire Feastival will be taking place on Saturday 25 June and Sunday 26 June. Primarily set up to be a food and drink festival with home grown and international foods, all from local traders, the Feastival is already growing into an activity packed event for the entire family.

Children will enjoy the inflatable village, fun fair, outdoor education and forestry, mini farm and mini bake-off lessons. For adults

there is cocktail making masterclasses and live cooking demonstrations, as well as health and wellbeing workshops, yoga and treatments – and not forgetting the talented performers on stage. It’s no secret all the best things come from Yorkshire and at the Yorkshire Feastival you will find it all.

The event is organised by Lily and Lister Events and one of those heading up the festival, Anna Lister, says: “With so many amazing producers, food, drink and artists, we wanted to create an event celebrating the best of what Yorkshire has to offer and in exceptional countryside. All of our traders are local, from the fairground rides to the internationally inspired street food. It’s a great opportunity to come and support local businesses whilst having an amazing day out.” visitharrogate.co.uk/events/ yorkshire-feastival A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ARTS FOCUS.indd 23

23

20/05/2022 14:47

CULTURE • FESTIVALS

THE HARROGATE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL FEATURES TOP MUSIC AND INFORMATIVE DEMONSTRATIONS

BOOKS BY THE BEACH 11-12 JUNE, SCARBOROUGH

I

LISA JEWELL

24

PHOTO: ANDREW WHITTON

f you are looking for an impressive lineup of literary thinkers and people with something to say, the two days of Books by the Beach will be an absolute treat. There’s a big surprise in store when bestselling novelist Patrick Gale launches the festival at 10am Saturday 11 June at Queen St Church.

Following at 1pm, Queen of the psychological thriller, Lisa Jewell, will be appearing alongside her biographer Will Brooker.

Award-winning geographer Nicholas Crane, well-known for his television work including lead presenter on Coast, will be introducing his new book Latitude. Set in 1735 it follows

the journey of 12 unruly sailors bound for South America to discover the true shape of the Earth. Crane will be appearing Saturday 11 June, 3pm, at St Mary’s Church.

Always on the lookout for personal stories, this year’s line-up includes the UK’s leading authority on disaster recovery, Professor Lucy Easthope. Involved in the response to almost every seismic event of the past decade including 9/11 and Grenfell, Easthope is an inspirational speaker.

This unmissable event is on Saturday 11 June at 5pm at Queen St Church.

Charlie Higson, creator and star of the hugely successful comedy series The Fast Show, is the Saturday night headliner appearing 7.30pm at Queen St Church.

Higson will be discussing his colourful new thriller, Whatever Gets You Through The Night, which exposes dark truths lurking beneath a sunny Mediterranean island.

Sunday 12 June opens with former Home

“THE FESTIVAL KEEPS SCARBOROUGH ON THE CULTURAL MAP” Secretary and prize winning memoir writer Alan Johnson. Johnson will be discussing amongst other things his debut novel The Late Train To Gipsy Hill at the YMCA Theatre in Scarborough at 10.30am.

The Sunday evening of 12 June brings two top TV celebrities to the festival. Dr Chloe Duckworth of Channel 4’s The Great British Dig shares the secrets and treasures she and her TV team have discovered under the lawns of Britain and introduces her tie-in book. Her event is at 5pm at Queen St Church. Then, Keith Brymer Jones, master potter and judge of The Great Pottery Throw Down, appears in the festival finale on Sunday 12 June at 7.30pm.

He will be sharing his journey from north London childhood to a global success story.

“Books by the Beach is an annual highlight for book lovers, bringing tourists to Scarborough,” says the festival director, Heather French. “It helps the local economy and keeps the town on the cultural map.

Many of our festival attendees travel countrywide to attend and love their trip to our beautiful Yorkshire coast.” booksbythebeach.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ARTS FOCUS.indd 24

20/05/2022 14:47

Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family. With prices starting from £3,500 for a 2 bed, £4,410 for a 3 bed and £4,840 for a 4 bed for 7 nights.

Find out more: GLENEAGLES.COM/GLENMOR +44 (0)1764 694321 OWN@GLENEAGLES.COM

The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneaglesto provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which contains this key information in relation to that contract may beobtained by contacted us via the above methods.

Made in Britain

• Air-dried British ingredients • Handcrafted in Yorkshire • Delicious & nutritious

the ne‚ ƒoods ƒor or your innocent cent hhound cent ou TRY A SAMPLE GLENEAGLES INNOCENT PET.indd 25

theinnocenthound.co.uk

20/05/2022 14:47

Why we love…

YORK

With a past involving the Romans, Saxons and Vikings, it’s little wonder this city has so much to offer. Visit York help us on a history tour A ROSE INSTALLATION ON YORK MINSTER SOUTH TRANSEPT

Y

ork is one of England’s finest and most beautiful historic cities. With Roman roots and a Viking past, it offers an eclectic mix of culture and history – with hidden gems and unique experiences around every corner.

The Romans knew it as Eboracum, to the Saxons it was Eoforwick and the Vikings – who came as invaders, but stayed on in settlements – called it Jorvik. The York of today is a fashionable city that successfully combines its heritage and superb historic architecture with independent shops, restaurants, bars and cafés, to attract tourists from all over the world.

Crowned Britain’s Home of Chocolate, the most haunted city in Europe and with one of the best racecourses in the

26

country, York is abundant with culture and character. Plus, the city’s thriving cultural and creative sector has seen it become the UK’s first and only UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts, with creativity embedded in every aspect of the city.

At one with the past York is a well-known historical gem, with the history of the city spanning over 2,000 years from its establishment by Romans, to then being invaded by the Vikings, as well as its position as the medieval capital of the North. York also has an extensive chocolate history with Terry's and Rowntree beginning their sweet journeys here with Chocolate Orange and Kit Kat. It is a small city with so much packed in, much of which has already been written about, but with a huge amount more remaining to be discovered. From

A ROMAN LEGION MARCHES THOUGH YORK AT THE EBORACUM FESTIVAL

walking along the ancient city walls, to visiting the largest gothic cathedral, York is full of great experiences for all ages.

York’s world-class visitor attractions and museums are all easily accessible on foot and located within the city centre. Explore the largest expanse of stained glass in the UK, see how the Vikings lived, discover the history of the country’s railways and much more.

Enter one of the world’s most magnificent

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

YORK.indd 26

20/05/2022 14:47

• AREA• FOCUS CULTURE XXXXXXXX XXXXX

AFTERNOON TEA AT BETTYS

CHILDREN WALKING THROUGH MUSEUM GARDENS

cathedrals, a masterpiece in stained glass and stone and a sacred space that has been at the centre of Christianity in the north of England since the 7th century.

The Minster was built for the glory of God and this is reflected in every aspect of this ancient building, from the exquisite handcrafted stone through to the unrivalled collection of medieval stained glass.

Marvel at the Great East Window, the largest single expanse of medieval stained glass in the country, explore the 800-year history of the building or hear the Grand Organ, which returned to regular use during worship in spring 2021 following a £2m, once-in-a-century refurbishment.

Escape the day-to-day and join the National Railway Museum for a journey through time. Get up close to icons of the rails including Mallard, the world’s fastest steam locomotive. Discover how high-speed rail travel began and journey back in time to experience the working life of a station.

Explore over 200 years of history and find out how railways shaped our world.

At JORVIK Viking Centre you are standing on the site that revealed some of the most astounding discoveries in modern archaeology. Your first experience at JORVIK is an exploration of the Coppergate

Dig, with a fully immersive display taking you back to the 1970s. Travel around 10th century York, experiencing what it was like living in the city. The sights, sounds and even the smells of the Viking Age are brought vividly back to life as you journey back 1,000 years. Get up close with some of the most beautiful and rare Viking artefacts in the world, from delicate earrings and socks to frying pans and padlocks – and even a fossilised Viking poo.

Step off the beaten track and delve deeper into the city’s ancient past to uncover some of York’s best kept secrets. Explore England’s oldest living convent and its hidden chapel, experience life in a medieval household at Barley Hall, and admire the splendour of Fairfax House, one of the most distinguished 18th century Georgian townhouses in Britain. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Mansion House, one of York’s great historic treasures, and step back in time through 650 years of history at Merchant Adventurers' Hall, the most well-preserved guildhall in Europe.

“It revealed some of the most astounding discoveries”

Sweet treats Celebrate the city’s chocolate and confectionery heritage on York’s selfguided Chocolate Trail, and taste handmade chocolates at York Cocoa House. The city recently celebrated 250 years of being home to the renowned confectioner Terry’s. Today, this sweet legacy continues with treats ranging from humbugs to fudge produced in the city, with chocolate remaining a vital part of York’s past, present and future.

If you haven’t got a sweet tooth, there’s plenty more in York that will whet the

YORK IS RENOWNED FOR ITS FOOD OFFERINGS

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

YORK.indd 27

27

20/05/2022 14:47

CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

“York is deservedly known as one of the UK's best foodie destinations” CLIFFORD'S TOWER

VIEW OF YORK MINSTER LOOKING DOWN STONEGATE

appetite, which is deservedly known as one of the UK's best foodie destinations.

Book a table at Roots York – the city's only Michelin star restaurant – or enjoy a delicious meal at Los Moros serving hearty homemade North African dishes.

At the time of writing, the York Spring Fair & Food Festival had just kicked off at York Racecourse in May, offering ten days of funfair, food and entertainment, including the lighting of York’s Jubilee Beacon. The festival brings together one of the largest vintage funfairs seen in North Yorkshire, and a food festival

showcasing the very best artisan products from Yorkshire and beyond. This year’s event promises to be even bigger and better, with a stage hosting live music and family entertainment – not to mention additional vintage funfair rides, and more than 40 traders and street food stalls.

The special programme of entertainment being planned for the Platinum Jubilee Weekend includes the lighting of York’s beacon on the evening of Thursday 2 June as part of the UK-wide lighting of Platinum Jubilee Beacons, and the opportunity to head to the racecourse for

a Big Jubilee Lunch on Sunday 5 June, where an array of food and drink stalls can provide a picnic to suit all tastes.

It's a party 70 years in the making.

Grand designs Originally built in 1906 as a ‘Palace of Business’ for the North Eastern Railway Company, then one of the richest businesses in Britain, The Grand, York is bursting with original features and architecture and boasts a stately character, with sweeping stone staircases, original wood panelling, parquet

THE GREAT HALL AT THE NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM

ENJOYING THE NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM

28

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

YORK.indd 28

20/05/2022 14:47

WREA HEAD.indd 29

20/05/2022 14:47

EXPLORE THE RIBBLE VA L L E Y & B E Y O N D

with

Enjoy fabulous food, great service and a warm, f riendly ambience. Whatever the occasion, our place is your place and we look forward to seeing you soon.

W W W. J A M E S P L A C E S . C O M Falcon Manor

JAMES_PLACE.indd 30

20/05/2022 14:47

CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

THE GRAND'S WHITE ROSE LOUNGE

flooring and acres of marble. In short, this is a truly stunning place to stay in York.

The extravagance and grandeur is all a reminder of the building’s former status as an icon of the golden age of railway travel. Situated next to the ancient walls that enclose the city centre, and with views of York Minster, the hotel is located at a historical crossroads – the perfect place to explore the city.

No less impressive is No. 1 York Guest House, a truly charming boutique hotel.

The building is a Grade II Listed Regency townhouse of stately proportions and head-turningly good looks. It has huge, dreamy sash windows, higher-than-high ceilings, a sweeping central staircase, and ivy around the door. Its grand-but-friendly face is full of charm, and inside you’ll find pantries stocked full of treats for the taking, great restaurant food throughout the day, delicious drinks from the bar, a spa centred on bespoke therapies, and a straight-from-the-heart welcome. Their 39 bedrooms, including three stand-out suites, are dotted around the building’s three floors. Each one has its quirks courtesy of the building’s heritage detailing and their interior designer’s wonder-inspiring style.

Shop till you drop York is full of wonderful independent shopping outlets, such as Nomination, which manages to bring some Italian flair to the historic city. They offer a whole host of jewellery and accessories, for men and women. From small to big, Lloyd Land Rover York's state-of-the-art showroom really replicates the manufacturers reputation for quality British design.

Customers are able to browse, try and choose their Land Rover vehicles in an innovative and luxurious setting that incorporates the latest technological developments in showroom displays.

THE GRAND, YORK

York has plenty for those looking for a little home interior design inspiration. Rodgers put sustainability at the top of their agenda, and they showcase brands featuring high quality design. At Rodgers, you will find a really wide choice: striking contemporary looks, classic and elegant collections, new designers and established names in furniture and furnishing. With all this shopping sleep may be on the mind, so the York Bed Company is worth a look at, boasting over four decades of offering the finest in quality mattresses and divans, as well as a range of bed sets. The garden isn’t overlooked, either, when you have the likes of Langlands garden centre, where you can enjoy beautiful displays, enjoy a range of mouth-watering, fresh fayre, and get great advice from a friendly, professional team.

Perhaps the best thing about shopping in York, however, is just exploring the historic streets and uncovering gems. There’s plenty of them.

A TREAT AT THE GRAND, YORK

What’s on in JUNE

York Festivals of Ideas

11-24 June, bringing innovative thinking to the city 

St Leonard's Hospice Jubilee Walk 18 June, is a great way to mark the Queen’s special anniversary 

Dolls House Fair,

19 June, will take you back to your childhood at York Racecourse 

Eboracum Roman Festival 25-26 June, will reenact days of yore 

Annual Wildlife Day

26 June, an opportunity to remind ourselves of the wonders around us To find out more about any of the places mentioned, please head to visityork.org

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

YORK.indd 31

31

20/05/2022 14:47

NICHE

VEHICLE FUNDING.

At Niche Vehicle Funding, we offer a concierge approach to vehicle finance.

We know our customer's time is incredibly valuable, so we work on behalf of our clients to take the time & stress out of locating the perfect vehicle & securing the best possible finance package.

If you have found or need help looking for your perfect Car, Motorbike or Commercial vehicle, get in touch with Niche Vehicle Funding for a funding option that suits you.

NICHEVEHICLEFUNDING.COM 4 Embsay Mills Business Centre, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 6QR T: 01756 699411 E: info@nicheautomotive.com @nichevehiclefunding

@nichevehiclefunding

Niche are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) we are a credit broker and not a lender. FCA NO 650172. Niche Vehicle Funding are part of the Niche Automotive Group.

NICHE AUTOMOTIVE.indd 32

20/05/2022 14:47

OUTDO ORS

W HAT A R ID E YO R K S H I R E O U T D O O R S

As one of the foremost adventure experience providers in the UK, Yorkshire Outdoors is the perfect choice for a spot of thrilling fun.

They offer an exceptional course, which is set in 50 acres, for you to challenge yourself. With the expert guidance of one of their trained team, get ready to have the time of your life. yorkshire-outdoors.co.uk

Dean Bolton-Grant 34 • Whitby Abbey 38 • Raithwaite Sandsend Hotel 40 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

OUTDOORS OPENER.indd 33

33

20/05/2022 14:47

DEAN BOLTON-GRANT

An open

BOOK

We speak to one of the county’s most renowned gardeners, Dean Bolton-Grant, as he celebrates a year since opening The Northern School of Gardening

By BETHAN ANDREWS

34

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

OUTDOORS FEATURE.indd 34

20/05/2022 14:47

OUTDOORS • FEATURE

A

lthough acclaimed gardener Dean BoltonGrant might not be actively participating in the national Open Garden Scheme this year, things don’t get much more open than his latest career move. Focused on making gardening, and his knowledge of all things nature, accessible to all, it’s been one year since Bolton-Grant opened The Northern School of Gardening at The Yorke Arms in Nidderdale.

And given his illustrious career, knowledge is something BoltonGrant has in droves. After starting his professional life at Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxford in their kitchen gardens, Bolton-Grant travelled the world working for the Queen of Denmark in Copenhagen and the Maltese prime minister and president

“One of our unique selling points is that we have full rein of the whole garden, so guests can get stuck in” managing historic gardens on the island.

Having come back to the UK and started his own business a few years ago, BoltonGrant found himself settling in Harrogate and started managing the gardens at The Yorke Arms. “Lockdown came along and threw a spanner in everyone’s works,” sighs Bolton-Grant. “Suddenly there was this beautiful kitchen garden that wasn’t being maintained, and the whole venue was closed. I had a conversation with the owners to see what they were going to do with the place and they didn’t know!”

It got Bolton-Grant’s brain ticking, and soon he found himself opening a new school, one which focuses on horticulture, food and art. Aside from seeing the potential in The Yorke Arms, what really made him want to open an upmarket gardening school in the depths of the Yorkshire Dales? “I suddenly really wanted to open the school because it appeared that people were becoming more interested in gardening and didn’t know the first thing about it,” he explains. “People are losing touch with the outside world – it’s even proven that the words people are using more now relate back to nature less and less.”

Coming from a family background in landscaping and gardening, Bolton-Grant forgets that people don’t just know how to garden from an early age. “I’ve always been around plants and the outdoors,” he says.

“Then, always having been in the industry, I kind of assumed people knew how to garden and they just don’t – that was an eye opener! I thought it was high time I passed on my passion, love and knowledge.”

A year on from opening the doors, Bolton-Grant is over the moon with the reception from the public and is excited for adding more courses this year and next. “I’ve really enjoyed seeing people’s enthusiasm and watching them get really excited by what we are teaching,” he says.

“One of our unique selling points is that we have full rein of the whole garden, so our guests can be in the garden digging things up, not just standing pointing at things – they can really get stuck in.”

In a positive move forwards, BoltonGrant has noticed that people are more interested in their gardens and the outside world since the pandemic. He hopes the school can further inspire people and raise the profile of gardening as a A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

OUTDOORS FEATURE.indd 35

35

20/05/2022 14:48

OUTDOORS • FEATURE

10 Open Gardens

OUTSIDE THE YORKE ARMS IN NIDDERDALE

career. “I think it’s a really undervalued career, and it’s a career that can take you anywhere in the world,” he beams.

“I don’t think that’s advertised enough.”

So, speaking of being an open book for gardening advice and knowledge, when it comes to battling the, at times, harsh elements in Yorkshire, what tips would Bolton-Grant offer those wanting to get their northern gardens up to scratch?

“Yorkshire is so big and varied, but bear in mind that winter lasts a long time in the county,” he says. “Think about the plants that will hold form over the winter and give you winter interest, such as grasses like morning light and meliniar, that will help extend the seasons.

Late flowering plants, spring bulbs and winter interest are your friends.”

With experience across the globe, too, I wonder what influences Bolton-Grant likes to bring to a Yorkshire garden, and what he likes to see going on in the great

“There's a satisfaction of being out in nature” outdoors up here? “If you think the Dales are famous for mossy, craggy walls, and little ferns, I would go with lots of ferns and mosses within walls,” he says. “Dry stone walls are a perfect haven for wildlife.”

Naturally, having worked for royalty, Bolton-Grant is a perfectionist, so despite not being quite ready to showcase The Yorke Arms gardens in the Open Garden Scheme this year, it’s an initiative that Bolton-Grant thinks is brilliant and he’s looking forward to being a part of it in the near future. It sounds to me like a case of watch this space when it comes to getting a look at his work in Yorkshire in 2023.

Aside from his knowledge, what else does Bolton-Grant really want to get across to his students and the public?

“There’s a satisfaction of seeing things grow, being out in nature and seeing the seasons change,” he says. “You’ve just got to be out there and in it.”

To get out into nature then this year, where would Bolton-Grant tell you to go? “Oh, it’s going to have to be the Yorkshire Dales, those big empty spaces,” he enthuses. “Look down at the ground when the heather is in season, it’s just beautiful and I love the enormity of it.”

to visit across Yorkshire in June and July Cliffe

OPEN GARDENS Friday 3 June

•

Midgley

OPEN GARDENS Saturday 18 June

•

Hutton Buscel OPEN GARDENS Sunday 19 June

•

Greenhill

OPEN GARDENS Saturday 25 June

•

C aw t h o r n e

OPEN GARDENS Saturday 25 June

•

Barwick

OPEN GARDENS Sunday 26 June

•

Upper Hopton GARDEN TRAIL Saturday 2 July

•

Be lle rby

OPEN GARDENS Sunday 3 July

•

Emley

OPEN GARDENS Saturday 9 July

•

B o s t o n S pa

OPEN GARDENS Sunday 10 July

thenorthernschoolofgardening.com

36

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

OUTDOORS FEATURE.indd 36

20/05/2022 14:48

ADD A splash of colour TO YOUR HOME WITH LUCY PITTAWAY’S STUNNING ARTWORK & HOMEWARE

‘STROLLING HOME’

‘DOOR TO HERRIOT COUNTRY’

THE UK’S MOST POPULAR PUBLISHED ARTIST AWARDED BY THE FINE ART TRADE GUILD 2018 & 2019

ORDER ONLINE AT WWW.LUCYPITTAWAY.CO.UK GALLERIES AT

LUCY PITTAWAY.indd 37 Untitled-4 1

ORDER BY PHONE 01748 810965

BROMPTON-ON-SWALE RICHMOND YARM Follow us on @lucypittawayart

KESWICK

20/05/2022 11/05/2022 14:48 15:31

THE STORY BEHIND…

I

WHITBY ABBEY

n AD 657 Abbess Hild founded a monastery for men and women at Whitby, on land given by King Oswiu. It was Whitby’s first monastic site and became one of the most important religious centres in the Anglo-Saxon world.

The monastery was abandoned following Danish raids in the 9th century, but the Benedictine monk Reinfrid established a new community on the site in 1078. The Benedictine monastery was suppressed by Henry VIII in 1539 and its ruins are the ones we see on Whitby headland today. The vast shell of the abbey church is a magnificent example of English Gothic architecture.

Whitby Abbey has inspired many artists and writers, including Cædmon, the first named poet in the English language, and Bram Stoker – and 2022 marks 125 years since Stoker penned Dracula. To mark this, English Heritage are running a series of events between May and October 2022, culminating in the much-loved Illuminated Whitby Abbey that runs for 11 nights over the Halloween half term.

As well as exciting events, a new, temporary interpretation panel positioned on the headland behind the Abbey ruins and looking out towards the 199 steps, St Mary’s Church and the town will tell the story of the property’s connections to the story of Dracula and Stoker. english-heritage.org.uk

38

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LANDMARK.indd 38

20/05/2022 14:48

OUTDOORS • LANDMARK

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LANDMARK.indd 39

39

20/05/2022 14:48

Seed of

AN IDEA

Raithwaite Sandsend Hotel has created the UK’s very first hotel Forest Garden in North Yorkshire. Ollie Hunter, the food, drink and sustainability director, tells us more

40

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WILDLIFE FEATURE.indd 40

20/05/2022 14:48

• XXXXX OUTDOORS XXXXXXXX• NATURE RAITHWAITE SANDSEND HOTEL

Q What originally inspired

the Forest Garden?

A After doing lots of research into

sustainable farming during the first lockdown, I came across the concept of a Forest Garden and was blown away. An intelligent permaculture design reliant on many edible species creating a harmonious ecosystem. So simple and yet so delicious.

Q How long has it been in the making?

A Ever since meeting Sapling Spirits, who

plant a tree for each bottle of their vodka sold. We wanted to collaborate (a natural meeting of minds with a shared passion for sustainability), to bring to life the exciting new permaculture project, which is the first of its kind in a hotel in the UK. Whilst the innovative permaculture designs have been in the making for over a year, we initially planted over 500 trees and shrubs in November 2021, followed by 500 smaller plants and herbs in April 2022.

Q It’s an agronomic system

– what does that mean?

A The Forest Garden is designed to mimic

a natural forest using a layering of tall trees to form the canopy and sub-canopy, right down to bushes, shrubs, and herbs on the ground level – all working together to form a stable and sustainable ecosystem.

OLLIE HUNTER AT WORK

THE HOTEL HAS PARTNERED WITH SAPLING

“It's exciting to see the Forest Garden supplying our kitchen with fresh, perennial fruits, herbs and spices” Q What kind of plants would

we find in the garden?

A We’ve deliberately designed the garden with a combination of hardy plants, which require minimal human interference, and that are biologically sustainable, suited to the Yorkshire climate and yield a variety of produce across all seasons – the likes of apples, raspberries, pears, sage, lavender, juniper, mulberry, blackcurrant and gooseberries.

Q What kind of dishes will it inspire?

A Our menus change seasonally, to make

the best of the fresh produce and the brilliant local suppliers we’re lucky to have on our doorstep. For example, at the moment our veg garden inspired arancini and loin of lamb with wild garlic crumb, fondant potato, crispy lamb shoulder and asparagus, which is proving popular.

Q What will it offer the hotel’s

chefs and mixologists?

A We’re expecting our first proper

Forest Garden harvest next year, which will complement what we already have growing in our new poly-tunnels and the “no-dig” beds. It will be hugely exciting to see the Forest Garden supplying our bar and kitchen with delicious, fresh, perennial fruits, herbs, and spices – and I know the chefs can’t wait to get creative with the ingredients we’re growing.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WILDLIFE FEATURE.indd 41

41

20/05/2022 14:48

INSIDE THE RESTAURANT AND BAR

THE HOTEL'S MENU WILL BENEFIT FROM THE FOREST GARDEN

“Everything we do must be a positive action forward to help protect or regenerate nature” Q Do you have other plans

for more hotel gardens?

A Yes, lots! We’re just about to finish our “no-dig” organic kitchen garden, which is exciting to see come to life. And so much incredible fresh produce is already being harvested, which is wholly shaping our seasonal menus. We’ve also recently updated the orchard and the original walled garden, adding productive perennials and beneficial companion plantings. Now that the main infrastructure is in place

42

our head gardener, Jamie, and his team are spending time sowing, growing, and building the soil heath of the gardens.

Q Why is sustainability so

important for you?

A I think if you love nature, then you

love sustainability, as the two go hand in hand. I was initially inspired by David Attenborough’s Planet Earth in 2008, which really shed light on the impact that modern society has had on our planet and why we needed to change our behaviours urgently. Thankfully, sustainability has now become more of a mainstream conversation whereby environmental issues are regularly discussed within the news, politics, and business – all of which impact our consumer behaviours and the way we live our lives.

At Raithwaite Sandsend I saw an exciting opportunity to inspire change and reimagine the guest experience – ensuring that sustainability is at the absolute core of the business. Over the past two years, working alongside a fantastic new management team and host of local suppliers, we have relaunched the hotel with a new vision.

We recognise that it’s our responsibility to respect nature and the stunning surroundings that have come to be known as one of the hotel’s biggest assets. In this sense, everything we do must be a positive action forward to help protect or regenerate nature.

Q What else is happening at

Raithwaite Sandsend this summer?

A We’re hosting lots of activities, to help

our guests explore and enjoy the gardens.

The brass rubbing trail is particularly fun for families, or give the escape route trail a try. And you can do a DIY garden tour, to discover the award-winning landscape, with our in-house guide – we provide maps and you set-off to uncover QR codes as you walk to reveal snippets of information about the flora and fauna you can spot along the way.

We’re also hosting afternoon tea hampers, for picnics on the lawn to celebrate the Jubilee, and our Sunday music sessions are back with live jazz, soul, and indie-folk performances on our outdoor terrace.

raithwaitesandsend.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WILDLIFE FEATURE.indd 42

20/05/2022 14:48

YORKSHIRE OUTDOOR.indd 43

20/05/2022 14:48

www.visitmalton.com

FREE ENTRY

YORKSHIRE’S FOODIE

GLASTONBURY 3–5 JUNE 2022

MALTON, N.YORKS

3 days of foodie bliss Stalls • Street Food • Talks • Tastings • Free Demos Celebrity Chefs • Feasting • Festival Bar • Live Music VISIT MALTON.indd 44

20/05/2022 14:48

FOOD & DRINK

TIME TO JELL WORLD JAM AWARDS

The quest to find the world’s best jam is now on ahead of an awards ceremony that takes place in Helmsley this September. Already the organisers have received entries from overseas including Canada and they are now inviting jam makers across Yorkshire to get involved by entering a jar of their preserve into the World Jam Awards.

Contestants have until 12 August to enter. worldjamfestival.com

Food News 46 • Reece Elliott 48 • Ellers Farm Distillery 51 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD OPENER.indd 45

45

20/05/2022 14:48

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

TASTING NOTES

The latest launches and news from across Yorkshire

By MARK KEBBLE

Wine recommendations for the month Champagne Castelnau Rosé Brut, France  £33.50

This perfect rosé champagne alternative is based on 54% Pinot Meunier, 25% Pinot Noir and 21% Chardonnay. The Chardonnay in the blend brings freshness and vivacity, while the Pinots add fruit and structure. wine-hub.co.uk

M de Minuty Limited Edition, France  £17.95 M de Minuty Limited Edition 2020 is produced by the famous Château Minuty, a family-owned wine estate located in southern France’s Provence region, overlooking the Saint-Tropez peninsula and is a splendid, pleasurable rosé wine. finewinedirect.co.uk

Codorniu Rosado Cava Brut, Spain  £6.99 Codorníu Rosado is made from the two most common red grapes around Southern Penedès.

This bright Rosé has the aromas of raspberry and strawberry and is the perfect accompaniment to tapas and light salads. waitrose.com

Knees Up T H E I V Y H A R R O GAT E

The Ivy Harrogate brings relaxed all-day dining to the heart of the vibrant spa town. From modern British cuisine to brasserieinspired classics and fantastic vegan and vegetarian dishes, there’s something for everyone to love. Close to the stunning Valley Gardens, Harrogate Theatre and the Victoria Shopping Centre, the restaurant is perfectly placed for all the area has to offer. Keep an eye out for their special Platinum Jubilee afternoon tea. theivyharrogate.com

46

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD NOTES.indd 46

20/05/2022 14:49

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DAD DINNERS

Three to make Father’s Day a memorable one

DRINK TO THIS DUTCH BARN

Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka, available from £29, is made like no other vodka in the world by Master Distiller Jamie Baggott. Dutch Barn is tasted every 20 minutes as it evolves from British apples, balanced with a touch of potato spirit until it develops into a crisp, clean, and exceptionally smooth vodka at 40% ABV. dutchbarn.com

THE DORMOUSE

Seek Out F O R AG E

Following the phenomenal success of Forage’s temporary pop-up kitchen that opened in November 2021, the Little Stonegate business has just announced plans to create a permanent food offering with the appointment of head chef, Kieran Duffy, and has launched a spring menu. Duffy is fast becoming a renowned chef in Yorkshire, having worked previously at acclaimed restaurants including Roots and Le Cochon Aveugle in York. foragebar.com

For a Father’s Day 2022 celebration that’s as special as dad deserves, make sure you’re all sitting down together at The Dormouse in York. They’ve got so many ways you can celebrate all weekend long, including a limited time only three-course Father’s Day menu from £24.95. vintageinn.co.uk

P A R K

LIF E NO.1, YORK

MILLER & CARTER Miller & Carter Sheffield have a genuine passion for steak and you can be rest assured that only the finest, most succulent cuts will make your dad’s plate. Add to that an exquisite range of fine drinks and impeccable service and you have a day to remember. millerandcarter.co.uk

When the sun shines on York, people go picnicking in the parks. That’s where No.1, York’s newly launched Afternoon Tea Picnic Hampers make for the perfect alfresco treat. Let them fill a hamper with the best British goodies and lend you a blanket so you can lunch like a local. guesthousehotels.co.uk/no-1-york

French Fancy B I ST R OT P I E R R E

Independent French restaurant group Bistrot Pierre has launched its biggest menu refresh in years inspired by customer feedback. The spring menu – which is packed full of the season’s finest ingredients – is now available at all 19 sites across the UK including Ilkley, and sees several dishes make a welcome return and new options added due to popular demand. bistrotpierre.co.uk

THE CASTLE For the most memorable Father’s Day, join The Castle in Wakefield for a perfectly-crafted menu on Sunday 19 June. Let The Castle take care of everything, from their relaxing atmosphere to the delights of their three-course set menu from £25.95, featuring dishes that’ll spoil that most special person to you. thecastlewakefield.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD NOTES.indd 47

47

20/05/2022 14:49

HOMETOWN

GLORY From Sheffield College to Masterchef, and now running his very own restaurant, it seems Reece Elliott is one to watch

By BETHAN ANDREWS

48

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

F+D PROFILE.indd 48

20/05/2022 14:49

FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

would come across in front of their eyes.

I’d recommend any young chef to do it.”

Masterchef was massive for Elliott, with his Instagram and profile growing hugely and lots of job opportunities coming through because of it. “It’s a really good talking point and people watch it more than you realise,” he says. “It’s about who you know, where you’ve been and building your reputation up. Competitions are a brilliant thing to do as an upcoming chef, as there’s no loss.”

Raffina by Reece Elliott, which is his own debut restaurant that recently opened, is

H

aving started as a chef in an apprenticeship with Sheffield College when he was 16, it’s immediately clear from chatting to up-and-coming chef Reece Elliott that his love for cooking is deeply ingrained. “Ever since I started to do it in school, I just loved cooking,” he says simply.

“I love cooking humble ingredients, making them taste good and then making people smile. The more I realised that I could express my emotions through food and get other people involved, the more my passion grew. I just wanted to get better every single day.”

And got better he certainly has, with appearances on Junior Masterchef, where he came second, Masterchef the Professionals and positions in highly renowned restaurants.

Fast forward to today, and Elliott is reaping the rewards of his new restaurant Raffina in the heart of Sheffield, with five-star reviews coming in thick and fast.

Despite such huge success and climbing the ranks to being an acclaimed chef in his

own right, Elliott still credits his humble beginnings and family for his real love for cooking. “My mum’s a really good cook and I used to be in the kitchen with her and work side by side with her – I loved every minute of it,” he smiles.

I wonder what it is about the process of creating food and being a professional chef that Elliott loves so much. “There’s always something new, it’s not a boring job and times have changed, it’s not lots of hours anymore,” he says.

“You can have a work life balance, and love what you’re doing. I like being artistic on a plate and I appreciate nature so much, so I like to see what you can do to accentuate the taste, flavours, and look of natural food. The more you learn, the more passionate you become.”

Elliott credits his time on Masterchef as a huge boost to his career. “It was a bit overwhelming and crazy, but super exciting.

It taught me a lot, to be honest. You question yourself throughout your career, so to be judged by chefs of such calibre is a great learning tool – I was eager to see how I

“It’s Italian dishes, with Yorkshire produce and a Sheffield twist” exactly one of those opportunities that came about. Having met celebrity chef Joe Hurd when he worked at Oxdine, Elliott kept in touch with him while at The Cavendish and built a strong relationship with him.

A few years later and Hurd put Elliott’s name forward to the owner of the Raffina building as a perfect chef to take on the job.

For Elliott, it’s particularly special to be able to showcase the talent and shine a spotlight on the food scene in Yorkshire.

Opening a restaurant in his home city was a perfect way for him to be able to do it. “I’m really grateful for the opportunity. I’m super excited and it’s a dream job to me to be able to have my own restaurant,” he says.

So, what can people expect from Raffina?

With an Italian theme with a fine dining twist, the restaurant has already gone down a storm.

“It’s Italian inspired, so I’ll take classic and modern techniques on Italian dishes, with Yorkshire produce and a Sheffield twist,” says Elliott. “It’s fine dining, but it’s not uptight and it’s really relaxed with a fun atmosphere.

It’s about simplicity and focusing on cooking things right rather than overcomplicating it.”

Elliott tells me how proud he is to add to the burgeoning foodie offering in Sheffield and loves to support local suppliers and businesses, too.

“Most of the stuff in the restaurant comes from just down the road,” he says. “The food scene here is changing all the time, it’s exciting and I can’t wait to keep working on it this year!”

R A F F I N A BY R E E C E E L L I OT T Fox Valley Way, Sheffield, S36 2AB 0114 698 0321 • raffina.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

F+D PROFILE.indd 49

49

20/05/2022 14:49

distilled on our farm in North Yorkshire CARBON NEUTRAL F R O M D AY O N E

N O W AVA I L A B L E AT

ELLERS FARM.indd 50

20/05/2022 14:49

FOOD & DRINK • DRINKS

by working with like-minded people to help change the industry for the better. Lots of spirits brands are based on fictional stories, but we wanted to ground our brand in a real place where people can see exactly how our spirits are made. This summer we’ll be opening our visitor centre here at Ellers Farm Distillery. This will allow people to experience our processes and sample our incredible products: Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka and the Small Batch Spirits range.

YORKSHIRE SPIRIT Ellers Farm Distillery has become known as much for its drinks as its ethical approach.

We find out why

Q What originally inspired the launch of Ellers Farm Distillery?

A Andy Braithwaite, Managing Director [AB]: Ellers Farm Distillery all started with the founder's [Chris Fraser] passion for cider making and distilling. Using fallen apples from his garden that were going to waste, he realised he could make a pretty tasty and potent cider.

As time went on, Chris started to research what else he could do with the cider or apple juice and that was when he discovered a small vodka brand in New York that was made from apples and decided to give it a go himself. This led him to myself and Master Distiller, Jamie Baggott, and that’s where the journey began.

Q How did you want to be different?

A AB: Here at Ellers Farm Distillery, we

want to stand out from other brands and become leaders within the drinks industry,

Q Why is sustainability at the heart of what you do?

A Tabatha Hurst, Head of Sustainability [TH]: A focus on sustainability should be, and is fast becoming, an imperative for businesses of all sizes. Without stable, equitable communities and a biosphere that can support them, business won’t be able to operate, let alone thrive. We think it’s the responsibility of businesses of all sizes to go beyond simply maximising profits for shareholders and toward maximising positive impact on workers, communities, and the environment.

Q What are your plans for the future?

A AB: There are big plans for the future,

with lots of new and exciting things in the pipeline for both Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka and Small Batch Spirits. We are passionate about adventure, but we’re extremely aware that travel can have a negative effect on the environment, which is why we are launching the Wanderers Spirit campaign. This campaign will showcase people who are travelling and adventuring while leaving the smallest possible footprint to inspire the wanderer’s spirit in all of us. We also offer the chance to win the ultimate low-impact adventure on us!

We will also be attending Malton’s Food Lovers Festival this June, where Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka will be the ‘Official Spirit of Malton Food Lovers Festival’. Fondly known as ‘Yorkshire’s Foodie Glastonbury’, the food and drink festival will feature over 100 food stalls, talks from acclaimed Yorkshire chefs and entertainment for the whole family. ellersfarmdistillery.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DRINKS.indd 51

51

20/05/2022 14:49

ON

Vegetables A new book from Berber & Q’s Josh Katz focuses on the simple vegetable Wo r d s J O S H K AT Z Photography JAMES MURPHY

52

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RECIPES.indd 52

20/05/2022 14:49

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Hasselback Butternut Squash with shallot confit walnut tarator Serves 4

Hasselback is a technique for cooking potatoes originating from Hasselbacken, a restaurant in Stockholm where the dish is alleged to have been first served. The potatoes are sliced at intervals but kept connected at the base, and then roasted in clarified butter until crispy on the outside, but soft and tender within. This brilliant technique works on a number of different vegetables, including swede and sweet potato, but this is a favourite.

INGREDIENTS Walnut Tarator • 80g (2¾oz) walnuts, toasted • 1 shallot, finely chopped • 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped • 120g (4½oz) Greek yoghurt • ½ bunch of coriander, shredded • 20g (¾oz) sumac • Juice of ½ lemon • Flaked sea salt and ground black pepper Butternut Squash • 1 butternut squash, cut in half lengthways • 80g (2¾oz) unsalted butter • 120ml (4fl oz) olive oil • Rosemary and thyme sprigs • 4 confit shallots • 2 tbsp toasted jasmine rice, coarsely ground • 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds, toasted • Few tarragon sprigs

METHOD Walnut Tarator 1 Remove the skin from the walnuts by rubbing them briskly, then chop to a medium crumb, retaining some texture.

2 Combine the chopped walnuts with the rest of the ingredients for the tarator, fold through and adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and black pepper.

Butternut Squash 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F)/180°C Fan/Gas Mark 6.

2 Make incisions into each butternut squash half, at intervals of roughly 2mm (1/16in), about two-thirds of the way into the flesh and along its entire length.

3 Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil,

rosemary and thyme sprigs, and cook for a few minutes to infuse.

4 Dip and roll each squash half in the butter to generously coat. Lay the squash halves alongside the other in a cast-iron pan or roasting pan, season generously with salt and black pepper, and roast in the oven for 45 minutes to an hour, basting regularly with the excess butter mix.

The squash should caramelize as it roasts and become soft and unctuous.

5 Once cooked all the way through and meltingly soft, transfer the squash to a plate and garnish with a dollop of walnut tarator, some confit shallots and sprinkle with ground toasted rice and toasted pumpkin seeds. Finish the dish with some picked tarragon leaves.

Cucumber Salad with pomegranate mint Serves 4

Everybody needs a quick and easy cucumber salad to balance a barbecue menu. This pairs well with just about any protein fresh off the grill, especially fish such as salmon or trout, but also chicken.

INGREDIENTS • 5 Lebanese or baby cucumbers, cut to 3mm (1/8in) rounds • ½ tbsp coarse salt, plus extra for seasoning • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 50g (1¾oz) fine bulgur • 2 tbsp lemon juice • 80ml (2½fl oz) extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra to finish • 100g (3½oz) natural yoghurt or Greek yoghurt • 1 tsp dried mint • 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses • 40g (1½oz) pomegranate seeds • 1 red chilli, thinly sliced • Small handful of picked mint leaves • 1 tbsp chopped dill • ½ tsp sumac • Flaked sea salt and ground black pepper

METHOD 1 Toss the sliced cucumber with the salt and set aside in a colander over the sink for 20–30 minutes.

2 Meanwhile, soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove some of its pungency.

3 Soak the bulgur in enough water just to cover for 5–10 minutes, drain, tip into a dry tea towel and wring dry. Transfer to a bowl and dress the bulgur with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and half the olive oil, then season to taste with salt and black pepper.

4 Combine the yoghurt, the rest of the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil and the dried mint in a small bowl and season to taste with salt and black pepper.

5 Dress the cucumber in the yoghurt dressing and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

6 Spread the dressed cucumber across a large serving plate or platter, drizzle with pomegranate molasses then top with bulgur, pomegranate seeds, drained red onion and sliced chilli. Garnish the salad with picked mint leaves and chopped dill, and finish with a dusting of sumac and drizzle of olive oil.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RECIPES.indd 53

53

20/05/2022 14:49

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

• 200g (7oz) spinach • 200g (7oz) natural yoghurt • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1½ tbsp lemon juice • 50ml (2fl oz) extra-virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp dill • Flaked sea salt and ground black pepper • Pita breads or flatbreads, lightly brushed with oil and warmed in the oven or grill, to serve

METHOD 1 Pour sunflower oil into a heavybased saucepan to a 2cm (¾in) depth.

Place the pan over medium-high heat until the oil is 200°C (400°F) when probed with a thermometer.

Lower the chickpeas into the hot oil to deep-fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Remove the chickpeas from the oil with a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper, sprinkle with the zaʹatar and turmeric, and season generously with salt and black pepper.

2 Bring a saucepan of salted water to the boil and blanch the spinach for 30 seconds, drain and refresh in a bowl filled with iced water, or under cold running water. Drain and squeeze dry with your hands to remove as much of the liquid as possible. Finely chop the spinach and add to a bowl. Stir through the yoghurt, garlic and lemon juice. Fold in half the olive oil. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

3 Spread the borani around the base of a plate and spoon over the deepfried chickpeas. Garnish with chopped dill and finish with a generous drizzle of the remaining olive oil around the outside. Serve with warmed bread.

Spinach Borani with fried chickpeas Serves 4

on where you are in the world, some with meat, and many using blanched or sautéed vegetables that are subsequently blended or incorporated into the yoghurt. Fried chickpeas are a great topping for many dips and spreads. At our Shawarma Bar, we garnish our hummus with fried chickpeas. If you’d rather not go to the effort of making them, this borani will taste delicious all by itself.

INGREDIENTS Borani is a dish of Persian origin, though there are Turkish variations, usually involving yoghurt as a base or topping. It comes in all different shapes and forms depending

54

• Sunflower oil, for deep-frying • 100g (3½oz) drained tinned chickpeas, rinsed and patted dry • ½ tbsp za'atar • ¼ tsp ground turmeric

Berber&Q: On Vegetables by Josh Katz Published by Kyle Books

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RECIPES.indd 54

20/05/2022 14:49

The original 'must-have'.

Justifiably extravagant.

SILENT POOL.indd 55

20/05/2022 14:49

FOOD & DRINK • DRINKS

Tartar of John Dory,

leche de tigre and fresh herbs Serves 4

NOTE PERFECT Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Cuvée Blanc de Blancs is great with seafood – so here's an accompanying dish for inspiration

56

S

ince its founding in 1785, the House of PiperHeidsieck has proven its innovative prowess in selecting and blending wines of exception. As the quintessence of PiperHeidsieck champagnes expression, Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Blanc de Blancs boasts a precise, fresh and mineral profile. The nose expresses fresh notes of yuzu and lime, lightly underlined by touches of white flowers, acacia, almonds and toasted bread with a mineral finish. A perfect wine profile to pair with seafood.

Chef Eric Geoffroy, from Piano des Chefs, has created a dish to complement the flavours and aromas of Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Blanc de Blancs: Tartar of John Dory, leche de tigre and fresh herbs.

I NG R E DI E N T S - 320g of John Dory fillet cut into 5 mm pieces - 200ml of eggs - 200ml of coconut milk - 1/2 red onions - 1 clove of garlic - 1 stick of lemongrass - 3 limes - 2 tins of fresh coriander - Salt and chilli pepper

M E T HOD Leche de tigre 1 Quickly blend the coconut milk with the coriander, lemongrass, garlic and onion, a pinch of salt and a pinch of Espelette chilli in a blender.

2 Strain the mixture and add the juice of the three limes.

3 Set aside in a cool place.

Finishing and presentation 1 Season the tartar with olive oil and salt.

2 Place the fish in a soup plate.

3 Pour the leche around and some fresh herbs on top (coriander, oyster leaf and vene cress).

4 Add a dash of olive oil and a pinch of fleur de sel.

5 Enjoy without delay.

Visit piper-heidsieck.com to discover more

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LIBERTY WINES.indd 56

20/05/2022 14:49

Come over to ours and let us do the cooking.

Serving breakfast, elevenses, lunch, and dinner 7 days a week. Oh, and our afternoon tea is an indulgent experience, that can be enjoyed as a long, lazy afternoon picnic too!

Receive 10% off your food by adding AbsolutelyYorkshire in the comments when you make a booking at No.1.

Discount code valid until July 31st, 2022.

Book via our website now.

No.1 York 1 Clifton, York YO30 6AA www.guesthousehotels.co.uk

GUEST HOUSE HOTEL.indd 57

@guesthousehotels

20/05/2022 14:49

SISTER LONDON.indd 58

20/05/2022 14:49

FA S H I O N

STA R S I N OUR EY E S BERRY’S JEWELLERS

Marking their 125th anniversary, Berry’s have unveiled their OPEIA jewellery collection – a celestial-inspired range of elegant diamond jewellery crafted from 18ct white gold and platinum. Running throughout this celebratory collection is a strong focus on family, depicted by the shape of the classic circle, infused with bursts of light inspired by shooting stars. Read more on page 68. berrysjewellers.co.uk

Clobber Swap 60 • Jewellery 63 • The Shoot 64 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FASHION OPENER.indd 59

59

20/05/2022 14:50

CAMILLE JOHNSON

Q&A

SWA P SH OP We chat to Huddersfield local Camille Johnson about how a desire to counter fast fashion took off beyond her wildest dreams

By MARK KEBBLE

SHOES ARE POPULAR ON THE SITE

60

THE VINTAGE LOOK IS IN DEMAND

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FASHION Q+A.indd 60

20/05/2022 14:50

FASHION • Q&A

MAKE USE OF THAT ONEOFF COCKTAIL DRESS

younger kids think nothing of buying an outfit for one night, putting the evidence on Instagram and throwing it in the bin.

Q How quickly did it evolve from being a

group of your friends to 7,000 members?

A Within 24 hours I had gone from 32 people

Q What inspired you to start Clobber Swap?

A The sheer quantity of clothes made me

realise there were other women out there who felt the same as I did. This created my idea of clobber swapping and it felt quite a unique idea in 2020. I thought why do we not swap items which costs nothing apart from £3 postage whilst replenishing our wardrobes, giving it a new lease of life and reducing the amount going to landfill?

Fast fashion is a term used to describe new styles of clothing that are manufactured quickly and sold at very low prices. While fast fashion makes clothing affordable for consumers, it comes at a big cost to the environment. Trendy and cheaply made clothing has a short lifespan in people’s wardrobes, often leading to more clothes ending up in landfills. The

I knew to 350, then it increased a few days later to 2,000 and within about five weeks it had grown to almost 4,200. Two years on and we are at 7,000 members, and it is growing.

The challenging aspect of it was that it was a Facebook page which linked to FB Market Place. I did not want anyone and everyone posting as we were not swapping any item, it was just quality clothes, but I had to police this manually in the early days. I struggled to keep the feed full of clothes and often I would see someone had posted a lampshade, a washer, a children’s cot, or something totally unrelated to clothes. I did not know in the beginning that I could control this issue and I invested in people to manage this, which led to four people and myself working on it 24/7. The website launched and this is where members could sign up to be in the group and I attached a small fee of £2.99 per month to keep the quality of the members and its content high. I knew Depop, eBay and Vestiare charged up to 18% in commission and you did not get your money straight away – in some cases it can take three weeks to be paid for the item you have sold.

With Clobber Swap you pay members directly, so you get immediate payment and there is no commission to pay. One member told me it saved her £150 per month in commission.

Q What kind of brands are swapped?

A All kinds of brands, it is not a designer swap

and sell site only, it is for quality items that are in great condition, hardly worn in many cases and this works. It is not about being

high value or a specific label, although we see lots of designer items as we have lots of very stylish members. In my view, if you have bought something you have not worn and it is fabulous, add it to Clobber Swap. If you have not worn something for a while and do not reach for it, swap it for another fabulous item.

Items are advertised usually at £20 or less, we get the odd item or accessory more than that, but it is more about the style and condition than the price. I did swap a pair of Louboutin’s for a Joseph coat in the early days, and this was a great swap that cost absolutely nothing.

Q Is there a particular thing that seems

to be swapped more than others?

A Great question, not really, everything

is popular on Clobber Swap, but unusual patterns and bright colours are everyone’s favourite. Anything unusual or vintage gets the thumbs up. We love jewellery and shoes, as these are so pricey in shops on the high street, so they sell well. Sunglasses get snapped up very quickly and designer bags swap or sell in nano seconds.

Q How do you see the future of

Clobber Swap evolving?

A Well, I would love to set up an actual event

where our members can meet up, chat and swap and sell clothes. It has been running for over two years, and I know friendships in the group are strong, so they would like nothing better than to meet their clobber friend in real life. I have also created a podcast, which I will be producing every Sunday sharing style tips, fashion faux pas and the latest news on what Clobber Swap and its members are up to.

Facebook/Clobber Swap Instagram @clobberswapltd clobberswap.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FASHION Q+A.indd 61

61

20/05/2022 14:50

NOMINATION.indd 62

20/05/2022 14:50

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Garden Glam The finest flora and fauna inspired jewellery B y R AC H E L H O G G

ALEX MONROE

EMMA CHAPMAN

ANNOUSHKA

Posy Bloom Bee Ring, £210 alexmonroe.com

Tashi Chrysoprase Pendant, £280 wolfandbadger.com

Mythology Rose Gold Topaz Beetle Ring, £4,800 annoushka.com

GIOVANNI RASPINI

MILOU JEWELRY

NOMINATION ITALY

Daisies Garden Bracelet, £220 giovanniraspini.com

Light Purple Petite Flower Earrings, £94 wolfandbadger.com

Charms, from £22 yorkcharms.co.uk

LATELITA

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

JENNIFER BEHR

Jasmine Flower Triple Drop Sapphire Earrings, £299 latelita.com

Floral Applique Necklace, £737 farfetch.com

Peri Butterfly-Motif Earrings, £193 farfetch.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

JEWELLERY.indd 63

63

20/05/2022 14:50

OUTER

LIMITS Stella McCartney’s summer 2022 collection, found at Morgan Clare in Harrogate, harmonises billowing shapes with bodycon silhouettes and biophilic cut-outs on psychedelic prints

S T E L L A M C C A R T N E Y. C O M MORGANCLARE .CO.UK

SHOOT.indd 64

20/05/2022 14:50

SHOOT.indd 65

20/05/2022 14:50

SHOOT.indd 66

20/05/2022 14:50

SHOOT.indd 67

20/05/2022 14:50

L o o k

t o

t h e

S T A R S Absolutely Yorkshire discovers the inspiration behind Berry’s special 125th anniversary collection

68

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BERRYS.indd 68

20/05/2022 14:51

FASHION • FOCUS

J

ewellery lovers rejoice, as one of the nation’s most beloved brands celebrates its 125th year in business by launching the special edition ‘OPEIA’ collection. Berry’s, the family-owned expert jeweller with stores nationwide, has unveiled the breath-taking range that is available to purchase in-store and online.

Designed by one of Berry’s in-house designers, Emily Rose, the OPEIA collection draws inspiration from the five generations of the Berry’s family who have run the business since its first store opened in 1897. This theme runs through each design, with Emily taking inspiration from the night sky. The final portfolio is inspired by shooting stars, comets and other cosmic phenomena that are brought to life in the flowing designs of the range, which is named after the constellation of Cassiopeia.

This anniversary collection comprises of ten pieces: the showstopping OPEIA necklace, a small and large pendant, a pair of drop and stud earrings, three rings, a bangle and a bracelet. The designer says of the new collection: “The collection is contemporary, yet timeless, with a focus on creating wearable pieces that will stand the

test of time and celebrate the company’s most important milestone to date.

“The OPEIA collection is designed to capture attention, with flowing, curved designs adorned with diamonds for that showstopping lustre. With Berry’s heritage, the theme of ‘family’ was a central concept in the collection, from mood board to final design. ‘OPEIA’ takes its name from Cassiopeia, a five-point constellation in the shape of a W, which is a nod to the Walton family who have run Berry’s for five generations.” Each design shares a significant focus on the number five to reflect five generations of family at Berry’s Jewellers – the designs feature five graduating diamonds for this very reason.

Each graduated round brilliant-cut diamond features echoes the way in which moving comets leave a trail of shimmering light behind them as they glide through a rich blanket of black night sky. Assembling different-sized diamonds in this way simultaneously creates the impression of dynamic movement and fluidity throughout each design. Meticulous attention to detail has gone into even the smallest aspects – the negative inverted space inside each circle also forms a five-point star shape, yet another nod to the meaning behind the number five.

Making each new piece from the 125th anniversary collection so special are the subtle nods to the company’s long heritage.

The focus on the Cassiopeia constellation itself tips its hat to the northern roots of the business, whilst the soaring comets and majestic shooting stars formed by beautiful

diamonds signify five generations of Berry’s craftsmanship. Symbolic of their heritage, the OPEIA Collection shows their unwavering commitment to extraordinary artistry.

Simon Walton, managing director of Berry’s, comments: “OPEIA is without a doubt a beautiful collection and one befitting of such an anniversary for Berry’s.

It is testament to Emily and her team’s skills that the pieces are so arresting.

“To make 125 years is a sign of celebration, we wanted to mark it by producing something that our clients can celebrate with us. The unveiling of this new range marks our 125th year in the business, and of this we are extremely proud.”

Chairman Jeffrey Walton adds: “If my mother- and father-in-law would have thought that we’d be here after 125 years, they would have been amazed. So, we want to enjoy every second of this, and we want everyone to enjoy it with us.”

B E R RY ' S Berry’s boasts boutiques across the nation, including York and Leeds. For more information, visit berrysjewellers.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BERRYS.indd 69

69

20/05/2022 14:51

St Leonard’s Hospice Shops

Acomb Colliergate Easingwold Fossgate Fulford Haxby Layerthorpe Scarcroft Road Selby Tang Hall

St. Leonard’s Hospice York, is a registered charity, no. 509294 and a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, no. 01451533

Quality pre-loved finds to support patient care

01904 788 777 stleonardshospice.org.uk ST LEONARDS HOSPICE.indd 70

20/05/2022 14:51

FASHION • PROFILE

L I T T L E T R E A S U R E S Discover a gem by shopping at St Leonard’s Hospice charity shops, and help their vital work in the process

ALEXANDRA MANAGES ONE OF THE SHOPS

“Last year the shops generated £707,000 in income to help care for more local patients and families” THERE IS PLENTY OF FASHION INSPIRATION

S

t Leonard’s Hospice charity shops have seen a surge in custom postpandemic as the cost of living crisis deepens.

An increasing number of people are realising they can pick up quality pre-loved items from popular brands at a fraction of high street and designer prices.

The Hospice, which provides palliative and end of life care to people with life limiting illnesses, has 12 charity shops in and around York. It relies on the income of the shops to provide its tailored care, helping patients make the best of their lives and supporting their families.

Last year the shops generated £707,000 in income to help care for more local patients and families. They are a treasure trove of fashion, accessories, furniture and bric a brac, with donations coming from supporters of the Hospice and also families whose relatives have died in St Leonard’s care. Many of these families have said that donating their loved ones’ personal possessions, in the hope that they will raise money for the Hospice, has helped with their grieving process.

Its donation centre received 134,000 bags of donations last year saving tonnes of clothing from landfill, and it is the increasing demand for sustainable fashion that is also helping charity shops thrive.

Pre-loved fashion is widely regarded as one of the fastest growing sustainable fashion trends. St Leonard’s shops have developed a ‘fashion recycling’ community with customers regularly seeking out quality, pre-loved finds to make their own. They give people access

UNCOVER QUIRKY GIFTS

to unique fashion that isn’t easily found in generic retail stores and also designer brands that could be out of reach due to high retail prices – Louis Vuitton, Tiffany, Calvin Klein and Louboutin pieces are regular finds.

St Leonard’s has also extended its pre-loved offering online with the launch of its eBay store in September 2020. It is currently averaging £1,600 per week, and a recent donation of designer menswear, mainly Margaret Howell, generated £4,500 in sales. The eBay shop is also making its own contribution to the environmental cause, using 60 bin bags of recycled bubble wrap from a local glazing company plus over 500 re-cycled boxes to ship out products to successful bidders.

The retail team is now looking to the future, with new shops on the horizon, and the expansion of its online and eBay operations. St Leonard’s has charity shops in Acomb (a clothing and a furniture shop), Colliergate, Easingwold, Fossgate, Fulford, Haxby, Layerthorpe, Scarcroft Road, Tang Hall, plus two in Selby.

ST L E O N A R D ' S H O S P I C E For further information on the Hospice and its shops visit stleonardshospice.org.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ST LEONARDS HOSPICE.indd 71

71

20/05/2022 14:51

The Huddersfield Hospital 07771990172

Health Group

01484 550491 Birkby Hall Road, Huddersfield, HD2 2BL

Circle Health Group is the leading independent provider of hospital services in the UK. More than 6,500 specialists practice across our hospitals, which handle more than 2 million patient visits per year.

• Orthopaedics • General Surgery

• Urology • Gynaecology

• Cosmetic Surgery • Physiotherapy

www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk

CIRCLE HEALTHCAR.indd 72

20/05/2022 14:51

HEALTH & BEAUTY

A SUITE LIFE P H E N I X SA LO N S U I T E S

Gina Rivera knew that bringing her salon suite concept to the UK was a smart move. She knew that as a nation, the beauty industry here is full of entrepreneurs. With the cost of fuel so high, having the opportunity to rent month-onmonth their own individual suite, which they can decorate themselves, Phenix is the perfect solution. As they open in Manchester, with plans for a Yorkshire opening soon, turn to page 80 to find out more. phenixsalonsuitesuk.com

Bentham Golf Club 74 • Beauty Notes 77 • Reformer Pilates 83 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

H+B OPENER.indd 73

73

20/05/2022 14:51

I n t o t h e S W I N G O F T H I N G S Bentham Golf Club is celebrating its 100th anniversary, so Absolutely Yorkshire catches up with co-owner Isabel Marshall to find out about the hits and misses 74

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

H+B FEATURE.indd 74

20/05/2022 14:51

HEALTH & BEAUTY • SPORT

PHOTOS BY HEIDI MARFITT

Q Bentham Golf Club has had a colourful history. What stories do you particularly love hearing about?

A It’s great to hear tales from our members whose families have come up through the golfing ranks and friends who’ve played together over the years as they grew up. It celebrates everything we aim to achieve by making golf an embracing sport for all ages.

Q Why did your family want to take over the course?

A We recognised the role the golf club played within the local community not just as a sporting facility, but also as a place to meet socially and an events venue for celebrations.

We saw how valuable that was to many people and did not want to see it lost. The course also provides a local attraction for the customer base at our existing business, Riverside Caravan Park, as they were now able to enjoy golf whilst on holiday. The two offerings naturally complement each other.

Q What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced?

A Over the 12 years we have faced some big hurdles. The industry was completely new to our family, so it was tough in the early days as we had to discover where we sat in the market from both a golf and dining point of view. We have had a few years where the rain has hampered our summer season and hugely impacted income and reputation. However, these difficulties provided a valuable learning curve which we’ve ‘weathered’, along with the pandemic.

Q What improvements have you overseen?

A Pretty much everything has been changed. We have refurbished the clubhouse, created a new golf and leisurewear shop and modernised the changing facilities. We have rebuilt the green keepers shed, offering better staff facilities. We have also built an 8-bay covered driving range, refreshed the practice facilities and made many changes on the course to improve play and drainage.

Q How would you describe the course today?

A The course is truly a hidden gem.

We are fortunate enough to be based on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and Forest of Bowland. Our elevated position means that golfers can enjoy views of the Lakeland fells, Yorkshire Dales and the Forest of Bowland on a clear day.

Recently, the quality of the greens and fairways was described as “manicured”

by YouTube channel Golf Mates.

Q Why did you introduce the ‘stay and play’ opportunity?

A We found there was a need for suitable accommodation for golf groups as our area has lots of small B&Bs or pubs, but nothing suitable for single sex groups looking for twin beds. We therefore designed our Wenningdale Escapes glamping pods

“GOLF REALLY HAS HAD A RE-BIRTH OVER RECENT YEARS” and luxurious lodges to meet the needs of these groups as well as families and couples looking to holiday in the area. The Stay & Play opportunity has really helped the golf course flourish, bringing additional income to the business by offering accommodation, golf and catering all in one place.

Q Has golf never been so popular?

A Golf really has had a re-birth over recent

years. As one of the only sports people could enjoy when restrictions first started lifting in 2020, many new people have taken the sport up. Judging by our summer bookings, it seems that golf is certainly gaining popularity.

Q What special events do you have planned to mark the centenary?

A It was very difficult to plan for our celebrations as we were still faced with so much pandemic uncertainty even as we entered the early days of 2022. As a result, we’ve used this year as an opportunity to revitalise events that have fallen by the wayside, such as our Friday Night Knock, a friendly competition and social night for golf members. We’ve also extra Open competitions including a Centenary Celebration Open supporting Prostate Cancer UK, and the Golf In England US Masters Texas Scramble.

Q After 100 years, how important do you think the club is to Bentham locals?

A I think it’s role within the local community has certainly evolved over the last 100 years.

The club itself has seen so many changes as well as cultural and social changes over the years. I am in no doubt that it remains a vital facility for locals and visitors alike.

benthamgolfclub.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

H+B FEATURE.indd 75

75

20/05/2022 14:51

Memberships from just £34.99 per month

SKIPTON STUDIO 15-17 Coach Street BD23 1LH HARROGATE STUDIO 3 James Street HG1 1QS

UK STE

RAIL D from

TRIP AY

AM

£115

BRAND NEW TO HARROGATE HIGH STREET! Book Online Today!

Yoga and Pilates classes, Retreats and Boutique Activewear www.ebruevrim.com

25

/

info@ebruevrim.com / 07734 955 476

The Dorset Coast Express Thursday 21st July, 18th August and 1st September 2022

EST.1997

Visit the beautiful Dorset coast and relive the ‘golden age’ of steam, hauled by a steam locomotive that was built for express passenger train work. Spend time at the celebrated seaside resorts of either Bournemouth or Weymouth.

Price • Standard Class £115pp/£358 family – includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

• First Class £185pp/£565 family – includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Premier Dining £285pp/£870 family – includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner served at your seat.

Bob Green

For more information including approximate timings please call or visit our web site…

To order free UK Steam Rail Day Trips, UK Rail and European Rail Holiday brochures please visit our website.

01553 661 500 www.railwaytouring.net

25 EST.1997

Have a great day – The Safe Way – your welfare is our priority and our Covid-19 travel procedures are available to view on our website. Refreshments available to purchase on board. Junior fares available. Organised by The Railway Touring Company. The Railway Touring Company’s standard conditions of booking and travel apply – see website or brochure for details.

EBRU RAILWAY.indd 76

20/05/2022 14:51

HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y R AC H E L H O G G

EDITOR’S PICK

BARRIER

FOCUS

Breath easy

Support REN

REN skincare’s newest face oil is a real saving grace for stressed and sensitive skin. The ultra-nourishing formula utilises a combination of nine unique bioactive ingredients to strengthen the skin’s barrier and has been clinically proven to reduce the seven signs of skin sensitivity within 14 days of use, £44.

Experience the benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

B

renskincare.com

Feel-good Factor S E R E I A S K I N CA R E

Created in lockdown by Ilkley based Charlotte Flather, Sereia Skincare is designed to help women feel good inside and out. With the mantra 'Feel Good in your Real Skin', Sereia is also promoting the importance of self-care and body positivity. It has created a range of easy rituals to help support both mental and physical wellbeing. sereiaskincare.com

ROSE MASK FOREO

If the weather changing has left your skin in need of a refresh, why not try Foreo’s new Bulgarian Rose Face Mask? Just apply using the UFO mask device, which activates the ingredients and boosts the strength of the formula, and within two minutes your skin will be looking hydrated and reinvigorated, £18.99.

reathing oxygen in a pressurised environment enriches the blood and improves circulation throughout the body.

Studies around the world are conclusively showing that HbOT has a revitalising effect and can make a real difference to well-being.

Whether you are looking to roll back the years, find relief from ailments or achieve your peak sporting prowess, HbOT may offer the solution you are looking for.

Research shows that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy offers: - Improved memory, brain function, mood and sleep; - Reduced stress and fatigue; - Restored collagen elasticity; - Slowed and even reversed signs of ageing; - Decreased recovery time by up to 50% (post-surgery or sports injury recovery); - Enhanced sports performance by 10%.

It also helps to alleviate symptoms of: - Parkinson’s disease - Alzheimer’s - Arthritis - Chronic fatigue syndrome - Fibromyalgia - Long Covid As Laura says: “Even from my first session my headache was not as intense and it is now a distant memory. For the first time in six months I am looking forward to spending time with the kids instead of being exhausted and in pain all the time.”

OXIFY

Download the app or call on 0113 543 2750; oxify.co.uk

lookfantastic.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BEAUTY NOTES.indd 77

77

20/05/2022 14:51

skin-fluencer.com

SKIN INFLUENCER.indd2 78 SKINFLUENCER.indd

20/05/2022 11:39 14:51 24/03/2021

HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

DOLCE & GABBANA Blush of Roses Luminous Cheek Colour, Shade Provocative, £48 feelunique.com

CHARLOTTE TILBURY Beauty Light Wand, Shade Peachgasm, £29 charlottetilbury.com

BEAUTY PIE

ARMANI

Supercheek Cream Blush, £30, £9.90 for members beautypie.com

Neo Nude A-Blush, Shade 30, £32 armanibeauty.co.uk

SISLEY Palette L'Orchidèe Blush, Shade Corail, £82 sisley-paris.com

NARS

EDITOR’S PICK

Orgasm Liquid Blush, £27 narscosmetics.co.uk

ROSY CHEEKS We have found a blush for every season B y R AC H E L H O G G

CLINIQUE Cheek Pop, Shade Ginger Pop, £20 clinique.co.uk

GLOSSIER Cloud Paint, Shade Dusk, £15 glossier.com

PAT MCGRATH LABS Skin Fetish Divine Blush, Shade Lovestruck, £30 patmcgrath.com

MAC COSMETICS Glow Play Blush, Shade Cheeky Devil, £24 maccosmetics.co.uk

B SLO T E LY. A BA SO UL TU E LY m aLgOaNzD i nOeNs

BEAUTY PRODUCTS.indd 79

79

20/05/2022 14:51

A cut

A B OV E Tracking the inspirational career of Gina Rivera, as she brings her global salon company to the UK for the first time

80

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PHENIX.indd 80

20/05/2022 14:51

• XXXXX HEALTH &XXXXXXXX BEAUTY • PROFILE

G

ina Rivera is a highly recognised celebrity hairstylist, beauty expert, and founder of Phenix Salon Suites, a global salon company that provides the opportunity for sole proprietors working in the beauty and wellness industries to operate their business in the privacy of their own suite. In September last year, Gina and her team brought the Salon Suite concept to the UK. The first location opened in Deansgate, Manchester, with additional expansion planned for the UK and Europe, including Yorkshire.

With a family history in the beauty industry dating back to 1929, and 25 beauty professionals in her family consisting primarily of hairstylists and barbers, Gina soon realised that her path was in the beauty industry.

She dropped out of high school and attended Beauty School at the age of 17. Soon, she was working behind the chair building her clientele.

Whilst working as a chair/booth renter, Gina soon realised how important it was for salon professionals to be in control of their own destiny. However, she was also aware that most beauty professionals lacked the financial resources to start their own salon.

Her new focus was to devise a concept that would allow them to become salon owners at a fraction of the cost of opening a traditional salon. Phenix Salon Suites was born, and Gina opened her first location in 2007 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 2012, she decided to franchise the concept across the United States.

Fast forward to today and there are now over 350 locations in the USA where thousands of professionals operate their businesses including, hairstylists, aestheticians, barbers, nail technicians, lash and brow artists, tattoo artists, massage therapists and more. Even better, Phenix Salon Suites has now opened its first UK location in Manchester.

Social media plays a big part in Gina’s life and with approximately 180,000 followers on TikTok (@beautyexpertginarivera) and more than a million global followers in total, Gina has become her own influencer and inspires beauty professionals around the world. She has appeared on multiple TV shows such as Extra

COLOURS BY GINA

and was a featured guest on the Emmy award winning show Undercover Boss. Additionally, she has been seen at red carpet events such as the GRAMMYs and the Coachella Music Festival. Gina is also an expert beauty contributor who has been published hundreds of times in major magazines such as the USA version of VOGUE, Fashion and Style, Modern Salon and a multitude of others. In addition, she is a well-known motivational speaker that has shared her story and words of inspiration with beauty industry professionals, corporate employees, US military troops and many others. Everything Gina does is to champion beauty professionals, and all who hear her story, to adopt, nurture, and recognise their own entrepreneurial abilities.

In 2018, Gina curated her own colour line, COLOURS By Gina. It’s a unique colour line consisting of 60 shades and the ability to create semi, demi or permanent all from the same tube. It’s perfect for the independent stylist who doesn’t have the space or money to carry the usual brands of more than 120+ colour combinations. Infused with Biotin and Collagen to aid in keeping the hair healthy combined with excellent results in grey coverage and the fact it smells good, it is proving to be a winner with salon professionals. The colour line is available to all salon professionals inside the Phenix Salon Suites Colour Bar and through the UK distributor, Rebel Beauty Brands.

The By Gina brand was also designed

by Gina. Her amazing products include a professional wetline, Pure BioGen Complex

shampoo and conditioner, CLUTCH hairspray, and state-of-the-art infrared technology professional styling tools, which will be coming to the UK soon. Gina will soon be adding to her list of products with XOXO Cosmetics consisting of a highly anticipated makeup line that will be available in locations throughout the USA, UK and Europe.

Always thinking about how she can enhance the life of the salon professional, Gina created Gina’s Platform. This is a business app for salon professionals to use and manage their business from the ease of their phone. It includes touchless payment processing, easy client notifications, product and revenue tracking, advanced booking options and trending beauty news and education.

Entrepreneur should be Gina’s middle name, but at the root of her success is the fact she is a hairstylist with over 30 years working behind the chair. A humble, kind, family orientated and genuine lady, Gina continuously puts the salon professionals' needs at the centre of all she does. She looks forward to continuing the legacy her family started over 90 years ago and expanding the options for professionals working in the beauty, wellness and appearance industries.

Gina thinks of her almost 12,000 salon professionals who currently occupy suites in her salons across the world as family – and she is excited to watch the family grow further across the UK and Europe.

Follow Gina Rivera @beautyexpertgina.

To learn more about Phenix Salon Suites, please visit phenixsalonsuitesuk.com. To learn more about the Manchester location and other locations in the UK and Europe, contact John Gillespie on 07909 993491 or via email at jgillespie@phenixsalonsuites.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PHENIX.indd 81

81

20/05/2022 14:51

When it comes to your health, you deserve the very best A world-class preventative health programme carefully tailored to your individual needs - now available right on your doorstep.

Bringing together two world-renowned names in healthcare and medical research, the Health and Wellness Plan from Mayo Clinic Healthcare in partnership with Oxford University Clinic combines access to an unrivalled network of international medical experts with world-class diagnostic and screening facilities.

Developed for discerning individuals who expect and deserve the very best, we help you to take a proactive approach to your health for a healthier, happier future for you and your family.

Book with us now:

MAYO_CLINIC_ABS_HERTS_MAR22.indd 1 MC.indd 1

Email:

appointments@mch-ouc.co.uk

Website:

www.mch-ouc.co.uk

20/05/2022 21/02/2020 15:30 14:54

HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS REFORMER PILATES AT WORK

EBRU EVRIM

F I N D I N G S T A B I L I T Y Getting to the core of reformer Pilates

PHOTOS: HEIDI MARFITT

T

By EBRU EVRIM

he world of Pilates is more fascinating than you may imagine. One of its disciplines is ‘reformer Pilates’. Improving your inner core strength is the principal objective, providing numerous benefits for people of all ages and levels of activity, not least those recovering from injury or suffering from illness. So, what exactly is it and where did it all start?

German born Joseph Pilates was a sickly child who set about improving his physical strength. He moved to England in 1912 as a circus performer and boxer. During the First World War he was interned in Lancaster Castle where he practised yoga and taught techniques to fellow inmates.

He later emigrated to the Unites States and became internationally known for his New York fitness studio, frequented by famous ballet dancers among others, where he wrote several books and cited

many patents before his death in 1967.

Reformer Pilates is different from flat, mat-based Pilates in that it involves Joseph’s ingenious apparatus ‘the reformer’, a bed-like frame with a flat platform (the carriage) that rolls back and forth on wheels. While at first glance this may look like a contemporary cousin of a medieval torture rack, in fact nothing could be further from the truth, as this clever equipment is designed to adjust to suit you specifically, to improve your core strength and stability.

Improving the alignment of your posture, this gentle, low impact form of exercise effectively provides a full body workout.

“THIS LOW IMPACT FORM OF EXERCISE PROVIDES A FULL BODY WORKOUT”

The key benefits of the reformer apparatus are that it: • Uses weights and springs for assistance and resistance to achieve proper muscle length and strength in a carefully controlled manner; • Uses springs to allow you to adjust the resistance to the main carriage as you use your own body weight and strength; • Focuses on core strength and proper muscle engagement; • Increases flexibility; • Improves athletic performance; • Helps to relieve back pain; • Assists in injury recovery and rehabilitation; • Tones and builds muscle all over; • Enables you to focus your mind and breath in an environment away from outside distractions; • Aids mental health through self-focus.

Reformer Pilates is particularly suited for achieving specific goals; a qualified teacher will discuss what you want to achieve along with any niggles and pains that may be holding you back, providing a programme of exercises to achieve progress.

EBRU EVRIM Ebru Evrim runs a Pilates studio in Skipton, with a new Harrogate studio soon to open. Find out more at ebruevrim.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FITNESS COLUMN.indd 83

83

20/05/2022 14:52

Huddersfield Grammar School

The whole child is the whole point.

At Huddersfield Grammar School, ‘the whole child is the whole point’ and nurturing children to become well-rounded, multifaceted individuals is key. Set in beautiful woodland grounds, our leading independent school provides a future-facing curriculum for girls and boys aged 3-16, offering a rich variety of experiences both within and beyond the classroom.

Get in touch now... to request a prospectus or arrange a personal tour of our school. t: 01484 424549 e: admissions@huddersfield-grammar.co.uk w: www.huddersfield-grammar.co.uk Huddersfield Grammar School, Royds Mount, Luck Lane, Marsh, Huddersfield, HD1 4QX

TOP 50 PREP SCHOOL

HUDDERSDFIELD_SCHOOL.indd 84

ISA Awards 2019 Winner

Follow us on

20/05/2022 14:52

E D U C AT I O N

SET FOR LIFE In this month's education section, we visit Ackworth School in Pontefract to see how they are implementing technology into their everyday lessons and beyond. It's an approach that ensures their pupils leave fully prepared for what the 'real world' may throw at them. ackworthschool.com

Sign Language 86 • Talking Head 89 • Technology 93 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDUCATION OPENER.indd 85

85

20/05/2022 14:52

SIGN of

things to come The pandemic has, if anything, taught us that communication between humans is vital. But what about those whose struggles continue beyond lockdowns?

By S U E L A I D L AW

86

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDUCATION FEATUR.indd 86

20/05/2022 14:52

EDUCATION • FEATURE

I

f there is one thing that we have all realised over the past two years, it is the absolute need for all of us to find new ways of communication. In those early days of spring 2020, we had very little option but to embrace Zoom and certainly our home diary was scattered with invitations for “Virtual Meetings down the Pub!” and family get-togethers on screen.

At Laidlaw Education, we are constantly exploring ways to communicate with children in our teaching – not always just by speech and voice. However, it became very clear that, when face masks were required to be used, for many children and adults, communication became harder; facial cues were hidden as well as the ability to watch the articulation of a teacher, particularly for younger children and those with specific needs.

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists also underlined how much harder it was for those with hearing loss to communicate as lip-reading was clearly impossible. Face masks with transparent panels over the mouth are now used.

We have all come to understand even more how important it is to explore new ways of communicating with each other. Against this backdrop, the annual Deaf Awareness Week, which takes place from 2-8 May, has caused me to reflect. This special week aims to promote an understanding of the importance of social inclusion around the deaf community.

“There are over ten million people in the UK with hearing loss” It highlights all the positive aspects of living with deafness, but also raises awareness of the isolation that deaf people can sometimes experience. Indeed, you may not be aware that there are over ten million people in the UK who are living with some form of hearing loss.

If your autumn Saturday evenings included snuggling up on the sofa to watch BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing, you, like me, will have shared the joy of watching EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis’ wonderful dancing and perfect rhythm, knowing that she was the first deaf contestant on the show.

She and her professional partner, Giovanni Pernice, won the show but have, more importantly, shone a very bright, creative and positive light on promoting the positivity of the deaf community.

Ayling-Ellis’ inspirational personality led to a significant increase in people wanting to learn Sign Language, for example.

Equally moving is this year’s Oscar winning movie, CODA. Coda stands for Child(ren) of Deaf Adults and the film tells the story of 17-year-old Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones) as the only hearing member of a deaf family in Massachusetts. The film's exploration of the deaf community is real and authentic, even though the plot is fictious.

Alongside Emilia Jones, who spent many months learning to sign for the part, deaf actors Daniel Durant, Troy Kotsur, and Academy Award-winner Marlee Matlin star as the rest of Ruby's family. Troy Kotsur has made history as the first deaf man to win an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor.

So, as Deaf Awareness Week dawns, let’s be more aware of our means of communication. You may not want to learn Sign Language yet, but we can all be more aware of what we can do to embrace everyone in the way that we communicate.

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. Call 020 8487 9517 or find out more at laidlaweducation.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDUCATION FEATUR.indd 87

87

20/05/2022 14:52

Your daughter.

Our priority.

Since 1878.

Visit us to meet our teachers and pupils and learn more about the exceptional opportunities available to girls in our Infant and Junior School.

Email enquiries@she.gdst.net to book a visit at any time during the year. sheffieldhighschool.org.uk SHEFFIELD GIRLS SCHOOL.indd 88

20/05/2022 14:52

EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

Single MINDED The head of Sheffield High School for Girls looks at the benefits of a girls' only education

S

By NINA GUNSON

heffield High School for Girls was one of the first girls’ schools in England, set up nearly 150 years ago by a group of pioneering and determined women. Today, pupils have access to the GDST alumnae network with thousands of professional women on-hand to provide advice, support and encouragement.

Q Are schools for girls still relevant?

A There is still a need for great girls’

schools that teach academic subjects and also offer girls the chance to develop their creativity, problem-solving and independence of thought in an environment designed around their specific needs.

I’ll start with a small caveat. A good school is a good school. There are good co-ed schools and good single sex schools. All schools are different, and some schools will be a better fit for a child than others.

With that said, I want to tell you why I believe girls’ schools are better for girls.

Schools like ours are able to offer a learning environment dedicated to girls’ learning needs and preferences, free from gender-stereotyping and free from distraction. It’s well documented that girls do better academically in an allgirls' school. If you want excellent exam results, then sending your daughter to a girls’ school makes sense.

But there’s so much more to a great education than just exam results. And certainly, top universities are looking for

students who have a broader skill set and experience beyond the classroom.

Q So how do girls’ schools give their pupils an advantage?

A In girls’ only schools, the proportion of girls studying subjects like maths, physics and computer science at advanced level is significantly higher than the figures for girls nationally.

Girls are more likely to apply for courses such as engineering at university if they attended an all girls’ school.

It’s not that the sciences or maths are better than languages, humanities or the arts, but we do recognise that women are under-represented in these subjects – in a school like ours every subject is a girls’ subject.

Q How does Sheffield Girls’ tackle the issue of gender-stereotyping?

A Schools like ours play a vital role in combating the stereotyping that can have a powerful and damaging effect on the choices girls make. Single sex schools provide an environment where girls can establish their own identities, attitudes and self-worth during those crucial formative years.

At Sheffield Girls’ there are twice as many opportunities for girls – in A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TALKING HEAD.indd 89

89

20/05/2022 14:52

EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

leadership, drama, sports, music, public speaking and more. It’s guaranteed that a girl will be the head student. She’ll be the sports captain too. The director of the school play is a girl, and so is the captain of the debate team. Girls learn to find their voice and speak up in an environment where they’re less worried about looking either too stupid or too smart.

The breadth of extra-curricular activities on offer at Sheffield Girls’ provides the girls with chances to be adventurous and self-sufficient, by completing expeditions both in the UK

90

“Girls learn to find their voice and speak up in a supportive environment” and overseas; to be creative, innovative and solution focussed; by entering, and winning, national and international competitions in everything from art and creative writing to robotics and engineering; and to develop their employability skills by volunteering in the community and running their own enterprises in school.

Every day we see how girls excel in an ‘all girls’ environment. Girls tend to have learning needs, styles and preferences that are different to those of boys. Single-sex settings allow teachers to focus more effectively on the needs of individual girls. Girls achieve more when they are given their own dedicated space in which to develop, and those who attend girls' only schools are less likely to conform to gender stereotypes, are less constrained in their choice of subjects, show a greater propensity to take risks and to innovate,

HEAD NINA GUNSON

perform better in examinations, have more opportunities to show leadership, are more career orientated, and go on to be more successful in the job market.

The GDST describes its schools as places where girls learn without limits, and at Sheffield Girls’ our pupils leave with the confidence and the capability to lead lives without limits. I am so proud of the culture in our school – there is a strong sense of community built on mutual respect; every girl is free to be herself and our school values of positivity, kindness and courage can be seen in all that they do and achieve.

Visit our website to book a visit or to register for our autumn open events.

SHEFFIELD GIRLS' 10 Rutland Park, Sheffield, S10 2PE 0114 266 0324 sheffieldhighschool.org.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TALKING HEAD.indd 90

20/05/2022 14:52

Set in more than 220 acres of beautiful North Yorkshire countryside

Welcoming day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from Year 3

Over 80% of our students go on to their first choice university | Rated ‘Excellent’ by ISI 2019 81% of our students achieved A*/A at A-Level

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate “To be the best that I can, with the gifts that I have.” www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330 | York YO26 9SS

QUEEN_ETHELBURGA_FP_ABS_YORKSHIRE_MAY2022.indd 1

20/05/2022 17:26

ACKWORTH SCHOOL.indd 92

20/05/2022 14:52

Tomorrow’s

WORLD

Technology in the classroom: the best way to envisage the future is to create it

A

B y J E F F R E Y S WA L E S

ckworth School is a welcoming, digitally futurefacing, day and boarding school creating exceptional academic results.

Set in the beautiful heart of Yorkshire, parents describe the wonderful feeling they get on their first visit to Ackworth School as, ‘when you know, you know’. We take innovation and place it into our beautiful historical setting, surrounded by a rich culture of successful scholars.

So many of us use technology every day in our careers. Even those whose jobs do not need technology have their own smartphone. At Ackworth School, we have taken this on board, and provided an iPad for each pupil from the age of nine and

every teacher. This has transformed the way in which we deliver lessons in and out of the classroom and has revolutionised how the students work.

We used to issue students with textbooks and exercise books for each academic subject and in addition would photocopy worksheets, notes, and past examination papers. Now, many of the resources our students use are available directly from their iPads. All the students’ work is in one central place, rather than being in separate books or folders. This makes the journey from lesson to lesson a lot easier too. As a Quaker school, we value the precious resources we have in the world, and this reduction in the use of paper and photocopying fits in with our thinking on sustainability.

The iPads encourage collaboration, as a group of students can be working on the same document simultaneously.

“The workplace is changing, and our students need to be ready to take their place in society”

EDUCATION • FOCUS

With large screen TVs in classrooms, our teachers can also mirror their displays making instructions simpler and more effective. Students’ work can be shared, and we can work on their presentation skills.

When our students go out into the world, we want them to be confident users of technology. As technology is changing all the time, it’s vital that they are comfortable using mobile devices to complete the tasks which they are set – just as adults need to use technology to facilitate their own jobs. The workplace is changing fast, and our students need to be ready to take their place in society.

Pupils describe the diverse, coeducational school community as their second family, with many joining in the Nursery, studying right through to A-levels and staying in touch via the Old Scholars alumni network.

They leave Ackworth with a sense of hope for the future, a positive outlook, and a desire to go that extra mile.

If you would like to take your next step and come and visit us, we’d love to meet you. Call our Admissions and Marketing department on 01977 233 621 or email us at admissions@ ackworthschool.com.

AC KWO R T H S C H O O L Jeffrey Swales is Deputy Head, Strategic Development and Digital Learning at Ackworth School in Pontefract. Find out more at ackworthschool.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ACKWORTH SCHOOL.indd 93

93

20/05/2022 14:52

TRANBY SCHOOL.indd 94

20/05/2022 14:53

EDUCATION • NEWS

EDU CATION NEWS The latest from schools across Yorkshire

Get active

All inclusive

Physical Education is an important part of life at Ackworth School, both within a broad and balanced curriculum and as part of extracurricular activities. All pupils are encouraged to develop an interest in sport, and the clubs on offer cater for all abilities.

The school features facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, fitness suite, all weather astro pitch, tennis and netball courts, cricket and rounders pitches, football pitches, and their extensive grounds (16 acre) for orienteering, cross country and athletics. Ackworth School believes that each individual should be given the opportunity to develop to their full potential and the school works closely with local sports clubs to continue the good work.

Anti-Bullying and WellBeing Ambassadors at Huddersfield Grammar School recently hosted a breakfast social event for parents focused on ‘How to Support Children in Navigating the Online World and Anti-Bullying’. The team delivered a presentation, sharing their own online experiences and promoted discussions among parents, before hosting a quiz to test their existing knowledge on the platforms and apps that children most widely use.

This group of students are currently taking part in the Anti-Bullying Ambassador Programme with The Diana Award and aim to share their passion for achieving a safe, kind, and inclusive world with their school community.

ackworthschool.com

huddersfield-grammar.co.uk

LIFE IN THE FA ST L A N E In a unique collaboration with Porsche, Year 11 and Year 13 art students at Sheffield Girls’ have designed and created an iconic Porsche Art Car. Students have spent the last six months working to a brief exploring themes of emancipation, women’s rights and ‘reclaiming the feminine narrative’ to inspire their collaborative design during this partnership project, which also aimed to introduce pupils to the huge range of career opportunities open to women within the automotive industry.

The car was unveiled at the Porsche Sheffield showroom last month and guests heard from Year 13 art

prefect Maria, who outlined the feminist themes captured within the imagery.

Porsche UK CEO, Sarah Simpson, also spoke to guests about her own experiences in the automotive industry and the many avenues open to school leavers and graduates. sheffieldhighschool.org.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDUCATION NEWS.indd 95

95

20/05/2022 14:53

EDUCATION • FOCUS

Time to

THRIVE

Mental health and resilience are top of the agenda at Queen Ethelburga’s

A

s the education sector moves into the bright light of the Summer Term and towards the annual exam season, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate’s (QE) focus on delivering pastoral care of the highest standard for its students continues to be of utmost importance.

Nestled in 220 acres of beautiful North Yorkshire countryside, but still under 2.5 hours from the capital by train, their location is ideal. Their highly secure, rural campus, with state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional staff community will ensure that your child has a safe, enjoyable learning experience that they'll remember always.

The academic results speak for themselves, but what really sets QE apart is the wraparound pastoral support for

96

students and the incredible facilities and accommodation that they benefit from as part of campus life. Care is the most important element within the QE Community; every member of the Collegiate, staff and student, is responsible for the pastoral care and happiness of the site.

QE offers support and guidance to all students and parents to ensure that they are

“A safe, enjoyable learning experience that they'll remember always”

all working to support individual students needs and equipping them with the right skills, not only to be successful in education, but to excel in their chosen career and life in general. They are focused on developing their students’ skills and resilience, while nurturing their wellbeing. They have a dedicated team of trained staff on call 24 hours a day to offer support and guidance to all students within a specialist welfare area.

QE’s innovative THRIVE@QE programme offers each and every student the opportunity to access a huge range of activities to support their positive mental health and wellbeing. Students at QE also have an opportunity to link in with the extensive Peer Mentoring System, which runs across the whole Collegiate.

At QE, everything possible is done to prepare students for the many experiences they will encounter as they move through their educational journey and future life.

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate is located at Thorpe Underwood Estate, York,YO26 9SS, 01423 333333 qe.org

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

QUEEN ETHELBURGA.indd 96

20/05/2022 14:53

WHAT WILL YOU

DISCOVER? OPEN EVENT

Saturday 8th October 2022 (Rishworth and Heathfield Open Morning)

Rishworth is a vibrant independent, co-educational, boarding and day school set in 140 acres of stunning rural countryside. With its own Preparatory School, Heathfield, it offers a continuous education for children from age 3 to 18.

As well as specified Open Day events, we are welcoming families to visit us for pre-booked personal tours conducted at your convenience.

To find out more or to book an appointment, please call

Scholarships & Bursaries available

Flexi & Weekly Boarding available

01422 822 217

or email

admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk

Visit us at www.rishworth-school.co.uk or call 01422 822 217

AND

H E AT H F I E L D P R E PA R AT O R Y S C H O O L

View our virtual tour

Rishworth, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom HX6 4QA. E: admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk

RISHWORTH SCHOOL.indd 97

20/05/2022 14:53

Bring kids together for summer fun!

Host a Play Date this July and raise money to help seriously ill children being treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Sign up now for your free Play Date pack:

gosh.org/playdate

*Any donation(s) received in relation to the GOSH Charity Play Date event(s) will be used to fund the Play Services at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust. Our target for this appeal is to raise £101,250. In the event that additional donations are received over and above our target and/or the needs of the hospital or patients change, we reserve the right to redirect funds for use against the hospital’s most urgent needs. Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Registered charity no. 1160024.

GOSH.indd 98

20/05/2022 14:53

SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

In this section:

MINI MOMENTS

The Little Holtby farm spreading outdoor joy

•

BATH TIME

Products for mamas and babies

•

TRIED & TESTED

Bebe Organic’s new collection is inspired by long, carefree summers in the French Provence countryside. Full of romantic, holiday-ready pieces for mamas and minis, we love the dreamy tie dye prints, pretty embroidered detailing, and natural and organic fabrics. All we need now is to book our plane ticket. bebe-organic.com @bebe_organic

I M A G E : E M M A D O N N E L LY , T A K E A P I C T U R E L A D Y , T A K E A P I C T U R E L A D Y . C O M

We review the latest kit

MAMA & MINI

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MAMA OPENER.indd 99

99

20/05/2022 14:53

Mark and Steph Pybus (and some of the locals)

S M A L L S T E P S This year marks a decade since Steph and Mark Pybus opened Mini Explorers in Little Holtby. Here, the former tells Absolutely Yorkshire about outdoors learning, singing alpacas and growing up

100

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MAMA FEATURE.indd 100

20/05/2022 14:53

ma m a PROFILE

Q You launched Mini Explorers a decade ago – what originally inspired it?

A Ten years ago my husband and I realised

Q How have you evolved over a decade?

A The nursery has grown exponentially

there was a complete lack of childcare facilities in the area with a focus on being outdoors when we were looking for our own children’s care. Disappointed that such a place didn’t yet exist, we took it upon ourselves to create Mini Explorers.

and as such we have had to scale up both on staffing and on space. We now have three defined areas – a baby and toddler room, and our Farm School, which encompasses two more rooms with an ambitious curriculum to encompass all things farming.

Q Why Little Holtby as the location?

A We were incredibly lucky to be able to

Q Today, in a nutshell, what do you offer?

A We offer full time (Monday–Friday,

utilise my husband’s beautiful farm, just five minutes north of Bedale. He enjoyed an idyllic and adventurous childhood here and we’re so delighted to be able to offer our Mini Explorers that very same magic.

Q How difficult was it to get off the ground?

A There are lots of different areas to

consider when setting up a childcare facility. We were determined in what we wanted to create – a place where children can enjoy the outdoors, but likewise be safe in doing so. This is an area we thrive at and have won awards in, attention to detail when it comes to health and safety is paramount in childcare. Most recently, the nursery was awarded the Millie’s Mark and there are lots of other areas of development in the pipeline.

Q What was the initial response like from parents?

A We were delighted with the reaction

of both the parents and the local community. We are lucky to have some wonderful families around us and as such we often have siblings with us up until they reach school age.

They make full use of the setting

Alpacas are a popular attraction

7am–6.30pm) childcare cover for the busy modern parent. We pride ourselves in championing the outdoors and as

“We wanted to

create a place where children can enjoy the outdoors, but be safe in doing so” such our children are free to roam fields, walk dogs and alpacas, feed sheep, grow their own food, collect eggs, dabble in ponds, scramble over logs and enjoy some good old-fashioned exercise, outdoors – come rain or shine!

Q Why do you think it’s important to get children outside?

A Children need to be strong in their

bodies – core strength is just as important as being able to count and know your letters, and that strength in your body helps to enable them to concentrate and be able to sit comfortably. The best way to create that strong body is through exercise and being outside in a challenging environment such as climbing a tree or climbing a fence. By introducing learning and play outdoors, children are able to enjoy the benefits of fresh air and nature, which is both educational and fun.

Q How do you look to educate children as well as allow them to enjoy the outdoors?

A We weave the educational elements

into all of the activities that the children are interested in and that’s where our educators are so fantastic as they can look at any activity and include the education within there without the children even noticing.

The idea is that they are able to explore the countryside and discover new and

exciting creatures and experiences, such as Canada Geese flying overhead or a baby lamb suckling from its mummy.

Therefore, every sight they encounter is explained and they learn practically.

Q What animals do you have on the farm?

We have everything from rams, ewes, lambs, goats, alpacas and lots of birds, in particular yellow hammers.

Q How does your food philosophy fit into what you offer children?

A An area that has gathered momentum

over the last few years has been our food growth programme, which allows children to plant, tend to and harvest their very own crops from sweetcorn to courgettes and raspberries. Likewise, we teach children how to cook and bake from scratch, so it isn’t uncommon to see us making butter with our children on a Friday afternoon for a cream tea for their parents to enjoy with us!

Q And what can parents enjoy at The Nest?

A The Nest is our onsite café, which is

perfectly situated across the paddock enjoying beautiful vistas, cute alpacas, and serving delicious food and drink (with generous discounts for our parents).

Q What’s to come this summer and beyond?

A We are celebrating ten years this

year, so I expect we will be hosting a party at some point over the summer in our very own cafe. If you hear champagne corks popping and alpacas singing, I expect that will be us! miniexplorersnursery.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MAMA FEATURE.indd 101

101

20/05/2022 14:53

VENICCI.indd 102

20/05/2022 14:53

mam a

TOT GEAR

CARRY ME BABYBJORN

Inspired by Nordic nature, BabyBjörn has introduced a new ‘Landscape’ print for two of its most popular products.

The ‘Baby Carrier Mini’ and the ‘Bouncer Bliss’ are both available in the stylish monochrome design now. babybjorn.co.uk

TOT GEAR

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

FOREVER BAG

LOVED

by MAMA

by Carly Glendinning

What we’re using for our own babies this month:

BABOG U E

F

JEM + BEA New for 2022 at Jem + Bea is the Remy Eco Backpack. Sustainablymade from RPET recycled nylon, this stylish and durable changing bag has a serious amount of space for all of your essentials. jemandbea.com

STYLISH STROLLING S I LV E R C R O S S

Silver Cross has introduced two new stylish travel systems: the Dune and the Reef. The Dune is a compact urban stroller and the Reef offers a smooth ride on any terrain. silvercrossbaby.com

or the past three months, my one-year-old has been waking up at 5am.

We’ve tried and failed to get her to sleep in later and hadn’t enlisted the help of a sleep consultant until now.

I’ll admit I was hesitant, but the 5am wake ups eventually became unsustainable so I decided to book a ‘1:1 Virtual Sleep Solution’ call with Erica Hargaden, founder of awardwinning sleep consultancy, Babogue.

Erica immediately put me at ease, telling me she disliked the term ‘sleep training’. She takes an evidencebased approach in her practice and tailors her advice according to your parenting style. Erica gave me several ideas to try to encourage my daughter to sleep until at least 6am.

Although I felt confident after our call, I was dubious that my daughter would respond to the changes. But lo and behold, after just three days she started sleeping through the night and waking up at just before 6am. In addition to my call with Erica, I also signed up to her ‘Complete Sleep Series’, which offers lots of helpful content and support for parents.

Complete Sleep Series £49 | 1:1 Virtual Sleep Solution £359,

babogue.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOTS GEAR.indd 103

103

20/05/2022 14:53

NATURALLY PROTECTED RIGHT FROM THE START

The natural healing power of Calendula

Our 100% certified natural products contain precious extracts of hand-picked organic calendula to soothe, nourish and protect delicate skin. Carefully formulated with the help of healthcare experts, midwives and pharmacists to protect and support the development of healthy skin, and suitable for even the most sensitive skin of babies and children.

Available from selected Sainsburys, Boots, Ocado, Holland & Barrett and weleda.co.uk

WELENDA.indd 104

TRUSTED FOR OVER 30 YEARS Recommended by Midwives No synthetic ingredients, artificial fragrances, preservatives or colourants Dermatologically tested

Weleda contributes to a world in which people and biodiversity thrive. www.uebt.org

20/05/2022 14:53

m a m a BEAUT Y

editor’s pick

Bath TIME Absolutely Mama rounds up the best pampering products for mamas and minis…

GREEN PEOPLE Nordic Roots Apple Complex Moisturiser 50ml, £26; Hyaluronic Booster Serum 28ml, £28; Marine Facial Oil 28ml, £28; Cranberry Micellar Foam 150ml, £19; greenpeople.co.uk

WE TWO Post Pregnancy Conditioner 250ml, £24; Post Pregnancy Shampoo 250ml, £24; wetwolondon.com

LITTLE BUTTERFLY LONDON Wrapped in Love Calming Anti Pollution Baby Face Cream 50ml, £27; littlebutterflylondon.com

BLOOM & BLOSSOM Elastic Fantastic Stretch Mark Cream, £24; bloomandblossom.com

WELEDA Calendula Nappy Cream 75ml, £7.75; weleda.co.uk

we love

MUTHA Body Butter, £80; No.1 Serum 30ml, £105; cultbeauty.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOTS GEAR.indd 105

105

20/05/2022 14:54

042205-Hero-Rodgers-Stressless-AbsoYork-Aw.pdf

1

24/04/2022

19:10

For modern living It should always be Rodgers Fabric and leather sofas & chairs, beds & bedroom furniture, dining furniture, flooring, soft furnishings and lighting.

Monks Cross, York, YO32 9JR Tel: 01904 610570 Email: sales@rodgersofyork.co.uk Web: www.rodgersofyork.co.uk Take a break in the Rodgers Tea Room for morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon tea.

RODGERS OF YORK.indd 106

20/05/2022 15:09

Dream HOMES AMY WILSON

A year ago Leeds-based Amy Wilson appeared on our TV screens to show off her design nous and now, her interiors business is flourishing. When it comes to her approach to design, it’s all about making people’s dreams come true and allowing their vision to shine through. Read more on page 110.

inside this section TO P TE N : FAB R I C S p1 0 8 RODGERS p114 REAL HOME p116 L U C Y P I T TAWAY p 1 2 9 TA K E 5 : B AT H R O O M S p 1 3 7 LITTLE B LACK BOOK p140

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HOME OPENER.indd 107

107

20/05/2022 15:08

SHELF LIFE 10 of the best... patterns COMPILED BY PENDLE HARTE

GREEN SCENE

All Tomorrow’s Futures is a multilayered depiction of the natural world in a beautiful, highlytextured fabric made from a carved lino cut pattern. £147 per metre. themonkeypuzzletree.com

FUN TIMES From the Woodstock collection, Mindthegap’s Festival Memories wallpaper is full of detail and designed with both light and dark backgrounds to suit all spaces. £195 mindtheg.uk

FOLK TALE ANIMAL MAGIC

The extra large scale Glasshouse design uses an on-trend colour combination of sage and lilac, accompanied by a light grey backdrop, and is available as fabric and wallpaper. grahambrown.com

108

Alice Meadow wallpaper has a folk-inspired summery colour palette of reds, pinks, and greens with blue accents. The original design was painted by hand, then scanned onto the computer to add colour. £139 olenkadesign.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP TEN.indd 108

20/05/2022 15:11

H O M E | TOP TEN BOLD BOTANICALS

Supernatural botanicals and boldly-scaled florals sit alongside simple geometrics, stripes and plains, all designed and proportioned especially for outdoor use in Liberty’s new collection of garden fabrics. libertylondon.com

DOWN UNDER

LINEN LOVER

This abstract, ikat-inspired linen depicts the foxglove flowers which come in beautiful clusters of tubular shaped blooms. £125 eloisehome.com

Melita is the prettiest pastel reinterpretation of a glorious floral aesthetic from Aboriginal Australian heritage. The brand supports Aboriginal communities by ensuring a proportion of each sale goes back to the artists. £150 telescopestyle.com

BLONDE AMBITION

Atomic Blonde was a best-selling dress fabric before 20th Century Cloth lauched it as an interior weight fabric. The pale yellow background with a boomerang motif makes for stylish wallpaper too. £72 20thcenturycloth.com

IN A SWIRL

The pretty Baxter Swirl wallpaper design was inspired by a decorative fashion fabric.

The ornate pattern was reimagined and painted with watercolours and pencils by John Lewis’ design team. £30 johnlewis.com

LIBRARY WALL

The Art Nouveau-inspired Lotus design brings a touch of 19thcentury elegance. Each sweeping bloom is printed with real Farrow & Ball paint, creating tactility and a sense of movement. £137 farrow-ball.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP TEN.indd 109

109

20/05/2022 15:11

110

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HOME INTERIORS PROFILE.indd 110

20/05/2022 14:54

H O M E | INTERVIEW

M

A S T E R I N T H E A R T

G

As Leeds-based designer Amy Wilson celebrates one year since appearing on national television and launching her own interior design company, we sit down to see how it’s all been going

By B E T H A N A N D R E W S

F

rom appearing on BBC’s Interior Design Masters to launching her new interior design company, it’s been a busy period for Leedsbased Amy Wilson. Infectiously joyful and incredibly passionate, it’s not hard to see how Wilson has made such a success of Amy Wilson Interiors, as well as having built up a large Instagram following too.

There’s a real sense of perseverance when you talk to Wilson, and I find it unsurprising that she landed herself a position on the well-loved TV show. She has always had a successful marketing career, working for herself on a consultancy basis, but the dream of pursuing design work has also always been bubbling away in the background.

So, a year on from her time on Interior Design Masters, where is she now?

“It was a long and winding road to get to where I am today, as interior design has always been a passion but also only a hobby,” she says. “It’s very hard to know when to take a leap of faith, but going on Interior Design Masters was a good catalyst for this. Once I got on the show, I realised it was an opportunity I had to grab.”

Wilson describes her time on the show as being short but sweet, yet she warmly credits it with giving her a lot more experience than you see as a viewer. “It gave me the confidence to think: ‘You know what, I’m going to give this a go on my own,’” she says. “I’ve found a real happy place now where I’ve retained a couple of my marketing clients who are all in the interior design world, but I’ve been able to pursue interior design more, and now it’s pretty much my full-time job.”

Although Wilson was starting to bill as an interior designer before the show, it was never something that had been branded or pushed particularly hard. “The show was an opportunity whereby my profile was going to be raised, so I decided to do some proper branding and create a website for Amy Wilson Interiors,” she tells me.

“I was fortunate that I’ve got a reasonably sized interior design Instagram following, not huge, but it was enough to see what people wanted of me.”

This idea of working with what people want of her is clearly important to Wilson – she’s incredibly giving and oozes selflessness. When it comes to her approach to design, it’s all about making people’s dreams come true and allowing their vision to shine through. Amy Wilson Interiors is all about creating thoughtfully designed family homes with joy, bravery and boldness instilled within them.

“I always approach it from the client’s point of view,” she says. “Don’t get me wrong, I have my own personal taste and style and, inevitably, people come to you because they are drawn to that. I can’t recall a time when someone

B SLO T E LY. A BA SO UL TU E LY m aLgOaNzD i nOeNs

HOME INTERIORS PROFILE.indd 111

111

20/05/2022 14:54

H O M E | INTERVIEW

“The interior design community is fantastic here.

There’s oodles of talent in Yorkshire” has come to me asking for a very pared-back, neutral scheme, for example. But I go into a client’s home with no preconceived notions of what they want and help to unpick what the space means to them and what feelings they want to evoke when they walk through the door.”

Wilson wanted to create an open, authentic interior design company too, where her prices are published on her website and there is no hidden mystique. “I even considered not calling myself an interior designer,” she explains. “I wasn’t all that comfortable with the title but, in the end, it’s easier to do what it says on the tin.”

Fast forward to today, and although still incredibly modest about her skills, Wilson is often called upon for her expert opinion by the press, too. “It’s been great to get my name out there as a bit of an expert in the field,” she smiles. “I don’t think interior design will just be the complete version of what I do – I think there will always be other strings to my bow.”

Wilson’s most recent new work is a great example of this, as Huddersfield-based 247 Blinds have brought her in as an in-house interior designer to consult and to design her very own collection, out this month.

Speaking of a large Yorkshire-based design company, I wonder what Wilson thinks about the design scene across the county. There’s no doubt that we have our fair share of leaders in the industry, particularly when it comes to textiles, but there are also a huge amount of talented interiors Instagram accounts from people in Yorkshire, too.

Not to mention the fact that the two finalists in Wilson’s series of Interior Design Masters were also both from Yorkshire. “The interior design community is fantastic up here, there’s a big one and it’s very supportive - it’s a really nice environment,” she smiles. “There’s oodles of talent in the county.”

Wilson tells me about their most recent project, renovating a four-storey Victorian terrace in Whitby, whereby the big ambition is to source everything from Yorkshire, from labour to craft to products. Fitting for someone who raves about the design power in the north, it will become something of a Yorkshire showcase. “I don’t think we’ll struggle, quite frankly,” she smiles.

And where does she seek her inspiration from? “I get outside as often as I can to gather inspiration,” she says.

“I head out to the Dales for walks and for inspiration from the natural environment. I’m also really drawn to the architecture in Yorkshire – I think it’s so inspiring. I don’t understand why The Piece Hall in Halifax isn’t world famous! I love the buildings in Harrogate, too.”

When I ask what she’s most excited for this year, it’s clear that her collection with 247 Blinds is a big achievement. “It’s a dream come true. As a designer, you’re always collating and recreating someone else’s work, so it’s exciting to be able to think there are products out there that I’ve created from start to finish,” Wilson beams. amywilsoninteriors.co.uk

112

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HOME INTERIORS PROFILE.indd 112

20/05/2022 14:54

HARTLEYS HARTLEYS FIT TING FURNITURE FOR YOU FITTING FURNITURE FOR YOU

putting shine on life have a asmooth start

to thesleek New furniture Year with with

furniture designed justyou for you designed just for ToTorequest your request your FREE design visit at home, home, call 01756 700471 700471 call 01756 or 01904 936146 Or visit our factory/showroom Snaygill Estate, Keighley Rd, Skipton BD23 2QR Unit 3,Industrial The Business Centre, Snaygill Industrial Estate Keighley Road, Skipton, BD23 2QR Open Mon to Fri 9:30am-4:30pm Saturday by appointment Mon to Fri 9:30am-4:30pm Saturday by appointment

hartleysbedrooms.co.uk hartleysbedrooms.co.uk      

AYRTON HARTLEYS.indd 113

20/05/2022 14:54

ERCOL

Y

2 1

S T

C E N T U R Y L I V I N G

ou’ll have heard the phrases modern furniture and contemporary furniture.

But what do they mean and is there a difference between them? A lot of people use the words contemporary and modern in the same sentence when referring to furniture design. This is wrong: there is a real difference between them.

So when trying to understand the differences it’s good to start with a definition of both. Modern design refers to an era that has passed. This period in time runs from the late 1800s to the mid 1900s, with the most popular modern design era being the mid–century modern era of the 1950s and 1960s. The influence of the modernism art movement is particularly evident in furniture design during these years, with post World War Two ideals of cutting excess, commodification, and the practicality of materials in design heavily influenced by the aesthetic of the furniture.

Contemporary design refers to the here and now, what is happening at this moment in time, and that is what refers to a style as being contemporary. It is always evolving and draws from a variety of historical styles and integrates new technologies and materials.

Contemporary style embraces minimalistic elements highlighting greys, beiges and shades of white. Hidden details emphasize an edited aesthetic.

So, to conclude, modern design refers to a specific period of time in furniture design, whereas contemporary design is the design period that is popular today, which may include influences and even specific pieces from the modern era.

Rodgers stock many contemporary design manufacturers that will provide design inspiration for your home – here are just a few.

STRESSLESS

Absolutely Yorkshire explores modern and contemporary furniture design with Rodgers, the leading independent furniture retailer in Yorkshire

114

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RODGERS.indd 114

20/05/2022 14:54

H O M E | PROFILE

DISSELKAMP

VENJAKOB

Ercol

Ercol is an iconic timeless British brand established in 1920 by Italian designer Lucian R Ercolani. He was intent on designing and producing relevant and honest furniture. Design has always been at the heart of Ercol. Their designs are always contemporary as they constantly evolve their designs to reflect how we live today.

Across all their ranges of dining, living room and bedroom furniture, design is central – design for comfort, design for function, design for looks.

Stressless

The Norwegian manufacturer Stressless developed the first recliner designed to meet your body’s needs for movement and support when seated. The recliner set a new standard in comfort and functionality and offered a wide range of features, including the Glide system that follows your movements, to the Plus system for correct neck and lumber support.

A contemporary element in furniture design is sustainability. People want to tailor their furniture choices to reflect a more sustainable ethic. Stressless meet this criteria, being green is much more than a claim to them – it is a way of life.

When purchasing a Stressless product you

“Contemporary style embraces minimalistic elements”

are investing in comfort, but also making a sustainable and responsible choice – their products are so well made they will last a lifetime.

GWINNER

Venjakob

Venjakob are the epitome of contemporary furniture design. They manufacture dining and living room furniture, with incredible precision, quality and love for detail. They take the traditional ideas of heritage craftsmanship and combine with state of the art processing methods. The result is furniture ranges that stay beautiful for years and become a highlight of your home and part of your family.

Disselkamp

The German manufacturer Disselkamp manufacture stunning contemporary ranges of bedroom furniture. The family run company craft bedroom furniture using real, authentic wood veneers, including wild oak, walnut, heart beech and champagne birch. All the ranges are available in different finishes, and high gloss or black combinations are also available. The Disselkamp style runs across all its ranges, meaning it is easy to mix and match pieces and create the perfect bedroom.

Gwinner

Gwinner’s living and dining ranges have a contemporary design. Each of their ranges are unique and all equally beautiful. Each of the ranges is made up of customizable modular elements and matching dining and coffee tables, so you can easily achieve a consistent whole look for your living room.

The high level of customization with each Gwinner range is a fantastic element, enabling you to create stunning living spaces and make a real design statement in your home.

RODGERS Monks Cross, York, YO32 9JR 01904 610 570 • rodgersofyork.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RODGERS.indd 115

115

20/05/2022 14:54

How Bert and May's founder Lee Thornley transformed an unremarkable house in Yorkshire into a stylish family home Interview P E N D L E H A R T E

TILE COUNSEL

116

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

REAL HOME.indd 116

20/05/2022 14:54

H O M E | REAL HOME

“I was drawn in by the challenge of completely transforming a midcentury property into a modern family home”

What was the house like when you first saw it?

The house was largely unassuming when we purchased it, but I knew it had potential and this made the task of transforming it into a modern Scandi home an exciting project.

What attracted you to it?

I was drawn in by the challenge of completely transforming a mid-century property into a modern family home.

The house also had great sources of natural light, and we worked hard to not only maintain but also enhance this in the project.

Where did you start with the refurbishment?

As with any refurbishment, this project started with intricate and careful planning. We worked closely with the incredibly talented RIBA Awardwinning architects Mass Architecture, who helped us reimagine the space’s structure and give the mid-century architecture a necessary update.

I opened an award-winning boutique hotel, Casa La Siesta, in Cadiz. I found that I had talent for sourcing reclaimed materials and rare antique fittings, and also discovered that this architectural salvage was much sought-after by interior architects and designers, and so from here a new project was born.

What began as an online venture selling reclaimed materials took on a new life in 2010 when I met Juanma, owner of a small family business that specialised in making artisan encaustic tiles using traditional handmade techniques. We decided that the future of the company lay in making our own vintage-inspired designs, so the family factory reopened and production began. Rebranded and officially launched as Bert & May in September 2013, the company has evolved into a specialist supplier of handmade artisan tiles.

What was your aim for the house?

When I began this project, I wanted to create something that would work well as a family home as well as a space for entertaining friends, while adding character through the choice of materials. The aim was to create a beautiful home with a modern, Scandiinspired aesthetic that my family and I could unwind and relax in.

You refurbished it during the pandemic.

What challenges did that bring?

As with everyone trying to do work during this time, the project was delayed, but we worked around the issues and are really pleased with what we have achieved.

Tell us about discovering tiles and setting up Bert and May...

Our story started in Spain in 2004, when I left London to set up a reclaimed tile company in Andalusia. Four years later,

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

REAL HOME.indd 117

117

20/05/2022 14:54

H O M E | REAL HOME

“The bathrooms are where we really explored immersive, monochromatic design”

And tell us about the tiles in your house?

The first tiles you see when you enter the house are our Blue Alapardo tiles that decorate the hallway floor with vibrant stripes to welcome you into the home. In the kitchen, we created a focal point on the island with Hexagonal Split tiles in Pearl and Brighton stone, which really pop against the bright white walls painted in Charterhouse™ No. 4 from Mylands.

The bathrooms are where we really explored immersive, monochromatic design. In my youngest daughter’s bathroom, we used feminine pink Luna Rose tiles across the walls, bathtub and

118

floor, and created a contrasting jeweltoned green bathroom in my eldest’s.

Here we also used graphic Bert & May Green Majadas tiles on the floors that provided an eye-catching floor design, as well as a nice contrast with the deep monochrome walls. Our own bathroom is a captivating black space, decorated with deep Market Green™ No. 38 paint from Mylands that provides the perfect complement to Bert & May’s deep black Old Iron Hexagon tiles.

What's your favourite room?

Every room is so unique in its design, but I’d have to say my favourite is the hallway. The Blue Alapardo tiles are a dynamic feature in the hallway, and the design definitely draws you in as soon as you enter the house, which is a design feature I really love.

And your favourite possession?

It would probably be a vintage gym mat we converted into a coffee table, a statement piece which I love.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

REAL HOME.indd 118

20/05/2022 14:54

Visit our showrooms We showcase the latest generation of fitted wardrobes: sliding, in-line sliding, folding & touch to open

HARVAL Bespoke fitted furniture “For 45 years we have fitted beautiful furniture that has enriched thousands of homes in Yorkshire.

Everything we know about design, innovation and quality is encompassed in your fitted furniture.”

Stairs

WAKEFIELD SHOWROOM Horbury Junction Industrial Estate , Wakefield WF4 5ER Open: Mon-Thurs 9am-4.30pm Fri 9am-3.30pm, Sat 10am-4pm Tel: 01924 270121

HARVAL.indd 119

www.harval.co.uk

LEEDS SHOWROOM 2 Leeds Road, Rawdon, Leeds LS19 6AX Open: Thurs-Sat 10am-4pm Tel: 0113 202 9696

20/05/2022 14:54

P A T T E R N C

U

T

S

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

120

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

KIRKBY DESIGN.indd 120

20/05/2022 14:54

H O M E | PROFILE

C

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.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

KIRKBY DESIGN.indd 121

121

20/05/2022 14:55

H O M E | PROFILE

Home Centre takes its inspiration from honeycomb, the iconic structure created by 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, small-scale 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.

“Our collective vision is to make the interior world a prettier, more comfortable space” Jordan Mould’s influential British interiors brand, Kirkby Design, has a contemporary and 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.

122

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

KIRKBY DESIGN.indd 122

20/05/2022 14:55

Discover Yorkshire’s best kept secret Rooms is a unique, independent family run furniture retailer in the Yorkshire area, offering all the essential items that you need to make your house into your perfect home.

We have an extensive range of contemporary & traditional sofas, dining ranges, cabinets, pictures, beds & mattresses, bedroom furniture, and a wide range of beautiful accessories available to choose from, perfect to add the finishing touches to your home.

Visit us in-store 3a Flowergate, Whitby, North Yorkshire YO21 3BA T: 01947 899684 Central Garage, Hanover St, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 3QJ T: 01535 664480

www.roomsfurniture.co.uk

Come and see our uniquely styled rooms and galleries that are full of inspiration for your home and discover an eclectic mix of hidden furniture gems that are truly one of a kind.

ROOMS.indd 123

20/05/2022 14:55

Style doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort.

Visit Our Showrooms WIMBLEDON

WINCHESTER

14 Church Road Wimbledon Village SW19 5DL 02076050660

67-68 High Street Winchester S023 9DA 01962571136

BATH BERMONDSEY BROOK-GREEN KENT

www.hollowaysofludlow.com

HOLLOWAYS OF LONDON.indd 124

20/05/2022 14:55

H O M E | FOCUS CLASSIC DRESSING TABLE DESIGN

A fresh start

Why now is a great time to liven up our interiors

T “Hartleys create new space by adding functionality for multi-purpose living” FREESTANDING STORAGE

here’s something about the long summer days and the call of the outdoors that can make our interiors start to feel tired. Sometimes a lick of paint and some new accessories can add a fresh perspective, but a more lasting solution is an investment in making your home a more attractive environment all year round.

The team at Yorkshire’s bespoke fitted furniture specialist Hartleys are on-hand to help you find ways to make your home more rewarding. Repurposing rooms, Hartleys create new space by adding functionality for multi-purpose living, for example so that a bedroom by night becomes a home office by day.

Tactile wood-grain finishes range from dark evola, through oak and beech to the airy light tones of birch, reflecting the world outside your windows. Neutral colours such as cashmere and pebble grey create and enhance connections between your home and the natural environment, reducing stress, increasing productivity and stimulating positive thoughts. From lustrous glossy finishes to traditional wood, dark and sultry designs to vintage creams, there is a wide choice to suit your style.

If you’re keen to ditch the idea of ‘fast furniture’, Hartleys guarantee you will be enjoying your new designed-to-suityou living space for many years to come.

Contributing to the sense of well-being in the home is knowing that you are embracing sustainable living; a rapidly growing trend within the home interior sector that is key to Hartleys’ design ethos. The company’s carbon footprint is low; all the furniture is crafted in Skipton to discerning customers in the local Yorkshire region and the raw materials are of the highest quality, grown in fully sustainable forests.

DRESSING ROOM CREATION

The feel-good factor is an essential element of design. Despite the best of intentions, with busy lifestyles it doesn’t take long for clutter to accumulate, not only spoiling the appearance of rooms, but also their functionality. Hartleys tackles the issue head-on, creating ingenious storage solutions that maximise the use of all available space.

Whatever the architectural quirks of your home, Hartleys’ furniture is tailored to fit exactly around awkward features such as chimney breasts, sloping ceilings and jutting-out windowsills, enhancing them as an integral part of the design. Fully adjustable interiors achieve the maximum storage options for your space with strategically-placed fold-away wall beds, shelves, and interior drawers. Hartleys’ website and showroom in Skipton are a source of inspiration.

Simply call 01904 936146 or 01756 700471 and visit hartleysbedrooms.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HARTLEY BEDROOMS.indd 125

125

20/05/2022 14:55

SIMPLY ELECTRIC...

“Come and see our new electric showroom displaying the latest innovation and eco electric fire solutions.”

STOVES & LIVING

Trusted in York for 30 years | 2 stunning showrooms | 80 live displays | In-house registered fitters

Call 01904 400525 focusfireplacesyork.co.uk OPEN MON-SAT Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 10am - 4pm Closed Sunday & Bank Holidays 5 mins from A64 Monk’s Cross Roundabout (NEXT TO DEANS) HETAS Approved The Bull Commercial Centre Stockton Lane, York Y032 9LE FOCUS FIREPLACES.indd 126

187932

20/05/2022 14:55

H O M E | FOCUS

RED HOT

Focus Fireplaces & Stoves on electric fires for today’s bright sparks

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

M

ore than just a fad, electric fires have hit the mainstream big time, and are allowing people who have never considered a fire before to create a beautiful focal point in their home.

There’s no two ways about it: electric fires are here, and they’re here to stay. But why exactly should you buy an electric fire? Or if you already have a gas or solid fuel fire, why should you make the switch?

100% Efficiency

Yes, you read that right. It’s common knowledge that gas and solid fuel fires can lose anywhere up to 60% of the heat they generate straight up the chimney. With an electric fire, 100% of the heat generated goes exactly where it should do – into your living room. Not only does this result in more heat where it matters, but it also

“One of the best features is their versatility”

means you’ll be saving money on the ongoing running costs too.

Compatibility

One of the best features of electric fires is their versatility and usability. Marble, granite, solid wood or MDF; if you can make a fireplace out of it, then chances are, you’ll be able to use an electric fire with it. This will not only help reduce your costs, but also opens up a whole plethora of possibilities, as you really can have any fireplace you’d like, with any fire that you’d like. The new trend is media walls giving you a stunning all in one storage solution with centre fire, media and TV.

The Real McCoy

One of the major complaints against using electric fires is their distinct lack of resemblance to a real fire, right? Well this fear is ever-increasingly becoming an issue of the past. Advancing technology has allowed the creation of more and more realistic effects, and now there are several different “flames” to choose from.

Heat Control

Is your fire too hot? No problem – modern electric fires come with multiple heat settings, giving you complete control over

the heat you’re getting without having to open a window and let out all of the heat you’ve just paid to generate! The majority of electric fires also come with a “flame effect only” setting (some even have a cool blow option as well), meaning you can even have the effect of the fire, without any heat being given off.

Local company Focus Fireplaces & Stoves have been providing fire and fireplace solutions since 1985. They have recently opened a dedicated electric showroom displaying the very latest electric fires, media walls and fireplace suites.

Director Mike White explains: “We are seeing a huge interest in electric fires and feature media walls from our customers.

At Focus we design and custom make a vast range of electric fire media walls made to incorporate your TV and sound bar. We also offer bespoke shelves, mood lighting kits and a choice of base units with marble or stone tops. These are all made in our on-site factory, and fully fitted.”

F O C U S F I R E P L AC E S & S TOV E S The Bull Commercial Centre, Stockton Lane Stockton-on-the-Forest, York Y032 9LE 01904 400525 • focusfireplacesyork.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOCUS FIREPLACES.indd 127

127

20/05/2022 14:55

VANILLA INTERIOR.indd 128

20/05/2022 14:55

H O M E | ART

WORK OF A R T Artwork in the home is a major trend and one Yorkshire artist, Lucy Pittaway, shows why

FREE SPIRITS

F

rom small beginnings working from a home studio, Lucy Pittaway – a former graphic designer and teacher – has gone on to establish her place as a key contributor to the art market and continues to win awards including ‘UK’s Most Popular Published Artist 2018 & 2019’ awarded by the Fine Art Trade Guild. Fast forward to today and you’ll find her work in homes and galleries across the UK, as well as in her own beautiful galleries and online store where she offers stunning original works of art, Giclee prints and striking canvases as well as ceramics, textiles, and stationery, making beautiful gifts or additions to any home. Here, Absolutely Yorkshire finds out a little more…

How did you get into art and why?

There’s always been something in my nature that has lent me towards art. I just think it’s in my genes.

QUEEN OF THE FLOCK

OUR HAPPY PLACE

How has your work changed over time?

I’ve been lucky enough to be able to explore my artistic style over the years, which has led me to where I am today. I finally settled on my current style, which I describe as illustrative and naïve, but most importantly, it’s art that makes you smile.

What inspired your latest piece, ‘Queen of the Flock’?

I knew that I wanted to mark such a momentous occasion and create something bold and striking with a very British feel, whilst staying true to my own style. The title of the piece reflects the Queen’s dedication to her role and that she is the Queen of her people.

How do you create your artwork?

The materials used by an artist during the creative process are very important as they are the medium through which we express ourselves. I create my pieces using highly pigmented soft pastels on board. This method allows me to get a lot of texture, shape and atmospheric detail into my pieces, which I do using my fingers, knuckles, and palms to blend the colours on the board – it’s a messy but playful process.

What are your career highlights?

I’ve been very fortunate to have been awarded several accolades over the years.

From being named ‘Up and Coming Artist of the Year’ in 2016 and ‘Best New Business’ in 2017, I went on to be named the ‘Most Popular Published Artist’ in 2018 and 2019 by the Fine Art Trade Guild. Another signifi-

cant highlight was being appointed as the ‘Official Artist of the Tour de Yorkshire’ for three consecutive years from 2016. I then went on to work with them again as the ‘Official Artist of the UCI World Championships’ in 2019. In 2018, I was asked to work with the Chelsea Flower Show where I painted my impression of Welcome to Yorkshire’s gold medal-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show Garden – ‘A Yorkshire Garden’. This was an incredible honour, and I loved every minute of it.

Visit lucypittaway.co.uk to see the full body of work, or one of the stunning galleries located in Yarm, Richmond, Brompton-on-Swale or Keswick

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LUCY PITTAWAY.indd 129

129

20/05/2022 14:55

N.E.S.S. G AT E S & G A R A G E D O O R S LARGE SMALL

ENOUGH ENOUGH

TO COPE TO C A R E

A family business that will take your ideas to design, fabricate and install a system that suits your home and needs.

A family thatgates will take your ideas to design, fabricate install a system that suits your home and Yorkshire needs. YO11 3BY ■ Main Office: Redand Oaks, Cayton Low Road, Scarborough, North Bespoke stylish securebusiness automated and garage doors Bespoke stylish secure automated gates and garage doors • Main Office: Red Oaks, Cayton Low Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire YO11 3BY ■ 01723 351133 www.harrogateelectricgates.co.uk 01723 351133 • www.harrogateelectricgates.co.uk NESS_HP_ABS_MAY22.indd 1

13/04/2022 12:14

TheYork

Bed Company

Hand making beds for over 40 years Mattresses-Bed Sets-Divans-Head Boards

●

Traditional Quality

●

Made to Measure

Unit 10 – Acaster Estates, Cowper Lane, Acaster Malbis, York YO23 2TX, England Yorkbeds.com │ 01904 777 070 Delivery available throughout the UK and Europe

NESS YORK BED.indd 130

20/05/2022 14:55

H O M E | GARDEN

“Plants can be the star of the show and should not be an afterthought”

K n o w yo u r

PLOT

The founder of a Yorkshire garden design company offers up five top tips to make full use of your outdoor space

By JA M E S B E A D N A L L

TAKE STOCK Spend some time to understand your garden space. By assessing the sun’s position in relation to your plot throughout the year will allow you to plan seating areas and planting accordingly. Understanding soil conditions and smaller microclimates within the garden will allow you to make considered decisions on planting schemes.

Using plants best suited to light levels, warmth and soil conditions will make for happy and healthy plants and thus a more attractive garden space.

GIVE YOURSELF OPTIONS By including more than one seating area allows you to exploit varying light levels throughout the day. Having defined usable spaces adds a great functionality to the plot. This encourages the user to journey through and enjoy much more of

the garden’s immersive characteristics rather than simply seeing the garden as something to be viewed.

Once you have established these usable zones it is important to then decide how you wish to use them. This may be as an entertaining or dining space, an outdoor kitchen, or simply somewhere to relax and read a book.

ADD LIGHTING Lighting can completely change the ambiance and feel of a space. Ambient lights can allow you to use the garden after dark, while spotlights and up lighters can highlight specific features and focal points.

Lighting can also turn your garden into a picture to be viewed in the darker winter months. With garden lighting, less is definitely more. We are not trying to light Leeds Bradford Airport!

BRING IN THE PLANTS Plants can be the stars of the show and should not be an afterthought. Allow enough space to enable them to flourish and show their full potential. Giving enough depth to borders will allow for tiering of plants, giving greater interest at various heights, as well as blurring the boundary lines and making the space feel larger.

Carefully positioned planting beds and pockets can help define various spaces.

The planting should work hard for the garden and be a signifier for the changing seasons. Perennial displays should start early in the spring with a succession of flowering through until the depth of autumn.

Perennial grasses such as Miscanthus have strong winter form and can offer movement and interest throughout the year.

AN EXTENSION OF THE HOME The garden design should be sympathetic to the architecture and scale of the property with garden features taking the lead from the house. Features and materials should relate back to the home with a similar theme continued from inside to out giving a feeling of harmony between the two spaces.

JA M E S B E A D N A L L Contact James Beadnall on 07789 208688 or studio@jamesbeadnallgardendesign.com, and visit jamesbeadnallgardendesign.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

LANDSCAPE GARDEN.indd 131

131

20/05/2022 14:55

In the

GARDEN Five plants to grow in June

By LUCY BELLAMY

N

ature has a way of effortlessly arranging itself into beautiful and harmonious patterns This latespring plan adopts a pointillist approach, with points of colour working together to create bolder shapes. Allium ‘Miami’, Cirsium rivulare ‘Atropurpureum’ and the tall grass, Stipa gigantea, all have flower heads made up of lots of minute flowers. The fennel leaves provide a background foil for the bulbs and perennials, while Iris ‘Sable’ in rockand-roll purple roves gently through. This meadow-esque design feels unexpected in a small city garden and has even more impact as a result. In summer the fennel has yellow flowers.

Method

1 Use a spade to dig over the soil to a crumbly consistency, breaking up any big lumps.

2 Gather together all the plants.

132

3 Starting with the Stipa gigantea, space the plants out on the soil, still in their pots.This is a tall, airy plant, so consider how it will look in different spots, including when you view the scheme through the windows of your home.

4 Ad d t h e C i r s i u m r i v u l a re ‘Atropurpureum’ and Foeniculum vulgare, in ones and twos, so that the flowers and foliage mingle at the tips.

5 Dot the Iris ‘Sable’ at random among the other plants. Make sure not to place them too close together as they will grow to be quite hefty plants.

6 When every plant has a spot, dig a hole for the Stipa, Cirsium and Foeniculum.

Tap each plant from its pot and winkle out a few of the roots using your fingertips. Dig a hole for each plant to the same depth it was in its pot before planting and firming the soil down gently with your hands.

7 Next, plant the irises. Take care not to plant them too deeply, as the top of the rhizome (the woody stem that looks like a root) needs to stay above the soil. Water thoroughly.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

GARDENS TOP 5.indd 132

20/05/2022 14:55

H O M E | GARDEN

The five plants 1 ALLIUM ‘MIAMI’ ORNAMENTAL ONION Geometric spheres of violet flowers thatare good for bees.

Architectural seedheads in winter.

• bulb • height 80cm (32in) • 5 per m2 (10ft2) • flowers from late spring to early summer

2 CIRSIUM RIVULARE ‘ATROPURPUREUM’ PLUME THISTLE A colourful cultivated form of the wild thistle, with jagged, dark green leaves and toasted-pink flowers.

• perennial • height 1.5m (5ft) • 1 per m2 (10ft2) flowers from early summer to early autumn

3

8 Alliums are best planted as dormant bulbs in the preceding autumn. Bury the bulbs, 10–15cm (4–6in) deep, with their pointy ends facing upwards, tucking them between the other flowers. You can also buy them as budding bulbs in early summer, if you prefer.

Note: The flowers in this display shed their petals discreetly, which is useful in a small space.

FOENICULUM VULGARE FENNEL Feathery, bright green foliage and chartreuse, umbel flowers.

Edible, from root to flower.

• perennial • height 1.8m (6ft) • 2 per m2 (10ft2) • flowers from midsummer to late summer

4 IRIS ‘SABLE’ BEARDED IRIS A scented iris in vibrant purple.

Elegant and not too big.

• perennial • height 90cm (36in) • 1 per m2 (10ft2) • flowers from late spring to early summer

5 STIPA GIGANTEA GOLDEN OATS Ribbon leaves and tiny, papery flowers on stems 2m (6ft) tall. The delicate seedheads last all winter.

Semi-evergreen.

• grass • height 2m (6ft) • 1 per m2 (10ft2) • flowers from early summer to mid-summer

GOOD FOR...

Extract taken from Grow 5 by Lucy Bellamy, published by Mitchell Beazley, £22

bumblebees solitary bees hoverflies butterflies damsel bugs shield bugs ladybirds hibernating lacewing larvae

O TL E U LY T E LY. A B SAOB LS U m aLgOaNzD i nOeNs

GARDENS TOP 5.indd 133

133

20/05/2022 14:55

VISIT LANGLANDS Yorkshire's Premier Garden Centre

There is something for everyone at Langlands Garden Centre. Not only can you enjoy our beautiful displays of in and outdoor plants, fresh food and get great advice from our friendly, professional team, you'll also find a wide selection of the greatest and best value gardening, giftware and outdoor living products available!

Great events held throughout the year including: craft fairs, vintage car shows and tractor runs, pop up food stalls and demonstrations, flower festivals, family fun days and festive events over the Christmas period.

Dog Friendly

Visit us online!

Walker Friendly

www.langlandsgardencentre.co.uk

@langlandsgc

Langlands Garden Centre

Langlands Garden Centre, York Road, Shiptonthorpe, YO43 3PN Call: 01430 873426 | Email: sales@langlandsgardencentre.co.uk Also find us in: Whinmoor, Leeds LS15 4NF | Call: 0113 273 1949 Loxley, Sheffield S6 6SN | Call: 0114 285 1487 Website: langlandsgardencentre.co.uk LANGLANDS GARDEN.indd 134

20/05/2022 14:55

M E | TREND BEAUTYH•OPRODUCTS FRENCH BEDROOM CO Paradise Garden Quilted Floral Bedspread, £148 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

WOODCHIP & MAGNOLIA Wisteria Wallpaper, £85 woodchipandmagnolia.co.uk

FLORENCE BROADHURST Fitzpatrick Floor Lamp with Floral Shade, £395 florencebroadhurst.com

GINGER RAY Foiled Floral Fan Decorations, £9.99 gingerray.co.uk

FLORENCE BROADHURST

THE DESIGN ARCHIVES

Velvet Shadow Floral in Pale Teal, £115 florencebroadhurst.com

Grand Floral Velvet Fabric Mulberry, £78 thedesignarchives.com

CHINTZ CHIC

Bold florals and blooming prints are everywhere this season SWEETPEA & WILLOW Eichholtz Floral Table Lamp, £550 sweetpeaandwillow.com

GISELA GRAHAM Floral Ribbed Vase, £12.50 giselagraham.co.uk

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Floral Block Printed Cushion, £96 rockettstgeorge.com

SOFAS & STUFF Mulberry Floral Pompadour Spice Sofa, £5,263 sofasandstuff.com

EDITOR’S PICK

MADE Abel Bed Curator Floral Print, £449 made.com

PRODUCTS FLORALS.indd 135

20/05/2022 14:55

T H R E E D E CA D E S O F E X C E L L E N C E

NEW range of outdoor porcelain tiles available.

MONKS CROSS TILES & BATHROOMS Malton Road, Monks Cross, YORK YO32 9TE Phone: 01904 415527

Porcelain tiles are fade & frost resistant, making them a great option for external areas as they will not lose their visual impact over time. Our showrooms across Yorkshire keep a wide variety of stock ready for you to take away today.

NORTHALLERTON TILES & BATHROOMS Standard Way Industrial Estate, Standard Way, Northallerton DL6 2XE Phone: 01609 781166 SCARBOROUGH TILES & BATHROOMS 8-51 Westborough, Scarborough YO11 1TU Phone: 01723 372334

BATHROOMS | TILES | PORCELAIN STONEWARE thetilecompany.co.uk

MONKS CROSS TILE.indd 136

@MonksCrossTiles

thetilecompanyltd

20/05/2022 14:55

H O M E | BATHS

T U B T H U M P E R FIVE OF OUR FAVOURITE FREESTANDING BATHS

1

B OAT L I F E BC DESIGNS

The original Copper Boat Baths are made in the traditional handcrafted manner used for centuries. This beautiful antique finish is achieved by applying sulphuric acid and chalk powder before sealing with lacquer. bcdesigns.co.uk

1

2

CLEAN LINES L AU F E N

3

2

The Lua collection includes this freestanding oval-shaped bath, designed by Toan Nguyen for Laufen to celebrate the ritual of water through a pure and linear design. laufen.co.uk

3

PA I N T J O B

C AT C H P O L E & R Y E

These luxury copper baths unite classic architecture with contemporary design. Today, this style is coveted by many for its simplistic look, unrivalled comfort – and its ability to completely transform a room. catchpoleandrye.com

4

5

S H OW S TO P P E R RIPON INTERIORS

The showstopping Victoria and Albert Edge Freestanding Bath is designed to sit in pride of place in your bathroom. Available in a range of exterior colours from Ripon Interiors, Boroughbridge Road, Ripon HG4 1UE. riponinteriors.co.uk

5

AVA N T G A R D E A C Q UA B E L L A

4

Acquabella's Venet tub with overflow is a spa-style centerpiece.

With sloping sides and bevelled edges, the Venet freestanding bath will be the place to relax. acquabella.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PRODUCTS BATHROO.indd 137

137

20/05/2022 14:56

INDIGO AWNINGS.indd 138

20/05/2022 14:56

H O M E | TREND

PEPPER SQ Cone Pendant Lamp Honey Yellow, £259 peppersq.com

EICHHOLTZ Contessa Vase, £235 sweetpeaandwillow.com

THE FRENCH HOUSE Yellow Scroll Back Occasional Chair, £450 york.thefrenchhouse.co.uk

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Sustainable Velvet Small Sofa, £1645 rockettstgeorge.com

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Recycled Glass Yellow Vase, £60 rockettstgeorge.com

KN INDUSTRIES The Saucepan, £78 collected.daytrue.com

GOLDEN YEARS Why yellow is the colour of the moment

MUSTARD MADE The Lowdown locker, £249 mustardmade.com

By P E N D L E H A R T E

LOAF Truffle sofa, £1745 loaf.com

POOKY Shibori Shade With Phoebe Wall Fitting, £97 pooky.com

ATKIN & THYME Archie Armchair, £449 atkin&thyme.co.uk

TALKING TABLES THE NORTHERN LINE Yellow Dipped Glaze Mug, £12.95 thenorthernline.co.uk

PRODUCTS YELLOW.indd 139

Yellow Glass Candle Holder, £14 talkingtables.co.uk

20/05/2022 14:56

L I T T L E B L A C K B O O K A L L T H E C O N TA C T S YO U N E E D T O S P R U C E U P YO U R H O M E

140

The Tile Company The use of tiling for exterior floors has rocketed in popularity of late and, thanks to recent advancements in tile production technology, the range of options available to homeowners is now vast. Porcelain tiles won’t draw moisture in the same way other paving materials do, which avoids surface staining and prevents algae and moss developing. These tiles are also fade and frost resistant, making them a great option for external areas. thetilecompany.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INTERIORS ROUND UP.indd 140

20/05/2022 14:56

H O M E | EXPERTS

Beautifully Shuttered Group At the Beautifully Shuttered Group, they've had years of building up their expertise first in shutters, then with pergolas. They've really taken things to a whole new level with the stunning Italian Collection. Their beautiful Bioclimatic pergolas really are some of the most beautiful and practical ways to enjoy sun or shade. Other options include retractable roof pergolas and their exclusive Sunbreaker sliding screens. yorkshirepergolas.co.uk / beautifullyshaded.co.uk

Harval Harval fitted furniture are a trusted family manufacturer and retailer, evolving since their beginnings in 1970. Their focus has always been customer satisfaction, combining quality with value and maintaining high standards of manufacturing and customer service. A gorgeous new Harval bedroom is an investment for your home and one that you can enjoy immediately. Visit the showrooms in Wakefield or Leeds to see the range and quality. harval.co.uk

Furnish & Fettle Do you want your home to look fabulous, but feeling overwhelmed with where to start? The friendly team of interior designers at Furnish & Fettle would love to help you. Their Home Interior Design Consultation packages start from just £250 and will give you all the help you need. They can help with everything from paint colours and made to measure window dressings, through to bespoke upholstery, fitted furniture, lighting and flooring, and of course finishing touches. furnishandfettle.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INTERIORS ROUND UP.indd 141

141

20/05/2022 14:56

French Antique showroom and warehouse in the heart of Yorkshire

www.york.thefrenchhouse.co.uk | T. 01904 400 561 THE FRENCH HOUSE.indd 142

20/05/2022 14:56

• XXXX H OXXXXX M E | EXPERTS

Just Shutters Installing beautiful shutters around Yorkshire, Just Shutters is the UK’s largest independent shutter company.

From one window to a full house, Just Shutters will deliver and install with their expert installation team plantation window shutters of the highest possible quality, with exceptional value along with a personal end to end service. justshutters.co.uk/shutters-york

York Bed Company York Bed Company’s new premium natural vegan mattress supports your body and conscience. This mattress is free of chemical adhesives and synthetic materials. All materials are ethically sourced and laid on a hand stitched calico pocket core. This mattress is vegan society and National Bed Federation approved. yorkbeds.co.uk

Focus Fireplaces Designed to offer ambience tailored to every mood, Onyx Avanti Inset Electric fires feature an unprecedented amount of lighting effect options. For complete control, every Onyx Avanti Electric fire is designed to be controlled with the powerful MyFlame app available for iOS or Android smart devices. The app provides precision control over the Avanti including flame display brightness and speed settings. focusfireplacesyork.co.uk

N.E.S.S Adding value to your property whilst increasing the security? N.E.S.S design, manufacture and install bespoke gates and gate automation along with garage doors to suit all needs and properties. In keeping to each individual situation, be it classic traditional timber, farm style, ornamental iron to modern contemporary and allows you to open, close or lock your gate anytime, anywhere, with just the click of a button.

01723 35133, info@nessdoors.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INTERIORS ROUND UP.indd 143

143

20/05/2022 14:56

A vibrant community in an

exceptional setting

ENTERPRISE RETIREMENT LIVING

THE RED HOUSE

CHOOSE TO PURCHASE OR RENT* - CALL TODAY TO FIND OUT MORE

The Red House provides the perfect setting for the retirement you want. Join a welcoming community within a beautiful, leafy environment, just minutes from the centre of Ripon.

• Luxurious properties with elegant interiors, built to a premium specification

Call 01765 540053 or visit redhouseripon.co.uk

• Acres of landscaped gardens

• Excellent social amenities including restaurant, bar, gym, salon and guest suite • 24-hour on-site staff • Gated setting

*A selection of rental properties now available.

ENTERPRISE RETIREMENT LIVING.indd 144

20/05/2022 14:56

PROPERTY

CROSSFIELDS, CRAG LANE LS17

£1,500,000

rossfields is a stone-built country house enjoying breath-taking, south-facing views situated down a private driveway behind electric gates. There is a side courtyard with a timber-built outhouse ideal for a garden office or leisure/gym. A stunning property that has been completely modernised, it features an eye-catching breakfast kitchen, bi-folds leading to the rear garden and spacious rooms throughout.

C

Harrogate’s Family Estate Agents

MYRINGS ESTATE AGENTS

01423 566400 myringsestateagents.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PROPERTY OPENER.indd 145

145

20/05/2022 14:56

MYRINGS ESTATE.indd 146

20/05/2022 14:56

Sandreith, Middlecave Road

Guide price | £1,500,000

Sandreith is a prestigious property set in grounds of approx. 1.3 acres dating back to the 1920’s, located in a private position tucked off Middlecave Road, yet within walking distance of the market town of Malton. This splendid period home faces predominantly south has a substantial annexe, double garage, outbuildings, stores, summer house, green house, tennis court, kitchen garden and orchard.

NE

W

Rosewood House, Barton Le Willows

Offers in excess | £550,000

Rosewood is a four bedroom detached home tucked away within the village of Barton Le Willows with open countryside views to front aspect. The property has an enclosed, mainly laid to lawn garden with plants and shrub borders. To the front is mainly laid to lawn with fruit trees and hedged border. The village of Barton-leWillows lies on the edge of the Howardian Hills, midway between the market town of Malton and the City of York.

MALTON | 01653 916 600 DRIFFIELD | 01377 310077 willowgreenestateagents.co.uk | enquiries@willowgreenestateagents.co.uk ` @willowgreenestateagents | ™@willowgreenestateagents

WILLOW_GREEN_FP_ABS_YORKSHIRE_JUNE2022.indd 1 Willowgreen Yorkshire Living Magazine June.indd 1

20/05/2022 19/05/2022 15:27 10:44

FOUR GABLES

A rare

FIND

Absolutely Yorkshire speaks to Andrew Beadnall, of Beadnall Copley, about a unique opportunity to purchase a stunning property in Boston Spa

148

F

our Gables, on Oak Lane, is a truly stunning example of an Arts & Crafts style seven bedroom, five bathroom double fronted and Grade II listed family home with a separate one bedroom cottage, set within magnificent walled gardens of just over 0.5 acres. Located just off Oaks Lane in the heart of Boston Spa, the property is approached via a gated entrance leading to a sweeping gravelled driveway with ample parking for multiple cars.

On the ground floor there is an imposing dining hall with beautiful terracotta tiling, high ceilings and a plethora of period features, a spacious living room with open fire and angular bay window providing lots of natural light, leading onto a second large reception room. On the other side of the house there is a bright and airy kitchen/ breakfast room with additional living area and double doors opening onto the garden, and completing the ground floor accommodation there is a large utility room, separate w/c and small wine cellar.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INSIDE STORY.indd 148

20/05/2022 14:56

PROPERTY • INSIDE STORY

THE PERIOD FEATURES ARE STUNNING

On the first floor the spacious master bedroom with period fireplace has its own dressing room, which in turn leads onto a luxurious en-suite bathroom with separate shower and bath, whilst there are three further double bedrooms all with en-suite shower rooms and beautiful views over the gardens. Stairs continue up to the second floor, which houses a further three double bedrooms and additional bathroom.

Outside the stunning gardens have been immaculately cared for over the years, with mature trees, flower beds, a vegetable garden with fruit trees, as well as a gazebo, Zen garden and several seating areas, including a lovely south-facing terrace.

At the rear of the house there is a beautifully designed/converted one bedroom garden cottage with open plan kitchen/dining/living area and shower room. A brick built potting shed and glazed garden room are also attached.

The property is in level walking distance of the village High Street, which supports a first class range of amenities catering for daily needs including a wide range

of shops, a superb choice of restaurants, excellent medical centre and popular schools for all age groups. The market town of Wetherby is only a short distance away and due to the position of the property it is considered ideally placed for the commuter due to the close proximity of the A1M. This truly is a unique opportunity for a buyer to purchase one of Boston Spa's most fabulous and rarely available family homes. It is on the market for £2,200,000 with Beadnall Copley, and Absolutely Yorkshire spoke to Andrew Beadnall to find out a little bit more about this special slice of Yorkshire life.

Q What is the first thing that catches your eye when arriving at the property?

A This is a property with the “wow factor”.

It has the appearance of a period manor house usually seen in the Cotswolds. Four Gables has a most imposing style and stands proudly over three floors along a private lane amidst glorious, established gardens.

Q Is it rare for an Arts & Crafts style home like this to come on to the market?

A In over 30 years of Beadnall Copley this has to be the finest example of an Arts & Crafts home which has been offered by ourselves. It is very rare for such architectural style properties from this period to come to the market and this is further underlined by the blue plaque at the entry door stating, “Four Gables, Built in 1900 by Dr John Henry Whitham, a physician, in the Arts and Crafts style.”

Q Are there plenty of original period features?

A Four Gables, which is Grade II Listed, boasts an amazing array of original features that are indeed a rarity and must be seen to be fully appreciated. The ground floor reception rooms have high ceilings, a plethora of period features and beautiful terracotta tiling.

Q How stunning is the dining hall?

A This truly is one of the main stand out

features of Four Gables with an ornate ceiling, imposing archways and a fine return staircase. This undoubtedly looks stunning when dressed for the Christmas season.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INSIDE STORY.indd 149

149

20/05/2022 14:56

PROPERTY • INSIDE STORY

Q What are the other stand out features on the ground floor?

A There is a magnificent drawing room with open fire, angular leaded light bay window with stone mullions, oak flooring and a further ornate ceiling with cornice. In addition there is a separate formal dining room with oak flooring, ornate feature detailing to the ceiling and a full width original panelled wall. Also on the ground floor there is a bright and airy breakfast kitchen with double doors opening to the garden, large utility room and wine cellar.

Q What does the master bedroom on the first floor offer?

A The spacious master bedroom with period fireplace has its own dressing room, in turn leading to a luxurious en-suite bathroom with separate shower and bath.

Q How would you describe the other bedrooms?

A There are three further first floor double bedrooms each with en-suite shower rooms and beautiful views over the gardens. The second floor offers an additional three double bedrooms and further bathroom.

Q What would we find outside the property?

A Stunning, beautiful walled gardens

featuring mature trees, flower borders, vegetable garden with fruit trees, gazebo, Zen garden and several interesting seating areas including a lovely south facing terrace.

To the rear of the house, there's a brick built potting shed and a charming glazed garden room, and large garaging has been converted into office space/store room.

Q What could the one bedroom cottage potentially be used for?

A The beautifully designed and converted one bedroom garden cottage offers an

150

open-plan living/kitchen dining area and shower room. For many years this has been a very successful holiday let.

Q How perfect is the location?

A This has to be one of the very finest

positions in this hugely popular Spa village situated along a peaceful private lane, and is yet only a short walk from Boston Spa High Street providing many fashionable amenities and shops catering for all daily needs. This is a unique opportunity for a buyer to purchase one of the most outstanding family homes in the village.

To book a viewing call Beadnall Copley on 01937 580 850 or email wetherby@beadnallcopley.co.uk

THE PROPERTY'S BLUE PLAQUE

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INSIDE STORY.indd 150

20/05/2022 14:56

BEADNALL Copley

www.beadnallcopley.co.uk

Estate Agents | Lettings | Valuers

LETTINGS

RIPON

HARROGATE

WETHERBY

01423 505458

01765 698100

01423 503500

01937 580850

8 Albert Street, Harrogate HG1 1JG

10 Fishergate, Ripon HG4 1DY

8 Albert Street, Harrogate HG1 1JG

3 Market Place, Wetherby LS22 6LQ

Definitive

COLLECTION

Hampsthwaite, near Harrogate 6 • • • •

2

3/4

18ft 4in Dining kitchen & appliances Good sized garage & private gardens Well served picturesque village Easy access to Harrogate town centre

A highly attractive and most spacious modern detached family home revealing beautifully presented accommodation with planning permission to further enlarge, in this much soughtafter village enjoying countryside views to the rear. EPC: C

Apply Harrogate – Offers Region £695,000

Spofforth, near Harrogate 3 • • • •

1

3

No onward chain Private gardens & parking for 2 26ft 11in Living/dining kitchen area Stunning views across communal gardens

BEADNALL COPLEY.indd 151

A charming end of row mews home in a picturesque setting amidst the glorious communal grounds of Spofforth Hall conveniently placed midway between Wetherby and Harrogate. EPC: C

Apply Wetherby – Asking Price £450,000

20/05/2022 14:57

www.simonblyth.co.uk Lower Holme House Farm, New Mill, Holmfirth

Offers around: £1,850,000

IN A REMARKABLE SETTING, A BEAUTIFUL BARN CONVERSION AND A DELIGHTFUL, DETACHED, FARMHOUSE COMPLEMENTED BY TWO LARGE AGRICULTURAL BARNS AND ALL SAT IN APPROXIMATELY 43 ACRES INCLUDING SOME HISTORIC WOODLAND, PONDS, FABULOUS FIELDS AND SUPERB VIEWS ACROSS, UP AND DOWN THE VALLEY. A MOST WELCOMING FAMILY HOME, SUPERBLY EQUIPPED WITH A LARGE NUMBER OF STABLES (ELEVEN IN TOTAL) AND HAVING SUBSTANTIAL AGRICULTURAL HIGH-QUALITY BUILDINGS, THIS TASTEFULLY PRESENTED HIGH-SPECIFICATION HOME HAS AN ACCOMMODATION THAT IS SURE TO PLEASE, BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED TO TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF THE DELIGHTFUL SURROUNDINGS. BOTH PROPERTIES ENJOY THE VIEWS, LOCATION, GARDENS, AND LAND. THE BARN HAS AN EXCEPTIONAL AMOUNT OF LIVING SPACE AND IS SUPERBLY EQUIPPED THROUGHOUT AND HAS A THREE/FOUR BEDROOMED LAYOUT. THE FARMHOUSE, RESTORED TO A HIGH STANDARD, WITH A SUPERB GARDEN ROOM AND A LARGE AMOUNT OF LIVING SPACE BEYOND, HAS A THREE-BEDROOMED LAYOUT. ith easy access to the local illage of new mill, and ust a short dri e away to holmfirth s bustling centre, the farm is a minute dri e away from the M1 motorway and is a superb opportunity for those who seek the position, land, and this tasteful high specification accommodation Brie y the barn comprises a magnificent, and e ceptionally large, li ing dining kitchen with two fabulous bays, s 3 o er all, a second sitting room bedroom four, utility room, boot room, pantry, downstairs w c , hree bedrooms, and two en suites, the farmhouse comprises an entrance hall, sitting room, breakfast kitchen, garden room, shower room utility room, ground oor bedroom, with two good si ed bedrooms and a bathroom to the first oor le el he two large barns are all of high specification iewing highly recommended

BARNSLEY 1 31 3

HUDDERSFIELD 1 1

HOLMFIRTH 1

PENISTONE 1

SIMON BLYTHE EST.indd 152

HALIFAX 1

KIRKBURTON 1 33

SHEFFIELD 11 3 1

WAKEFIELD 1 3 1 31

1

20/05/2022 14:57

PROPERTY • INSIGHT

A PROPERTY ON THE MARKET WITH SIMON BLYTH

Investing in the

FUTURE The eponymous founder of Simon Blyth Estate Agents reflects on the state of the current market in and around Yorkshire B y S I M O N B LY T H

T

he world of selling houses has always been interesting, and it has been particularly interesting over the last couple of years. The demand which, in my opinion, was primarily brought about due to the resolution (to some extent) of the European/Brexit issue was further accelerated due to the pandemic, which provided a massive focus on people and their relationship with their homes. It is perhaps the British way of life to be heavily involved in one’s home, both as a home and also as a primary investment. This desire, and this reality of homes being a fabulous investment, has existed for many generations and in my opinion will continue to do so. The marketplace is strong, and demand is high.

Mortgage rates are still exceptionally low and the element of investment in property has never been more important. With the longterm benefits of property investment together with creating a home for the family, my advice

would be to get on board as soon as possible.

Many people are purchasing their first home as a buy to let whilst having the benefit of staying at home with mum and dad. The bank of mum and dad is still very important on this route, although the finance/mortgage world is now very much listening to the younger investor.

Indecision is the negative aspect of today’s market, people who need to find a house before putting their property on the market will struggle and a leap of faith needs to be taken in order to find a buyer at the same time. Our staff have been extremely successful over the last few months in assisting our vendors in finding a home for them to move to, even out of area with other agents. We have also in a variety of ways advertised for homes specifically for clients in out of area locations in order to help, and this has had a good success rate. We are only too pleased to help in any which way we can.

My final recommendation is to choose an agent carefully. In a bustling market it is sometimes easy to think that all agents are the same – this is far from the truth. A lot of property sales and their related property sales within the chain often hit upon a snag and it is the skills of an experienced agent with whom you can talk to that usually gets these problems ironed out. We have experienced incredible problems of those who are only online whereby communication is extremely difficult when trying to sort a problem – the more established, mature and traditional firms are there to help in your hour of need. simonblyth.co.uk

SIMON BLYTH

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PROPERTY COLUMN.indd 153

153

20/05/2022 14:57

154

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MONEY CAN BUY.indd 154

20/05/2022 14:57

PROPERTY • FOCUS

MONEY CAN BUY…

Inside a characterful property in North Rigton WHERE Rigton Grange, North Rigton WHAT 'Rigton Grange' is a gorgeous 5 bedroom stone built detached house believed to date back to circa 1900 (originally forming part of the Harewood Estate) having been tastefully and cleverly modernised over the years by the current owners. It is south facing and enjoys breath taking 360 degree views across open countryside.

Standing in just under 3 acres, there is a detached beautifully renovated 2 bedroom stone built cottage ideal for guest accommodation or holiday cottage.

INSIDE Glazed doors lead to the grand vaulted hall, a wonderfully breath taking first insight to this fabulous home. Lounge with a beamed ceiling and arched windows overlooking the gardens. Hand built kitchen, opening to the 25'+ dining room… a WOW of a room with feature arched windows looking over the front courtyard. Bespoke fitted drinks and cigar room. Formal sitting room. Back hall. Gym. Office. Rear hall. Access to garaging. External study/hobby room. First floor galleried landing, principal bedroom. Luxurious ensuite bathroom, and impressive office. Three further bedrooms and house bathroom.

Rigton Grange has planning permission for another wing to be built.

OUTSIDE 'Rigton Grange' is a approached via double electric gates, a winding private tree lined lit driveway leads to the double garage with electric door. Yorkshire stone flagged and gravel front courtyard. The lawns and gardens are evergreen with lavender, box tree hedges and olive trees.

Timber built summerhouse with patio and a timber built loggia. A range of stone built outhouses in addition the stone barn which offers huge potential.

PRICE £2,750,000 SELLING AGENT myringsestateagents.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MONEY CAN BUY.indd 155

155

20/05/2022 14:57

PROPERTY • FOCUS

“They are driven by wanting to offer something different”

Something

NEW

Homes delivered with craft, collaboration and conscience is disrupting the new homes market

T

his summer will see Persona Homes’ celebrate its fourth anniversary. From the moment it entered the new homes market in 2018 it attracted the attention of the sector. By the start of 2019 the national developer had already picked up its first accolade, winning silver in the Best House category at the What House Awards – widely regarded as the nation’s ‘housing Oscars’.

The award was for its first development Meaux Rise in Hull. It has since gone on to build homes across the country – picking up accolades and recognition along the way.

Each development design is sympathetic to its environment and demographic – whether it’s natural stones in Yorkshire or clapboard on the coastal developments in Essex.

Materials will be designed to blend in with the landscapes. Moreover, Persona Homes is the only new homes developer with a social ethos.

156

While the developer is operating across the country, it is in the north where the majority of its developments are situated – from Cumbria and Northumberland through to Tyneside and Teesside, and of course Yorkshire.

Its flagship development is Watling Grange in Harrogate, which follows the same ethos that has propelled the developer into the home design limelight. The oneof-a-kind homes are designed to reflect modern lifestyles, with free-flowing open plan living, large dual aspect windows, as well as high specifications throughout.

Watling Grange residents benefit from the creation of ‘The Meadows’, an open green space with a network of footpaths, cycle ways, allotments and community gardens.

Like Persona’s previous developments, demand for the two, three and four bedroom homes have been high. Around 350 homes will be built on the site of the former quarry, on the outskirts of the famous spa town.

It’s not only Persona Homes’ developments that are unique. So too are its drivers.

Persona is a subsidiary of Home Group, one of the UK’s largest not-for-profit housing associations. All proceeds from the sale of Persona’s homes are invested in supporting the delivery of more much-needed social and affordable homes across the UK. But, while it is a social purpose that underpins Persona Homes, as a brand it is equally driven by wanting to offer something different to the often one-dimensional design seen in the new homes market. yourpersonahome.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HOME GROUP.indd 156

20/05/2022 14:57

D I S C O V E R WAT L I N G G R A N G E This beautiful collection of new-build houses and apartments is located just two miles from the center of Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

The development is set around landscaped meadows and offers a variety of uniquely designed two to five-bedroom homes.

Discover our available homes

FINCHALE £287,500 2-bedroom house ready to move into now

THE LAST ELSTOW £375,000 3-bedroom house ready to move into now

T: 0800 030 8888 contactus@yourpersonahome.com | Search Watling Grange

MEREVALE £505,000 4 bedroom house ready to reserve

CG images are for illustrative purposes only. Prices correct at time of publication.

THE HOME GROUP.indd 13159 Watling G A4 advert 157 (print).indd 1

20/05/2022 10/05/2022 14:57 10:16

HOPKINSONS.indd 158 May 2022.3.indd 1 Absolutely Yorkshire Advert

20/05/2022 19/05/2022 14:57 13:17

Arrive In Wharfedale & Craven

TAKE THEIR WORD FOR IT 99.4% of people who have used Fine & Country would recommend our services to family or friends.

UNRIVALLED EXPERTISE Providing unrivalled expertise is what we do best. All our agents are highly proficient, professional, and operate to strict codes of conduct.

GLOBAL EXPOSURE

Our Local Expert Luxury estate agency brand Fine & Country is launching in Wharfedale and Craven, enabling owners of prime property across the area to sell through a trusted brand with a strong track record of successfully selling exclusive properties.

Headed up by Jason Preston, who grew up in Ilkley and has worked in estate agency for more than 20 years, the new division will comprise a team of dedicated specialists, who know the region’s top end of the property market inside out.

Sellers will benefit from a cutting-edge marketing strategy, designed exclusively for their property, and a dedicated point of contact who will oversee all aspects of the sale. The result is a seamless process that generates the best sale price possible.

With a network spanning 300 locations worldwide, we combine widespread exposure and national marketing campaigns with the local expertise and knowledge of carefully selected independent property professionals.

A UNIQUE MARKETING APPROACH People buy as much into the lifestyle of a property and its location as they do the bricks and mortar. We utilise sophisticated, intelligent and creative marketing that provides the type of information buyers would never normally see with other agents.

FINE AND COUNTRY.indd 159

Contact us: Email | wharfedaleandcraven@fineandcountry.com Tel | 01943 661462 20/05/2022 14:57

YORK HOUSE LEISURE.indd 160

20/05/2022 14:57

PROPERTY • FOCUS

P R E M I U M A T T R A C T I O N Looking at why Gateforth Park near Selby is in so much demand

A

private fishing lake and fabulous lakeside homes are among the attractions being unveiled at a brand new luxury residential park in North Yorkshire. Gateforth Park has launched the much-anticipated second phase of its development after high demand has seen Phase 1 completely sell out.

The park near Selby recently held a successful Open Weekend to showcase Phase 2, including the homes now available around its exclusive fishing lake. Nestled in the pretty Vale of York, Gateforth Park offers everything you’d expect from a high quality residential park: immaculately kept grounds, the security and flexibility of a gated and managed site, and a friendly community of like-minded residents.

But, along with all this, there are also some standout features that are mentioned time and again by homeowners and visitors.

Top of the list are the generous plot sizes and the spacious feel of the site. With ample gardens, well spaced-out homes, lots of communal green space and views across the open countryside, Gateforth Park exudes an atmosphere of freedom and tranquillity.

The wide range of premium park homes from top manufacturer Prestige are another big attraction. Stylish, affordable and low maintenance, the homes come with the option to make subtle modifications – perfect for those wishing to put their own mark on their property.

Gateforth Park’s location is a plus point, too. Despite its secluded and peaceful setting, the park is actually very well connected to a wealth of leisure and retail opportunities across Yorkshire. From neighbouring Selby Golf Club to the cities of Leeds and York, or the stunning North York Moors and the Yorkshire Coast, there is so much to see and do within easy reach of the park.

And, with the launch of Phase 2, there are even more attractions to consider.

One of the main areas of interest for homebuyers is Lakeside with its exclusive access to a large fishing lake, with each home having its own private fishing peg.

Gateforth Park is being developed over three phases and, once complete, will comprise 168 homes, two private fishing lakes, woodland, a dog walking area, a shop and a community centre with feature lake.

Developers York House Leisure are a long-established family company that owns and manages five award-winning holiday and residential parks across North Yorkshire. Director Phil Brierley says: “Our vision for Gateforth Park is to offer high-quality stylish homes within a spacious and perfectly maintained environment. We can’t wait to unveil more of the development throughout 2022.”

Plots and homes are available now for Phase 2 of Gateforth Park. For more information or to book a tour, visit gateforthpark.co.uk or call Helen Delaney or Alan Hazon on 01757 616 646

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

YORKSHIRE HOUSE.indd 161

161

20/05/2022 14:58

CATHEDRAL VIEW.indd 162

20/05/2022 14:58

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

TIME TO MAKE A STATEMENT

The new Range Rover Evoque offers a range of powertrain options to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a confident driving experience or better fuel economy. The Range Rover Evoque Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) is perfect for those who want the benefits of a petrol engine. For example, Evoque PHEV offers a first-year VED rate of £0, exemption from TFL congestion charges, an electric range of up to 39 miles, and a peace of mind knowing that if you forget to recharge your battery overnight or run out of range, your engine will automatically switch to petrol.

And now, you could get your new Evoque sooner than expected.

Contact your nearest Lloyd land Rover retailer for more information.

Lloyd Land Rover Ripon Hutton Bank, Ripon, HG4 5DT 01765 278272

Lloyd Land Rover York Lysander Close, York, YO30 4XB 01904 569437

Lloyd Land Rover Carlisle Montgomery Way,Rosehill Estate, Carlisle,CA1 2RP 01228 658811

Lloyd Land Rover Kelso Lee Forbes Way, Pinnaclehill Industrial Estate,Kelso, TD5 8DW 01573 348277

lloydmotorgroup.com/Land-Rover Official WLTP Fuel Consumption for the Range Rover Evoque PHEV in mpg (l/100km): Combined up to 201.8 (From 1.4).

WLTP CO2 Emissions from 32g/km. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. CO2 and fuel economy figures may vary according to factors such as driving styles, environmental conditions, load and accessories. WLTP certifies the production vehicle with factory-fit options. Post-registration Retailer-fit accessories are not within the WLTP certification process, but may impact fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures achieved.

IBC_LLOYDS MOTOR GROUP.indd 163

20/05/2022 14:58

OBC BERRYS.indd 164

20/05/2022 14:58