Absolutely Kensington & Chelsea January 2026

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA

Kensington & Chelsea JANUARY 2026 / £3.95

HEALTH & BEAUTY SPECIAL

Over 40 pages of health, beauty, fitness and wellbeing

JANUARY 2026

SKI CHIC LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST ON THE SLOPES PLUS

ZEST.LONDON COVER WITH SPINE.indd All Pages

HARLAND MILLER A graphic alphabet at the Design Museum WILLIAM MORRIS The enduring appeal of florals and paisleys ON RETREAT All the best wellbeing escapes for 2026

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT 19/12/2025 11:09:58

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents JANUARY 2026

97 60

16

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

10 things we’re coveting this month

71

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y BEAUTY NOTES News and views

20 WHAT'S ON

97 SPA GUIDE

23 INTO THE WOODS

P L AT I N U M Y E A R S 103 FINDING FREEDOM

Your diary for January

Sondheim's classic at the Bridge Theatre

FOOD & DRINK 44 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

Rejuvenation destinations

44

Luxury in later life

INTERIORS 112 HOME INSPIRATIONS News from the industry

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

52 RECIPES

116 WILLIAM MORRIS

FA S H I O N 60 THE SHOOT

T R AV E L 144 MOUNTAIN HIGH

The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

Hearty home cooking

Ski style for the season

67

LONGE LOVER

The best pyjamas for winter

His enduring appeal

Summer in the Dolomites

152 BEYOND THE BEACH Surprises in Florida

O N T H E C OV E R mysundayski.co.uk

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CONTENTS.indd 13

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EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA MAGAZINE DESIGNER MARIANA SUZUKI DESIGNERS BRUNA FACCIN, PAMELLA MORENO PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE PORTFOLIO MANAGER GEMMA GRAY SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT STELLA ADAMS SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANTS PAIGE COLE, CLAIRE CORNISH FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, JAMES FUSCHILLO, ABIGAIL GARDNER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

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

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We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

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Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS We b si t e

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S January issue highlights

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new year, a fresh start.

Now's the time to be taking up a new hobby, embarking on a fitness programme or planning an overhaul of some part of your life. January is the time for clear-headed optimism, right? At Absolutely, January is all about wellbeing – and we don't just mean Dry Jan. We're looking at the year ahead and planning spa visits, retreats and exercise classes. And while we're planning ahead, we're also thinking holidays.

Now's the time for summer plans – and our prediction for 2026 is that mountains are going to be huge. Sure, we still love Greece, but for August we're now looking to the Alps for more bearable temperatures, fresh air and beautiful scenery. And while we're thinking about mountains, we're buying ski gear for upcoming trips too. We've got it all in this issue. Happy New Year to all of our readers.

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Poon's

Is this London's most beautiful dining room?

We think so

Light work

Gingham pendants?

Yes please!

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

Go nuts

We're obsessed with Knightsbridge's new nut boutique, Rifai

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3

4 Matcha mania

What's everyone queuing for?

It must be matcha

Set up

Can we wear pyjamas for the whole of January please?

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Wish LIST

TA K E THE KNEE Are Falke's ski socks the world's best? This iconic German brand has perfected the cushioning Merino sock with its moisture-wicking properties.

Separate men and women's fits, plus different cuts for different ski abilities, ensure you'll get the best sock evver. falke.com

IN THE PINK Bursting with colour, craft and creativity, Pink City Prints' Resort ‘26 collection is a feast for the eyes. Expect bright pops of neons in timeless block-print butas, pretty pinks and greens in charming floral borders and delicate hand-embroidery styles. pinkcityprints.com

MAKE OFF

Atelier Grands Augustins is a new collection of craft kits for adults.

Developed by Djeco, each kit offers a mindful, artistic experience: an opportunity to explore techniques inspired by fine craftsmanship. atelier-grands-augustins.com

10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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EDITOR’S PICK

GO NUTS Just opened in Knightsbirdge is Rifai, London's first outpost of Lebanon’s celebrated nut roaster.

Their unique dry-roasting technique, plus their skillful sourcing, makes these London's best nuts. rifai.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

COLOUR RUN

C A N DY G I R L Reis Jewellery's Candies collection includes handcrafted 14k gold candy canes crafted into hoop earrings, a pendant and a piercing stud. They're the most adorable pieces for winter and beyond. reisjewellery.co.uk

If wintering in the Caribbean leaves you with a lack of interest in the ubiquitous skiwear, a visit to Amelie's Follies in Battersea is the answer. Now's the best time to buy a bikini. ameliesfollies.co.uk

S P OT C H EC K Cult pimple patch brand Starface has teamed up with Peanuts for a collectible range of Snoopy-themed patches that come in adorable reuseable compacts.

They're an instant handbag essential. starfaceworld.co.uk

S T R A N G E D AY S Wrangler's new Stranger Things collection takes fans on a nostalgiapacked trip to Hawkins with hats and caps along with heritage-inspired denim, graphic tees, and statement jackets. diptyqueparis.com

IN THE SHADE SPRITZ IT The Adidas Originals

eyewear collection Think Aperol's only for summer? Think again. marks intersection Notanonly is the orange spritz an apres-ski of sportbut andit's street staple also a London favourite, and with style seen through outdoor drinkingthe a continuing trend, Aperol lens culture. £129 hasof launched some special orange Spritzwear specsavers.co.uk gloves to beat the cold. Each pair comes with a drink voucher, natrually. aperol.com

B OW T I E Stella McCartney’s nostalgic, equineinspired après-ski capsule is a wardrobe that glides effortlessly from the hill to warming up in the chalet. It's all made from pure wool. stellamccartney.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Visit our newly renovated

CHELSEA showroom

KITCHENS

BOOTROOMS

WALK-IN PANTRIES

MEDIA WALLS

BAR AREAS

DRESSING ROOMS

YO U R LO C A L S H OW RO O M S CHELSEA 72 Fulham Road, Chelsea SW3 6HH

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LO N D O N W1 3 Wigmore Street, London, W1U 1AD

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C U LT U R E

TRACY'S PUPPET (DETAIL), ARCH MODEL STUDIO, ISLE OF DOGS. PHOTO RICHARD ROUND-TURNER. © THE DESIGN MUSEUM

What's On 20 • Into the Woods: reviewed 23 • Harland Miller at the Design Museum 29 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda

EV E N TS N OT TO M I S S I N LO N D O N

P H OTO GR APHY

Meeting Mohini ongoing HORNIMAN MUSEUM This new exhibtion sapotlights Indian transgender culture through images captured by Zoya Thomas Lobo, India’s first transgender photojournalist. The series of 27 photographs follows the ancient Hindu festival celebrating the marriage of Hindu goddess Mohini to Aravan, shining a light on the rich history of one of the oldest recognised transgender and LGBTQI+ communities in the world. horniman.ac.uk

A RT

The Delusion

D E S I G N

Art Deco

To 18 January SERPENTINE NORTH The most ambitious project to date by London and Berlin-based British artist and game designer Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley debuts a groundbreaking video game commission, a multiplayer immersive experience run on game engines that explores themes of polarisation, censorship and social connection.. serpentinegalleries.org

O NGO I NG , LO ND O N TRA NS PORT MUSEUM

Art deco: The Golden Age of Poster Design explores how art deco made its mark on London transport’s art and design heritage.

Marking the centenary of the 1925 Paris Exhibition, a pivotal moment in the origins of art deco, this exhibition features more than 100 original posters from London Transport Museum’s collection. ltmuseum.co.uk

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CULTURE • DIARY

E XH I BI T I O N

Wes Anderson: The Archives To July 2026 DESIGN MUSEUM Explore the design stories behind award-winning and iconic films such as ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’, ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ and ‘Isle of Dogs’ in this exploration of how Anderson's unique vision and dedication to detail have created some of the most visually and emotionally compelling films of recent times. designmuseum.org.uk

DESIGN AND DISABILITY UNTIL 15 F E B R U A R Y, V& A Both a celebration and a call to action, Design and Disability showcases the radical contributions of Disabled, Deaf, and neurodivergent people and communities to design history and contemporary culture, from the 1940s to now.

Pictured: Rebirth Garments.

Photo by Colectivo Multipolar vam.ac.uk

This Month’s Must See

PARADOX M U S EU M

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E X H I B I T I O N

INDIAN INK

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THE

TO 3 1 JAN UARY, HAMPSTEAD THEATRE

om Stoppard’s Indian Ink begins in 1930s India. Flora Crewe, a noted Bloomsbury Group poet, undertakes a journey through India for her health. Free-spirited and without social inhibitions she unsettles most people she meets, but secretly captivates Nirad Das, a handsome Indian painter.

This production comes in the wake of Stoppard's untimely death and serves as a tribute. hampsteadtheatre.com

the Paradox Museum, visitors are asked to leave reality at the door and expect the unexpected as they embark on a 90 minute-long journey into a paradoxical world. The museum astounds visitors of all ages with its mind-bending mental and visual illusions.

Boasting over 50 exhibits and 25 immersive rooms, visitors can attempt to defy the odds of gravity in reverse rooms, unravel the mysteries of the paradoxical sofa, step inside a giant kaleidoscope and navigate the intricate twists of the mirror maze, with so much more on offer. Highlights from the experience include the awe-inspiring Zero Gravity Room, where visitors can be seen roaming weightlessly like an astronaut, or disappearing into the walls of the Camouflage Room, where anyone can become the ultimate illusionist.

The must visit Paradox Tunnel will challenge all perceptions, making the simplest task such as walking in a straight line, nearly impossible. Founded in 2022 by Miltos Kambourides and Sakis Tanimanidis and with HQs in Athens, Zagreb and Miami – Paradox Museum has grown to become a globally recognised brand and a leading attraction in every city where it is located with over 1.5 million visitors worldwide. Combining the worlds of science, art, and psychology, Paradox Museum offers an entertaining and educational experience. paradoxmuseum.com

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CULTURE • THEATRE

I N T O

T H E

WOODS A new production of Stephen Sondheim's musical comes to the Bridge Theatre Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E Photography SCARLETT CARLOS CLARKE

B

e careful what you wish for, they say. Into the Woods is a striking new production at the Bridge Theatre with a strong visual identity and a slick way with words.

Stephen Sondheim's musical premiered on Broadway in 1987 and its dark themes combine with catchy tunes and comedic scenes to form a hugely original and likeable piece.

It's a clever and playful interlacing of several fairytales, centred around a wood, where our characters all find themselves. The story is wild: a baker and his wife discover that the reason for their childlessness is a curse set on them by the witch who lives next door. She agrees to lift the curse only if they deliver four specific items to her: a cow, a cape, some hair and a golden slipper. And into the woods they go in search of these, all the while to a looping,

creatively rhyming chorus: "into the woods to get the thing that makes it worth the journeying".

From there it's a tale of conflicting missions and crossed paths. Little Red Riding Hood is on her way to see grandmother, while Cinderella is on her way to the ball and Jack is selling his cow for a handful of beans.

Visually, it's a delight, with a luscious, fairytale wood and costumes resembling illustrations in a Brothers Grimm anthology. But it's

“Red Riding Hood escapes from the lascivious wolf covered in blood”

not innocent: Red Riding Hood escapes from the lascivious wolf covered in blood, as does Grandmother, while Cinderella's stepmother merrily amputates her daughter's toe in the hope of fitting the slipper. At the end of the first half, a happy ending is celebrated by all – thouth after the interval, the temperature changes. We're not out of the woods yet. Giants arrive in search of revenge and retribution, and everyone turns on each other, seeking blame. The second half is markedly less madcap, and takes on a darker, slightly moralistic tone. Fairytales are all about warnings and here we have plenty. But the realy joy of Into the Woods lies in the language, its clever rhythms, repeats and emphasis, and the way it connects with the music which is quirky, leading to unexpected places. This show is a hit.

Until 30 May; bridgetheatre.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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“THE SHOW REFRAMES THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIAN ART AS FUNDAMENTALLY COLLABORATIVE”

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CULTURE • ART

LEFT Mrinalini Mukherjee and works in progress at her garage studio. New Friends Colony, New Delhi, c.1985. Courtesy of Mrinalini Mukherjee Foundation and Asia Art Archive. Photo: Ranjit Singh ABOVE Nilima Sheikh, Home, Land 2, 2024. Mixed tempera on Sanganer paper, 76.2 x 193.04 cm. SUNITA & VIJAY CHORARIA. © The Artist BELOW Mrinalini Mukherjee, Forest Flame IV, 2009. Bronze, 175.3 x 88.9 x 68.6 cm. Taimur Hassan Collection. Photo: Humayun Memon. Courtesy of Mrinalini Mukherjee Foundation

PASSAGE TO INDIA A story of South Asian art at the Royal Academy

T

he Royal Academy of Arts is tracing the intertwined lives, ideas, and artistic breakthroughs that shaped modern and contemporary art in South Asia. A Story of South Asian Art: Mrinalini Mukherjee and Her Circle is a portrait of a creative ecosystem. Through nearly 100 works by artists bound through friendship, mentorship and family, the exhibition casts new light on the late Mrinalini Mukherjee (1949–2015), one of India’s

most innovative sculptors, and the vibrant network that nurtured her singular vision.

For the first time, Mukherjee’s work appears alongside that of the people who helped shape her world: her parents and early artistic influences, her teachers, her peers, and the communities at Santiniketan, Baroda, and New Delhi.

The exhibition opens by situating Mukherjee within a lineage of South Asian modernism rooted in two pioneering institutions. Santiniketan’s Kala Bhavana, founded in 1919 by Rabindranath Tagore, championed open, cross-cultural learning long before the term “global modernism” existed. Decades later, the Faculty of Fine Arts in Baroda (now Vadodara) emerged as a similarly radical space, encouraging students to synthesise Indian classical and folk traditions with international avantgarde ideas. These environments nurtured generations of artists who redefined what modernism could look like in India.

Mukherjee, born in post-partition A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • ART

“A BLEND OF INDIGENOUS ICONOGRAPHY AND SHARP SOCIO-POLITICAL CRITIQUE”

ABOVE Jagdish Swaminathan, Untitled (Lily by my Window), circa early 1970s. Oil on canvas, 106.7 x 121.9 cm. Private collection, Switzerland. Photograph Courtesy of Sotheby’s, Inc. © 2025. © J. Swaminathan Foundation RIGHT Mrinalini Mukherjee, Jauba, 2000. Hemp fibre and steel,143 x 133 x 110 cm approx. Tate: Presented by Amrita Jhaveri 2013. Photo: © Tate. Courtesy of Mrinalini Mukherjee Foundation

Bombay and raised in Santiniketan, absorbed these influences early. Her four-decade career is a testament to the power of experimentation. Best known for her imposing fibre sculptures: muscular tangles of knotted hemp, jute, and rope that pulse with vegetal and bodily energy, she approached each material intuitively, allowing process to guide form. What began as a student’s curiosity about the ancient macramé technique blossomed into a groundbreaking sculptural language.

Later, when she shifted to ceramics and bronze, her gestures remained rooted in the organic and the elemental.

The show reveals that Mukherjee’s artistry was inseparable from her family’s creative legacy. Her mother, Leela Mukherjee (1916–2002) was one of India’s first modernist women sculptors, forging a style that drew from sources as diverse as Nepalese wood carving, Mexican indigenous art and Indian myth. Her watercolours, etchings, and small, expressive sculptures radiate the curiosity and cross-cultural engagement that she passed on to her daughter. Meanwhile her father, Benode Behari Mukherjee (1904–1980), was a towering figure in Contextual Modernism, a movement advocating humanist, nonhierarchical dialogue between local traditions and global ideas. His works, especially the delicate, visionary collages he created after losing his eyesight, underscore the exhibition’s central theme: that creativity flourishes through exchange and adaptation, even under constraint.

The most striking aspect of the exhibition is the way it collapses the boundaries

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between mentorship, dialogue, and collaboration. Works by KG Subramanyan (1924–2016), one of India’s most influential art educators, demonstrate how his eclectic, mischievous approach to painting, terracotta, and textiles expanded the horizons of his students. His presence in the galleries asserts his role not only as Mukherjee’s teacher but as a catalytic force in South Asian modernism.

Jagdish Swaminathan (1928–1994), a New Delhi–based painter and theorist whom Mukherjee befriended, brought a different kind of influence. His canvases and prints— with their blend of indigenous iconography and sharp socio-political critique, reveal the ideological debates swirling in the capital during Mukherjee’s formative years.

The exhibition also reunites key works by Nilima Sheikh, a contemporary and close friend of Mukherjee. Her celebrated painted scroll cycle SongSpace (1995)unfurls like a visual poem. Gulammohammed Sheikh's ceramics, prints, and paintings weaving together political commentary, classical storytelling, and art-historical reflection.

By placing Mukherjee at the centre of a creative constellation rather than on a solitary pedestal, the show reframes the story of South Asian art as fundamentally collaborative. It shows how ideas are carried across generations, transformed by friendship, and pushed forward by communities that value curiosity over orthodoxy.

To 24 February; royalacademy.org.uk

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

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CULTURE • ART

A new exhibition of paintings by Harland Miller is making a splash at the Design Museum

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CULTURE • ART

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onumental paintings by internationally acclaimed artist Harland Miller, including brand new works specially created for the exhibition, have been unveiled in a new show. Miller is an artist and writer recognised as one of the leading figures in international contemporary art. It was while studying for an A-Level in History of Lettering that Miller discovered the allure of medieval manuscripts, in which monks laboured to produce highly decorative letters as chapterheadings. This painstaking process was the source of inspiration for the Letter Painting series and the related works on paper. It is a series and a subject that Miller returns to time and again, synthesising modern Pop Art sensibility with centuries-old manuscripts illumination, seamlessly melding the sacred with the everyday. The exhibition is co-curated by Miller and the Design Museum’s Director and CEO Tim Marlow, who said: “Harland Miller’s paintings and drawings reinterpret graphic icons and are painterly icons in themselves. With his own distinctive playfulness, invention and wit, much of his work is an exploration of graphic design through painting and of painting through graphic design. He has shown in numerous art galleries and museums around the world but

never in one devoted to design.”

Works from Miller's ongoing Letter Painting series are presented in this free exhibition, where visitors can explore how he harnesses the principles of graphic design, deploying bright, saturated colour palettes and a wide range of typefaces designed by the artist himself.

Several largescale paintings can be seen in the Design Museum’s Helene and Johannes Huth Gallery, alongside 15 works on paper from the same series on the mezzanine level.

Miller has produced nine new works for this exhibition, which are shown alongside earlier paintings in the series, such asFar Out (2022), Miller's first diptych in the series, where huge letters rendered in rich, saturated colours vie for attention across the two canvases, and XXX (2025), which repeats a letter which is significant to the artist in its form and design, but also due to its connotations and connections to punk culture and X-rated cinema. The huge scale of Miller's Huth Gallery canvases reflects Miller’s time living in Los Angeles, driving past

THIS PAGE Far Out, 2022, Oil on canvas, 2 parts, © Harland Miller.

Photo © White Cube (David Westwood) Courtesy of the artist and White Cube PREVIOUS PAGE If, 2025 Oil, acrylic, watercolour and pencil on paper, © Harland Miller. Photo © White Cube (Theo Christelis, Courtesy of the artist and White Cube; XXX, 2025, Oil on canvas © Harland Miller. Photo © White Cube (Theo Christelis), Courtesy of the artist and White Cube

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CULTURE • DESIGN

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, Kiss, 2025, Oil on canvas, © Harland Miller. Photo © White Cube (Theo Christelis), Courtesy of the artist and White Cube; Boss, 2024, Oil on canvas, © Harland Miller. Photo © White Cube (Theo Christelis), Courtesy of the artist and White Cube; Oh No, 2024, Oil on canvas, © Harland Miller. Photo © White Cube (David Westwood), Courtesy of the artist and White Cube

"AN EXPLORATION OF GRAPHIC DESIGN THROUGH PAINTING AND OF PAINTING THROUGH GRAPHIC DESIGN" monolithic billboards on the highway. These are then contrasted with the selection of smaller works on paper from the same series. These pieces allow close-range insight into the structural composition that informs Miller’s large-scale, finished paintings. The Letter Paintings series demonstrates the synergy between art and design in Miller's work that makes the Design Museum a fitting location for a series based on the language of graphic design.

Harland Miller said: "I think due to some attitude, or the culture that was around when I was growing up, I would think of design, and particularly graphic design,as something to subvert. Strangely (or perhaps it's entirely natural) this approach led me to an understanding and appreciation of design I wouldn't have had otherwise.

Understanding and appreciation are two things the Design Museum is all about, so it's fantastic in a full-circle-kind-of-way to be showing these paintings here.”

Until 26 January designmuseum.org

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Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

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ALL YOUR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS TAKEN CARE OF IN ONE PLACE Call TRAILFINDERS on 020 7368 1506 or visit your local Travel Centre Prices are per person based on a twin/double share & valid for selected June 26 departures. Hotel, cruise, tour and flight prices are dynamic, fluctuating in real time according to consumer demand and the season of travel.

Offers are subject to availability & restrictions may apply. Prices correct at time of going to print 3 Dec 25.

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NO ORDINARY ART FAIR

Where original art meets Fresh: inspiration.

Discover even more original artwork from modern masters such as Hockney and Picasso to emerging talent. Buy with confidence. Collect with joy.

Book tickets at freshartfair.net FRESH ART FAIR.indd 34

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CULTURE • PROMOTION

THE CONSTANT WIFE

A new adaptation of W Somerset Maugham’s comedy comes to the Richmond Theatre

1927.

Constance is a very unhappy woman.

“Nonsense” says her mother “she eats well, sleeps well, dresses well and she’s losing weight. No woman can be unhappy in those circumstances.” Constance is the perfect wife and mother, and her husband is as devoted to her as he is to his mistress, who just happens to be her best friend.

W Somerset Maugham’s The Constant Wife was written in 1926 and described as ‘a sparkling comedy of ill manners’.

This wonderful new version is by Laura Wade, the Olivier Award winning writer of Home, I’m Darling, which was also directed by Tamara Harvey, and most recently Laura has had phenomenal success with the television series Rivals. The Constant Wife originally opened in Stratford upon Avon to marvellous reviews and sold every seat.

This sparkling adaptation of The Constant Wife by Laura Wade, the recent winner of the Internation Emmy for her television series Rivals, is directed by Tamara Harvey, the co-Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company. It will star one of the country’s favourite actresses, Kara Tointon Kara Tointon (TV’s Mr Selfridge and Winner of Strictly Come Dancing) and features original music composed by multi award-winning jazz artist Jamie Cullum.

Monday 9 February – Saturday 14 February 2026, Richmond Theatre atgickets.com/richmond

“Sophisticated Sharp, fabulous and extremely funny”

“Sharp, fresh, feminist and very witty”

“Frothily radical Twenties comedy”

THE GUARDIAN

THE I PAPER

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

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W A T E R

WO R L D S With history, geography, nature and engineering combined, these six locations offer young people an immersion into our landscape built around water

TOWER BRIDGE MUSEUM

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CULTURE • FOCUS

CREEKSIDE DISCOVERY CENTRE

“Highlight of Tower Bridge Museum is undoubtedly the Glass Floors walkway, a dizzying 42m above the River Thames”

L

ondon is a city built around rivers, and this has played a key role in its growth and fortune.

This provides an endless stream of stories covering the history, engineering and geography of the place – not to mention the importance and sheer power of water. Our six locations take you around the capital and into surprising territory – perfect for captivating young explorers on a great (and not too expensive) day out.

Tower Bridge Museum It may be one of the most famous landmarks to tourists, but it’s surprising how Londoners take Tower Bridge for granted.

Tower Bridge Museum will change your mind and – provided you don’t become overwhelmed by vertigo – offers one of the top viewing points in the capital.

Highlight is undoubtedly the Glass Floors walkway, a dizzying 42m above the Thames itself (top spot for selfies). You can explore the Bridge and then follow the Blue Line to the magnificent Victorian Engine Rooms.

These tell the story of the steam engines that once powered the Bridge, and you’ll also find plenty of detail about the history of a design that always seems much older than it is.

The museum is very family friendly – offering drop-in activities such as bridge-building challenges, art sessions and trails, as well as relaxed openings for neurodiverse visitors. Book ahead and you can schedule your visit around a bridge lift, but even without that, you’ll find lots to see and do at this museum.

Entry: Adults from £13.40, child from £6.70 Good to know: Guided tours, BSL guided tours and relaxed openings towerbridge.org.uk

BOAT TO BARRIER

The Thames Barrier remains a great engineering wonder four decades since it officially opened to protect the London flood plain – threatened by high tides and storm surges since Roman times. It’s a fiendishly clever rotating design, inspired by the taps of a domestic gas cooker.

There are expensive ways to visit, but a trip to/from Woolwich (Royal Arsenal) and Barking Riverside piers on Uber Boat by Thames Clippers (adult ticket, around £11.20) takes you right through the Barrier unless it’s shut for flood or maintenance reasons. thamesclippers.com

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CULTURE • FOCUS

THE HORNIMAN MUSEUM AQUARIUM. PHOTO: JOEL KNIGHT

Creekside Discovery Centre This charity offers one of the most unique experiences in London – the opportunity to wade in the tidal riverbed in Deptford Creek, equipped with waders, walking stick and waterproof coat. Since it opened in 2002, up to 7,000 people a year have done just that.

As well as offering a glimpse into the river’s industrial heritage, there’s a strong conservation angle – and some wonderful nature on show.

Thanks to a 2002 installation of sloping banks that were once a feature along much of the tidal Thames (and sensitive restoration) this riverbank and garden site is one of the most biodiverse for its size in London.

Volunteers are always needed on the conservation side, and with regular birdwatching and other nature events.

Many visits are by school groups, and the children have a fabulous time with activities such as mud pie making and mud splatter painting – there’s a strong community programme. Regular low tide walks and other events are posted in advance on social media.

Entry: Varies by event, with some free – low tide walks usually £10-£15 Good to know: Waders and walking sticks are supplied creeksidecentre.org.uk The London Museum of Water & Steam Formerly the Kew Bridge Steam Museum, and before that a waterworks, this fascinating heritage centre tells the story of the capital’s water supply. It is perfect for even very young children, with lots of hands-on and whizz-bang

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THE MIGHTY THAMES BARRIER

water engineering, as well as more complex exhibitions and events for teenagers, and occasional fun after-hours tours.

One highlight is the regular STEAM! events, where the museum’s spectacular collection of stationery steam engines – Cornish, Rotative, Allen among them – are brought back to life. This is the largest collection of its type in the world (also two of the largest machines of their type in the world) and a fascinating insight into our history and the engineering that powered

the industrial revolution. There’s a narrowgauge railway to delight young visitors – you can ride around the site on it on event days.

Local community are behind their museum, making it fun and inclusive for families. And, for parents, Pump & Grind Coffee Shop is a treasure, with its excellent coffees, cakes and light meals – picnics are also welcome in the garden. The Splash Zone is great fun for children – they get to turn wheels, push pumps and make water flow.

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CULTURE • FOCUS

HANDS-ON FUN AT LONDON MUSEUM OF WATER & STEAM

Entry: From £11.50, child £4, under 5s free Good to know: Book ahead for STEAM! and other special events waterandsteam.org.uk Horniman Museum Aquarium The Horniman Museum & Gardens needs no introduction and you can happily while away days exploring its eclectic treasures. But the aquarium is not so well known, and it offers a calmer and more mindful alternative to the big-ticket with big-fish destinations.

Here, there are 15 exhibits that showcase aquatic environments from around the world. There’s the British pond (not so humble when you get up close) and from there you can travel to warmer climes, getting up close to coral gardens, reef fish, moon jellyfish and other glorious marine life.

It’s a fascinating underwater world to explore, and with lots of background information about the habitats you are viewing and the symbiotic relationships developed between species. You can also find out more about the Horniman’s fascinating coral conservation research.

Entry: Adult from £6, child from £3, under 3s free Good to know: Book in advance to guarantee entry horniman.ac.uk

DAM IT!

One of the most exciting water engineering projects in London is happening right now, thanks to Ealing Wildlife Group's Beaver Project. These native mammals were hunted to extinction 400 years ago but are slowly returning in a managed way. This wonderful project sees them back in the capital in an area known as Paradise Fields, where it's hoped the 'ecosystems engineers' will use their genius to reduce local flooding, improve water quality and increase biodiversity.

While you are unlikely to see shy beavers, you will see their progress if you join an Ealing Beaver Project guided walk. Tickets (usually £27.80) sell out fast, so book ahead. ealingwildlifegroup.com

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FOOD & DRINK

NEW YEAR ITALIAN ELEGANCE SAN CARLO

This New Year, step into a season of elegance with San Carlo. From beautifully crafted winter dishes to the refined artistry of their signature gelato, every moment is designed for effortless indulgence. Whether for a quiet occasion or a stylish celebration, San Carlo offers the perfect setting to welcome the year in timeless Italian style — la dolce vita, the San Carlo way.

Book at sancarlo.co.uk

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WHAT TO DRINK

TASTING NOTES

GRAPE news

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month

By PENDLE HARTE

Wine recommendations for the month

By THE WINE SOCIETY

The Society's Greek White 2024  £9.50 Concentrated and intensely aromatic roditis and moschofilero. Both thrived leading to an equal blend of 50:50 of the two varieties, with moschofilero providing the characteristic citrus and Turkish delight with the roditis giving stonefruit character.

Pinot Noir ‘Pure Vallée’, Vin de France, Famille Bougrier 2024  £8.50 Popular well-rounded Loire pinot, light and fresh, with bright, red-berry and cherry fruit. Best served on the cooler side, this is an easy-drinking lunchtime red.

Château Mazails, Médoc 2022  £9.95 Outstanding value Cru Bourgeois from a property a stones throw from the Gironde river just north of Saint-Estèphe from the generous and rich 2022 vintage. A blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon and 40% merlot this offers bags of blackberry and plum fruit with a full body and sweet tannins.

Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business.

The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers.

Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com

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Cinematic cakes DESIGN MUSEUM

Fans of Wes Anderson will love the Design Museum's new limited edition Afternoon Tea menu that brings cinematic storytelling to the plate in the director's inimitable style. At the heart of this whimsical experience is a playful take on the Courtesan au Chocolat - a standout centrepiece dessert that pays homage to one of the most memorable confections in Anderson’s filmography. designmuseum.org

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

TREAT YOURSELF Pantry essentials

B R I T I S H

CLASSIC MAGGIE JONES

Pizza night C R O STA M O L L I CA

It's not often that we recommend a supermarket pizza in these pages – but Crosta Mollica’s Neapolitanstyle sourdough pizzas are a world away from the others. The Collezione Romana includes a truffe pizza inspired by the Bosco di Alba, a classic Margherita from Portofino and an Alpine sausage pizza from Bolzano.

Look out for them at the supermarket. crostamollica.com

APOSTLE This Kimchi Ketchup combines the complex flavours of kimchi with the familiar comfort of tomato ketchup. for a savoury, sweet, and subtly spicy sauce with a kick. £13.99 selfridges.com

Maggie Jones’s is back. The Kensington restaurant that opened in 1964 and became Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon’s favourite haunt has been closed for two years after a fire. Now it's open again, with its cosy rustic vibe unchanged. maggie-jones.co.uk

MALDON The Maldon Salt Gift Pack contains a trio of exceptional salt flavours: original, garlic and chilli, ideal for foodies or aspiring chefs, £12.99. maldonsalt.com

R O O M

SERVICE NOBU AT HOME

Puff piece D I M S U M L I B R A RY

G O O D P H AT S

Just opened in Covent Garden is Dim Sum Library, reinventing dim sum and classic Cantonese dishes through a modern lens. Signature dishes include Wagyu Beef Puff with Black Pepper - a Hong Kong favourite featuring crisp, seaweed-light pastry filled with tender wagyu beef and a subtle peppery heat. dimsumlibrary.co.uk

LSpanish Virgin Avocado Oil gives a warm, rich, and nutty finish to any dish. Cold-pressed, this emeraldgreen oil perfectly is a versatile alternative to your classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil. £13.95 goodphats.com

Nobu At Home is a new service that brings Nobu’s legendary flavours straight to your door. From the iconic Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño, to delicate Sushi and Sashimi platters and indulgent Wagyu beef specialities, all without leaving the house.

noburestaurants.com

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A NEW YEAR DESERVES A FRESH BEGINNING. Enjoy San Carlo’s lighter Italian dishes this January - offering perfect balance without compromising on luxury.

From fresh salads and comforting soups to seasonal vegetables and lean proteins, every dish highlights clean, elegant flavours, bringing wellness and indulgence together in every bite

BAR

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|

RISTORANTE ITALIANO

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FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“The restaurant belongs to a long family food legacy”

POON’S

Stylish Chinese cuisine in Somerset House

P

FOOD Chinese home cooking

B y PENDLE HARTE

oon’s has quite the history. This stylish new eaterie in Somerset House belongs to a long family food legacy, probably dating back to a Chinese emperor but more recently to Soho in 1973, when the first Poon’s opened in Lisle Street. Soon afterwards came Poon’s in Covent Garden, where Mick Jagger and Barbara Streisand were among the regulars, and the restaurant carried the tagline “where the Chinese go to eat.” Chef and owner Bill Poon went on to win a Michelin star and open a restaurant in Geneva, plus three more in London before

retiring in 2003. His daughter Amy vowed never to work in the industry herself, until she changed her tune and brought back Poon’s as pop-up in 2018, then launched a wonton delivery service, followed by a range of sauces. And now here she is, with her own restaurant that builds on the Poon’s legacy while reinventing it.

This space is beautiful: two grand rooms with high ceilings are transformed into an elegant salon with plaster-pink walls and painted murals inspired by Lisle Street back in the day – with Bill Poon represented by a lobster smoking in the corner. Amy and her husband are sociable hosts, greeting diners and making recommendations

DECOR Grand rooms, beautifully styled

PRICE Various plates £6- £28

VERDICT Fabulous Chinese fare

(“everyone loves the aubergine,” she tells us. “We’ve tried taking it off but people ask for it”) – so of course we order it, along with a spread that includes a duck salad with spiced cabbage (crisp, sweet and tangy) and a plate of the famed wontons, the prawn ones, which are small hot balls of deliciousness. The aubergine is amazing as promised, burned skin and caramelised flesh with ‘Lisle Street Zha Jiang sauce’, while a whole sea bass steamed with spring onion and ginger is soft and luscious. Wines are Amy’s husband’s department; we are here for something light and the recommended vinho verde is just right for a midweek lunch. For pudding it’s Three bites of Helen Goh, a trio of three petits fours comprising a chocolatey one, a persimmon slice and a financier. It’s a lovely spot, and one to return to.

Poon’s at Somerset House New Wing, Somerset House, Lancaster Place, London WC2R 1LA 020 7759 1888 poonslondon.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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MUSSELS

The

NEW YEAR reset

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FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

CAESAR SALAD

For those looking to embrace lighter meals this new year, San Carlo show the nourishing way

J

anuary has a way of inviting renewal. After the sparkle, indulgence and inevitable overeating of December, most of us begin the new year with good intentions: to nourish better, move more, and make choices steeped in balance and wellbeing. The beauty of Italian food is that it never demands sacrifice to achieve that balance. It is, at its core, about simplicity, beautiful ingredients allowed to shine.

San Carlo has built its reputation on exactly that philosophy. For decades, the Italian family-owned restaurant group has championed quality, seasonality and honest Italian flavour. Many of the ingredients used across the menu – from cheeses and cured meats to specialty oils and ripe tomatoes – are sourced directly from Italy and selected for authenticity and provenance. Meanwhile, fresh fish and seafood are brought in from trusted suppliers closer to home, ensuring both freshness and sustainability without compromising on quality. Whatever the dish, the standard is the same: ingredients that speak for themselves.

But this year, San Carlo invites us to rediscover something often overshadowed by rich pastas and creamy risottos: the lighter side of Italian cuisine. A side built not on indulgence, but on vegetables, lean proteins, broths, herbs and olive oil – the traditional foods that Italians have enjoyed for generations.

CEO Marcello Distefano has long said: “If the quality of your ingredients is good enough, then people will come back.” And this truth shapes everything San Carlo places on the table. Whether you choose a warming bowl of slow-cooked lentils, a salad dressed with nothing more than olive oil and seasoning, or a piece of delicately grilled fish – quality leads, flavour follows, and satisfaction never lags behind.

This is not January austerity. It is enjoyment – redefined. The kind of food that leaves you energised, not weighed down. Food that feels both fresh and restorative. Food that begins a new year gently, but with unmistakable pleasure.

Lighter Starts: Soups, Salads & Antipasti While many menus turn to richness for comfort, San Carlo’s January selection proves that light dishes can be every bit as satisfying. The experience begins with starters that prioritise freshness and purity of flavour – plates where vegetables, legumes and seafood do the talking.

The classic Minestrone is the definition of feel-good food. A broth layered slowly with seasonal vegetables – carrots, courgettes, tomatoes, beans, pasta – all simmered until the flavours deepen and blend. It’s a bowl that warms without overwhelming.

For those who prefer lighter cold starters, the salad selection is exceptional.

The Insalata Tricolore, for instance, is a perfect trio of creamy buffalo mozzarella, ripe avocado and tomatoes bursting with sweetness – a plate of Italian colour and balance. For added protein, the restaurant offers salads dotted with grilled chicken or tuna: clean, lean and delicate enough to leave space for the main course.

Seafood lovers will be drawn to more refined antipasti. Tartare di Tonno, finely chopped yellowfin tuna dressed with lemon, olive oil and rocket, is fresh, bright and full of omega-rich goodness. Alternatively, steamed mussels in white wine and shallots bring the sea to the table with elegance, while those cooked in a gentle tomato-based Arrabbiata offer spice without heaviness.

These are dishes that make you pause – not because they overwhelm, but because they’re executed so beautifully. Fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, the perfume of good olive oil – each plate reminds you that Italian cooking is never complicated.

It’s thoughtful. Honest. And, crucially, deeply enjoyable without being excessive.

You notice how lightness doesn’t mean limitation. Instead, you feel an invitation, to savour, to slow down, to explore flavour through freshness. A January table at San Carlo is not a retreat from pleasure. It is a return to its origin.

TARTARE DI MANZO

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FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

SEA BASS AL CARTOCCIO GELATO

Lean Mains, Grilled Fish & Vegetable-Forward Dining The main courses are where San Carlo’s light-leaning January menu truly flourishes. Without losing comfort or satisfaction, the options celebrate the ingredients that make Mediterranean dining feel timelessly good for the soul.

For pescatarians – or simply those seeking a leaner centrepiece – Tonno e Lenticchie is a signature choice. Yellowfin tuna is charcoal-grilled to perfection, retaining juiciness while developing irresistible smoky depth. It’s served on a bed of tomato-rich lentils, bringing warmth, fibre and protein in equal measure. It’s a plate you finish feeling satisfied, not heavy – the ideal winter reset.

Equally impressive are San Carlo’s grilled fresh fish offerings, often including Dover sole, sea bass and seasonal market catches. Served simply – perhaps with lemon, capers, or a drizzle of olive oil – they highlight how restraint can be a culinary superpower. A whole grilled sea bass, its skin crisp from flame, its flesh tender and fragrant, requires no embellishment beyond what the Mediterranean naturally provides.

Lean meat lovers will gravitate to Pollo Marinato, a flattened chicken breast chargrilled with butter, capers and lemon.

It’s light yet full-flavoured – proof that protein-forward dishes need not be dull or dry. The chicken arrives with that satisfying balance of char and tenderness, brightened beautifully by citrus.

This is also the perfect moment to explore San Carlo’s vegetable-forward sides and supplements. Instead of chips, opt for spinach sautéed with garlic and chilli, tenderstem broccoli glossed by olive oil, or a vibrant mixed salad kissed with seasoning. These sides, often overshadowed by heavier pairings, emerge here as stars in their own right. Each mouthful feels fresh, rewarding – the kind of eating that supports wellbeing while still tasting like a treat.

And yes, dessert is welcome. January should feel balanced, not restrictive. A scoop of San Carlo’s home-made gelato, an elegant millefeuille, or a delicate pistachio mousse cake can bring closure without excess. It’s not about denial – it’s about pleasure in moderation, guided by high-quality craft.

What San Carlo proves – unequivocally – is that lighter eating can be just as luxurious as indulgence. When dishes are rooted in fresh produce, seasonal sourcing and authentic Italian simplicity, good health and great flavour cease to be opposites. They become allies. As another year begins, this feels like the most delicious lesson of all. Salute: to freshness, vitality and meals that love you back.

San Carlo’s collection of award winning Italian restaurants can be found across the UK from Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham to Leeds, London and Bristol.

To book visit sancarlo.co.uk

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Life changing design Life Lifechanging changingdesign design Worth the investment Worththe theinvestment investment Worth

Visit our London design centre 143-149 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, London SW15 1EZ T. 0208 785 1960

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SOMETHING from NOTHING Recipes from New York Times bestselling author Alison Roman

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Pork Noodle Soup with Parmesan & Broccoli Rabe Serves 4– 6 When I’m not feeling well, I want to combine the things that make me feel best: chicken noodle soup and lots of ginger and greens. This soup does that, heavy on both the ginger and the greens. I like the noodles here to either be very large, or something very small that can crowd onto your spoon (ditalini, fregola or cooked rice). As for the greens, you really want them to cook down in the soup, taking on the softened texture of braised or stewed greens. This way, they almost melt into the broth, becoming the most tender, sweet versions of themselves. Finally, the ginger – spicy and alive – gets added both to simmer in the broth and on top, keeping the soup perky and restorative. If this doesn’t heal you, I don’t know what will.

INGREDIENTS • 1 large bunch coriander or parsley, leaves and tender stems, very finely chopped (about 1½–2 cups) • 4 spring onions (scallions), very chopped • 3–4 tablespoons finely grated fresh ginger • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped or grated • 1 teaspoon fish sauce, plus more to taste • 90 ml (3 fl oz) olive oil kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1.9–2.35 litres (64–80 fl oz/8–10 cups) chicken or vegetable stock • 2 bunches leafy greens, such as kale, mustard greens or Swiss chard, thick stems removed, leaves well chopped (about 6 cups) • 175 g (6 oz) dried pasta, such as bow ties or ditalini, or 370 g (13 oz/2 cups) cooked rice • 280 g (10 oz/2 cups) cooked chicken, shredded or cut into bite-size pieces (optional) • 2 limes or lemons, halved for squeezing over METHOD Noodle soup can be made 3 days ahead and refrigerated. It can be made, sans noodles, and frozen several months ahead.

1 Combine the herbs, spring onions, ginger, garlic, fish sauce and olive oil in a small bowl. Season with salt, pepper and more fish sauce if you want; set aside.

2 Heat the stock in a large pot and add the leafy greens and half of the herb-ginger mixture. Bring to a simmer and season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently until the broth is very gingery and the greens have gone from perky and bright green to completely tender and dark green (looking more like braised than blanched greens), 15–20 minutes.

3 Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a pot of salted water until al dente; drain and add the pasta and chicken (if using) to the broth when it’s ready, simmering for a few minutes to finish cooking. (Add the cooked rice here, if going that route.)

Overnight Lamb & Potatoes in White Wine Serv es 6 -8 This lamb is for people who don’t like lamb, for those who are scared to cook large hunks of meat, and for anyone who yearns to feel like they are in Greece. The most important part of this recipe is to not overthink it. The technique happens in the oven, requiring so little actual cooking from you that you might feel guilty for the praise you’ll receive once it’s served. Trust the process. No, you don’t need more liquid. No, it won’t burn. Yes, it really can go overnight. And yes, this recipe takes a long (slow) time. Plan ahead.

INGREDIENTS • 1 x 1.8–2.25 kg (4–5 lb) bone-in (or 1.35–1.8 kg/3–4 lb boneless) shoulder or leg of lamb, untied • salt and freshly ground black pepper • 900 g (2 lb) waxy potatoes, such as King Edward, • 2 garlic heads, unpeeled, halved widthways • 2 lemons, halved widthways • 1 bunch fresh oregano, marjoram or thyme, plus more as needed

• 1 x 750 ml (25 fl oz) bottle dry white wine olive oil, for drizzling • 1–2 handfuls of tender herbs, such as parsley, dill, chives and/or mint, for serving (optional) METHOD 1 Season the lamb with salt and pepper.

Leave in the fridge for 12–24 hours.

2 Preheat the oven to 140°C/120°C fan/275°F. Place the lamb in a large casserole (Dutch oven). Scatter the potatoes, garlic, lemons and oregano around the lamb and pour the wine over everything. Give it a good glug of olive oil so that a nice, thick layer of it is floating on top. Cover the pot with the lid (or, wrap very tightly with foil if you don’t have a lid).

3 Place in the oven and do not look or peek at it. Do not touch, poke or prod it for at least 10 hours, closer to 12 if your lamb is on the larger side, closer to 8 if boneless.

If it goes a little longer, that’s okay. This lamb is resilient. You’ll know the lamb is done when it’s golden brown and shreds easily.

4 Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. To serve, transfer the lamb to a large platter (or leave it in the pot) and pull the lamb apart into largish chunks. Spoon all the sauce, potatoes and bits of garlic over the lamb. Top with fresh herbs (if using) and another good pour of olive oil.

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

A Chilli, Because You Asked Se r ves 10 Chilli means many different things depending on where you are. This version calls for tomatoes (Texas chilli purists may as well stop reading now), is well spiced but will not necessarily light your mouth on fire, uses hunks of meat that slowly braise and calls for beans cooked from dried to soak up all that beefy, spiced, tomatoey liquid. It takes a long time to cook, simmering at least 3 hours. Is it worth it? I really think it is. The way the liquid thickens from both the long braise of the beef and the starches releasing from the beans: It’s gorgeous.

INGREDIENTS • 1.35–1.82 kg (3–4 lb) chuck roast, sirloin or brisket, cut into 4 cm ( 1½ inch) pieces • kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 tablespoons neutral oil or olive oil • 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped • 8–10 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 x 175 g (6 oz) tin tomato purée (paste) • 2 tablespoons cumin seeds or 1 tablespoon ground cumin • 2 teaspoons smoked or sweet paprika • 1½ teaspoons hot paprika (or more smoked or sweet) • 1½ teaspoons chilli flakes, or to taste • 2 x 330 ml (12 oz) tins beer (something light, like a lager) or 750 ml (25 fl oz/3 cups) water • 2 x 400 g (14 oz) tins crushed tomatoes • 450 g (1 lb) dried beans (a white, black or pinto bean, or use a mix) • toppings (you must): thinly sliced spring onions (scallions), fresh or pickled red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, full-fat sour cream, chopped coriander (cilantro), thinly sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños, crumbled tortilla chips, lime wedges, etc.

METHOD Like all great soups and stews, this chilli gets better with age. It can be made 5 days ahead and refrigerated, or 3 months ahead and frozen. Eet with cornbread, a bag of tortilla chips, another beer 1 Season the beef with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large heavybottomed pot over a medium-high

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heat. Add the beef in one layer (don’t worry too much about crowding) and cook until deeply browned on all sides, 15–18 minutes total. Transfer the beef to a large plate or bowl, leaving the fat behind; set aside. (I do not drain the fat, but you can.)

2 Add the onions and garlic to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened, 3–5 minutes. Add the tomato purée and cook until it caramelises a bit on the bottom of the pot, 2–3 minutes.

Add the cumin, smoked paprika, hot paprika and chilli flakes and cook, stirring constantly for a minute or so to toast.

3 Add the beer and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the caramelised bits on the bottom of the pot. Add the tomatoes, beans, 1.4 litres (48 fl oz/6 cups) water and the beef plus any juices. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a strong simmer.

4 Reduce the heat to medium-low – you want a gentle simmer – and cover the pot about 90 per cent of the way.

(Use a baking tray if you don’t have a lid.) Cook, checking and stirring only occasionally, until the pot has thickened into a beautiful chilli and the beef and beans are completely tender and nearly falling apart, 3–3½ hours.

5 Remove from the heat and, using a wooden spoon, encourage the hunks of beef to break down into smaller shreddy bits by gently pressing them against the side of the pot. Stir so the meat is evenly distributed and season once more with salt, pepper and maybe chilli flakes.

6 To serve, set out all the toppings you want. Use every small bowl and precious tiny plate to display your shredded cheese, sour cream and pickled things. Do not top anyone’s bowl for them but encourage them to go wild.

There are always more toppings where those came from, you say.

3 Drizzle with the lemon juice and generously spoon over the black seed honey (about 3 tablespoons is perfect).

Sprinkle over a little lemon zest and a pinch of sea salt to serve.

Extracted from Something From Nothing by Alison Roman (Quadrille, £27).

All photography by Chris Bernabeo

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THE INFINITE

RARE CHAMPAGNE.indd 56

rarechampagne_official www.rare-champagne.com Drink responsibly

19/12/2025 11:23:05

FOOD & DRINK • TOP 5

S E T A N D M A T C H A FIVE OF THE BEST MATCHA ESSENTIALS 1

IN THE MIX KO M A

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Koma, Kyoto's premium matcha brand has come to Boxcar with the indulgent Koma Yuki, a warm blend of matcha, white chocolate and nutmeg, and the lighter, floral Matcha Dream with jasmine tea infusion, rose water and lemon. boxcar.co.uk

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V E RY Z E N

H O W M AT C H A !

Expect queues at the new Notting Hill outpost of this Marylebone matcha favourite, where creative matcha drinks include a delicious collagen and rosewater option, as well as a sparkle matcha lemonade, and there's a Zen space downstairs. howmatcha.com

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TA K E A W H I S K BIRD AND BLEND

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Perfect your matcha making skills with this Deluxe Matcha Gift Set which contains a bamboo whisk, ceramic bowl and a tin of ceremonial-grade tea, along with recipes and top matcha tips. birdandblendtea.com

3 5

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PRETTY GREEN GRIND

Grind's pink coffee tins are matched with green matcha ones – and the tinned iced oat matcha lattes are handbag essentials. Matcha merch includes a stylish green cap too. grind.co.uk

5

TEA TIME

SA L A D PROJECT

Westbourne Grove's Salad Project has launched a new Matcha Bar, with a menu that brings together matcha classics and inventive new blends. We love the salted vanilla matcha – and the salad bowls are delicious too. saladproject.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The

FISHERMAN’S BRITISH WOOL CABLE JUMPER

Inspired by heritage design, we intentionally craft staples you’ll love and wear for years to come.

Discover our natural knitwear collections.

pauljamesknitwear.com

4657D JOHNSON Cable Jumper £120

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FA S H I O N

Ski season DIOR

Part of the DiorAlps capsule, the turtleneck sweater is a laid-back creation with a couture look. Crafted in a navy blue and white alpaca, cotton and wool knit, it features a Fair Isle motif inspired by the winter sports universe, embellished with the CD signature on the back. dior.com

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FASHION • TREND

THE ETHICAL SILK COMPANY

EDITOR’S PICK

Mulberry silk pyjamas, £280 theethicalsilkco.com

EBERJEY Tencel pyjama set, £170 eberjey.com

SOPHIE ALLPORT Bees pyjama set, £77 sophieallport.com

TEKLA

ASPIGA

Chestnut Stripe pyjama shirt, £180 and pants, £150 teklafabrics.com

Organic cotton pyjama set, £90 aspiga.com

PIGLET IN BED M&Co Oak Cotton pyjamas, £90 pigletinbed.com

SLEEP TALK 'Tis the season for... pyjamas

PIGLET IN BED

By P E N D L E H A R T E

Warm blue gingham pyjamas, £125 pigletinbed.com

EBERJEY Tencel Ski Chalet pyjama set, £170 eberjey.com

LAURA ASHLEY Kelbrook stripe pyjamas, £52 next.co.uk

VERONICA BEARD DEREK ROSE Cotton Batiste pyjamas, £245 derek-rose.com

Silk eye mask, £60 veronicabeard.com

WIGGY KIT Pyjama sets, £155 wiggykit.com

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ERES At ERES, every woman is free to thrive. Every movement belongs to her and becomes an expression of her freedom and well-being.

More than just a collection, the Activewear wardrobe embodies a true state of mind. eresparis.com

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anthonylabanhome.com

Photograph by Oladimeji Odunsi

Your experience at Home will always be incredible.

3 Bennet Court, 1 Bellevue Road, London, SW17 7EG

You can book an appointment using the QR code, online or by calling us on 020 3475 6644 or emailing us at info@anthonylabanhome.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y PENDLE HARTE

REVIEW

HAIR HERO

SO. SHELL The Ukranian manicurists

EDITOR’S PICK

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DY S O N

Dyson Beauty’s new Amber Silk colourway is a warm and sophisticated take on their most coveted hair-care tools with its sumptuous finish and soft, diffused glow. dyson.co.uk

LUXE fragrance B R U N E L LO C U C I N E L L I

Brunello Cucinelli has launched three new fragrances at Harrods. Expanding the Incanti Poetici collection, the three new additions created with master perfumers Alberto Morillas and Jordi Fernández are Segreto (floral, citrus) Silenzio (woody, spicy, amber) and Ricordo (floral, woody).

harrods.com

HO M E TEC H V I TA V I TA E

The new Vita Vitae micro-needling device is redefining at-home skincare. The kit includes two powerful, scientifically engineered serum boosters with an easy-touse advanced device that features 24K gold-plated micro-needles that increase serum absorption.

had never had a Ukranian manicure before. How different can it be? This is So. Shell’s newest outpost in Covent Garden, and all the staff are Ukranian. The vibe is clinical and businesslike; manicures are serious business. There’s not much introduction and my smiling therapists studies my nails carefully to start, and they’re a disgrace: my cuticles are dry and ragged, there’s flaking polish on my nails and they are a bit jagged. Immediately she begins clipping and filing – but there’s no soaking, no lotion, no oil. The main characteristic of a Ukranian manicure is that it’s totally dry, and based on precision shaping and perfecting. This takes some time, and involves an electric tool with several different attachments – it’s like a miniature sander, used for removing dry skin and it’s seriously effective. The no-lotion philosophy means that your skin is exposed with all its true defects, and the technician is inspecting my hands extremely closely. The results are the neatest nails I’ve ever seen, free of any uneveness or dryness, and a perfect starting point for polish. Everybody seems surprised when I choose regular polish over gels – and I’m sure that gels would have looked fantastic and lasted for weeks, but I just can’t get on with them. My regular polish, in a shade of dark chocolate brown, is shiny and perfect. Topcoat is applied after they’re dry, which means that I need to wait twice – but for the sake of lasting nails, who’s complaining? I’m delighted with the Ukranian way.

So. Shell 27 Shorts Gardens, WC2

soshell.uk

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND ECCO Soft 7 trainer, £130 ecco.com

SKIMS ERES Nadia top, £250 eresparis.com

AMADA

CALVIN KLEIN

Jacqueline balconette bra, £80 amadawear.com

EDITOR’S PICK

AMI PARIS Track pants, £270 farfetch.com

Cotton jersey t shirt, £52 skims.com

Sports bra, £41 calvinklein.co.uk

KIT OUT

Our pick of activewear for performance and style

By P E N D L E H A R T E ADANOLA Ultimate leggings, £40 adanola.com

NIKE High waisted leggings, £45 nike.com

SEISSENSE ME & MY ACTIVEWEAR

Sierre jacket, £104 seissense.com

PureForm tank, £55.66 meandmyactivewear.com

NIKE Swoosh sports bra, £39.99 nike.com

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Collections

British Spun Lambswool KNITWEAR

Inspired by heritage design, we intentionally craft staples you’ll love and wear for years to come.

Discover our natural knitwear collections.

pauljamesknitwear.com

3079 LIBERTY Longline Cardigan £195 | 3741 LUCIA Knitted Trousers £185

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

The era

PAY-A S -YO U -T RA I N

Why fitness needs a payas-you-go revolution

T A booking platform with four simple steps: Scroll. Tap. Book. Sweat

here’s a gap at the heart of the fitness industry, and it’s one that modern lifestyles have outgrown. While consumers increasingly demand flexibility in every aspect of their lives, gyms and studios have remained wedded to subscription models that require long-term commitments. While memberships remain a core part of the industry and work brilliantly for many people, they don’t always fit the modern, flexible lifestyles that a lot of people lead today. This disconnect has created a dual problem. Consumers are hesitant to commit to memberships they might not fully use, and studios are struggling with empty class spots that represent lost revenue.

SPORTL is addressing this mismatch head-on, reinventing a true pay-as-yougo booking platform that complements the existing model, not replaces it. No subscriptions, no credits expiring at month's end, no long-term contracts.

Users simply browse available classes, book what fits their schedule, and pay only for what they attend. Four simple steps: scroll, tap, book, sweat.

This isn't about dismantling the membership model that works well for dedicated fitness enthusiasts. Rather, it's about acknowledging that modern lifestyles often resist rigid commitments.

Someone travelling for work, testing out a new workout style, or simply not wanting to commit to a monthly fee who still wants access to quality fitness experiences.

Meanwhile, independent studios face a harsh reality that every empty spot in a class is revenue that can never be recovered.

SPORTL bridges this gap by creating a marketplace where spare capacity meets spontaneous demand. Studios gain a new

revenue stream by monetising otherwise unused spaces, while consumers access fitness on their own terms. It's the kind of innovation that feels obvious in retrospect, taking the on-demand principles that have transformed transportation, accommodation, and food delivery, and applying them to an industry that desperately needed modernisation.

The fitness sector didn't need disruption for disruption's sake. It needed a practical solution that complements existing models while serving consumers and businesses the traditional approach was leaving behind.

If you want to be part of the fitness revolution and book your classes based on your schedule join the waiting list today at sportl.co.uk.

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F O C U S

O N

V E I N S

‘Approximately one in four people will develop varicose veins in their lifetime’...

...AND

the bad news is, that unfortunately, they won’t resolve on their own. Expert intervention and treatment is the only method of getting rid of them. The good news is that treatment techniques have progressed. At The British Vein Institute, we have the expertise to treat even the largest varicose veins with foam sclerotherapy, a very effective and minimally invasive technique, performed in clinic during a 45 minute appointment.

A We normally treat the legs one at a time for people with large varicose veins on both legs. The reasons are related to the maximum permissible amount of foam sclerosant that we are allowed to inject on any one day. In addition, bandaging both legs at once is very restricting. However, if we are just treating thread veins, we can inject both legs at the same session and target areas of particular concern to our patients.

Q Do I need a scan before treatment?

A Yes. We use ultrasound imaging to check

Q What can I expect after treatment?

A Sclerotherapy is one of the safest ways

all veins at the initial consultation. This shows the origins of the varicose veins and thread veins and which underlying veins need treating. Many stubborn thread veins are fed by deeper veins that are not visible so scanning is imperative.

Q Can I have both legs treated

at the same time?

of treating varicose veins. Some patients

experience a little achiness in their legs following treatment along with bruising and lumpiness around the treated veins. This is all part of the body's natural healing process.

Q Will my veins come back

after the treatment?

A No treatment can guarantee lifelong

freedom from varicose veins. We have found that after 5 years about 10% of our patients have a few veins reappearing. These are readily treated in a further session of foam sclerotherapy, if required. After initial treatment, many patients with thread veins attend annually for a maintenance session.

Q Will treating the large varicose

“Foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive technique”

veins sort out the thread veins?

A The thread veins usually improve

following treatment of the large varicose veins. However, additional sessions of microsclerotherapy are usually required to ensure removal of these veins.

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LIVE WELL Absolutely quizzes The Hogarth Health Club's Tim Slater about how the club offers all-round health and wellbeing to members

A

AS AN INDEPENDENT HEALTH CLUB, THE HOGARTH IS DIFFERENT FROM MOST OF THE CHAINS. WHAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT?

Since our founding in 1981 by Colin White, the Hogarth has always been independent in both structure and spirit. Still family owned, we continue to pioneer with our unique ‘total wellbeing’ balance of relaxation, nutrition, mindset, community and physical wellbeing.

We’re driven by our members and take a long-term view of health. From

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the introduction of the first resistance machines in the UK in the 1980s (alongside pioneering cholesterol testing and other biomarker health indicators), to the introduction of The Hogarth Clinic in 1992, to our current offering which includes: • Exceptional indoor and outdoor fitness spaces • Included personal training • 100+ weekly classes • Dedicated holistic, conditioning and HIIT studio • Reformer Pilates • Relaxation and swimming • Tennis and Squash • A brand new food menu for 2026 • Rehabilitation and Recovery

at The Hogarth Clinic • Relaxation and Beauty at the Medispa • A private health and aesthetics clinic at The Door W4 • Dozens of annual memorable events and community experiences But the real thing that truly sets us apart is that all of the above is delivered with genuine human connection, world-class expertise, and a sense of fun and community that has been building for almost half a century.

YOUR APPROACH IS TO TAKE A HOLISTIC LOOK AT HEALTH WITH A FOCUS ON LONGEVITY. HOW DOES THIS MANIFEST?

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

Longevity is not about extreme optimisation or quick fixes - it’s about helping people live well, for longer, so they can do the things they want in a way that’s sustainable and enjoyable. At The Hogarth, that means supporting the whole person: how they move, recover, fuel themselves, manage stress, rehabilitate from setbacks, stay motivated, learn new skills, and adapt as life changes.

We start this path to longevity with five one-to-one personal training sessions in the gym in the first month of membership.

This helps us really understand personal goals and motivations, and set each individual up for lasting progress (with one included 1-1 PT session every month thereafter). Critically, these sessions are provided as a key means for the member to get to know us, and us to get to know them, and build the relationships that are the heart of everything we do.

Following that introduction, members can explore their own unique way to integrate our services. Over the course of a few months, a member might: • Train in the gym; • work with a sports therapist on injury prevention; • support their nutrition with balanced meals; • use the spa pool for recovery and relaxation;

• nurture their long-term skin health at The Door W4; • try a Reformer Pilates taster session; • have a relaxing massage at the Medispa; • …and book a court to work on their backhand for the annual tennis championships!

It’s joined-up wellbeing, delivered in a way that feels accessible, personal, and sustainable.

THE CLUB HAS BEEN OFFERING CHOLESTEROL TESTING FOR MEMBERS SINCE THE 1990S. WHERE DOES THAT LEAD? That early commitment to

health screening speaks volumes about Hogarth’s mindset. Long before “wellness” became a buzzword, The Hogarth recognised the power of understanding what’s happening inside the body.

Today, that legacy has evolved into a much broader, more sophisticated health offering. Screening and biomarker insights help members make informed decisions, track progress and spot potential issues early. Our proprietary ‘Octagon’ health and fitness tests help members track their physical progress, alongside their inclusive monthly PT session.

We have extensive rehabilitation and preventative services that we have been building in collaboration with leading

experts for over 30 years. This includes sports therapy, osteopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic and physiotherapy. These essential services are the support structure that enable our members, not only to recover, but to prevent injury and setbacks. Crucially, data is never delivered in isolation. It’s interpreted by experts who help members understand what it means for them, and how to take practical, sustainable action to improve their wellbeing over time.

THE HOGARTH CLUB WORKS WITH THE DOOR W4 TO SUPPORT MEMBERS’ WELLBEING - WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT IS THERE? The Door W4 offers multi-award-

winning specialist clinical, surgical, dental and aesthetic expertise that complements the Health Club, offering members access to trusted medical insight and advanced treatments in a familiar, supportive environment – on-site here in Chiswick.

The Door W4 is home to some of the UK’s top practitioners including: • Health • Dentistry • Aesthetics • Minor Surgery • Hormone Therapies • Mental Health • Women’s Health A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

“YOU CAN ACCESS THE MOST ADVANCED TREATMENTS, DELIVERED BY EXPERTS, AT ONE EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION” From health screenings to advanced menopause symptom support, from skin laxity to cosmetic dentistry, we understand that wellbeing is personal, multi-faceted, and goes way beyond basic health and fitness. You can access the most advanced treatments, delivered by experts, at one exceptional location.

THERE’S A STRONG SOCIAL ASPECT TO LIFE AT THE CLUB. HOW DOES THAT LOOK? The Hogarth is very much a social

hub. Bonds form naturally over a shared commitment to wellbeing, that spans across ages, backgrounds and stages of life. There are connections built around class regulars in Pilates or HIIT; there is a buzzing tennis and squash scene; there are those that like to push themselves in our annual fitness challenges and thrive on friendly competition; and there are even informal connections such as those that favour the outdoor gym in the summer.

We nurture our community with regular events, from iconic themed parties in the bar and terrace (The Hogarth Hoedown, Casino Night), to fitness challenges (JoeRox, Terry’s Legendary Duathlon), to our annual Santa Run where partners, members, friends and family take to the streets of Chiswick in aid of local charities.

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WHAT SPORTS AND CLASSES ARE ON OFFER AT THE CLUB? AND WHAT’S NEW?

Standard Hogarth membership offers a broad and carefully curated programme, from strength and conditioning, yoga, Pilates, Group Cycle and functional training to racquet sports, Aqua and other specialist classes that support mobility, recovery and performance.

Our combination of inclusive personal training and broad class and activity availability is a fantastic way to structure a really holistic and sustainable routine.

We are also proud to have launched Solstice Reformer Pilates this year, bringing a new premium fitness experience in-house, in a beautiful and bright studio with classes are led by some of London’s top instructors.

What sets The Hogarth apart is that we can offer truly personalised, science-backed insight, delivered with care and personal context that makes it work for you. We can guide members towards the services that will truly impact them in a positive way.

Therefore, “the future of wellness” is about easy access to truly holistic integrated services. One destination where premium health, fitness, rehabilitation, nutritional and medical services are available, so you can feel your best and support your wellbeing for life. At The Hogarth, you can challenge yourself physically, address that skin concern that’s been holding you back, finally recover from that old knee injury, and also get your lashes done at the Medispa before that special party (followed by a glass of something on the way out to get things started). It’s all about balance.

As a Health Club, our job is to create an environment where people can thrive - physically, mentally and socially - over the long term.

That’s the future Hogarth has been quietly building for decades. thehogarth.co.uk the doorw4.co.uk

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE FUTURE OF WELLNESS LOOKS LIKE? The future

of wellness is more integrated, more personalised and more human – everything The Hogarth has always been about.

We know people are becoming increasingly savvy – they are well researched, there is no limit to the information available now on health and wellbeing via the internet and the ‘AI revolution’ (“CHAT GPT, what’s the best way to do a bicep curl?”).

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Start the new year with intention at Chuan Body + Soul, The Langham, London.

Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chuan delivers a restorative yet results driven approach to wellbeing. Choose from Chuan signature full body massages, rejuvenating facials or indulgent Rhug Wild Beauty treatments crafted with wild foraged ingredients.

Set within serene treatment rooms and complemented by a 21 metre pool, sauna, steam rooms and relaxation lounge, Chuan is your sanctuary for balance, renewal and total wellbeing this January.

For more information or to book: Phone: +44 (20) 7973 7550 | Email: tllon.info@chuanbodyandsoul.com

1c Portland Place, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA

langhamhotels.com/London

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROMOTION

WILL DURU

M E E T

Y O U R

GOALS

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ith eight years of experience in personal training and 12 years in the fitness industry, I have dedicated myself to helping my clients, then and now, to achieve whatever health and fitness goals they have set for themselves.

Some simply want to make healthy lifestyle changes, lose weight or build confidence whilst others want to hone in on the specifics; for example, professional athletes choose me to help them increase strength whilst staying injury-free during competition season.

As a personal trainer – and winner of Best Personal Trainer of the Year for 2023-2024 at the British Business Awards – I stick by my clients, helping

Embarking on a fitness journey? Award winning personal trainer Will Duru can help them to continue living life to the fullest whilst also guiding them towards hitting their targets and transforming their health and mindset. From Ola’s 25kg weight loss, to James’ impressive win at his first ever white collar boxing match.

Personalised plans, tailored sessions and continual support away from the gym walls is something I offer all my clients and I am sure that this has helped each and every one of them to succeed.

Some of my client’s transformations have been so impressive in fact, they’ve landed coverage in national publications including the Telegraph, Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness and the Sun. These transformations aren’t just about the aesthetics however; the overall wellbeing of my clients has also improved ten-fold. Witnessing this progress and knowing that I have played a role in their journeys is rewarding to say the least.

As well as this, I am often quoted by a wealth of different UK and international publications. I am committed to staying up to speed with the latest fitness trends, techniques and research and I regularly attend workshops and training sessions to ensure I can provide the most effective coaching methods for my clients.

Alongside the 1-2-1 coaching, I am proud of the free community class which I developed and built, offering over 15 local people every week the chance to take part in boxing drills and HIIT exercises. Fitness should not just be confined to the gym and it certainly shouldn’t be something targeted only to the wealthy; I encourage inclusivity and want everyone to feel as though they have easy access to workouts.

07872 309456 ptwill.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Rest and

retreat The best summer wellness escapes to book now

A Pilates Retreat with Geneva’s Sol Studio at Four Seasons Hotel Megève FRENCH ALPS 28-31 August | RETREAT GOAL: To restore balance and vitality The retreat will blend reformer pilates, therapeutic massages, mountain hikes, and calming yoga flows to restore balance and vitality. Chef Armando Acquaviva’s flavourful dishes complete the experience, nourishing body and mind. The retreat will include reformer classes for all levels (newbie, intermediate, and advanced) plus Sol Studio’s Sol Signature Class, a unique fusion of yoga and Pilates, as well as mat-based Pilates, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Yin yoga. To enrich each stay, a range of group physical and meditative activities will be offered too. Led by a coach, guests are invited to reconnect through sessions in the fitness room or immersed in nature. The program includes meditative walks in the hotel gardens, dynamic circuit training, Yin Yoga facing the peaks, morning stretching sessions, relaxation rituals to promote deep sleep, and much more.

Rates: From £540 per night (x2 adults, room only).

Information and Reservations: E-mail: spa. megeve@fourseasons.com or call +33 04 50 211 211 https://solstudio.ch/

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • WELLNESS

New Kuda Fit Residency with Faisal Abdalla at Kuda Villingili MALDIVES 10-16 July | RETREAT GOAL: To empower guests to build strength, boost confidence, and cultivate a resilient mindset

Kuda Villingili Maldives introduced the KUDA FIT Residency, a high-energy wellness experience led by fitness coach Faisal Abdalla, affectionately known as “Mr. PMA” (Positive Mental Attitude). This exclusive residency offers guests the opportunity to train with one of the UK’s best fitness personalities in a setting of unparalleled natural beauty. Participants engage in group workouts, motivational sessions and tailored fitness coaching, all designed to build strength, boost confidence, and cultivate a resilient mindset. Faisal’s signature approach combines physical training with mental empowerment. Set against the idyllic backdrop of the Maldives, this residency combines world-class training with the serene beauty of turquoise lagoons, powder-white beaches, and lush tropical surroundings.

Rates: From £1,200 per night for a Sunset Beach Villa with Private Pool on a bed and breakfast basis, excluding taxes. kudavillingili.com/

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • WELLNESS

Ancient Greek healing at Cape Sounio Athens Riviera GREECE Available throughout the summer season | RETREAT GOAL: To guide guests through a multi-level journey of holistic healing and personal renewal, blending ancient Greek wisdom with modern therapeutic practices.

Elevations of Wellness at Cape Sounio is a transformative journey into holistic wellbeing, rooted in ancient Greek healing traditions and elevated by modern science.

Curated by renowned osteopath and author Vicky Vlachonis, this immersive program unfolds within the serene embrace of the reimagined Cape Sounio Spa, nestled between pine forests and the Aegean Sea, with panoramic views of the legendary Temple of Poseidon. Vicky, whose clients include Gwyneth Paltrow and Beyonce, brings over 20 years of expertise in mind-body wellness to this collaboration.Treatments include therapeutic massages, olive oil dry brushing, craniosacral therapy, guided meditations, and bespoke nutritional guidance, all emphasizing the vital connection between physical, digestive, and emotional health.

From £426 per night (x2 adults, room only) grecotel.com/capesounio/

A Wellness & Nourish Retreat with Rhiannon Lambert at Chewton Glen HAMPSHIRE 6-7 July | RETREAT GOAL: To learn how to cook delicious, balanced dishes that nourish both body and mind Registered Nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert’s retreat will blend expert-led cookery masterclasses, award-winning spa treatments, and wholesome cuisine to restore balance and nourish both body and mind. Set between the rolling Hampshire countryside and dramatic Dorset coast, this transformative experience combines practical nutrition education with the calming luxury of the historic estate.

The retreat will include an inspiring cookery masterclass where guests learn to create delicious, balanced dishes that promote wellness, followed by lunch in The Kitchen.

Information and Reservations: Prices from £720 per person (based on double occupancy). chewtonglen.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

“The Wellness Lab takes a thoughtful, grounded approach”

OPTIMISE

HEALTH Why The Wellness Lab is London’s smartest science-led sanctuary

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n the heart of Knightsbridge, The Wellness Lab offers a quiet revolution in modern self-care, combining science, precision, and calm in perfect harmony. A specialist clinic for longevity and recovery, it supports your body’s healing with a suite of holistic, non-invasive therapies. Wellbeing here unfolds with intention and lasting effect.

At the centre of their offering is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) – a treatment once reserved for elite athletes and medical settings, now reimagined as a transformative experience for anyone seeking better energy, faster recovery, and cellular repair. Clients lie comfortably inside a sleek, clinically

registered chamber while breathing pure oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure.

By the end of it, you’ll notice improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and an incredibly noticeable lift in vitality.

While HBOT takes centre stage, it’s only part of the story. The Wellness Lab’s menu spans ozone therapy, molecular hydrogen, photobiomodulation (red and near-infrared light), lymphatic drainage, and vitamin drips and injections. Each treatment is grounded in functional medicine and tailored to support immunity, detoxification, and regeneration, making it equally suited to jet lag recovery or fatigue management.

This approach isn’t about trends or surfacelevel fixes. It’s deeply intentional. Every session begins with a consultation with the medical team, who guide clients with care and clinical clarity. The space itself reflects that balance: minimalist, calming, and quietly high-tech. No gimmicks, no noise, just results.

Rather than chasing quick fixes, The Wellness Lab takes a thoughtful, grounded approach. These therapies have been selected for their ability to complement our body’s repair processes, offering powerful support for our natural healing systems. This is a space built on transparency, professionalism, and trust.

Clients range from high-performance professionals to those recovering from illness or managing long-term health conditions. Others come in simply in search of greater energy, longevity, and an overall better quality of life. Many arrive curious; most leave committed.

In a world that celebrates doing more, The Wellness Lab offers something smarter.

A chance to focus inward, rejuvenate, and invest in longevity. Breathe, not just more deeply, but more intelligently.

07724 601630 @ the.wellness.lab thewellnesslab.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Retirement Apartments to Rent or Purchase in Windsor Our Retirement Apartments are some of the largest in the UK Our 1 and 2-bedroom apartments offer up to 960sqft of living space, with separate additional storage and parking.

24/7 Service that’s always on hand, but never in the way Our homeowners say “It’s like living on a boutique cruise ship moored at the edge of Windsor!”

Offering complete privacy or lively social spaces Enjoy panoramic views from our rooftop Sky Lounge, dine in our bistro or private dining room, relax in our library, coffee lounge or 1 of our 2 bars.

Rent from £2,663 per month or purchase from £350,000* Scan the QR Code to discover more!

Alternatively call Nicky, our Later Living Advisor on 01753 378127, to discuss how your lifestyle can flourish at Castle View, Windsor.

Other purchase charges apply.

*

Castle View Retirement Living, Windsor SL4 5GG | 01753 336060 | castleviewwindsor.co.uk Follow us... on our socials for future events, plus hints & tips on how to stay active in later life! Search: Castle View Windsor

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HEALTH AND BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

A FOCUS ON BALANCE, PREVENTION AND RESTORATION

B A L A N C E D B E G I N N I N G S Chuan Body + Soul at The Langham, London is a rare sanctuary in the city

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s the new year begins, Chuan Body + Soul at The Langham, London invites guests to embrace a “New Year, New You” philosophy; one rooted not in quick fixes, but in meaningful, long-term wellbeing. Inspired

by Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chuan’s approach focuses on balance, prevention and restoration, making it the ideal destination for a mindful reset early 2026.

A highlight of this new chapter is Chuan’s landmark partnership with Rhug Wild Beauty, introduced late last year. As the first five-star spa to showcase the brand, Chuan offers exclusive treatments infused with organic, wild-foraged ingredients from the Rhug Estate in North Wales. These deeply nurturing rituals marry TCM-inspired techniques with Rhug’s sustainable, results-led formulations, perfect for those seeking both visible improvements and profound relaxation.

Chuan’s commitment to sustainability extends well beyond its treatment menu.

Locally sourced products and ethical brands play a central role, including KLORIS, whose CBD products can be added to treatments to support calm, recovery and sleep, an ideal companion for post-festive rebalancing.

For guests looking to elevate their wellness goals, Chuan offers a sophisticated blend of traditional and cutting-edge therapies. Glow-boosting Hydrafacials® deliver immediate radiance, while Effect Doctors’ IV vitamin drips provide targeted internal support for energy, immunity and hydration. Pierre de la Vilhierve adds a further layer of expertise, offering consultations, acupuncture and medical manicures and pedicures ensuring wellness is addressed from every angle.

January 2026 also marks the launch of new Chuan membership packages, designed for those ready to commit to their wellbeing long-term. These memberships offer a

tailored pathway to health and fitness, expert guidance and access to all Chuan’s treatments within an intimate, luxurious setting.

In addition, the spa is one of the few in London to collaborate with a GMCregistered Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Ash Soni, who offers nonsurgical aesthetic treatments during his weekly residency. This exclusive offering provides guests with access to expert-led, medical-grade treatments in a serene and discreet environment.

With just four serene treatment rooms, a 16-metre pool, sauna and steam rooms, and a calming relaxation lounge, Chuan Body + Soul remains a rare sanctuary in the city. This New Year, it offers more than a resolution, it offers a refined, sustainable way to feel better, live better and reconnect with yourself.

For further information or to book please email: tllon.info@chuanbodyandsoul.com or call 020 7973 7550 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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A STEAM let off Are saunas the new lifestyle medicine?

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s we place increasing value on our mental and physical health, GPs are shifting their thinking from fixing disease to nurturing resilient, thriving humans – and sauna is mooted as a promising lifestyle medicine.

Rooted in Baltic and Nordic cultures, the traditional outdoor sauna is the ultimate prescription. Why? Thaisa Box, co-founder of luxury garden sauna company Wildhut, suggests there are two main reasons.

CONNECTING WITH NATURE “Outdoor saunas are especially popular for the sensory experience that comes with connecting to nature,” Thaisa explains, “disconnecting from life, creating a retreat and enjoying the many health benefits of sauna use.”

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

EXTRACTING MAXIMUM HEALTH BENEFITS “The ‘magic’ of a traditional sauna lies with the intense, immersive heat coming from the stones and the steamy air within the sauna,” Thaisa adds. “As water pours over the stones, it turns to steam and fills the sauna with a beautiful steamy heat that opens up pores and promotes a deep, intense sweat that improves blood circulation and muscle recovery.

Uniquely, a traditional sauna also improves arterial stiffness and protects against Alzheimer's, dementia, respiratory disease and pneumonia.”

If you are considering buying a sauna, the team at Wildhut suggest considering the following before making your decision.

DESIGN AESTHETIC Modern or classic? Interior designer and co-founder of Wildhut, Lisa Deller, says: “For Wildhut, we wanted a classic British design that would fit a contemporary city garden as perfectly as a country estate – and create a timeless asset.

“If you’re investing in a sauna, the best advice is to buy one that will look as good in years to come as it does when new.”

LONGEVITY The timber and construction method makes the difference between a sauna that buckles and warps or stands the test of time. “We source premium, slow-grown timber from cold climates that’s thermo-treated and we build our saunas with an ultra-strong and sustainable core, using cutting-edge cross-laminated timber construction,” Lisa says. “This offers incredible stability compared to framed saunas, which is great for longevity – and the thickness of the timber provides the best sauna experience.”

CONTRAST THERAPY The benefits of frequent sauna bathing are clear, but when you add ‘contrast therapy’ – going from hot to cold and vice versa – you realise even more payback.

The potent combination of sauna and an ice plunge together improves circulation, muscle recovery, immune function, mental wellbeing and skin health, while reducing inflammation.

Wildhut makes contrast therapy easy with marine-grade showers, or if you have more space, a premium ice plunge designed by one of their expert partners to match your sauna.

HEAT SOURCE A wood-fired stove is ideal for remote locations and a truly authentic, off-grid sauna experience. Wildhut takes advantage of newly developed technology to ensure their wood-fired stoves are clean burning and efficient. If you want convenience, optimum energy efficiency and instant heat, also opt for an electric heater that you can control remotely via a phone app.

is included as standard, to create the perfect ambience. Each hook and hinge is marine-grade or premium sauna grade, to ensure they continue to perform well and look beautiful long into the future.

Bluetooth speakers are an optional extra.

SIZE If you’re constrained by space and opting for a small sauna, think about how you’ll use it. Do you like lying down or sitting?

If you’re buying a large sauna – ideal for reaping the social benefits – choose a solid construction that will cope well in the great British weather. Wildhuts come in four sizes, for two to nine people. You can even extend your sauna to include a porch, with an integrated shower.

If you’re ready to reap the health benefits of sauna for yourself, Wildhut is the ultimate wood-scented sanctuary.

Scan the QR code to find out more and book your free consultation

LUXURIOUS FEATURES

WILDHUT FOUNDERS, THAISA BOX AND LISA DELLER

Every element has been considered thoroughly and designed to deliver the best experience when you buy a Wildhut. Triple glazed windows are sized and positioned to enhance a great view, or offer calming privacy, whilst providing excellent thermal efficiency. High spec sauna LED lighting A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TESTING

Health score As dry January begins,we're all wondering about the state of our livers.

Pendle Harte tests the Liver Clinic’s FibroScan® to find out

D

id you know that your liver is the size of a chihuahua?

Well I didn’t, actually.

Until today I knew very little about my liver other than wondering whether my taste for wine was a problem.

That’s why I’m lying in a small treatment room in Wigmore Street about to undergo a scan that will reveal the health of this major organ. “The liver has no pain receptors,” says the cheerful consultant breezily. This means that I could have a fairly well developed case of fatty liver disease without feeling any symptoms at all. But happily, whatever damage you might have to your liver, it can be reversed within about three months.

And, I am told, it’s not even really about alcohol at all (so anyone doing dry Jan for the sake of their liver needs to look beyond the booze). “About a third of the population has non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,” she says, shockingly. Diet and exercise are more of an issue than simply alcohol, apparently, and diets high in UPFs are the main culprits.

This is The Liver Clinic’s new flagship location at John Bell & Croyden and I

am about to experience the FibroScan®.

It’s much like an ultrascan, but they press a bit harder and I can feel a slight jolting sensation in my ribs. The results are instant, and it’s good news: I have passed with flying colours. My two scores, one for stiffness and the other for fatty liver, both fall well within the recommended range. Phew.

But that’s not to say that I couldn’t benefit from the Clinic’s signature supplement, de-liver-ance®, which they say is “an all-natural, scientifically backed supplement which supports optimal liver function, increases mental clarity, and helps the body process toxins more effectively.” These small bottles of dark liquid are designed to be swallowed like shots, and the herbal taste is somewhere between Fernet Branca and Jaegermeister, for anyone familiar with Central European digestive bitters. Best of all, a dose before a night out can act as “an SPF for your liver”, preventing any hangover suffering.

While there are no concrete symptoms associated with an unhealthy liver, the liver has strong connections with our emotions, and anger, for instance, can

affect liver stiffness. Sugar cravings and high cortisol are also connected, and liver plays a crucial role in immunity. Alcohol doesn’t tell the whole story: the liver does much more than simply process beer. So it’s certainly worth looking after. I’m delighted that mines's okay, but I can't stop picturing a small dog underneath my ribs. theliverclinic.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

S P E C I A L T R E A T M E N T Studio Luune is a small sanctuary woven with intention

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here are places you go to for a treatment, and then there are places you return to because something in you shifts when you step inside. Studio Luune belongs firmly to the second category.

Created by French therapist Claire-Rachel, Studio Luune is a small sanctuary woven with intention - warm light, soft textures, the subtle scent of essential oils, and a sense that time slows as soon as the door closes behind you. It is a studio built on touch, yes, but also on listening. And that is what clients speak about the most: feeling truly seen.

Many of Rachel’s regular clients describe their sessions as “coming home to myself.”

Others talk about walking in with a tight jaw, tired skin, or a heavy heart, and leaving as if someone had gently cleared the fog. One client recently wrote: “Rachel doesn’t just

treat your skin - she meets you where you are.” Another said, “I didn’t realise how much I needed the silence until I was in it.”

Studio Luune is known for its facials and massages, but what clients discover is something deeper: ritual. Every movement is considered, unhurried, shaped around the person on the table. Rachel’s sculpting techniques feel almost like a dance: firm where needed, feather-light when the body softens. Her Seoul Radiance Facial is celebrated for its glow, but clients often speak first about the moment they feel tension melt from places they didn’t realise were holding it. The Full Moon Package, a two-hour immersion of hot stones and tailored facial work, is something people book when they need to reset not only their skin, but their entire being.

What clients gain is not simply better skin, though that inevitably follows.

They gain a space where they can let go without explanation. A place where

their breath deepens. A moment where someone’s hands remind them what softness feels like after weeks, months, sometimes years of carrying too much.

The atmosphere at Studio Luune is intimate, but never intrusive. Rachel’s French sensibility brings a quiet elegance to the experience; her years of practice bring confidence and skill and her intuition brings everything together. She notices things - the way the shoulders rise with each inhale, the way the skin warms, the way the jaw finally unlocks. Her clients trust her not because she performs a treatment, but because she understands the body in front of her.

In a city that asks so much of us, Studio Luune offers a moment to be held, restored, and remembered. Clients leave with lifted cheekbones, brighter eyes, and softer skin, but also with their energy realigned, their mind quieter, their heart a little steadier. Studio Luune is not just a destination. It’s a refuge. studioluune.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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THE C O UNTRY HOUSE HOTEL THAT RE W RITES THE RUL ES

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LIVE WELL BODY & SOUL A sanctuary of calm within The Langham, London’s iconic five star hotel, Chuan Body + Soul is where ancient wisdom meets modern wellness. Inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Five Elements, this intimate spa delivers results-driven treatments alongside deeply restorative experiences, from exclusive Rhug Wild Beauty therapies and glow-enhancing facials to advanced IV drips and holistic healing. Sustainable, serene and effortlessly luxurious, Chuan Body + Soul is the capital’s destination for balance, beauty and wellbeing.

& RELAX Absolutely's guide to the best spas in 2026

I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H

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CHUAN BODY + SOUL The Langham, London

Chill out

ZONE Absolutely's Spa Guide for 2026

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An oasis of calm in the heart of the capital, Chuan Body + Soul continues to set the benchmark for holistic luxury wellness as it enters 2026 with a renewed focus on results, ritual and responsible beauty.

Rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Chuan offers a deeply personalised spa journey inspired by balance, flow and longevity, all perfectly aligned with the modern wellness seeker.

Late last year, Chuan Body + Soul proudly became the first five-star spa in the UK to partner with Rhug Wild Beauty, introducing a bespoke collection of exclusive facial and body treatments. Crafted from organic and wildforaged ingredients harvested on the Rhug Estate in Wales, these treatments seamlessly blend Chuan’s ancient TCM philosophy with Rhug’s farm-to-skin ethos. The result is a collection that is as results-driven as it is restorative, delivering visible benefits while nurturing mind, body and spirit.

Sustainability remains central to Chuan’s philosophy. Alongside Rhug, the spa champions local and ethical partners such as KLORIS, whose CBD-infused products can be bolted onto treatments for enhanced relaxation, recovery and skin health. Every detail, from sourcing to service, reflects a commitment to conscious luxury.

The spa offers an expertly curated mix of modern wellness innovations. Hydrafacials® deliver instant glow and long-term skin health, while Effect Doctors’ IV drips provide targeted health benefits, supporting immunity, energy and hydration. Pierre de la Vilhierve completes the offering, delivering everything from in-depth consultations and acupuncture to medicalgrade manicures and pedicures.

The spa’s intimate setting with just four tranquil treatment rooms ensures a highly personalised experience, complemented by male and female sauna and steam rooms, a 16-metre swimming pool and a stateof-the-art Technogym fitness studio.

Launching in January 2026, new membership packages invite guests to make wellness a way of life, offering exclusive access, tailored treatments and priority booking.

For further information or to book please email: tllon.info@chuanbodyandsoul. com or call 020 7973 7550

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SPA GUIDE

GALGORM RESORT Ireland

To feel utmost care and comfort, venture across the Irish Sea to Galgorm Resort is the one of the best UK spa retreat weekends. This pioneering destination introduced Ireland’s first Thermal Village, creating one of the most comprehensive spa weekend getaways in the UK territories. Surrender to the Sauna Master’s guided experience in the Celtic Sauna overlooking the river, followed by an evening in the Gin Library sampling from over 300 varieties. This is one of the best UK spa breaks for couples wanting something beyond the ordinary, offering weekend luxury spa sessions that truly transport you to another world. galgorm.com

CHEWTON GLEN Hampshire

When it comes to the top spa breaks in the UK, Chewton Glen invariably tops the list. This five-star Relais & Châteaux property has perfected the art of luxury spa weekends, combining 18th-century elegance with world-class wellness facilities across 130 acres of Hampshire countryside.

The service comes with breakfast hampers delivered silently through a secret hatch, and your private hot tub offers forest-canopy vistas that make for a lovely weekend spa break in the UK. chewtonglen.com

COWLEY MANOR EXPERIMENTAL Gloucestershire

This architectural masterpiece seamlessly blends traditional methods to innovative techniques and contemporary design, creating one of the most sought-after spa hotel weekends in the UK. Float in the outdoor heated pool whilst gazing across the estate’s lake view, then retreat to the contemporary interiors for inventive cocktails in the cobalt-blue bar.

The sophisticated atmosphere makes it one of the most memorable romantic spa weekend getaways in the UK. cowleymanorexperimental.com

GLENEAGLES Scotland

When considering top spa breaks in the UK that extend to Scotland, Gleneagles

represents Scottish luxury at its finest.

This iconic estate combines championship golf with an exceptional spa, creating memorable experiences in the Highlands.

The estate offers falconry, shooting, and championship golf alongside spa indulgence, making it a superb choice for spa and activity weekends in the UK. gleneagles.com

CALCOT MANOR & SPA Gloucestershire

Proving that spa weekend breaks in the UK can accommodate families without compromising luxury, Calcot Manor has mastered the seemingly impossible balance.

Set within 220 acres of rewilded Cotswolds countryside, this former farmhouse offers one of the best weekend spa getaways for multi-generational gatherings. The combination of thoughtful family facilities and genuine luxury makes it exceptional among weekend spa breaks in the UK. An amazing fact is that it has four-hour daily childcare support, means parents can enjoy couples spa moments whilst children are entertained, making this a rare find in the luxury spa in the UK areas. calcot.co A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SPA GUIDE

PENNYHILL PARK HOTEL & SPA Surrey

The 45,000 square foot spa is simply staggering in scale, featuring eight pools including an indoor pool with underwater music, Roman-inspired heated chambers, thermal cabins, and seemingly endless relaxation spaces. The Ballroom Pool, where you can swim lengths whilst underwater music creates an otherworldly ambience, is a truly unique feature among spa hotels in the UK. Recognized as one of the best weekend spas UK, Pennyhill Park combines country house grandeur with Europe’s largest hotel spa. The sheer variety of facilities ensures that weekend spa breaks UK at Pennyhill Park never feel repetitive. exclusive.co.uk/pennyhill-park

SOHO FARMHOUSE Oxfordshire

For an unconventional spa retreat, Soho Farmhouse brings urban sophistication to 100 acres of Oxfordshire countryside.

The Boathouse Spa, set beside a private lake, combines Scandinavian-inspired design with comprehensive facilities including a hammam, wood-burning sauna, and indoor-outdoor pool. This is particularly appealing for fashion-forward couples seeking romantic spa weekend experiences with contemporary style. sohofarmhouse.com

AQUA SANA AT CENTER PARC S Bedfordshire

World of Spa journey through 25 experiences from Finnish saunas to Moroccan hammams offers exceptional value in the UK spa market. Twentyfive different spa experiences including tropical saunas, ice rooms, and outdoor Scandinavian hot tubs create comprehensive thermal journeys. The forest settings across five UK locations make last minute spa weekend UK bookings possible nationwide. The multiple locations mean you can find a spa weekend getaway option wherever you’re based in the UK. aquasana.co.uk

LIME WOOD Hampshire

Within the ancient New Forest, Lime Wood offers a lovely spa experience where forest bathing comes with five-star luxury.

The Herb House Spa, hidden in the forest, combines cutting-edge technology with nature-based treatments. The forest location offers natural seclusion for everyone who needs a rejuvenation. limewoodhotel.co.uk

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For our mothers, for our fathers, for our KYN. KYN has created a new category of care, where homes are designed with our own family in mind. Each day invites independence, friendship and comfort, supporting residents to live their best lives no matter their age.

A care home we’d be proud to choose for our own.

More information about KYN Hurlingham and KYN Bickley, as well as our upcoming residences in Highgate and Kensington, can be found via the QR code.

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Per alised private home

care, delivered

with discretion...

For over 30 years, Patricia White’s has enabled clients throughout the UK to remain in the comfort of their own homes by introducing self-employed carers to assist them in maintaining their independence.

At Patricia White’s, we support our clients by introducing them to self-employed carers who can provide companionship care and domestic support tailored to meet their individual needs and preferences.

Our services include: • • • • •

Live-in Care Visiting Care Respite and Travel Companionship Post-Operative and Recovery Support Palliative and End-of-Life Care

Contact us today to discuss a tailored care plan that meets your exacting standards.

0808 281 2619 www.patriciawhites.co.uk info@patriciawhites.co.uk

We understand that our clients’ needs are unique and likely to vary over time.

To accommodate this, we undertake a meticulous selection process to choose only the very best self-employed carers to work with us.

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Platinum

Years

MODERN SERENITY As we embrace 2026, discover a life of uncompromising quality at Battersea Place, London’s premier retirement village. Ideally situated opposite the verdant beauty of Battersea Park, Battersea Place redefines independent living. Here, the luxury of time is yours to savour. Whether you are indulging in our exquisite on-site restaurant, rejuvenating in the serene swimming pool, or exploring Chelsea via our private chauffeur service, your lifestyle remains paramount. With 24/7 concierge service and a vibrant, like-minded community, enjoy the freedom to pursue your passions in a sanctuary of peace and sophistication. Welcome to a new chapter of vitality at Battersea Place.

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MINDFUL LUXURY A renaissance of wellbeing: redefining your lifestyle in 2026 at Battersea Place

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PLATINUM • PARTNERSHIP

“WE UNDERSTAND THAT RETIREMENT SHOULD BE A CHAPTER OF UNPARALLELED FREEDOM”

A

s the dawn of 2026 breaks over the capital, the month of January naturally invites a moment of reflection.

It is a time when we cast a discerning eye over our routines and resolve to prioritise our health and happiness. At LifeCare Residences, we believe that true wellbeing is not born from fleeting New Year’s resolutions, but from an environment that effortlessly supports your lifestyle every single day.

At Battersea Place, London’s premier luxury retirement village, we understand that retirement should be a chapter of unparalleled freedom.

The burdens of home maintenance and everyday chores are discreetly lifted from your shoulders by our dedicated team, granting you the most precious luxury of all: time. Time to focus on your fitness, to indulge your passions, and to curate a lifestyle that is as active and enriching as you desire.

For those looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle in 2026, there is no finer setting.

Situated in an enviable position directly opposite Battersea Park, our community offers a unique connection to nature in the heart of the city. Imagine starting your morning with a brisk, reinvigorating walk through the mist-covered park, or perhaps a gentle stroll across the Thames to Chelsea.

Within the village, residents enjoy exclusive access to our state-of-the-art gymnasium, where maintaining strength and agility becomes a pleasure rather than a chore. For a lower-impact workout, our serene indoor swimming pool is a tranquil oasis for leisurely laps or aquarobics classes.

But a healthy lifestyle extends far beyond physical fitness: Battersea Place is designed to foster a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. Our bespoke concierge service and dedicated activities team curate a diverse programme of events, outings, and experiences, including engaging talks by visiting experts. Unleash your creativity in our dedicated craft room, or lose yourself in a literary world in our library:

the opportunities for personal fulfilment are boundless. For moments of relaxation, our private cinema room hosts communal screenings, and should you wish to explore the capital, our bespoke chauffeur service allows you to attend the theatre, galleries, or appointments with absolute ease and comfort.

For many of our residents, fine dining and the ability to entertain are pillars of their social lives. At Battersea Place, you need not relinquish the joy of hosting; instead, it becomes effortless. Our on-site restaurant offers a dining experience that rivals the capital’s favourite bistros and serves as the perfect, sophisticated backdrop for lunch with old friends or a celebratory dinner with family – perhaps in the private dining room allowing you to remain the consummate host without the preparation and tidying away.

Perhaps the most significant luxury we offer is peace of mind. While you focus on living life to the fullest, you can rest assured knowing that support is always at hand.

From our 24/7 concierge to the reassurance of 24-hour on-site domiciliary care and emergency response, your safety is our priority. Furthermore, with the proximity of The Albert Suites, our luxury care home in the village, you have the comfort of knowing that comprehensive care is available should your needs ever change.

Make 2026 the year you discover this unique way of life.

To arrange a private tour, please contact Ina Betsi, Sales and Marketing Manager on 020 7924 8641 or batterseaplace.co.uk.

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Lifecare_Battersea_AbsolutelyLondon_DEC25_PRINT.pdf

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Battersea Place

by LifeCare Residences

New Year, New Lifestyle C

M

Y

Discovery luxury facilities, lifestyle, and service in 2026 Stunning retirement living apartments with limited availability

CM

MY

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CMY

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To book an exclusive viewing please contact Sales and Marketing Manager, Ina Betsi, on 020 7924 8641.

£ Social opportunities

Concierge and maintenance

Hotel inspired facilities

Pet friendly

Next to Battersea Park

Fixed Service Charge

3 bedroom apartments from £1,950,000* *Service charges and deferred membership fees apply.

ibetsi@batterseaplace.co.uk | batterseaplace.co.uk 73 ALBERT BRIDGE ROAD, LONDON, SW11 4DS

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PLATINUM • PARTNERSHIP

REAL CARE

F

How Patricia White’s offers a service defined by consistency, reliability and human touch

or more than 30 years, Patricia White’s has stood as an unwavering force in the world of homecare, shaping the way people across the country experience compassionate, highly skilled support in the comfort of their own homes. What began as one woman’s vision has grown into one of the most trusted names in live-in and visiting care, particularly across London and surrounding areas.

The story of Patricia White’s is rooted in its founder’s profound understanding of what really matters in care. After 13 years leading one of London’s premier nursing agencies, Patricia White began to notice a gap in the system that left many elderly or unwell clients yearning for something more personal, attentive and dignified.

In 1989, she took a bold step, launching a homecare service built around flexibility, empathy and the human desire to remain surrounded by the familiarity of home.

Her philosophy was simple yet

transformative: that optimal health and wellbeing flourish when care is not only expertly delivered, but personalised and embedded within the rhythms of everyday life. She saw how profound an impact it had when individuals were able to maintain independence, stay connected to their communities and enjoy the reassurance of a dedicated live-in carer by their side.

Over the years, that founding vision has remained unchanged. Patricia White’s continues to take pride in offering highly qualified, experienced carers who bring not just practical support but warmth, respect, and companionship. It is a service defined by consistency, reliability and human touch and these qualities have made the agency a frequent recommendation from doctors, hospitals and healthcare professionals seeking dependable 24-hour support for their patients.

A significant milestone came in 2020 when Patricia White’s joined the Trinity Homecare Group, now the largest privatepay homecare provider in the south of England. This partnership strengthened the

agency’s infrastructure while preserving the ethos that has long set it apart. Today, clients benefit from a wider network of expertise and a diverse range of services, from livein care to visiting care and introductory care solutions, all designed to give families greater choice, control and confidence.

Through every evolution, the happiness and wellbeing of each client has remained the organisations' first priority. With more than 30 years of experience, the team understands just how daunting it can feel to search for the right support.

That is why they invest the time to get to know each person: not just their care requirements, but their personality, preferences and lifestyle, before matching them with carers who will not only meet their needs but also enrich their daily lives.

Patricia White’s may have grown, but its heart remains exactly where it started: in the belief that exceptional care begins with exceptional understanding. patriciawhites.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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C A R E T H AT F E E L S L I K E

HOME Introducing Willow Grange and Wey Meadows by CHD Living

F

or over 40 years, CHD Living has been redefining what care looks and feels like across Surrey and South London. Now, two brandnew care homes – Willow Grange in Pyrford, Woking and Wey Meadows in Elstead, near Farnham – are set to join the family, bringing with them a modern vision of compassionate, person-led support.

Both homes are due to open in the coming months and will offer a fresh

approach to nursing, residential, respite and dementia care. While each setting has its own character, they share one guiding principle: that later life should be lived with comfort, dignity, purpose and joy.

This is care, the CHD Living way.

A FRESH START IN WOKING: WELCOME TO WILLOW GRANGE In the heart of Pyrford, Woking, Willow Grange Care Home stands as a symbol of transformation and community resilience.

Formerly the Avens Court care home,

the building had closed after entering special measures. But in true CHD Living spirit, what was once a closed door has become a new beginning.

CHD Living stepped in to acquire and completely redesign the site, restoring 41 vital care beds to the area and breathing new life into a much-loved local service.

Working closely with Surrey Fire, the team has created a care environment that is not only compliant and safe, but warm, modern and uplifting.

Willow Grange will soon open its doors as a luxurious yet homely setting offering specialist residential and short-term respite care. From the outside, it blends seamlessly into the leafy surroundings.

Inside, every detail has been designed to support wellbeing - from beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms and accessible communal areas, to tailored activity spaces, accessible gardens and the latest care technology.

But the real heart of Willow Grange is the team behind it. “For us, this was never just about bricks and mortar,” says Shaleeza Hasham, CHD Living’s Commercial Director. “It’s about doing the right thing for the people of Woking - ensuring families have access to the high-quality care they deserve, in a setting they can truly call home.”

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PLATINUM • PARTNERSHIP

A POSITIVE, ENRICHING EXPERIENCE A NEW CHAPTER IN ELSTEAD: THE ARRIVAL OF WEY MEADOWS A few miles away in the picturesque village of Elstead, another story is unfolding.

Wey Meadows, CHD Living’s second brand-new care home, is preparing to welcome its first residents.

Wey Meadows will offer 60 ensuite bedrooms and cater to people living with a range of support needs: from nursing and residential care to short-term respite, convalescence and post-operative receovery.

Like all CHD Living homes, it will focus on creating a vibrant and individual lifestyle.

From tranquil landscaped gardens and thoughtfully designed interiors to inclusive activities and a friendly, experienced team, Wey Meadows promises an environment where care doesn’t just meet clinical needs, it nurtures the whole person.

Just like its sister home in Woking, Wey Meadows reflects CHD Living’s family-run values. Every person is treated with compassion, respect and individual attention - because at CHD Living, people come first. Always.

CREATING HAPPINESS DAILY At the heart of both Willow Grange and Wey Meadows is CHD Living’s enduring ethos: Creating Happiness Daily. Whether it’s through meaningful activities, warm meals shared with others, or the little things like a favourite song playing in the background,

happiness is part of the care plan.

It’s an approach that flows through every interaction - from carers and nurses to chefs, wellbeing coordinators and maintenance teams. Everyone plays a role in creating a positive, enriching experience.

CHD Living’s person-centred model means that care is never ‘one-size-fits-all’.

Instead, it is built around the individual, their preferences, history, goals and needs.

Families are actively involved, care plans are regularly reviewed, and a deep sense of community is fostered from day one.

CARE THAT EVOLVES WITH YOU What sets CHD Living apart is their integrated approach. Alongside residential and dementia care, the group also offers complex care, rehabilitation and home care services, meaning they can support people across every stage of their journey.

Willow Grange and Wey Meadows are part of this broader continuum of care. Whether someone is moving in for the long term, staying for a few

weeks’ respite, or navigating a diagnosis like dementia, they can do so with consistency, confidence and compassion.

The homes are also supported by electronic care planning systems, which ensure every team member has access to real-time updates on residents’ health and wellbeing. This not only enhances safety and responsiveness but empowers the team to deliver care that is highly personalised and proactive.

A WELCOME INVITATION As the doors to Willow Grange and Wey Meadows open, so too does an invitation to local families: to discover a new kind of care, one rooted in clinical excellence, but built on joy, trust and togetherness.

Above all, CHD Living believes in helping people live well, with purpose, peace and happiness at every stage of life.

To find out more about Willow Grange, Wey Meadows or other CHD Living services, visit chdliving.co.uk

About CHD Living Family-run and proudly independent, CHD Living has been caring for communities across Surrey and South London since 1984. With over a dozen residential homes, two rehabilitation centres and a growing home care service, the group is known for its personal touch, innovative thinking and unwavering commitment to quality.

Its services include: • Residential and dementia care • Short-term respite and transitional support • Complex care, including ventilated and tracheostomy support • Neurorehabilitation for individuals recovering from illness or injury • Home care services, allowing people to receive support in the comfort of their own surroundings

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For your free brochure or to find your nearest showroom visit harveyjones.com BESPOKE KITCHENS | BOOT ROOMS | UTILITY ROOMS | PANTRIES | MEDIA | WHOLE HOME

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INTERIORS

FLOWER POWER H O U S E O F H AC K N EY

An homage to the art of craft, William Morris’ Art Nouveau floral has been reimagined in a contemporary balance of naivety and grit, with the silhouetted motif nodding to the original block printing process.

In verdant ‘Euphorbia’ green with pops of sage, red, ochre and blue, this print is perfect for any space you want creativity to flow.r.

houseofhackney.com/

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INTERIORS N OT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

CHECK OUT DAVID HUNT LIGHTING

Inspired by the relaxed elegance of French Provençal interiors, the Aix Collection of pendants and wall lights reimagines classic silhouettes with a contemporary update.

Slender brass arms are topped with playful, tailored lampshades in gingham or satin, in a palette of soft pastels. davidhuntlighting.co.uk

CU RV E A P P E A L SCION LIVING

Inspired by country walks, the Oakham fabric collection features uplifting, contemporary designs with a touch of whimsy and imagination.

Printing techniques achieve a sense of movement for a charming and modern approach to design. scionliving.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E F I V E Cutlery

CASA BY JJ Picnic on Lake Anju Bamboo Cutlery Set, £84 casabyjj.co.uk

UNDER COVER

N E W LE AV E S

TORMEK

HOUSE OF HACKNEY

In this beautiful Foliage wallpaper, designer Heidi Callier has reinterpreted the slender branches in collaboration with House of Hackney and added entwining oak leaves to create depth and texture. houseofhackney.com

COX & COX 16-piece gold cutlery set, £45 coxandcox.co.uk

The Tormek T-1 knife sharpener will look stylish on your counter with this new MC-1 Cover by Jeansverket Made from premium denim and finished with a Swedish leather handle, the cover is tailored to protect your sharpener from dust and moisture when not in use. shop.tormek.co.uk

HK LIVING 16-piece set of 70s cutlery, £160 roseandgrey.co.uk

VISTA ALEGRE Domo matt gold cutlery set, £495 micucci.store

EAT IN

SWYFT HOME

NKUKU Osko cutlery set, £190 nkuku.com

Swyft's new Dining Table 03 (£899) is a mid-century-inspired extendable table with solid white oak legs and a clean, durable veneer top. It comfortably seats 6–8 thanks to a clever self-storing butterfly extension and as with all Swyft pieces, no tools, no extra parts, just effortless hosting.. swyfthome.com

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INTERIORS • TREND

HAY Bonbon lampshade, £839 insidestoreldn.com

EDITOR’S PICK

FURNITURE AND CHOICE Loren armchair, £299 furnitureandchoice.co.uk

GLOW LIGHTING Florrie glass pendant, £215 glowlighting.co.uk

DANETTI Frances swivel chair, £479 danetti.com

ADDISON ROSS Bobbin lamp, £125 addisonross.com

HAY Twisted candles set of six, £15 monologuelondon.com

ANAV Neel striped cushion cover, £45 anav.co.uk

BLUE MONDAY HAY Petit Standard chair, £389 madeindesign.co.uk

Banish the January blues with these stylish pieces

BERT & MAY Blue split shift tiles, £225 per m2 bertandmay.com

By P E N D L E H A R T E

YES COLOURS Electric blue matt emulsion paint, £38 yescolours.com

ATKIN & THYME Calvin armchair, £599 atkinandthyme.co.uk

ESSENTIAL HOME Mansfield sofa, £POA essentialhome.eu

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Bloomfield Narrow Herringbone, Residence® Collection

Visit our London Design Centre We are delighted to welcome you to our refreshed London Design Centre. Discover every Ted Todd floor using our pull out panels to experience the tone, texture and craftsmanship. Enjoy a personalised consultation with our wood floor specialists to help you find your perfect floor.

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Book an appointment 79 Margaret Street, London, W1W 8TA 5 minutes from Oxford Circus. Nearby tube stations: Great Portland St, Warren St, Regent’s Park.

19/12/2025 11:31:44

The

MORRIS effect How a 19th century vision still shapes British interiors Wo r d s E V E H E R B E R T

W

alk into almost any stylish British home today and you’re likely to encounter a whisper – and sometimes a roar – of William Morris.

More than 130 years after the designer, poet, and proto-environmentalist first unfurled his now-iconic botanical patterns, his imprint remains embedded in the DNA of British interiors. What’s striking is not simply that his wallpapers and textiles are still in production, but that his ethos of craft, nature, integrity and beauty for all continues to steer the conversation about what good design should be.

The resurgence of pattern-rich, historically literate decorating has sharpened Morris’s relevance. A generation raised on minimalism has rediscovered ornament and tactility; eco-conscious consumers are seeking authenticity and

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designers are revisiting archives not out of nostalgia but as a wellspring of durability and meaning. In this landscape, Morris’s influence radiates through an unexpectedly wide cast, from maximalist upstarts House of Hackney to colour virtuosos such as Ben Pentreath, and from heritage giant Liberty to accessible Habitat.

Morris’s work was grounded in the English landscape: its hedgerows, orchards, woodland undergrowth. His patterns, from Willow Bough to Strawberry Thief, expressed an almost democratic reverence for nature. In an age of climate anxiety, today’s designers are embracing a similar impulse, interpreting botanical motifs as symbols of continuity and comfort.

House of Hackney is perhaps the most conspicuous modern heir to this visual language. Founders Frieda Gormley and Javvy M Royle have built an aesthetic that amplifies Morris’s love of organic abundance, but with a 21st-century

swagger: bolder scale, darker palettes, a gothic-romantic edge. Their interiors often feel immersive, almost cinematic, a maximalism that treats pattern not as decoration but as environment.

But the Morrisian revival extends beyond the flamboyant. Studio Atkinson incorporates nature-led textiles into its quietly characterful interiors, while CommonRoom produces contemporary wallpapers that echo Arts and Crafts principles through hand-drawn methods and small-batch craftsmanship. Even high-end fabric houses such as GP & J Baker and Sanderson (custodians of the Morris & Co. archive) continue to reinterpret historical motifs through updated colour stories, keeping botanical pattern at the forefront of British design.

The pendulum swing away from minimalism has revived the richly layered, lived-in British aesthetic, a visual terrain Morris would recognise. After decades

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INTERIORS • DESIGN

HOUSE OF HACKNEY'S EARTHLY PARADISE

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XXX IMAGE CAPTION XXX

PURLFROST WINDOW FILM IN STRAWBERRY THIEF

of pared-back Scandinavian influence, there is renewed passion for rooms that feel collected rather than curated, expressive rather than efficient.

Ben Pentreath has emerged as one of the most articulate proponents of this sensibility. His interiors: patterned, booklined and deeply domestic, reframe Morris not as a relic but as a living language. His collaborations with Morris & Co. have introduced fresh chromatic energy into classic patterns, demonstrating how historical design can feel surprisingly modern when treated with confidence.

Max Rollitt, whose practice blends antiques dealing with interior design, channels the Arts and Crafts spirit through an emphasis on craft and patina.

Meanwhile, designers like Luke Edward Hall and Matilda Goad bring playful, youthful eccentricity to the mix. Their work may be more whimsical than Morris would ever have attempted, but both share his belief that interiors should spark joy and tell personal stories.

Liberty’s prints, with their dense florals and rhythmic repeats, trace a direct lineage to Morris’s workshop. The brand’s role in mainstreaming patterned interiors shows how Morris’s vision infiltrates British homes not only through designers but through everyday retail culture.

It’s easy to focus on Morris’s aesthetics, but his political and ethical commitments are arguably more relevant today. He advocated for meaningful labour, resisted the environmental damage wrought

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by industrialisation, and argued that beauty should be accessible, a radical proposition in the 19th century.

Many contemporary designers echo this stance, whether consciously or not. House of Hackney has foregrounded sustainability and reforestation initiatives; Fermoie produces textiles using traditional rotary printing methods; and Howe London champions restoration, repair, and the value of the long-lasting object. Makers such as Sebastian Cox, with his focus on coppiced woodland and regenerative materials, exemplify a thoroughly modern interpretation of Morris’s ecological ideals.

Even the high street reflects this shift. Though operating at scale, Habitat continues to champion well-designed, affordable homewares. Its patterned bedding, textured ceramics, and natureinformed décor offer accessible entry points into a Morris-adjacent sensibility, proof that democratic design remains an evolving conversation, not a historical footnote.

Morris persists not because he is fashionable, but because he offers a coherent worldview at a time when the design landscape is visually and morally fragmented. His work reconnects interiors to nature, anchors homes in craft, and insists on longevity over novelty. These values resonate powerfully in a culture reckoning with sustainability, digital saturation, and the fatigue of disposable aesthetics.

More subtly, Morris gives contemporary designers a common language that values complexity, storytelling, and the

domestic sphere as a site of meaning.

Whether interpreted through the lush maximalism of House of Hackney, the scholarly eclecticism of Ben Pentreath, the artisanal integrity of Max Rollitt or the mass-market optimism of Habitat, Morris’s influence shapes British interiors not as a relic but as a living, evolving inheritance.

In a sense, he remains present in every repeat, every crafted object, every room that embraces beauty without apology.

British design continues to move forward, and Morris’s guiding spirit, rooted in nature and human hands, moves with it.

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INTERIORS • DESIGN

“Liberty’s prints, with their dense florals and rhythmic repeats, trace a direct lineage to Morris’s workshop ” HOUSE OF HACKNEY'S COMPTON

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Olive & Barr Handmade Kitchens

131 Lavender Hill, London, SW11 5QJ 0345 154 0151 www.oliveandbarr.com OLIVE BARR.indd 120

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INTERIORS • TREND

TINKER & TALLULAH William Morris Willow Boughs Fringed Lampshade, £195 tinkerandtallulah.co.uk

DESENIO African Marigold Round Tray £30.95 desenio.co.uk

MORRIS & CO Fruit & Honeysuckle mugs, £35.50 wmorrisandco.com

SWYFT X MORRIS & CO Chair 03, Pure Willow Boughs, £679 swyft home.com

HOUSE OF HACKNEY Compton Magna Velvet Vesper Bottoman, £1,450 houseofhackney.com

LILY MANOR Lamson Floral Oven Mitt, £10.99 wayfair.co.uk

ARTS & CRAFTS

PRETTY TIFFIN Three tier Dabba Tin lunchbox, Strawberry Thief, £36.99 prettytiffi n.co.uk

William Morris prints are everywhere

HOUSE OF HACKNEY

By P E N D L E H A R T E

Golden Lily screen, £3,295 prehouseofhackney.com

EDITOR’S PICK

EHRMAN William Morris tulip needlepoint kit, £75 vam.ac.uk

WILLIAM MORRIS AT HOME Sunflower Swan Bathing Gift Set, £16 williammorrisathome.com

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Shine a

LIGHT Absolutely explores Industville's five key lighting trends for the new season

REFINED TEXTURAL

T

his trend embraces tactility as a form of luxury, transforming everyday lighting into artful statements. What once felt purely functional - metal, glass, wood - takes on warmth and dimension through artisanal finishes and handcrafted detailing. Pleated brass shades catch the light with a subtle shimmer, while ribbed or frosted glass diffuses illumination into soft, atmospheric glows. These surfaces invite touch as much as sight, encouraging a deeper sensory connection with the spaces we live in.

The trend pairs beautifully with today’s desire for layered interiors. Lighting is no longer a singular fixture, but a collection of textures, tones, and scales working together. Think wall sconces with hammered metal backplates, pendant clusters with etched glass, or table lamps topped with fabric-like ceramic glazes. The interplay between jewel tones and earthy hues creates a grounding yet elevated

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INTERIORS • TREND

palette - sapphire blues, forest greens, or garnet reds harmonizing with walnut, oak, and stone.

Refined Textural lighting is versatile too, striking a balance between modern sophistication and cosy intimacy. Whether placed in a living room corner, above a dining table, or along a hallway, these designs soften architectural lines and enrich everyday rituals. It’s a celebration of craft, comfort, and quiet elegance - where light doesn’t just brighten a space, but also deepens its character.

SIMPLE SHAPING

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imple Shaping reflects a growing appreciation for clarity and calm in design. Stripped of unnecessary detail, these pieces highlight form, proportion, and material in their purest state. The beauty lies in restraint: slim brass frames, alabaster discs, or perfectly rounded globes that radiate a quiet confidence.

Instead of overwhelming a room, this

lighting style creates a serene rhythm, offering a sense of balance and refinement.

This trend speaks to the architecture of light itself. Linear pendants draw the eye along dining tables or kitchen islands, while sculptural floor lamps anchor corners with their statuesque presence. Wall lights with geometric silhouettes echo architectural lines, adding structure without stealing focus. The warm glow of alabaster softens sharp edges, while brushed brass or matte black finishes keep the look grounded and timeless.

Simple Shaping works seamlessly across interior styles - from contemporary apartments to heritage homes - because it respects space. Its intentional simplicity allows furnishings, textures, and colour palettes to breathe, while still holding its own as a design statement. Ultimately, this is lighting as quiet poetry: functional yet artful, understated yet memorable. It proves that the simplest forms often carry the most impact, illuminating spaces with elegance and ease.

MODERN SCULPTURAL

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his lighting is all about statementmaking presence. These are not background pieces - they command attention, shaping the atmosphere of a room as much as they illuminate it.

Whether it’s a sweeping chandelier with cascading glass or a bold single pendant hovering like a piece of contemporary art, the focus is on form and drama. Larger-thanlife proportions bring scale and impact, while organic silhouettes soften the edges, striking a balance between fluidity and structure.

Materiality plays a vital role here. Warmtoned glass - amber, smoke, or bronze - casts a flattering glow, transforming functional light into mood lighting. Braided cords and textured fittings add an artisanal touch, grounding even the most avantgarde designs in craft. These sculptural pieces thrive against richly saturated backdrops: think deep terracotta walls, inky blues, or velvety greens that enhance their theatrical presence.

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INTERIORS • TREND

Perfect for entertaining, Modern Sculptural lighting creates focal points over dining tables or in living spaces, sparking conversation and setting a dynamic tone.

Yet it’s equally effective in creating intimacy, with softer, layered glows ideal for evenings spent at home. More than just lighting, these designs double as sculptural installations - art forms that fuse light, shadow, and shape to elevate the everyday into the extraordinary.

DELICATE & DIMENSIONAL

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elicate & Dimensional lighting is all about nuance - the subtle interplay between form, shadow, and texture.

It celebrates the idea that lighting isn’t just functional, but can become a narrative thread within a space, adding layers of meaning and mood. Gentle curves, fine detailing, and imaginative silhouettes bring a sense of movement, as though the fixtures themselves are part of an unfolding story. This creates a playful yet sophisticated energy, perfect for homes that thrive on atmosphere and personality.

Layered lighting is central to the look.

Think pendant lights floating like ornaments above a dining table, paired with sculptural floor lamps that wash walls with soft, dappled light. The goal is to create depth: light that shifts and evolves as the evening unfolds. Materials such as frosted glass, perforated metal, and translucent stone add to this dimensional effect, offering glimpses of glow that feel both intimate and intriguing.

This trend truly comes alive in moments of gathering. Whether for festive entertaining or quiet evenings, Delicate & Dimensional lighting sets a stage where everyday rituals feel celebratory. It’s a style that embraces both drama and delicacy, weaving together function and artistry to create spaces that sparkle with personality.

CONTEMPORARY RUSTIC

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his brings together the warmth of tradition with the clean lines of modern design, creating spaces that feel grounded yet quietly elevated. At its heart is an appreciation for authenticity - natural materials such as linen, mellow

stone, textured metal, and raw-edged wood are celebrated for their inherent character.

Rather than disguising imperfections, this look embraces them, allowing subtle variations in grain, weave, or patina to tell a story of craft and connection.

Lighting within this trend favours simplicity of form, with unfussy silhouettes that echo the understated elegance of Japandi styling. Picture linen drum shades diffusing a gentle glow, stone bases carved into organic forms, or slender metal frames paired with wool-wrapped cords. The result is lighting that feels tactile and timeless - pieces that complement, rather than compete with, the wider interior scheme.

Layering is key to achieving the Contemporary Rustic mood. A mix of table lamps, wall sconces, and overhead pendants ensures both functionality and atmosphere, while soft palettes of chalky neutrals, earthy taupes, and muted greens provide a calming backdrop. This is rusticity reimagined for modern living - an aesthetic that blends comfort with sophistication, and simplicity with soul.

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

F R E S H : E N E R G Y, FRESH:

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Fresh: Art Fair is back at Alexandra Palace.

Join us for this unmissable event

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his year promises more galleries, new artists and even more choice, from contemporary rising stars to worldrenowned names including Picasso and Hockney.

This is London’s friendliest art fair – a chance to discover and buy from 75 leading galleries under one roof. Fresh: Art Fair chooses exhibitors for their quality and variety of work, and only exhibits original art with a mix of contemporary and modern. Expect everything from paintings and sculpture to glass, ceramics and photography.

And with more art, in more styles and price points than any other UK art fair, it’s the perfect place to start, or grow, your collection —whether you’re spending £100 or £30,000.

In 2026, Fresh: Art Fair at Alexandra Palace will celebrate The Joy of Art. At a time when the world often feels uncertain, Fresh offers something uplifting, inspiring, and accessible to everyone.

From discovering a piece that makes you smile, to falling in love with a work that transforms your home, art has a unique power to bring delight, spark curiosity, and create connection. Visitors will be invited to explore how art can brighten their day and enrich their spaces. Visitors can make a day of it and stop for coffee, lunch or a glass of wine as well as join us for free workshops, artist demonstrations and family-friendly activities.

Throughout the fair you can meet artists demonstrating their unique talents. Sculptor Robert Fogell will be running workshops on Friday, and at the weekend join the Hampsted School of Art by participating in engaging hands-on creative experiences. Families are welcome, with weekend activities for children.

Fresh: is easy to reach by car, train, tube or bus, and with plenty of parking and panoramic city views. Free shuttle buses will be running from nearby stations. The event takes place in the West Hall, via Palm Court and is open to the public on: Friday 30th January 11-8pm, Saturday 31st January 11-6pm and Sunday 1st February 11-5pm. Why not enjoy Fresh: in style at our exclusive Private View evening on Thursday 29th January 5.30 – 9pm. You will get the first pick of the art, whilst enjoying complimentary wine. freshartfair.net A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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PET PROJECT With pets at the heart of family life, here's how our homes are evolving to reflect that bond

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nce confined to corners or tucked away in crates, pets are now taking centre stage in the way we design our homes. What began as a niche idea has blossomed into a defining movement in interior design – one where our fourlegged companions are considered just as much as our cabinetry and countertops.

From marble-topped feeding stations to elegant dog beds in boot rooms, the luxury kitchen has evolved to embrace the needs and comforts of its furriest residents.

Today’s homeowners want spaces that reflect their lifestyles as well as their sense of style, and that increasingly includes the daily routines of their pets. According to Tom Howley, bespoke kitchen designer and Creative Design Director at the eponymous brand, this shift has brought a new layer of sophistication to kitchen planning.

“When designing a kitchen or utility room, we frequently integrate practical pet features like built-in feeding stations, integrated bed nooks, and low-level storage for treats or toys,” says Howley.

The bespoke kitchen company’s newly renovated Chelsea showroom now includes a dedicated pet corner – a stylish response to growing demand and a showcase of the creative possibilities in pet-friendly design.

These subtle, considered additions elevate functionality without compromising on design. Tom Howley has even introduced hidden charging drawers for pet tech – from GPS collars to automatic feeders – keeping devices out of sight but always powered and ready. Elevated pet-dining areas clad in the same stone or timber as the worktops create a sense of harmony,

“When designing a kitchen, we integrate practical pet features” while cabinetry engraved with a pet’s name lends a personal, endearing touch.

For many homeowners, the next challenge is giving their pets a comfortable, dedicated place to rest. “Dog beds don’t usually fit with the aesthetic of a luxury kitchen,” notes Howley, “but a bespoke dog nook can be designed to blend form and function seamlessly.” These nooks are typically tucked away from high-traffic areas and cooking hazards, ensuring a peaceful retreat for pets while keeping the overall look cohesive.

Pets come with plenty of paraphernalia – from leads and towels to treats and toys – so clever storage is essential. Howley says: “A pull-out pantry or designated cupboard

within the kitchen can keep everything in order. Open shelving offers quick access to essentials, while bespoke drawers or hooks maintain a clutter-free finish.”

Finally, materials and finishes should be chosen with practicality in mind. Rounded hardware, easy-clean surfaces, and rugs resistant to pet hair all contribute to a space that’s as durable as it is beautiful.

Thoughtful design ensures the kitchen remains stylish, functional, and welcoming – for humans and animals alike.

With a little creativity and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are at the heart of a petfriendly home. tomhowley.co.uk

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YOU DREAM IT, WE BUILD IT. Luxury mansions are individual masterpieces. For those who appreciate the extraordinary and value a trustworthy building partner who brings custom architect-designed homes to perfection.

Get in touch with us Phone: 01233 802026 E-mail: info@weberhaus.co.uk

weberhaus.co.uk

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Lighten the

mood

Outgrowing London life and creating a timber-framed self-build home in Wales Photos WEBERHAUS UK

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INTERIORS • PROMOTION

Building the Dream with the Efficiency of the WeberHaus Team WeberHaus managed the construction project and provided expert guidance, with designer Nick Blunt offering continuous support throughout the process. The UK and German teams worked with impressive efficiency, completing the house within a week. The contrast with their previous renovation experience couldn't have been more striking. ‘I remember thinking at that stage, why do people have nervous breakdowns building houses? This is so easy. ´

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fter more than two decades of living and working in London while raising their young family, Claire and Nath longed for a more practical lifestyle closer to their Welsh roots. They purchased a substantial 1930s property in Cardiff as a home for their growing family, but soon after moving in, they realised that the existing house was not suited to their family's needs. They met designer Nick Blunt from WeberHaus, and the decision was made: to build a modern, timber-frame home tailored precisely to their family’s lifestyle.

Why Speed of Construction Matters The existing property offered a great location, with good schools and amenities nearby. However, the layout was impractical for modern family living. Initially, the

family worked with an award-winning architect, but their ideas of what a family home meant were very different, and costs quickly began to spiral out of control. Claire recalls that time as a blur - managing multiple businesses, caring for the family, and doing up a house. She knew they needed something different: a more efficient method of construction.

'We wasted about six to seven months waiting for the initial architects to make amendments to the existing house. By this point, I was pregnant with our youngest daughter and thought, I can't do this. I didn't want this to be a five-year process.

What I wanted was speed and efficiency.’

Everything changed when the family met WeberHaus architect Nick Blunt. He explained the process, and the speed of the build was the main driver behind the decision. 'We wanted our children to live in the dream house, not to have it when they were all teenagers and leaving home for university, but while they were young enough to enjoy it,’ confirms Claire. Nath, Claire's husband, had initial concerns about prefabrication, associating it with lower quality. However, the speed of construction was immediately appealing – their house could be watertight in just one week compared to months with traditional building methods.

Exceptional Build Quality and Year-Round Comfort The homeowners are particularly impressed by the construction quality of their timberframed self-build. 'The insulation is super thick, and it bolted together seamlessly,' they noted, highlighting the precision of the prefabricated assembly process. 'The house feels solid. The floors don't creak like in traditional British houses,' Claire says.

WeberHaus's factory-controlled manufacturing process delivers exceptional structural integrity. For all their houses they use timber as the base material as it is sturdy, versatile, and easy to handle, with windows and doors engineered to provide structural strength whilst being highly energy efficient. The building demonstrates exceptional thermal performance throughout the heating season.

'It is remarkable that we can have the underfloor heating on the lowest setting in winter and it is toasty. This is the way forward,' Claire reflects – and having experienced both traditional renovation and the WeberHaus approach, she should know. weberhaus.co.uk

Designing for Real Family Life Nick's experience with family homes showed in every detail. Making all the children's bedrooms the same size was a brilliant idea. Another highlight is the garden, which is visible as soon as the front door opens. It creates an immediate sense of space and connection with the outdoors. Very practical and used every day is the boot room, which is accessed through the carport, providing a separate entrance for the whole family and the dog.

There is plenty of space to accommodate everyone's shoes and multiple bags.

It keeps the main hall clutter free.

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Kasia Fiszer

I N N O VAT I V E / B E S P O K E K I TC H E N S

E S P R E S S O D E S I G N .C O.U K Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, London, SW10 0XE 149 St John’s Hill, London SW11 1TQ T +44207 078 9912

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

ART OF Outdoor Living The world’s finest garden rooms, gazebos and equestrian buildings with Crown Pavilions

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s a new year begins, so does the opportunity to redefine how and where we live. In a world that moves quickly, creating a space that brings calm, connection and beauty to everyday life is no longer a luxury. It’s a lifestyle choice. And few deliver that transformation quite like Crown Pavilions.

Internationally recognised for crafting the world’s finest garden rooms, gazebos and equestrian buildings, Crown Pavilions has elevated British outdoor living into a true art form. These are not seasonal structures. They are permanent, designled extensions of the home, made for year-round enjoyment and built to last.

Each Crown Pavilion is handcrafted in the UK with meticulous attention to detail.

From luxury garden rooms to expertly crafted gazebos and equestrian buildings, every structure is designed for lasting

performance, built to suit its setting and purpose. Many of their garden rooms include insulation, heating, and lighting – ideal for enjoying your space in comfort, from the stillness of winter to the height of summer.

The Crown Pavilions collection is thoughtfully curated to suit a wide range of lifestyles, from wellness studios and garden offices to open-air entertainment spaces and tranquil retreats. Their collection offers a range of layouts, finishes, and optional features, allowing you to choose a model that reflects how you want to live, relax, and entertain.

This is more than a garden building.

It’s a thoughtful investment in how you want to live, with more space to pause, unwind, and enjoy life’s quieter moments.

As 2026 begins, there’s never been a better time to reimagine your home beyond its walls. With Crown Pavilions, you’re not simply adding a structure to your garden. You’re creating a sanctuary of beauty, balance, and timeless design.

Vis it a Crown P av i l i o n s S h o w S i t e

Experience the quality in person at one of the UK show sites: • Chessington Garden Centre, London • Longacres Garden Centre, Bagshot, Surrey • Van Hage Garden Centre, Ware, Hertfordshire • Alton Garden Centre, Essex • Frosts Garden Centre, Milton Keynes • Bridgemere Garden Centre, Cheshire

Exclusive Reade r Offe r Enjoy 10% OFF installations completed before March 2026. crownpavilions.com / crown-equestrian.com

Call: 01491 612 820 Email: sales@crownpavilions.com

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JANUARY SALE SALE –– generous generous discounts discounts on on EVERYTHING EVERYTHING JANUARY JANUARY SALE – generous discounts on EVERYTHING JANUARY SALE – generous discounts on EVERYTHING

www.astonmatthews.co.uk www.astonmatthews.co.uk online and and in-store in-store London London and and Guildford Guildford online www.astonmatthews.co.uk islington@astonmatthews.co.uk www.astonmatthews.co.uk online and in-store London and Guildford islington@astonmatthews.co.uk

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online and in-store London 020 7226 7226 7220and Guildford 020 7220 islington@astonmatthews.co.uk islington@astonmatthews.co.uk guildford@astonmatthews.co.uk 020 7226 7220 guildford@astonmatthews.co.uk 020 7226 7220 01483 478826 01483 478826 guildford@astonmatthews.co.uk guildford@astonmatthews.co.uk Beautiful01483 bathrooms since 1823 1823 478826 Beautiful bathrooms since 01483 478826 Beautiful bathrooms since 1823 Beautiful bathrooms since 1823

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

MADE FOR YOU Harvey Jones: a kitchen designed around the way you live

Harvey Jones' designers transform spaces both aesthetically and functionally

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very home reaches a moment when the kitchen needs to do more. It must offer better flow, more intelligent storage and a sense of ease that supports the way you live.

When you realise your kitchen no longer matches how you cook, gather and entertain, the next step is to design a space shaped entirely around you.

For almost 50 years, Harvey Jones has designed and handcrafted bespoke kitchens for homes across the UK. Clients choose them because they combine the individuality of a boutique maker with the reassurance and consistency of a leading national brand.

Their designers bring deep expertise to every project, transforming spaces both aesthetically and functionally, and ensuring each detail feels personal and purposeful.

They work closely with you to understand how you live: the way you move through the room, how you entertain, how you cook, and the daily rituals that matter. They then tailor every element, preparation zones, storage, lighting, colour and flow to create a kitchen that feels calm, intuitive and beautifully resolved.

And the design doesn’t stop at the kitchen. Homeowners increasingly want the rest of the home to work just as hard: utility rooms, pantries, laundry spaces, boot rooms and other functional areas. Harvey Jones crafts these rooms with the same made-to-order cabinetry and precision.

Craftsmanship remains at the heart of everything they do. They build each kitchen in their Cambridgeshire workshop using traditional joinery for strength and longevity, then hand-paint every piece so you can refresh the finish as your style evolves.

Their nationwide showrooms provide the first glimpse of what’s possible. Each space showcases their craftsmanship, their design breadth and the latest materials and technologies from their trusted partners. Guided by experienced designers, visiting a showroom feels inspiring and personal. As Harvey Jones Designer, Lewis Buckley, says: “A bespoke kitchen should feel as though it could only ever belong to the person it was created for.”

With the Harvey Jones Winter Sale underway, all deposits placed before 31st January 2026 will enjoy 30% off kitchen cabinetry. Visit your nearest Harvey Jones showroom or request a complimentary brochure at harveyjones.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Your garden dreams realised

We plan, design and build stunning garden landscapes and outdoor areas. Let us create a special space for you and your family to enjoy.

Our fresh approach and our expertise from creating award-winning gardens gives you access to show-stopping designs, whatever the scale of your project.

• Planting • Landscaping • Patios & Stone Work • Water Features • Outdoor Play Areas • Resin Bound Gravel

Planning a garden makeover or landscaping project? Give us a call For a free consultation call: 01306 611 231 or email: info@boardman-gelly.co.uk Visit our website: www.boardman-gelly.co.uk

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HOME • BATHROOMS

Wash room story Modern bathrooms are designed to be a luxurious getaway from daily life, but this wasn’t always the case...

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he story of the bathroom in the UK is one of social change, technological progress, and shifting ideas about health, privacy, and comfort.

Today the bathroom is often one of the most valued rooms in the house, a place associated not only with hygiene but also with relaxation and even luxury. Yet this is a relatively recent development. For much of British history,

most households did not have private bathing or toilet facilities at all. The journey from communal washing areas and outdoor privies to sleek en-suite bathrooms with underfloor heating illustrates wider transformations in British domestic life.

EARLY PRACTICES In the pre-Victorian era, the idea of a dedicated room for bathing or sanitation scarcely existed for ordinary households.

Washing was typically done with a bowl and

jug in the bedroom or kitchen, while larger tubs were occasionally filled for a more thorough soak, usually placed near the fire for warmth. Soap was a luxury for much of the population, and regular bathing was not the norm. Sanitation was rudimentary: most homes relied on outdoor privies or chamber pots emptied into cesspits. Waste disposal was a major public health issue, particularly in growing industrial towns.

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facilities. From the 18th century onwards, aristocratic country houses sometimes featured early forms of water closets or purpose-built bathing chambers, but these were rare and highly unusual.

Their existence reflected not only wealth but also access to running water, which was scarce outside urban centres.

THE VICTORIAN TRANSFORMATION The Industrial Revolution and rapid urbanisation in the 19th century forced Britain to confront the problems of overcrowding, disease, and poor sanitation.

Outbreaks of cholera and typhoid in the 1830s and 1840s spurred public health reforms. The Public Health Act of 1848 laid the groundwork for local authorities to improve sewerage and clean water supplies.

These infrastructural changes were pivotal: without a reliable water and waste network, the modern bathroom could not emerge.

By the mid-Victorian period, water closets (flushing toilets) were being developed and promoted, notably by inventors such as Thomas Crapper. At first, these appeared in

wealthier homes, installed in small closets or converted spaces. Baths too became more accessible as cast-iron models, coated in porcelain, were mass-produced and more affordable. Still, bathrooms as self-contained rooms were largely limited to middleclass and upper-class households. For the working classes, washing facilities were often communal. Municipal bathhouses were constructed in many towns from the 1850s onwards, allowing urban residents to bathe in hot water for a small fee.

GRADUAL INTEGRATION At the turn of the 20th century, more houses began to incorporate bathrooms, though it was still far from universal.

New suburban housing developments, particularly in the interwar years, often included an indoor bathroom as standard.

This was encouraged by changes in building regulations and by the expansion of piped water and sewerage networks. Bathrooms in this period were functional and modest, usually featuring a single bath, a basin, and a water closet all in one room.

For many families, however, bathrooms remained aspirational rather than actual.

In working-class housing, particularly older terraced stock, outside toilets and tin baths in front of the fire remained the norm well into the 1930s and 1940s.

The Second World War and subsequent rationing slowed the pace of domestic improvement, but post-war reconstruction offered an opportunity to change this.

POST-WAR BRITAIN The mid-20th century was the moment when the bathroom truly became a standard feature of British homes. The 1949 Housing Act and the massive programme of council house building after the war ensured that millions of new properties were constructed with indoor bathrooms. Local authorities also began modernisation schemes for older homes, adding bathrooms and inside toilets. By the 1960s, surveys showed that the majority of British households had an indoor bathroom, although disparities persisted between regions and tenures.

During this period, the bathroom remained relatively utilitarian. Designs were simple, often in pastel colours such as avocado green or pink, which became popular in the 1960s and 1970s.

Showers began to appear more commonly, though usually as attachments over the bath rather than separate cubicles.

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FROM UTILITY TO LIFESTYLE From the 1980s onwards, the bathroom underwent another transformation: from a purely functional space to a site of lifestyle and self-expression. Rising living standards, DIY culture, and the growth of home improvement media encouraged homeowners to upgrade and personalise their bathrooms. Suites in white porcelain became the norm, replacing the colourful sets of earlier decades. Power showers, heated towel rails, and fitted cabinets began to appear, signalling new expectations of comfort and convenience.

The en-suite bathroom also gained popularity, especially in new-build houses. No longer was one shared bathroom sufficient; households aspired to multiple bathrooms, reflecting both larger average house sizes and greater emphasis on privacy.

it’s a necessity. A well-organised space will have a direct impact on how you feel, and you should feel either calm or invigorated in your bathroom, and clutter will undermine calm.

“We often integrate bespoke vanity units into bathrooms to maximise worktop space and storage. They offer a clean and elegant look on the surface, while cleverly storing and concealing all the practical items of everyday life.

Other integrated features like shaving sockets inside vanity drawers, recessed shelves in the shower for products, or concealed laundry baskets can transform how a bathroom performs day to day.

“Cloakrooms are the client’s opportunity to let their hair down with design and step out of their comfort zone. They’re often more adventurous and playful,

providing the chance to create a little jewel box moment to wow guests.

“As independent, separate spaces, they offer an opportunity to think out of the realms of the styles of the other bathrooms in the house. Mixing vintage taps with contemporary basins, experimenting with bold wallpapers or dramatic tiles, integrating statement finishes – the cloakroom is the time to really go for it stylistically and make some bold design statements.

“We always encourage clients to explore textures, finishes and design details they might not use elsewhere, giving them the confidence to bring enormous personality into the more compact spaces of the home.” thevawdreyhouse.com

LUXURY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND TECHNOLOGY From luxurious master bathrooms and en-suites to characterful cloakrooms, exceptional bathroom design in the 21st century strikes the perfect balance between functionality and beauty. Multi award-winning and Sussex-based interior design and architecture studio, The Vawdrey House, places great importance on creating bathrooms that not only reflect the homeowner’s personal style but also enhance everyday lives and routines. Here, Sophie Chapman, Associate & Interior Designer at The Vawdrey House, discusses the key considerations when designing bathrooms.

“Arguably the most important consideration of bathroom design, storage isn’t just nice to have in a bathroom,

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TRAVEL

THE BIG BLUE ANDRONIS LUXURY SUITES

Andronis Luxury Suites, set into the volcanic cliffs of Oia in Santorini, is perched high above the glittering blue of the Aegean, Each suite overlooks the Caldera, the vast volcanic basin that has defined Santorini’s dramatic landscape, and the Aegean Sea beyond. andronis.com

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HIGH A L P I N E

E S C A P E

The Dolomites: adventure, food and fun galore for families B y H AY L E Y B A R C L AY

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TRAVEL • EUROPE

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he Dolomites is such a great destination for young families. My son is three and a half so too old for snoozy beach breaks and not old enough to sit still for long, so I wanted somewhere with lots of outdoorsy things to do and a manageable flight time. South Tyrol in northern Italy ticked both those boxes.

The dramatic, Sleeping Beauty-style views of forests and castles also made it extra magical.

The Italian Alps are normally associated with skiing, but during the summer months the weather is warm and fresh - but not too hot - and the green, snow-capped mountains are glorious to look at. Parts of South Tyrol are only about 40 miles from the Austrian

border so the food, architecture and scenery has quite a Germanic feel – so you get the best of both cultures.

We flew with Sky Alps, a boutique Italian airline that flies weekly during the summer from Gatwick to Balzano. The flight time is 2.5 hours on a small propeller plane that feels a bit like a private jet and unlike most short-haul flights, snacks and drinks are complimentary - a nice surprise!

The Gatwick Ibis is also a great shout for families travelling from London but with a long drive first. It’s located about a 10-minute shuttle or bus from the terminal and packs everything you could need for a brief overnight into one affordable package.

Colouring books and an ice cream voucher for our onward journey were much appreciated.

Rooms start at about £100 per night.

THE HOTEL Our first stop was the Quellenhof Luxury Resort Passeier, located near the city of Merano and about a 45- transfer from Bolzano Airport. If you’re looking for absolutely everything you need in one place, then this is your go-to. From several spas to a waterpark to indoor rock climbing, as well as exquisite fine dining, Quellenhof is a vast, opulent super-resort.

The property is divided into a series of “Guest Houses”, all connected by labyrinthine corridors - it takes a good few days to get your bearings. We were based in the family section and even though it was child-friendly, it still felt supremely five-star. The hotel’s unhurried luxury seemed to literally infuse guests because there was no shouting or crying - at all. Almost like a spell. The decor is Alpine chic with dramatic art and sculptures lining the corridors and the grounds are immaculately kept. You could stay for two weeks and see something new every day.

THE ROOM We stayed in a one-bedroom family apartment that could sleep up to five people.

The child’s room was separate with two single beds and a cot while the super king size adult bed looked over the large terrace and mountains. The wood panelling and clean lines made it a calm space with enough room to do your own thing. It came with a mini bar that was stocked daily with champagne, wine, beer and spirits and a smart coffee maker.

THE FACILITIES Where to begin? The amenities for both kids and adults were outstanding. The main draw in our ‘guesthouse’ was the water park. With multiple slides - including a zippy drop slide - a lazy river, baby pool, rubber rings and fountains, it was pretty epic and you could easily spend the whole day there. All the pools were heated too A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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so little ones won’t get chilly. There is also a kid-friendly spa. South Tyroleans take spa-ing quite seriously so it was not unusual to see kids enjoying a (reduced heat) sauna, experience shower or ice bath. A bowling alley, trampoline park, cinema, climbing wall and playgrounds meant there really is something to do from dawn till dusk.

For older children, there are tennis lessons, horse riding, golf, hiking and various excursions to the nearby meadows, river and mountains - though some activities have a fee.

The kids club is open from 9am until 9pm and includes lunch and dinner at no extra cost. We dropped our son there for a few hours a few times a day and despite being the only English-speaking child, he loved his new friends and even watched Shrek in German. The 9pm finish meant we could have dinner by ourselves one night and his babysitter took him back to our room until we came back. Babysitting is £15 per hour after 9pm and can be billed to your room.

If you enjoy a spa then Quellenhof is unbeatable. In the adults only areas there is a floating infinity pool, countless heat and ice therapies, guided sauna sessions, wild swimming, you name it. The spas feel part of the mountain, all stone, glass and natural light and there is herbal tea and infused water at every turn. Or you can just relax by one of the infinity pools with a drink. It’s quiet, calm and very grown up. One thing to note is that in South Tyrol a “no textile” rule applies for most of the facilities, so leave your robe at the door. There is also a daily hike that leaves the hotel at about 10am.

THE FOOD We had the half board option, which is recommended as Quellenhof is not cheap.

Breakfast each day was a brilliant feast of pastries, dozens of types of fresh bread, cheese, meat, pancakes or hot food. We ate in the elegant restaurant on the floor above and you’re seated at the same table every day.

There is even a chilled juicing room where you can concoct your own smoothies and the service was friendly and attentive. Despite the elegant surroundings children are not made to feel in the way and every morning you’re also greeted with the daily resort ‘newspaper’ outlining all the day’s activities and recommendations for local culture.

Each morning you choose your evening ‘tasting menu’ options. Dinner is five courses, including a salad and soup and the starters and main courses range from classics like carbonara to local fish to premium cut steak and veal. You definitely will not go hungry. Five courses can take quite a long time for a three year old so we ordered room service one night and the a la carte options were divine. For a real treat there is the See Lodge underwater (adults only) restaurant that has won various awards for its cuisine - but it was sadly closed the nights we were there. Next time!

The sheer size of Quellenhof was breathtaking, but despite its enormity and the volume of guests, it felt like a boutique, personalised holiday _ sophisticated, adventure-filled and unique.

Rates for a double room for two guests start at about £400 per night on a half board basis.

Travel essentials for a trip to the

DOLOMITES Helly Hansen sliders and walking boots - essential for the mountain terrain and pool A Shushiie white noise machine - perfect for nodding off Avery Row pram and changing bag - roomy but still stylish Dr David Jack travel skincare Muddy Puddles swimwear and cosy pajamas - durable, comfy and brightly-coloured smarTrike Traveler - a nifty pram and tricycle hybrid that evolves with your toddler

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DISCOVER THE SECRET MEDITERRANEAN COAST LUXURY VILLAS WITH 5 STAR HOTEL FACILITIES & SERVICE, 5 MINUTES FROM THE BEACH, IN THE LANGUEDOC, SOUTH OF FRANCE

CHÂTEAU HOTEL | VILLAS WITH POOLS | RESTAURANTS & BARS | EXPERIENCES SPA | WINE CELLAR | VINEYARD | KIDS CLUB | TENNIS | BIKES

TO RECEIVE A PERSONALISED QUOTE PLEASE VISIT CHATEAUCAPITOUL.COM OR CALL US ON 0345 686 6506

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L I V I N G

history Experience contemporary luxury steeped in history at the InterContinental Crete

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f fragrance has a hotline to memory, and memories are made on holiday – then the InterContinental Hotel in Agios Nikolaos is somewhere no guest will ever forget. Its signature scent is so distinctive, and so lovely, that the first thing I do when I get home is light my hotel candle. Its scent transports me straight back to Crete, and to probably the best-smelling hotel I’ve ever experienced.

This new hotel inhabits a large seafront site in Agios Nikolaos, a popular Cretan destination on the northeastern coast, situated along the shores of Mirabello Bay, one of the deepest bays in the Mediterranean. And it’s this view that really makes the hotel stand out – set slightly apart from the town’s busiest area, we’re right on the beach and the views from every room are stunning.

Greek mythology and Cretan history is everywhere. At the hotel entrance there’s

original sculpture representing a hybrid between the Sphinx and Minotaur, while an impressive rock formation dominates the centre of the building. There are bronze creatures dotted throughout, and the hotel's three Greek eateries are fittingly named Zeus, Knossos and Minoan.

Crete, the largest Greek island, was home to the Bronze Age Minoan civilization, flourishing from roughly 3000 to 1100 BCE and widely considered Europe’s first major civilisation. Centered at UNESCO-listed palatial sites like Knossos, Phaistos, and Malia, the Minoans developed advanced architecture, extensive trade networks and vibrant artistic traditions. Their society appears relatively peaceful, with strong maritime influence and complex religious practices, possibly centered on goddess worship. The Minoans were known for their highly complex engineering and elaborate urban planning; it is said

that they developed flushing toilets and sophisticated plumbing, but natural disasters, especially volcanic activity and earthquakes, contributed to the civilization’s gradual decline. Today, the ruins of Knossos are a major draw for tourists and remain one of Crete’s most significant sites.

Of course tourists also come for the beautiful vistas, impossibly blue sea and excellent culinary tradition. Because food is an essential part of the experience. We eat at several traditional tavernas with their menus of seafood, locally produced olive oil, and Cretan specialties such as dakos, kalitsounia, and lamb cooked with herbs. It’s a relaxed dining culture, often accompanied by live music, and our favourite restaurant comes recommended by hotel staff – Gipas Kafenio is a slightly unlikely location, perhaps a 20 minute walk heading out of town. Just as we think we’re lost we spot the family-run eaterie with its pretty fairylit A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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garden and excellent small menu of delicious traditional sharing dishes including excellent courgettes and simple beetroots.

The hotel has not one but two rooftop infinity pools, one on the fifth floor with the main restaurant, and a smaller, adults-friendly (no children under 14) one on the top floor where the bar lounge is.

Swimming feels otherworldly, almost as if you’re flying over the sweeping bay in its dreamy blue vastness. Lounging by the pool is a joy in this luxurious area with lots of shade and large beds, plus easy access to the well-stocked bar with its high class cocktails. The hotel food is overseen by two Michelin-starred ChefConsultant Nikos Roussos, whose seasonal menus are inspired by Cretan tradition.

At the heart of Agios Nikolaos is Lake Voulismeni, a small circular lake steeped in mythology. According to legend, the goddess Athena bathed in its waters. Surrounded by cliffs and tavernas, it is a picturesque setting that draws locals and visitors. The lake seamlessly connects to the harbour via a narrow channel, and according to local folklore, the lake is bottomless and the crater of an extinct volcano.

We spend a happy few days lounging by the pool and snorkelling in the clear waters outside the hotel, where we spot the most colourful fish we’ve ever seen outside of tropical waters. We’re here as a family and our luxurious rooms are interconnecting, which is an essential for family travel, and each has an impressive balcony plunge pool where you can sit and cool off overlooking the beautiful bay.

Breakfast is a highlight: a generous poolside buffet bursting with fresh fruit, pastries and cakes, salads, eggs, bread, cheese and more, and from breakfast it’s a simple shift to a poolside lounger. Happy days.

Rates start at €169 per night in April 2026 intercontinental.com/crete

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jewel F L O R I D A ’ S

Leave the famous bits of Florida behind and head west to Pensacola for culture, sublime food and fantastic beaches

By SAN DY CADIZ-S M ITH

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PALAFOX STREET IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN IS REGULARLY NAMED AMONG THE BEST IN THE US

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he charming Florida Gulf Coast city of Pensacola boasts a vibrant tapestry woven between sun-kissed shores and historical streets. It’s both the most westerly city in Florida and the first European settlement in the United States – and its past feels ever-present. This is a place with layers, including Spanish, French and Creole, all leaving their own unique imprints.

Here, stately buildings and cobbled lanes whisper tales of old-time settlers and sailors, while colourful galleries, playful pelican sculptures and eclectic shops speak to the city’s flourishing creative spirit. The food scene, too, tells a delicious story.

Glorious Gulf seafood, Southern comfort food and bold international flavours come together on a single plate. And the beaches?

They are some of the most breathtaking we have ever laid eyes on.

“Winding, scenic trails fringed with trees and swaying grasses lead to untouched beaches”

PENSACOLA OFFERS A DAZZLING SEA AND SKY LANDSCAPE

Our adventure begins, as all the best ones do, by the sea. The moment we arrive at The Pensacola Beach Resort, there’s a gentle exhale. Our room is light and airy, with doors that open out onto a balcony overlooking miles of soft, sugar-white sand and a sea that changes colour with the sun. The blues and greens are so vivid they look brushed on by hand. There’s salt in the air, warmth on our skin, and that rare sense of having nowhere else to be. Not for a while, anyway.

Morning dawns bright and brilliant, and we’re ready to explore. First stop: the

Gulf Islands National Seashore, where we wander through Fort Pickens, a hulking, pre-Civil War fortress once home to Union troops, and later, Apache leader Geronimo.

The weight of history hangs thick in the brick walls, and yet just outside, nature is doing its gentle, calming work.

This unspoilt park is full of winding, scenic trails fringed with trees and swaying grasses that lead to untouched beaches. We pause to watch the legendary aerial acrobatic jets, the Blue Angels, cut across the sky in heart-racing, high-speed formation. It’s loud,

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SEAFOOD IS ABUNDANT – A REAL TREAT FOR VISITORS

it’s bold, and it’s pure Pensacola. While we’re talking aviation, the National Naval Aviation Museum just down the road is one of the largest and most immersive aviation museums in the world and is home to over 150 beautifully restored aircraft.

Pensacola is also the winter training home for American Magic, the US America’s Cup syndicate. So, unsurprisingly, a lot centres around water in this seaside heaven. There are plenty of opportunities to swim in the warmth of the Gulf, snorkel around the reefs or go paddleboarding. We take a slower route, setting sail with Condor Sailing Adventures, an intimate experience on board a rare racing trimaran with room for just six guests. As we glide across the bay enveloped in its tranquility, dolphins play around us and time seems to stand still.

It’s the kind of place that invites you to linger but there’s more to explore

TRAVEL TIPS STAY The Pensacola Beach Resort – thepensacolabeachresort.com Lily Hall – lilyhall.com SEE Fort Pickens – nps.gov/guis/ planyourvisit/fort-pickens-area.htm Historic sites – historicpensacola.org Condor Sailing Adventures – condorsailingadventures.com The Blue Angels – blueangels.navy.mil DINE Brother Fox – brotherfoxsisterhen.com The Grand Marlin – thegrandmarlin.com Flounders – flounderschowderhouse.com Crabs – crabsonthebeach.com The Wharf Fish and Oyster Company – thewharffishco.com Jaco’s Bayfront Bar and Grill – jacosbayfrontbarandgrille.com

OUR ROOM WITH A VIEW AT THE PENSACOLA BEACH RESORT

beyond the shoreline and it’s time to move Downtown, just a 15-minute drive away.

We’re staying at the elegant boutique hotel Lily Hall conveniently located on the edge of the area we want to explore.

Downtown is centred around the beautifully preserved and vibrant Palafox Street (regularly named one of the best in America). Here, the Historic Pensacola Village, America’s First Settlement Trail and the Pensacola Museum of History bring the city’s past to life, while the streets buzz with independent shops, welcoming cafés, buzzing bars and a truly impressive line-up of restaurants. Which is handy, because all this exploring and salty air works up a healthy appetite. Pensacola’s food scene is flourishing – from easy-going beachside bites to sophisticated seafood spots and innovative fine dining. It is one of the unexpected highlights of our trip.

In fact, there are many unexpected high points. One moment we’re strolling the waterfront, sea breeze in our hair, the next we’re tucking into just-caught snapper, the freshest of oysters, blackened shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits and the legendary local crab cakes. We’re drifting through shady lanes lined with oak trees and wrought iron balconies, dipping into shops and cafés filled with local treasures and wondering how this place has managed to stay such a well-kept secret.

Pensacola may not shout about itself like some of Florida’s flashier destinations. But it is authentic, uncrowded, unspoilt and quietly dazzling. There’s history around every corner, soul in every bite, and the kind of warm Southern welcome that stays with you long after you’ve left. And it’s just waiting for you to discover it.

Flights to Pensacola with Virgin Atlantic from £507 per person, including a transfer in Atlanta. virginatlantic.com Find out what to do and see in Pensacola at visitpensacola.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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A e g e a n P E R F E C T I O N Experience the best of Santorini at Andronis Luxury Suites B y K AT I E M E LV I L L E

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here are few destinations that live up to the dream quite like Santorini, and there are even fewer hotels that manage to capture the island’s cinematic magic while delivering a sense of calm, character, and pure luxury. Andronis Luxury Suites, set into the volcanic cliffs of Oia, does all of this and more.

Perched high above the glittering blue of the Aegean, Andronis Luxury Suites is almost impossibly beautiful. Arriving feels more like stepping into a private sanctuary than checking into a hotel. The check-in process is effortless, conducted on a terrace with a glass of something refreshing in hand and panoramic views over the Caldera that almost stop time.

You immediately get the sense that everything here has been carefully considered, not just the aesthetic (think:

crisp white curves, soft limestone paths, and subtle colour tones), but the way the space makes you feel. Andronis strikes that elusive balance between exclusivity and warmth.

When it comes to Santorini, location is everything, and Andronis occupies one of the most desirable spots on the island.

Right in the heart of Oia, the postcardperfect town famous for its whitewashed domes and fiery sunsets, it offers the best of both worlds: instant access to boutiques, galleries and cliffside cafes, while feeling totally private and peaceful.

Then, of course, there are the views.

Each suite overlooks the Caldera, the vast volcanic basin that has defined Santorini’s dramatic landscape, and the Aegean Sea beyond. Morning coffee and evening cocktails are both enhanced by the ever-changing light across the water.

The hotel’s infinity pool is the perfect spot to pause between explorations, with cocktails delivered to your lounger, cold towels at the ready, and even suncream and aftersun thoughtfully provided.

Andronis also makes it easy to experience the island; the team can arrange everything from sunset catamaran cruises to volcanic vineyard tours, scuba diving excursions, and more.

Every suite boasts either a private hot tub or plunge pool, and each is positioned to maximise privacy while soaking in those all-important views. We stayed in one of the newly refurbished Premier Suites and from the moment we stepped inside, it was clear no detail had been overlooked. The

interiors are elegantly pared back, with curved walls, warm stone floors, and neutral textures that feel both serene and stylish.

It’s the small touches that elevate the experience, including the hotel's very own luxury bath products, a plate of delightful freshly made treats waiting in our room on arrival, and even a daily puzzle left at turndown, a charming little ritual that added personality to our stay. A Sleep Concierge service allows you to tailor your sleep experience down to pillow firmness and bespoke linen sprays. This is one of those rare hotels where you find yourself cancelling plans because leaving your suite feels like missing out.

Food, unsurprisingly, is a highlight.

The hotel is home to two exceptional restaurants, each offering a distinctly different experience, but both set against the backdrop of those incredible Caldera views.

If the views and the food set the stage, it’s the team at Andronis that brings the experience to life. The service is unfailingly polished, with a relaxed, easy warmth that puts you instantly at ease. It’s intuitive, thoughtful, and genuinely kind. From the concierge arranging private island tours to the restaurant team who remember your coffee order after one morning, you’re made to feel not just welcomed, but truly cared for.

For honeymooners, design lovers, or anyone seeking a grown-up escape that doesn’t compromise on style or substance, Andronis is a clear standout.

It’s the sort of place you daydream about returning to before you’ve even left.

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VOTED THE WORLD'S LEADING ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS Scattered across eight idyllic Caribbean islands, discover our 17 breathtaking adults-only resorts. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails and indulge in mouth-watering cuisine at up to 16 on-resort restaurants, all included within your stay. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, look no further – we include that too with unlimited land and water sports. For the ultimate relaxation experience enjoy our award-winning Red Lane® Spas - each a tranquil sanctuary to rejuvenate and heighten all your senses. Here at Sandals Resorts we’ve been perfecting our holidays for over 40 years, leaving you to sit back, relax and enjoy all that’s included.

2022

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“Aboremp orerisque et labor woodland, gardens and vineyards. Alongside solo volorehenda the vast infinity pool, tennis court, pétanque and Cinq Mondes spa, there’s plenty to eiunt, odiam fuga. keep active families busy. Wine lovers can explore the impressive on-site winery, join quam eum volut” a guided vineyard walk before a tasting,

W i ne

C O U N T R Y Discover the good life in Southern France this summer with a stay at family favourite Château Capitoul

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et within a magnificent 200-acre wine estate, Château Capitoul basks in the Mediterranean sunshine, framed by fragrant Mediterranean gardens and rolling vineyards, with sweeping views across the lagoon to the distant Pyrenees. Perfectly placed between the beaches of the Languedoc coast, historic Narbonne, and the dramatic Massif de la Clape. What truly sets Château Capitoul apart for families is its unique blend of luxury, freedom and effortless comfort.

Offering guests the best of both worlds: the elegance and service of a boutique château hotel, paired with the privacy and freedom of stylish self-catering villas, giving every family the chance to create their perfect holiday rhythm, without compromise.

A NATURAL PLAYGROUND The château’s glorious grounds make an incredible playground for older kids, with footpaths and cycling trails (and complimentary bikes) winding through

while younger guests can still enjoy the fun ‘Little Wine Grower’ grape-juice blending experience. For kids who’ve outgrown the classic kids’ club, the château offers exciting, adventure-led summer camps. Teens can hit the trails on e-bikes and e-scooters or sharpen their tennis skills — the perfect mix of freedom, fun and fresh air.

FROM COUNTRYSIDE TO COAST While it’s tempting to stay put, one of the delights of Château Capitoul is the range of activities on its doorstep. Just five minutes away lies the pretty seaside village of Gruissan with its shimmering lagoons, pink hued salt flats and lengthy sandy beaches. Here you’ll find water sports such as stand-up paddle-boarding, sailing and wind-surfing. For inland adventure, try canyoning in the Gorges d’Héric — a night trip adds an extra thrill, take a gentle kayak trip past Roquebrun, stopping to swim and soak up the scenery, or explore La Clape’s varied walking trails and sweeping views.

STYLISH SLEEPS All the comforts of a luxury hotel combined with the privacy and space of your own villa, as well as eight elegant suites in the château itself, it’s the 44 chic self-catering properties that set Château Capitoul apart. Ideal for families, friends and multi-generational gatherings, over half boast their own pool, while each has a topquality kitchen which makes self-catering a treat (buy ingredients at bustling local markets). If you don’t feel like cooking, stroll to the château’s two superb restaurants, showcasing ‘farm to fork’ cuisine with produce from the kitchen garden.

A TRIO OF UNIQUE RETREATS Château Capitoul is one of three remarkable properties, alongside sister hotels Château Les Carrasses and Château St Pierre de Serjac, that have been created by Domaine et Demeure. Founded in 2008 by Karl and Anita O’Hanlon, this visionary company excels at restoring historic wine estates and transforming them into luxurious family friendly hideaways. Each property has its own distinctive character, offering families the freedom to shape their… holiday, with comfort, privacy, and effortless style at every turn. domainedemeure.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Bespoke Luxury Morocco Tours & Holidays Beautiful journeys to the most unique and stylish places in Morocco Tailored Private 4x4 Adventures to our Sahara Luxury Camp Moroccan Journeys

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The height of

LUXURY In-suite bars, flyboarding, Matcha Fridays…

Dubai hotels that do five-star right

N

o one ought to compromise on service or style on holiday.

Renowned luxury hospitality group Jumeirah – with 31 hotels across the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa – champions this maxim. Whether staying at one of its prestigious beach resorts, upscale city hotels or luxury residences, guests can be assured that only the finest will do.

JEWEL IN THE SEA It’s not often that a hotel is an attraction in its own right, but Jumeirah’s Burj Al Arab

has been one ever since it opened in Dubai in 1999. It’s an architectural marvel – a sail-shaped beacon, stunning both inside and out. Palatial suites are set over two storeys with marble bathrooms, premium Drouault bedding, butler and a private bar setup on request. Beyond the suite, guests can unwind on the private beach, in the spa or dine at a choice of restaurants. SAL Beach Club has Mediterranean flavours, while Ristorante L’Olivo at Al Mahara is inspired by the two Michelin-starred restaurant on Capri and has floor-to ceiling aquarium views. Cocktails at the Skyview Bar are a must: admire the city lights for a magical end to the day.

CITY WITHIN A CITY Four become one at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah, a sprawling estate linked by water taxis, offering guests a choice of four properties with their own charms.

Jumeirah Mina Al Salam has boutique looks and a waterside Italian restaurant, while Jumeirah Al Naseem, a trendy beach resort, hosts Matcha Fridays, with a fourcourse Nikkei menu and matcha-infused drinks. If an intimate hideaway is desired, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf’s collection of Arabian houses is just the ticket. For ultimate luxury, choose Jumeirah Al Qasr.

Wherever they stay, guests can enjoy the opulent Talise Spa, spacious rooms and elegant restaurants offering Indian, Lebanese, French and Italian cuisine.

H O L I D AY Y O U R WAY & T R AV E L W I T H CONFIDENCE Whether staying at the Burj Al Arab or one of Madinat Jumeirah’s four hotels, there are watersports galore (kayaking or flyboarding anyone?), while the kids’ clubs at Jumeirah Al Qasr and Jumeirah Al Naseem offer non-stop supervised fun. Guests can also visit the family-friendly Wild Wadi waterpark. Trailfinders can assist with the entire holiday, including flights, car hire, accommodation, tours and transfers. The team at Trailfinders is on hand 24/7 until you’re safely home and your money is completely financially secure in the Trailfinders trust account.

Speak to an expert travel consultant to book your stay on 020 7369 1506 or come see us in your local travel centre.

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Luxury Award Winning Lodges in the Derbyshire Peak District

w Lodges sleep 2 - 8 people

w Health & fitness centre

w Activities for all ages

w Perfect for couples,

w Restaurant & bar

w Soft play centre

w Woodland location

w Mini golf, tennis

families & celebrations w Hot tubs available w Pet friendly

w Visit the Peak District

& games room w Cycle hire & nature trails

To find out more and to book online visit www.darwinforest.co.uk or scan the QR code DARWIN FOREST.indd 162

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and Warner Bros. World, nightlife hotspots, luxury beach clubs such as Cove Beach and The Beach at Yas, and headline concerts. In 2026, new attractions including the Yas Bay Arena expansions and immersive VR experiences will elevate its offerings, blending adrenaline-fuelled excitement with sophisticated indulgence.

5. Desert Retreats with Elevated Wellness The Empty Quarter and Al Wathba offer tranquil escapes in luxury eco-resorts. Guests can enjoy private desert dining, stargazing and holistic wellness journeys that combine modern treatments with the timeless traditions of the desert.

6. A Reimagined Corniche Waterfront

The Corniche is being transformed into a stylish promenade lined with art installations, cafés, landscaped gardens and panoramic lounges. It is an elegant setting for sunset walks, alfresco dining and moments of serene reflection by the Arabian Gulf.

7. New Luxury Hotels and Stays

2026 welcomes internationally acclaimed hotel brands such as The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Mandarin Oriental, Park Hyatt and Raffles, each offering striking architecture, private beaches, signature spas, and bespoke guest experiences. Abu Dhabi continues to redefine modern luxury through exceptional service, world-class design and unforgettable stays.

8. Elevated Formula 1 Grand Prix Hospitality

M O D E R N

OASIS 10 Reasons to Visit Abu Dhabi in 2026 with Away Holidays

10 Reasons to Visit Abu Dhabi in 2026 Abu Dhabi has long been a destination where sophistication meets authenticity, yet 2026 promises a new era of elevated travel. With groundbreaking cultural institutions, worldclass hospitality and innovative experiences, the city offers a perfect blend of serenity and discovery. For travellers, Abu Dhabi is set to become one of the world’s most compelling destinations in the year ahead.

1. Exploring the UAE’s Legacy at the Zayed National Museum Zayed National Museum presents the history of this country through an immersive experience spanning from ancient times to the present.

The institution honours the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his commitment to cultural heritage, education, identity and belonging. With this institution, the nation finally has a home for their story, where their children can learn about where they have come from and visitors from around the world can discover the depth and richness of their history and traditions.

2. Saadiyat Cultural District’s Growing Prestige Already home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena and the newly opened additions of Zayed National Museum and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District is a centre of knowledge and will have one of the world's highest concentrations of cultural experiences.

3. Michelin-Starred Culinary Expansion

The iconic season finale returns with enhanced VIP lounges, exclusive trackside experiences and curated entertainment. It offers thrill-seekers a sophisticated and exhilarating way to enjoy the world’s most prestigious motorsport event.

9. A Flourishing Wellness Movement

Longevity clinics, holistic sanctuaries and immersive spa resorts position Abu Dhabi at the forefront of wellness travel. Visitors can embrace rejuvenation, combining cuttingedge science with peaceful surroundings.

10. Untouched Natural Escapes

From mangroves and wildlife reserves to immaculate island beaches, Abu Dhabi offers rare natural beauty alongside city refinement. These serene escapes provide restorative moments and a profound sense of luxury in simplicity.

In 2026, Abu Dhabi strikes a rare balance of culture, luxury and tranquillity. It is a city confidently shaping the future while honouring its heritage—an irresistible invitation for travellers seeking elegance, discovery and unforgettable experiences in every moment.

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Abu Dhabi’s dining scene continues to flourish with new Michelin-star restaurants, celebritychef outposts and elevated Emirati cuisine set to open in 2026. Renowned names such as Nobu, Hakkasan, Zuma and Coya bring their signature creations to the capital, while local gems reimagine traditional flavours with creativity and finesse. These culinary experiences rival any international capital, offering residents and visitors alike a taste of world-class gastronomy.

4. New and Enhanced Experiences on Yas Island

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Quintessential Coastal Escape Why The Boat House, Itchenor, is the perfect spot to get away from it all

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ucked away near to the picturesque shores of Chichester Harbour and the idyllic East Wittering coastline, The Boat House in Itchenor is not merely a holiday let; it is a tranquil invitation to the timeless rhythm of coastal life. This charming property, a member of the Inspire Stays collection, offers a staycation that masterfully blends modern comfort with the soul-stirring simplicity of a near-beach retreat, proving that the most profound escapes are often found just a few hours from home.

First impressions are everything, and The Boat House delivers. The traditional clapboard exterior, the old ship anchor in the courtyard, whispers of sailing lore and quiet evenings. Stepping inside, the connection to the environment is immediate. The open-plan living area is awash with natural light, courtesy of generous windows that stretch all the way up the sides of the property. The décor is

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TRAVEL • UK

a masterclass in coastal elegance – clean lines, nautical whites and blues, and tactile textures of wood and fabrics – creating a space that feels both stylish and deeply restful. It’s a place where you can sink into the sofa with a book, but at the same time, allow distraction from your surroundings Location is where this property truly shines. The Boat House is isolated in an affluent, private area on the outskirts of Itchenor, which itself is a gem of a village – a peaceful enclave where the primary soundtrack is the cry of gulls and the gentle hum of the sea. Fabulous coffee shops, a wonderful bakery, some superb pubs and an array of quirky, independently owned businesses make for a fun and interesting afternoon out. You can find places for brunch, lunch, dinner or a quiet seaside pint – all hours of the day.

For the active, the opportunities are boundless. The renowned Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is your playground. You can arrange boat trips from the nearby jetty, or you can hire a kayak to explore the tranquil creeks at your own pace. A short drive unveils the wild, windswept wonders of the East Wittering beaches and the cultural delights of Chichester itself, with its magnificent cathedral and esteemed festival theatre.

Also close by is West Wittering beach.

This stands out as one of the most appealing coastal spots in southern England thanks to its rare blend of natural beauty, spaciousness, and tranquility. Its wide stretch of soft, golden sand offers plenty of room for families, dog walkers, and watersports enthusiasts without ever feeling crowded. The water is clean and shallow near the shore, making

it especially safe for children and ideal for paddling or swimming. Beyond the beach itself, the surrounding dunes and salt marshes create a peaceful, unspoiled backdrop and attract a variety of wildlife.

Clear views across Chichester Harbour to East Head add to the sense of openness and escape. With excellent facilities, reliable parking, and a well-kept environment, West Wittering beach manages to feel both accessible and wonderfully remote.

It’s this combination of natural charm and thoughtful management that makes it such a consistently beloved destination.

Yet, the magic of The Boat House lies in its ability to make doing nothing feel like everything. It’s about the slow sunset that paints the sky in apricot and

lavender, above the rolling fields – as you look out the glass wall in the bathroom, relaxing in the masterpiece of a bath tub. It’s about the unique sense of peace that comes from being so intimately connected to the elements all around you.

In a world that often moves too fast, The Boat House is a gentle anchor. It offers a UK staycation that doesn’t just change your scenery, but recalibrates your pace.

This is a haven for couples seeking a romantic hideaway, or for anyone craving an authentic, restorative breath of salty air. For a true escape into coastal serenity, The Boat House is a destination in itself. inspirestays.com/holidaycottages/the-boat-house

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E D U C AT I O N

SCIENCE DISCOVERY K I NG A L FR ED S CHOOL

Experimentation is encouraged at King Alfred School, where children develop confidence and curiousity inside and outside the classroom. kingalfred.org.uk

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

STREATHAM & CLAPHAM HIGH SCHOOL PUPILS

Wellbeing

and 11+

The Head of Admissions at Streatham & Clapham High School on how to approach the 11+ and assessment-day journey

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t’s an early February morning and families across London are waking up to decision letters from senior schools.

For parents, it’s been a long journey – printing past papers at midnight, Googling ‘net of a cuboid’, waiting in coffee shops during assessments, and decoding their child’s post-test ‘I think it went OK’ feedback. Some even manage to squeeze in a reasoning test over breakfast the next day.

At the centre of all this is a child quietly carrying the weight of expectation. How the child feels – confident, anxious, motivated or discouraged – can shape not only their academic performance but also their sense of self as they step into secondary life. This is where pupil wellbeing must take centre stage. The 11+ is often framed around academic preparation, but it’s easy to forget what it feels like to be ten years old in the middle of this process. Nurturing

confidence, balance and perspective is just as crucial as any revision schedule.

Schools have a responsibility to champion candidates and bring out the best in each child. A school’s admissions process should reflect its core values – kindness in how children are welcomed, compassion in listening to their stories, integrity in ensuring fairness, and respect in treating each child as an individual. Even before results arrive, the admissions experience offers families insights into whether a school is the right environment for their child. Beyond asking pupil tour guides about their lived experiences, the nature of the admissions process and interactions with staff are powerful indicators of school culture. Before applying, it’s worth asking yourself: ‘does this process allow my child to feel seen and supported, not just assessed?’.

Parents often ask how best to prepare their child for assessment days. My advice

ANATOLY REEVES HEAD OF ADMISSIONS STREATHAM & CLAPHAM HIGH SCHOOL

is simple: ensure they are well rested and have had a nourishing breakfast and, most importantly, reassure them that the day is about curiosity and enjoyment and not perfection. The goal is for pupils to feel confident that the assessment is not a test, but an opportunity to explore, collaborate, and express themselves in an environment rooted in kindness and respect. When assessments are framed in this way, they become less about pressure and more about giving every child the chance to be themselves. This supports a diverse community and reflects the values that underpin education.

Our aim is for every pupil to leave the day feeling proud of who they are, valued for their individuality and excited about the next chapter, whatever the outcome. Small acts of encouragement, like a handwritten note from the Head commenting on a child’s creative writing, can make a lasting impact. These gestures matter because at the heart of this process is a young person beginning a life-changing journey of navigating friendships, discovering passions, and developing a sense of self.

So, instead of asking your child how the test went on the journey home, try asking if the staff were kind, they made any friends and whether someone was there to help when they got stuck. The answers to those questions tell you more than a test score and offer the clearest sense of whether your child will thrive in that school.

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OPEN MORNING 16th January 2026

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EDUCATION • FEATURE

“GETTING TO KNOW QUESTIONING STYLES AND THE TIME-MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS CAN MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE”

Testing time Being prepared for the 11+ takes practice – and that’s where trusted guides come in, reducing stress and building confidence and familiarity

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arents often dread the 11+ more than their children.

Little wonder, since it’s the first exam milestone, often determining secondary school options and all that follows. There’s no getting round that fact, but it can be greatly relieved for the exam taker with measured preparation and practice well ahead of time.

That’s certainly the approach many parents take, says Clare Souza, Associate Publisher at Collins and steward of its 11+ portfolio. “It’s pretty standard to buy a year ahead but some people are preparing way in advance of that.” Collins even has an activity puzzle book to familiarise much younger children with the approaches and themes of the 11+.

This is one of the great challenges with the exam – it places big demands on children, and a lot of that is down to its unfamiliarity. Getting to know questioning styles, what is being tested, and the timemanagement requirements can make a huge difference – which is where study guides come in. “For instance, the nonverbal reasoning is pretty specialist,” says Clare Souza. “It’s a particularly tricky one to grasp for those that are sitting the 11+.”

Collins is a tried and tested name,

with guides from KS1 up to A level. Many parents will have used its books in their own journey through school (sometimes under the Letts name, which came into the Collins fold a few years back).

Parents like the fact that the 11+ material is comprehensive – and with extra elements such as flash cards.

“These are a physical thing that’s really portable,” says Clare Souza. A paper-based method of practice is popular with most, who don’t want to add yet more screen time to their child’s day. And, of course, writing down answers with pencil and paper supports information retention.

The Collins range for the 11+ covers all the exam components – Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning – in each case with revision, practice and test-style papers in one book. Both GL (more common) and CEM 11+ tests are covered in different books.

There is ongoing expert input to keep material current. Collins works with a team of specialist tutors and teachers.

Material is designed to be as accessible as possible – friendly fonts for this age group, laid out with plenty of space to help children digest and understand material. Practice papers are, of necessity, different. Clare Souza says that familiarity with the look of the actual test papers is really important.

“A lot is getting used to the timings – a snappy answer within a set timeframe.

Practice papers are mimicking real tests.”

While 11+ is a big milestone, all that preparation is not time wasted – developing thinking skills and the ability to assess what information a question is looking for. There are much tougher exams down the line.

And the best support parents can provide is to empower their child by giving them tools and tactics to help them succeed. “Let them have all the confidence they can have ahead of the exam,” adds Clare Souza.

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

At Blackheath High Junior School, opportunities range from Mighty Girls and Mandarin to chess, robotics, football, yoga and Forest School. Every pupil experiences the joy of music through taster courses, encouraging confidence and creativity from an early age.

The Right School Lizie Riordan, Blackheath High School’s Head of Early Years Foundation Stage, shares some guidance on making the choice

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PRIMARY SCHOOL Choosing a primary school is one of the biggest decisions a parent can make. The early years are vital, not just for laying the foundations for academic progress, but also for instilling the emotional, social and cognitive skills that last a lifetime.

LOOK AT THE WHOLE LEARNING EXPERIENCE Academic outcomes matter, but they are only one part of the picture. Visiting schools, seeing classroom teaching in action and talking to teachers and pupils is essential. Do the children seem engaged? Do lessons feel lively, interesting and well structured? What opportunities exist beyond the classroom?

A great primary school should build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, while also nurturing vital life skills. At Blackheath High Junior School, specialist teaching from an early age allows

pupils to become confident in subjects such as Science, French, Music and Art, long before they reach secondary school.

PRIORITISE PASTORAL CARE Children learn best when they feel understood, supported and known as individuals. Look for warm relationships between pupils and teachers, clear wellbeing support systems and a culture of kindness and respect. This sense of security enables children to develop resilience, confidence and the ability to take intellectual risks.

Wellbeing is fundamental at Blackheath High Junior School. It is not a buzzword — it provides the framework for everything we do and sits at the heart of our ethos.

THINK ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENT - AND TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS Does the school feel calm, joyful and inclusive? Are classrooms well resourced?

Does the outdoor space inspire curiosity and play?A school can look perfect on paper, but the real test is how it feels.

Parents often say they “just knew” when they found the right school.

As part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), Blackheath High Junior School offers specialist teaching, exceptional enrichment, personalised pastoral care and a clear pathway through to Senior School.

Join us on 10 Feb for a very special taster morning for girls looking to join in September 2026. With lessons in Coding and Music, and a chance to meet our inspirational staff and welcoming pupils, you will see for yourself what makes our Reception the perfect place for your daughter. Places are extremely limited so book now: www. blackheathighschool.gdst.net/reception

CONSIDER CO-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES Activities such as sport, music, drama, coding, debating and outdoor learning help children discover new interests and build essential skills.

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EDUCATION • SENIOR

Sound revolution Charles Janz, Director of Music at Emanuel School, on how a DJing outreach programme in local primaries is transforming music access LIVE SET AT XOYO

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early 80% of our pupils are on free school meals, and many rarely leave the estate where they live. Without the few initiatives the school provides, most would have no access to music at all.' Hearing those words from a headteacher, on the day I visited to discuss a possible music outreach partnership, brought home how fragile access to music can be for children.

It also highlighted a broader truth. In some communities, barriers such as cost, access, language and confidence make it incredibly difficult for pupils to engage with the arts.

Music is often the first thing to fall away.

Every Monday, I visit state primary schools across south London to teach a DJ course that introduces pupils to the fundamentals of electronic music performance. Using Pioneer DDJ-200 controllers and Rekordbox software, they learn how to beat match, loop, use EQ and filters, set hot cues, identify track structure, build playlists and understand the basics of digital sound. At the end of the course, they take those skills to XOYO, one of London’s most iconic nightclubs, where they perform a live DJ set to an audience of parents, peers and teachers.

Teaching DJ skills in these schools feels very different from working in traditional classroom or instrumental settings. Normally, we build on foundations already in place – notation, aural training or experience with rhythm and melody.

Here, pupils are often encountering these concepts for the first time, which challenges us as teachers to adapt quickly.

Concepts that might be familiar to trained young musicians – keeping time, recognising patterns, listening critically – sometimes

LEARNING DJ SKILLS

need to be introduced from scratch. That means stripping back technical language, modelling skills, and giving pupils time to practise and refine through repetition and peer learning. The process is slower but also more responsive. It reminds us that music education is as much about opening doors as it is about developing expertise.

And it all comes to life on stage. There is always a moment, during the final soundcheck at XOYO, when you see a pupil go from tentative learner to confident performer. They have curated their own set, learned the skills to deliver it live

and now find themselves standing behind the decks facing an audience. That shift in self-perception, and in how others perceive them, is where the real power of this project lies.

Their journey doesn’t end in XOYO’s DJ booth. After the performance, I return to the school to support each pupil in recording their individual mix, which is then submitted for the new ABRSM DJ exam.

These children are among the first in the world to gain this DJ qualification, and the pride they feel in doing so is immense.

This is, of course, a music project, but it is also about identity, aspiration and access. DJing gives pupils a way into music through a cultural language they already connect with. It builds transferable skills. Most importantly, it creates a bridge between school and the professional world, helping pupils see themselves not only as musicians but as confident young people with something to say. At a time when the arts are being squeezed in so many schools, projects like this show what is possible when we give children creative spaces to explore who they are and what they might become.

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

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Her future starts now

B L ACK H E ATH H I GH

With an outstanding curriculum, specialist teaching in French, Music and Sport, and our own Forest School, our girls can dream big, discover their passions, and learn without limits.

Book your place at one of our Reception free taster events this spring - spaces limited GDST.indd 176

Reception Taster Morning

Feb 10

Book online now

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

Future peace Five myths holding us back from future planning

By E L N O R A T E R A KO P I A N

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e plan for many things in life, yet the plans that quietly protect us and our families are often postponed.

Many see making a Will or arranging a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) as something for later in life but planning ahead is one of the most important things you can do.

Wills and estate planning expert Elnora Terakopian explores the common myths that stop people from preparing for the future.

1. “We’re married, so we don’t need a Will or LPAs.” It is a comforting belief, but being married or in a civil partnership does not automatically mean your spouse will inherit everything, be inherited tax efficiently, or be able to step in if you cannot make decisions.

Having both a Will and LPA in place ensures you are protecting each other with certainty.

2. “A Will is enough, LPAs are not as important.”

A Will divides your estate in accordance with your wishes and only takes effect

LPAs in place is an effective way to protect and provide for each other.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

after death. However, LPAs are almost more important because they protect your finances and health decisions while you are still alive. You choose who makes those decisions and you can restrict what they can do and when. Without an LPA, if an illness or accident leaves you unable to make decisions, no one, not even family, can automatically step in.

3. “We live together, so my partner will inherit everything.”

Living together do not give you the same rights as being married or in a civil partnership. If you die without a Will, the law does not recognise your partner, no matter how long you have been together. Putting a Will and

4. “My recent marriage will not affect my existing Will.”

Getting married automatically revokes any existing Will. This means if you are recently married and have not updated your Will, your wishes will no longer be valid. This is particularly important for blended families or when dealing with complex assets. Reviewing your Will regularly helps avoid unintended outcomes.

5. “Wills and LPAs are only for later life.”

This is one of the biggest myths of all. Life is unpredictable at every age. Thoughtful future planning gives you control and protects your loved ones, whether you are 35 or 75. It’s not about anticipating the worst, it’s about creating certainty.

Planning ahead is a caring way to support the people who matter to you.

At Owen White Catlin, we offer warm, thoughtful guidance to ensure your wishes are clear and your family feels protected.

If you’d like to explore your options, we’re here to help.

020 8987 1400 contact@owc.co.uk owenwhitecatlin.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Specialising in a wide selection of new, old and new Persian, Turkish, Caucasian and Turkmen carpets. Various antique, old and new Kilims available. Professional hand-cleaning and restoration service.

We buy old and antique carpets – even damaged rugs.

Part-exchange and evaluations.

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A N I N D E P E N D E N T DAY & B OA RD I N G SC H O O L FO R AG ES 0 - 18

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Wh et he r yo u a re a b e g i n n e r, i n te rm e d i ate o r ad vance d , we c a n e n su re yo u have a wo r ko ut t ai l o re d to yo u. From p r i va te s e ssi o n s to s m al l g ro up c l as s e s , we o ffe r s o me th i n g fo r eve r yo n e .

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