event, plus what not to miss this year
The inside story on the county's finest THE GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOW PLUS JESSICA GUNNING
Why the Baby Reindeer star is supporting the arts in Holmfirth
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NEXT COURSE Restaurant Pignut opens in Scawton
• SUMMER LOVING
From festivals to family days out, make the most of it
JOE BROWNS LEEDS UNVEILS A SS25 COLLECTION TO PUT A SMILE ON YOUR FACE
Wesleyan
weekend2-nightbreaks with a late 6pmdepartureSunday Sunday weekend breaks departure
From cosy cottages full of Yorkshire charm to luxury retreats oozing coastal chic; a dog-friendly break or somewhere for that big family get-together, you’re sure to nd the perfect property with us.
Do you have a property you would like to let with Yorkshire Hideaways? If so, please drop in to our Leyburn o ce or get in touch one of our experienced Property Managers today newowners@yorkshirehideaways.co.uk
EDITOR
MARK KEBBLE
ART DIRECTOR
PAWEL KUBA
SENIOR DESIGNER
SUZETTE SCOBLE
MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER
CARMEN GRAHAM
MAGAZINE DESIGNER
MARIANA SUZUKI
DESIGNER
PAMELLA MORENO
PRODUCTION MANAGER
DANICA BRODIE
MAGAZINE MANAGER
MARTIN CUNNINGHAM
MEDIA CONSULTANT
LISA JACKSON
FINANCIAL DIRECTOR
JERRIE KOLECI
CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER
ALEXANDRA HVID
DIRECTORS
CRAIG DAVIES
JAMES FUSCHILLO
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ALEXANDRA HUNTER
MANAGING DIRECTOR
SHERIF SHALTOUT
For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com
For advertising enquiries please call 07862 004 024 or email: martin@zest-media.com
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Lisa Byrne su ers a writer’s nightmare this month - but thanks her lucky stars for Broughton Sanctuary
It is history’s biggest mystery – what did happen to the Princes in the Tower? Were they smothered to death under the orders of their evil uncle, King Richard III, or did the young King Edward V and his brother, Richard, Duke of York survive into the Tudor times.
My incredible friend Philippa Langley, who helped unearth the butchered remains of King Richard III under a car park in Leicester, is convinced the princes survived and has discovered numerous sources which back her theory. One such premise is that Richard and Edward V’s mother, dowager Queen Elizabeth Woodville, agreed a secret deal allowing the princes to live incognito, with Edward being moved to a manor in Devon.
So, for many months I have been working on bringing this enchanting theory to life by writing a screenplay. With intense passion, I’ve created a story, based both on historic fact and fantasy which appears to be a cross between Game of Thrones, The Tudors and the brilliant 1980s Robin of Sherwood series.
Treating myself to a new laptop to celebrate my hard work, I presented my thrilled daughter Brontë with the old one. So, imagine how my body went into toxic shock when I realised both laptops were still connected, and my teenager had accidentally deleted all my files – years of work disappearing in seconds, including my screenplay. Rushing to Leeds’ Apple store I su ered a minor breakdown when informed it was impossible to retrieve any lost folders.
My saving grace was that I had booked a visit to my favourite part of Yorkshire, Broughton Sanctuary (broughtonsanctuary.co.uk) in Skipton, one of the most stunning and peaceful parts of the world. Being able to relax on the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales was heaven sent. All stress disappeared as instead of connecting to the blasted Wi-Fi, the Byrne clan connected to nature.
And as Broughton is the setting for a huge number of award-winning period dramas such as Gentleman Jack, Wuthering Heights and Emily, it certainly has helped me recharge my creative batteries. And I cannot wait to rewrite my screenplay.
I am...
Visiting the new Trinny London section at Harvey Nicols , Leeds for a makeover with gorgeous Aaron.
Listening to Sheffield’s beloved Richard Hawley play at Futuresound Group’s concert in York Museum Gardens
Treating myself to a host of lovely products from Ilkley’s Beauty in Bloom
Our pick of Roger Vivier's new summer bag collection is this striped raffi a shopper with its fl amboyant ruffl e and stylish monogramming. Leather handles and a drawstring closure give it strength and practicality. rogervivier.com
This unique tealight holder features a ribbed detail and comes in an updated 6 beautiful colours. They are mouthblown and made from recycled glass, giving each item a unique identity. richardgraftoninteriors.com
Scalloped shape? Tick. Stripes? Tick. This cheerful plate has it all, and it's part of a joyful collection of summer homewares from Dutch brand Anna + Nina. Look out for their lovely lampshades too. domesticsciencehome.co.uk
Everybody's favourite Dutch rabbit Miff y is 70 years old this year and, to celebrate, Cambridge Satchels have launched an adorable Miff y collection. We love this Hiding Miff y satchel, with the bunny taking a sneaky peek. cambridgesatchel.com
The OPEIA jewellery collection not only celebrates 125 years of authentic, innovative jewellery design at Berry’s Jewellers, but also takes its name from the word Cassiopeia – a constellation found in the Northern sky that was named a er Queen Cassiopeia, mother of Andromeda. berrysjewellers.co.uk
Carnaby Street's RS No9 sells wearable Rolling Stones merch that's stylish rather than cheesy. We love the slim fit tees and the oversized hoodies. rsno9.co.uk
Graphic artist Zoë Zimmer founded The 87 to create beachwear that you'll want to wear everywhere. The two-piece scarves and sarongs are one size, and are designed to be tied in multiple ways to create different looks. the87london.com
A top collection of swimwear can be found at Amelie's Follies, where they offer one-to-one fittings to make sure that you take home the perfect piece. ameliesfollies.co.uk
This beautiful 18ct White Gold sapphire and diamond pendant features an impressive oval cut sapphire in the centre with a loop of sparkling diamonds. berrysjewellers.co.uk
Glass mugs are having a moment. Whether it's a matcha latte (hot or iced), a fl at white or a cup of tea, serve it in glass, we say. Especially this Habitat one. habitat.co.uk
6 JULY, TRADES CLUB, HEBDEN BRIDGE
After their critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Jonny & The Baptists (Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers) will take their hilarious and poignant new show The Happiness Index on a UK tour in 2025. This witty musical comedy will explore the connections between personal tragedy, government austerity, and mental health. thetradesclub.com
4 July
PICTUREDROME HOLMFIRTH
The Sambroso Allstars play The Buena Vista in Holmfirth. The seven-piece band promise to mesmerise the crowd with their combination of Cuban Son, Latin Jazz and Rumba. And is there a more iconic Cuban album than Buena Vista Social Club's eponymous debut? picturedrome.net
The Richmond Chamber Orchestra play in Wensleydale for the first time, bringing a varied programme with something for every taste. Elgar’s grand Introduction & Allegro has a Welsh folk tune at its heart, and the slow movement of Bach’s E major Concerto is Philippa Mo’s (pictured) ‘all-time favourite piece’. richmondchamberorchestra.co.uk MUSIC
Music for Summertime
13 July
ST ANDREW’S CHURCH
6 July
GRANTLEY HALL
Former Top Gear presenter and motoring journalist, Chris Harris, has been announced as the guest speaker for the Supercar Sunday event at Grantley Hall. This follows the news of The Hoosiers as the headline act for this year’s prestigious automobile event. The exhilarating event, held in partnership with the UK’s premier supercar community, Supercar Driver, promises a high-energy day filled with thrilling motoring and motorsport excitement. grantleyhall.co.uk
The National Science and Media Museum is all set to unveil its new galleries
EXHIBITION
Until 4 October
LEEDS ART GALLERY
A captivating new exhibition in Leeds has brought together work by generations of artists from around the world.
To Improvise A Mountain has been curated by leading contemporary artist Lynette Yiadom-Boakye. Presented in collaboration with Hayward Gallery Touring, the exhibition has seen YiadomBoakye select works that have influenced her own way of seeing and thinking. museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk
iddler on the Roof is one of the greatest musicals of all time with one of the finest scores ever written. It’s 1905 in the tiny village of Anatevka where Tevye, a Jewish milkman, lives his life by their proud traditions. For his five daughters, that means a visit from the matchmaker.
As each daughter challenges his beliefs, can Tevye hold on to his roots, or must he bend to the will of his children? leedsheritagetheatres.com
The first glimpses of new galleries at the National Science and Media Museum show the installation of an extraordinary animatronic March Hare from Alice in Wonderland by Muppet creator Jim Henson, and an authentic, interactive recreation of Bradford Community Broadcasting’s radio studio. Marking the culmination of a £6.8 million transformation, Bradford’s National Science and Media Museum’s Sound and Vision galleries – spanning two floors –showcase world class collections of photography, film, television, animation, video game and sound technologies. Following on from the museum’s 18-month closure and partial reopening in January 2025, the Sound and Vision galleries will welcome their first visitors on 10th July. Thanks to a transformational gi from The National Lottery Heritage Fund – made possible by money raised by National Lottery players – the new galleries feature over 500 exhibits, a new art commission and a range of multi-media content. Designed by award-winning AOC architecture, the galleries mark the completion of the Sound and Vision project and they explore globally signifi cant stories of technological innovation and social change. The displays are created in collaboration with key audiences and community groups, ensuring that they resonate with a range of visitors.
scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk
It may have been released over a year ago, but people are still talking about Netflix’s astonishing Baby Reindeer
The story of an unhinged stalker and a struggling comedian, stars Richard Gadd and Jessica Gunning have been launched into a whole new stratosphere on the back of the show. Jessica, in particular, is hot property right now, with her portrayal of stalker Martha earning her several prestigious awards, including a Primetime Emmy, a Golden Globe, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a Critics' Choice Award, and a BAFTA. It seems as if Hollywood is very much calling for the Holmfirth actress.
Raised in the picturesque Holmfirth, Jessica was immersed in the arts from a young age: her mother, Val, was a drama teacher at Holmfirth High School, where Jessica attended. Jessica’s professional acting career commenced on stage, with notable performances at the National Theatre in productions like Much Ado About Nothing and Major Barbara. Her transition to television saw her gueststarring in the 2008 Doctor Who episode, Partners in Crime. She then secured a recurring role as Angela in Law & Order:
Jessica Gunning is one of the patrons of Holmfirth Arts Festival, showing that despite a rising profile, she won’t forget her roots
UK from 2009 to 2014, becoming one of the show’s longest-serving cast members.
In 2012, she portrayed Orla in the BBC series White Heat, followed by a lead role as Melissa Young in What Remains (2013). Her film debut came with Pride (2014), where she played Siân James, a housewife-turnedactivist. But it was Jessica’s portrayal of Martha Scott in Baby Reindeer that marked a significant turning point in her career. The series, based on Richard Gadd’s real-life experiences, delves into themes of trauma, obsession, and human connection. Discussing her approach to the complex character of Martha, Jessica has said: “I genuinely never really saw the crazy part of her. I think it would be a mistake to play that side of it, because from her point of view, it’s actually a nice thing that she’s saying.” Undoubtedly, Jessica’s career will continue to flourish, but she is not forgetting home, particularly through her patronage of the Holmfirth Arts Festival. Expressing her pride, she stated: “Holmfirth and the Holme Valley will always be my home. It’s the place where I was born, where I grew up and thrived.” And it’s why Absolutely wanted to explore a little more about what the Holmfirth Arts Festival is all about.
Holmfirth Arts Festival 2025 features an action-packed programme running across the Holme Valley, having started in May and running into September. This year’s festival is inspired by the beautiful Holme Valley landscape, its heritage, and a need to care for our environment.
The ever-popular Big Free Weekend took place in Holmfirth town centre on 14th and 15th June and featured world class street theatre alongside creative activities for families and people of all ages, including the Graveship of Holme Pageant, live music, Word Weave by Holmfirth Writers Group, and Bollywood dancing workshops. New to the Big Weekend programme this year was the Eco Expo with Yorkshire-based artists, activists, and scientists presenting a range of models, interactive artworks, and performances in an exploration of climate sustainability. Following on from the Big Weekend is a series of ticketed events happening throughout the Holme Valley each week until the end of September. Over the page, Festival Director Bev Adams takes us behind the scenes with how much work goes into staging the event and what’s to come this year.
Q What originally inspired a festival to be launched and how di erent was that compared to the 2025 version?
A Holmfirth Arts Festival was formed in 2007 with the aim of creating a platform for performers and musicians. At the time, it was felt that an arts festival would o er something di erent to the other festivals such as the Holmfirth Art Week, which is a market place for visual arts, Holmfirth Festival of Folk and the Holmfirth Film Festival. The festival has always had a ticketed programme and it still does, but my emphasis, when I took on the role, was to make the arts accessible to all by exploring art outdoors, inspired by the beautiful Pennine landscape, and, what I believe to be the most important issue of our time, environmental sustainability. I also wanted to include more work with and in communities and commission new work inspired by the landscape and ecology.
Q When planning a new festival, what do you always look to o er?
A I look to o er a wide range of work across our participatory and ticketed programmes and during the Big Free Weekend, which broadly responds to our themes of creativity in the landscape and care for the environment. I look for diversity across age, gender, ethnicity and (dis)ability and artists that cover all our bases of visual arts, street theatre, dance, comedy, classical and popular music. With regard to the participatory programme, I try to find a theme that has some connection to local people and places such as this year’s Graveship of Holme project, which is exploring the heritage of seven small townships in the Holme Valley which make up an ancient constabulary that still exists today. Working with themes of people and place helps to share talent, heritage and stories that profile
small villages in the valley and extend the festival beyond the town centre.
Q Why do you hold events across the summer?
A When I took over as Director, the festival was mainly a 10 day ticketed programme in venues and I wanted to get that outdoor festival vibe in the town, so I pulled everything together – ticketed events and Big Weekend – into one four-day long weekend festival. As this format grew, it became more di cult to manage because we were still running the outdoor festival whilst we were needing to get artists into the venues mid afternoon for their evening gigs. We then decided to hold the Big Free Weekend first in mid June and then the ticketed events in the rest of the summer months until September.
Q How important is the Big Free Weekend in terms of the community?
A The Big Free Weekend is really important for profiling local talent on the Saturday that usually culminates in a parade, which the communities have been making 4-6 weeks prior to the weekend. The community engagement programme which leads up to the weekend is important as it involves many of the local schools and community groups that increases access to the arts and also serves to put the festival on people’s radars. On the Sunday, we have street theatre which brings world class street theatre to the people of the town and extends their access to the types of work you would normally see in a metropolitan city centre, not a small market town. This year we added Eco Expo, which explored climate change with our attendees.
Q What are the key highlights from July-September?
A The programme is very varied from July to September with down to earth opera singer Nicola Mills, alt folk up and coming nature inspired cellist and singer Ceitidh Mac with her band members on vibraphone and drums, soul blues singer – Rachel Modest – who was 2024 semi-finalist on The Voice, and well loved Marcus Brigstocke filling the comedy slot with his show asking: What are Men For?
Q How valuable is it to have patrons like Jessica Gunning and Kieran Hodgson?
A It is great having patrons like Jess and Kieran because they are Holmfirth born and educated and doing so well in their respective artistic fields. They inspire the younger generation of Holme Valley artists and their patronage of the festival endorses the good work we are doing to bring the best arts and art activities to Holmfirth and the Holme Valley. We are proud of them!
holmfirthartsfestival.co.uk
There’s so many ways to
Take a stroll around the historic Yards and Wynds or shop till you drop in one of our many independent boutiques and department store. Catch a top show at the Hippodrome or learn more about the North East’s railway heritage at Hopetown. Dine in one of our many incredible restaurants and cafés or have fun at one of our free town centre events. Visit www.enjoydarlington.co.uk or scan here for more information
The Great Yorkshire Show takes centre stage later in this issue, but there is plenty of additional entertainment in store across the county throughout July and August
Yorkshire comes alive in the summer months with a vibrant array of festivals and events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage, music, food, and community spirit. Here are ten stand outs.
RYEDALE FESTIVAL
11TH-27TH JULY 2025
ryedalefestival.com
The Ryedale Festival continues to a rm North Yorkshire’s reputation as a leading destination for live classical music, o ering audiences a festival experience shaped by vision, innovation and artistic excellence. This year’s summer festival features 57 performances in 33 spectacular locations right across the county, from
the seaside charm of Scarborough to the historic market town of Skipton.
The classical music festival, which also embraces jazz, folk, poetry and participation opportunities, enjoys a large, loyal and enthusiastic audience, the warm support of the local community and a reputation as one of Europe’s leading festivals of its kind. Set against the backdrop of spectacular venues from Castle Howard to Selby Abbey, beautiful market towns, ancient frescoed churches and stunning landscapes, the festival promises an immersive journey through music and culture in an area full of history and natural beauty.
MINISTRY OF SOUND ANTHEMS
25TH JULY, MILLENNIUM SQUARE LEEDS summertimelive.co.uk/mosleeds Ministry of Sound Ibiza Anthems with
Ellie Sax & Friends heads to Leeds in July. The legendary Ellie Sax (a Yorkshire lass too) is joined on stage by live vocalists, drums, percussion, keys and DJs to reimagine iconic dance anthems from the likes of Faithless, Eric Prydz, Becky Hill, The Shapeshifters, Daft Punk, Robin S, Fisher, and more. Celebrated for her exciting performances and unique blend of live saxophone, Ellie’s career has spanned an array of global stages, club floors and international party hotspots. Entertaining audiences from beach clubs in Ibiza and across Europe, through prestigious events including the Monaco Grand Prix and Glastonbury Festival, Ellie’s dynamic energy and passion for music have made her a sought-after performer as she seamlessly merges her live saxophone with contemporary DJ sets.
THEAKSTON OLD PECULIER CRIME WRITING FESTIVAL
17TH-20TH JULY, OLD SWAN
HOTEL HARROGATE
harrogateinternationalfestivals.com
Taking place at the Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate in July, this year’s Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival programme has been curated by bestselling Slow Horses author Mick Herron and o ers readers a unique opportunity to meet the superstar writers of today, discover the bestsellers of tomorrow and hear from innovators pushing the boundaries of the genre.
The programme features a stellar line up of crime writing icons, TV talent and reader favourites as headliners Lee and Andrew Child, Steph McGovern, Attica Locke, Kate Atkinson, Paula Hawkins, Kate Mosse, Val McDermid, Mark Billingham, and Irvine Welsh are joined by acclaimed writers Reverend Richard Coles, Belinda Bauer, AA Dhand, Abigail Dean, Nick Harkaway, Janice Hallett, Abir Mukherjee and Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall.
LEEDS PRIDE
20TH JULY
leedspride.com
Organisers of Leeds Pride – one of the city’s largest festival weekends of the year – recently announced the first wave of acts performing at the 2025 event this summer. Headlining the main stage will be chart-topping band Liberty X who will be performing their biggest hits alongside
pop sensations, the Cartoons, and live from the West End, Queenz the Show. Also joining them will be popular dance music artists, Kelly Lorena and Booty Luv.
Leeds Pride is gearing up for another huge celebration, after smashing records in 2024 with over 80,000 visitors – its biggest attendance to date – over 160 parade entries and support from 238 businesses. Now in its 19th year, Leeds Pride is one of the largest free one-day festivals in Yorkshire and a major contributor to the local economy. It has seen numbers grow year on year, with more allies than ever from the UK and overseas heading into the city to let their hair down and show their support. The event is run by a dedicated team who work tirelessly to ensure the event remains completely free for all who wish to attend.
18TH-20TH JULY, AIREVILLE PARK SKIPTON ydfadfw.com
This three-day festival will move to its new home at Aireville Park in the heart of Skipton, the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, and feature an all-star line-up of celebrity chefs, music, DJs, comedians, hundreds of amazing food and drink producers, and a whole host of family fun for all to enjoy.
It will welcome back local food hero, James Martin, who has thrilled audiences in previous years. He will appear on the Big Top Cooking Stage alongside celebrity chefs including Simon Rimmer, Rosemary
Shrager, Galton Blakiston, MasterChef contestant Owen Diaram and Great British Menu contestant Tom Shepherd, with his now famous Desperate Dan Cow Pie.
There will be toe-tapping music from both sides of the Atlantic to entertain the whole family throughout the weekend including a first for the Yorkshire Dales, the Limelight Orchestra, a 40-piece orchestra who will be performing their Ibiza Proms on Friday evening to get everyone dancing.
JULY & AUGUST, THE PIECE HALL HALIFAX thepiecehall.co.uk
This summer’s line-up for Live at The Piece Hall is a remarkable mix of genres and generations. Rock and indie veterans headline across July and August: The Script perform on 6th July, followed by Simple Minds (7th July), Rag’n’BoneMan (10th July), and Texas (25th July). Roger Daltrey of The Who brings his solo performance, supported by Ocean Colour Scene’s Simon Fowler and Oscar Harrison, on 30th July. Olly Murs, Smashing Pumpkins and Faithless are also on the roster. This renowned venue, reopened in 2017, has rapidly become Yorkshire’s premier concert destination. The 2025 series continues the legacy of unforgettable performances set against The Piece Hall’s historic Georgian architecture.
LEEDS FESTIVAL
21ST-24TH AUGUST, BRAHAM PARK leedsfestival.com
A staple in the UK’s music festival scene, Leeds Festival attracts top international acts across rock, indie, and alternative genres. With multiple stages, camping options, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a must-attend for music lovers.
The festival returns with a stacked line-up featuring superstars Travis Scott, Chappell Roan, Bring Me The Horizon, Hozier, Limp Bizkit, D-Block Europe, Bakar, Nemzzz, Example, Jazzy and so many more. It looks, once again, to be the festival to beat.
LAUNCHPAD FESTIVAL
JULY-AUGUST, SHEFFIELD THEATRES she eldtheatres.co.uk Launchpad, She eld Theatres’ project for adults with learning disabilities and/ or Autism, this year presents Launchpad Festival, a warm and welcoming event that celebrates theatre, creativity and arts created by and with adults with learning disabilities in She eld and beyond in a relaxed and accessible atmosphere.
On Thursday 10th July, enjoy two original performance pieces devised by MENCAP and She eld Theatres, audio work from carers of adults with learning disabilities, and poetry from participants from Burton Street Foundation.
On Friday 11th July, Pinder Dance’s ‘DramaStarz’ and Enable perform, whilst Under the Stars present Sistarz: a new girl group musical. There will also be an improvisation collaboration with ZooCo inspired by Perfect Show For Rachel, rounded o with a DJ party.
On 1st-2nd August, Together Festival also returns. A lively and welcoming free festival celebrating theatre and arts created with community groups across She eld, perfect for families and anyone interested in theatre. The inspiration for the festival is the theme of ‘wonder’, with
music, dance, drama, live performance, storytelling, poetry, parades and more, plus an outdoor stage with a huge party.
SALTBURN FOLK FESTIVAL
8TH-10TH AUGUST, SALTBURN-BY-THE-SEA saltburnfolkfestival.com
Saltburn Folk Festival is a friendly, multivenue festival, set in the historic seaside town on the stunning North Yorkshire coast. They are here to champion creativity, tradition and opportunity across the folk arts – from nationally acclaimed musicians, to dance and storytelling, Saltburn Folk Festival has something for everyone. Community is key, and they celebrate the power of people coming together to immerse themselves in creativity with a folky flair.
The North East has a wealth to give, and this festival is perfectly placed to show you a slice of what the region has to o er.
WHITBY REGATTA
9TH-11TH AUGUST, WHITBY whitbyregatta.co.uk
One of the oldest sea regattas in the country, this event combines yacht racing with a lively programme of entertainment, including parades, fireworks, and live music, all set in the picturesque coastal town of Whitby. Its origins trace back over 180 years, with the earliest recorded regatta taking place in 1847. Initially, the event was a simple rowing competition between local fishermen, organised to showcase their skill and seamanship. By the late 19th century, the Whitby Regatta had expanded to include sailing events, attracting yachts and crews from across the region. The regatta grew into a fullscale maritime festival, incorporating land-based entertainments, parades, and fireworks, with a real community spirit.
Worried about the kids being bored over the holiday? Luckily, Yorkshire has plenty of fun family days out to enjoy
Yorkshireis the perfect playground for families seeking memorable days out. Whether you’re exploring coastal towns, rambling through national parks, or getting hands-on at museums, Yorkshire o ers something for everyone.
E.J. CHURCHILL AT THE SWINTON ESTATE
THE DEEP, HULL
ejchurchill.com/young-guns-academy Swap screens for the great outdoors this summer at E.J. Churchill at The Swinton Estate – Yorkshire’s leading shooting ground nestled in breathtaking countryside. Whether it’s a fun-filled family day out or an unforgettable experience for your child, there’s something for everyone. The Young Guns Academy (30th July and 27th August) o ers a safe, structured introduction to clay shooting for ages 9-16, led by expert instructors. Or, book a Family Have-a-Go session for a relaxed, all-ages introduction to the sport – perfect for trying something new together. Afterwards, unwind on the outdoor terrace and take in the views – it’s all about fresh air, adventure, and making memories. Reclaim summer with a day that’s active, exciting, and truly di erent.
YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE PARK, DONCASTER yorkshirewildlifepark.com
One of the top attractions in South Yorkshire, Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to over 400 animals, including lions, polar bears, gira es, and red pandas. With wide open enclosures and themed zones such as Lion Country and Project Polar, kids and adults alike can learn about conservation while getting up close to some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. There’s also a huge indoor play area and outdoor adventure playgrounds to burn o energy.
thedeep.co.uk
The Deep is one of the UK’s most spectacular aquariums. Its futuristic design houses thousands of sea creatures, from sharks and rays to penguins and turtles. Interactive exhibits help children learn about marine life, climate change, and ocean conservation in an engaging, hands-on way. The highlight? The glass tunnel where sharks swim overhead.
FLAMINGO LAND RESORT, MALTON
flamingoland.co.uk
Part theme park, part zoo, Flamingo Land is an action-packed day out for thrill-seeking families. The park features rollercoasters, water rides, and gentle attractions for younger children, alongside a large zoo with tigers, baboons, gira es, and more. Live shows and character meet-and-greets add extra sparkle, and there are plenty of places to eat and relax throughout the resort.
FOUNTAINS ABBEY AND STUDLEY ROYAL, RIPON nationaltrust.org.uk
For a more peaceful family outing, Fountains Abbey combines natural beauty with history. The UNESCO World Heritage site includes the majestic ruins of a 12thcentury abbey, formal Georgian water gardens, woodlands, and deer park. Children can enjoy exploring the hidden nooks of the ruins, completing activity trails, or spotting wildlife. There’s also a great café and picnic spots with stunning views.
NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS
RAILWAY, PICKERING TO WHITBY nymr.co.uk
Step back in time aboard a steam train journey through the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. The heritage railway runs between Pickering and Whitby, with stops at picturesque villages like Goathland (famous as Hogsmeade in Harry Potter). Kids will love the vintage carriages and pu ng engines, while parents can enjoy the scenic vistas and nostalgic charm.
EUREKA! THE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, HALIFAX eureka.org.uk
Eureka! is entirely geared toward younger children (ages 0–11), making it a mustvisit for families with curious minds. Every exhibit is hands-on and interactive – from exploring how the human body works to playing shopkeeper or bank manager. The outdoor play areas and changing exhibitions keep things fresh.
BOLTON ABBEY, WHARFEDALE boltonabbey.com
Nestled in the Yorkshire Dales, Bolton Abbey is an idyllic place for walking, paddling, and picnicking. The estate includes the atmospheric ruins of a 12thcentury priory, woodland trails, and the famous stepping stones across the River Wharfe. There are plenty of childfriendly walks and seasonal activities.
TROPICAL WORLD, LEEDS tropicalworld.leeds.gov.uk
Perfect for a rainy day, Tropical World in Leeds is a compact yet impressive attraction. Wander through rainforest, desert, and nocturnal zones filled with butterflies, meerkats, reptiles, and tropical fish.
LIGHTWATER VALLEY FAMILY ADVENTURE PARK, RIPON lightwatervalley.co.uk
Geared towards younger children (up to 12), Lightwater Valley o ers a gentler theme park experience. There’s a miniature railway, treetop trail, soft play, and rides designed for little adventurers. It’s especially good for families with toddlers and young kids who might find larger parks overwhelming.
The Railway Children return to the line that made them famous
This summer, audiences are invited to step into one of Britain’s most beloved stories as The Railway Children steams back to its spiritual home along the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. As part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, this evocative new production of Mike Kenny’s acclaimed stage adaptation o ers something truly unique: an evocative journey through time, by steam train.
Beginning at Keighley station, audiences will board a heritage steam locomotive and travel the same five-mile route immortalised in the 1970 film version of The Railway Children. At the line’s end in Oxenhope, the story unfolds in a purpose-built theatre set within the station’s historic Engine Shed. With seating
flanking the very tracks the train arrives on, this immersive production places steam, stagecraft and story at its heart.
Directed by Damian Cruden, who first brought the show to life at the National Railway Museum in 2008 and later at London’s Waterloo station, this revival features a real steam engine as part of the action and has been specially reimagined for its Bradford 2025 run. The result is a rare fusion of theatrical magic and railway heritage.
The Railway Children, a beloved story that has captivated generations, originated as a novel by Edith Nesbit in 1906. Since its publication, it has become one of the most cherished works of children’s literature in the English-speaking world, lauded for its emotional warmth, vivid characters, and celebration of family resilience. The tale has seen numerous adaptations across various media, most notably on screen,
where its themes of innocence, social justice, and the power of kindness have found renewed relevance with each generation.
Edith Nesbit was a pioneering figure in children’s literature, blending realism with imaginative storytelling. Unlike the fairytales that dominated Victorian children’s fiction, Nesbit’s stories often placed ordinary children in extraordinary circumstances.
The Railway Children follows the lives of three siblings – Roberta (Bobbie), Peter, and Phyllis – who are uprooted from their comfortable London home after their father is mysteriously taken away. They relocate with their mother to a cottage in Yorkshire, where they become fascinated by the nearby railway and befriend various locals, including a kindly station porter named Perks and an influential old gentleman who regularly travels by train.
The story’s emotional pull lies in its combination of the idyllic and the painful. The children’s adventures are light-hearted and full of wonder, but they are underscored by the darker backdrop of their father’s wrongful imprisonment. Nesbit subtly explores themes of class, justice, and resilience without ever becoming didactic, a technique that helped redefine the genre.
The first screen adaptation of The Railway Children appeared in 1951 as part of the BBC’s growing interest in adapting literary works for television. Broadcast as a live TV play, this version is largely lost to history due to the lack of recording technology at the time. However, it set a precedent for future adaptations, showing that the story’s emotional core and picturesque setting translated well to the visual medium.
A more notable early adaptation came in 1968, again produced by the BBC as a television serial. This version was praised for its faithful representation of the book and its strong performances, particularly that of Jenny Agutter as Bobbie. The 1968 production laid the groundwork for what would become the definitive adaptation just two years later.
The 1970 film version of The Railway Children, directed by Lionel Je ries, is perhaps the best-known and most enduring adaptation. Shot in the Yorkshire countryside, it vividly brought Nesbit’s story to life with an authenticity that endeared it to audiences across the UK and beyond. Jenny Agutter reprised her role as Bobbie, joined by Dinah Sheridan, Bernard Cribbins, and William Mervyn. Je ries’ adaptation was celebrated for its lush cinematography, gentle pacing,
and emotional sincerity. The film’s climax is one of the most iconic moments in British cinema. This version is still widely considered the gold standard and remains a staple of holiday television schedules.
AND RENEWED INTEREST
The success of the 1970 film ensured The Railway Children’s place in the cultural canon, leading to several more adaptations over the years. In 2000, the BBC produced another film version, this time with a notable twist: Jenny Agutter, who had played Bobbie in both the 1968 and 1970 adaptations, returned as the children’s mother. This production, starring Jemima Rooper as Bobbie and Richard Attenborough as the Old Gentleman, was well received and introduced the story to a new generation.
The story’s theatrical potential also began to be explored more extensively. Stage versions have been mounted regularly, with one of the most celebrated being Mike Kenny’s immersive adaptation. The most recent screen adaptation is The Railway Children Return (2022), a sequel rather than a direct retelling. Directed by Morgan Matthews, the film takes place during World War II and follows a new group of children evacuated from Manchester to the countryside, where they encounter an older Bobbie – again played by Jenny Agutter. The film links past and present, touching on themes of war, racial injustice, and the resilience of youth, while paying homage to the spirit of the original.
The longevity of The Railway Children can be attributed to its universal themes and the emotional truths at its heart. Edith Nesbit’s story has not only stood
the test of time but has evolved with it, o ering new layers of meaning with each retelling. Whether on the page, screen, or stage, the tale of three children navigating the complexities of life with hope and courage continues to resonate. From the Edwardian ideals that shaped its writing to the 21st-century issues explored in its latest incarnation, The Railway Children remains a powerful narrative about the enduring strength of family, the kindness of strangers, and the way children perceive and process the world around them – and now you have the opportunity to immerse yourself into the story once again.
Running from 16th July to 7th September 2025, this is a limited season and a once-in-a-generation chance to see The Railway Children on the very tracks where fiction and film became folklore.
Tickets are on sale now at bradford2025.co.uk
Sat 19 Jul – Sun 31 Aug
Go wild in the woods this summer
Head to our woodland base camp for six weeks of hands-on activities and outdoor challenges from den building and woodland crafts to storytelling adventures and more... let your adventure grow!
Ey up! Looking to find your next day-trip destination – somewhere that balances adventure, relaxation, individuality, culture and unforgettable food? Let us welcome you to Skipton: a vibrant market town that o ers all this and more. Here you’ll experience fascinating history, captivating countryside, delicious local dishes, independent shopping opportunities, a warm Yorkshire welcome and – most importantly, as some would argue – a proper pint. It’s so easy to see why this largerthan-life town has repeatedly been celebrated as one of the happiest and best places to live. With excellent transport links by road and rail, getting here is easy, whether you’re coming for the day or longer. A stone’s throw away from the glorious Dales, Skipton is perfectly positioned to
o er a true taste of Yorkshire life. It’s the kind of place that feels both timeless and alive. So whether you’re visiting with friends, as a couple or with a young family in tow, a summer’s day in Skipton o ers something to delight every kind of explorer.
EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS
Just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the town centre is Skipton Castle Woods. With routes to suit various abilities and an action-packed calendar of events, this ancient woodland allows you to truly be at one with nature. As you meander through, take a moment to admire the incredible sights, smells and sounds, and keep an eagle eye out for herons, kingfishers, buzzards, sparrowhawks, red kites and maybe even a deer or two!
When you’re ready for a change of scenery, Skipton’s unique positioning on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal means you can hire a boat and enjoy a whistle-stop tour of the town from a whole new viewpoint, before mooring up and exploring its towpaths either on foot or by bike.
To make your adventures even more fun, take advantage of the town’s interactive
“The town's remarkable cultural activity is sure to inspire historians, artists and playgoers alike”
apps. ‘What Was Here?’ lets you travel back in time and discover Skipton’s fascinating history in a way that’s never been seen before. And those with little ones will love ‘Dogs’ Dales’ – follow the treasure hunt through the town and spot adorable virtual dogs to interact with along the way.
Let’s start with Skipton’s most iconic landmark: Skipton Castle. A dramatic centrepiece to the town’s captivating character, this magnificent fortress looks like it’s been plucked straight from a storybook. It o ers a unique opportunity to turn back the clock 900 years and explore every corner of one of the best preserved medieval castles in the country. No visit to Skipton would be complete without a stop at the Town Hall to explore its award-winning museum and catch a glimpse of an incredibly rare copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio. Next, take a trip to Craven Arts to admire local artists’ masterpieces (and pick up the perfect memento of your trip!) or partake in a workshop. Finally, end the
day in style by catching one of Skipton Little Theatre’s mesmerising performances.
The town’s remarkable cultural activity is sure to inspire historians, artists and playgoers alike, so bring your sketchbook because you never know when inspiration may just leap onto the page!
Skipton proudly showcases some of the region’s finest local produce, which makes it a paradise for food connoisseurs and aspiring chefs to source and sample the most delicious flavours of the season. And what’s the best way to really get a taste of the town’s culinary accomplishments? Eat like a local. Skipton’s Restaurant Guide (coming soon) provides the ultimate way to do this – sample the spectacular variety of unique flavours that Skipton has to o er, one bite at a time, using this exciting guide as inspiration. If you prefer more of a spontaneous culinary experience, you won’t be disappointed. The town is peppered with independent restaurants
“One thing you are guaranteed in Skipton is individuality”
and co ee shops as well as plenty of the nation’s favourites. Be sure to explore every ginnel and cobbled street to uncover Skipton’s most flavourful secrets. And when picking up local produce to take home with you, there’s nowhere better than Skipton Artisan Market (which runs on the first Sunday of the month) and the newly re-opened Robertshaw’s Farm Shop. If all that talk of food has got you dreaming of the perfect pint to accompany your meal, fear not because Skipton’s pub culture is nothing short of legendary. Sample locally brewed beers, high quality craft ales and fine wines across the town’s diverse mix of traditional pubs and awardwinning microbars. Join Skipton’s Ale Trail for the most authentic experience.
One thing you’re guaranteed in Skipton is individuality. The town’s careful combination of independently owned shops and high-street favourites o ers a refreshing change. Whilst the High Street is a great starting point for any shopping spree, the real magic happens when you
wander a little further and stumble across the local, one-of-a-kind shops tucked just out of sight. These hidden corners are where Skipton’s true character shines.
When you’re in need of a few home comforts, you’ll find a handpicked selection of high-street stores you know and love, so you’ll never be far away from life’s little luxuries – including tasty chocolate treats and indulgent drinks in Skipton’s most recent addition: Hotel Chocolat. So go on, treat yourself to something sweet – because everything is better with a bit of chocolate!
All of this in one place? Yes, Skipton has everything you need for a memorable and magical day trip, with a few surprises along the way. Come and discover the real Skipton for yourself, although a single trip will never do it justice – there’s always more to see, more to explore and more to fall in love with. Skipton has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
To plan your next trip and to find out more about the trails, guides and interactive apps, please visit welcometoskipton.com - they can’t wait to welcome you, but until then... si’ thi!
Why Darlington will cover all bases this year
“If it's green spaces you want, you'll love Darlington's many parks”
The end of summer and the later months of 2025 are the perfect time to enjoy a weekend in Darlington. From free town centre events to the bicentenary celebrations of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, there’s so much to do. And that’s before you’ve even discovered the beautiful accommodation options, gorgeous restaurants and cafes, and fantastic leisure spots. Take a look at our recommendations to get started on planning your perfect weekend stay in the Darlington borough.
If you’re looking to stay close to the town centre, it doesn’t get much closer than the Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, located right in the heart of the centre. This spot is home to 83 rooms, a cocktail bar and restaurant, and the magnificent Kings Ballroom. There’s also the beautiful Houndgate Townhouse. This Georgian hotel boasts eight boutique rooms for a truly relaxing stay, plus enjoy fresh, mouth-watering seafood and organic wines in the hotel restaurant, Saltfish.
If you want something a little slower paced, maybe you’d like a countryside option instead? For a self-catering stay, look no further than Kip & Nook, a gorgeous glamping experience with containers, a loft and a barn that takes guests completely o -grid. Or if you like your home comforts, take a look at Walworth Castle. This 1150 castle o ers modern and stylish rooms with vistas over the Walworth countryside. It’s ideal for something a bit more unique and with lots of character. For the height of sumptuous staycation, why not book a room at Rockli e Hall? This 5-star hotel sits on a 375 acre site, complete with a spa, golf course and incredible restaurant, making it a fabulously refined destination. You can either choose to spend your whole weekend
on the estate or venture out into the surrounding area for walks and shopping.
You aren’t short of fun things to do in Darlington, whether you’re travelling as a couple, solo or with kids. If it’s green spaces you want, you’ll love Darlington’s many parks, like South Park and West Park, or a walk by Broken Scar with stunning river views. You could team up a walk in the area with one of the many free town centre events, which include the popular Rhythm & Tunes Festival, Pride or Fairy Tales & Legends Day for families.
If you’re looking for total relaxation, indulge at Rockli e Hall spa. This is the ultimate destination for unwinding with a sumptuous spa garden, thermal rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, an indulgent treatment menu and so much more. There’s also Bannatyne Spa, which could be teamed up with a stay at the nearby Bannatyne Hotel Darlington, where grandeur and warmth of a historic past meet contemporary style. For weekend stays with kids, you’re totally spoiled for choice. There’s Create & Paint on Grange Road where your family can get creative with pottery painting, decopatch or foam clay. There’s Cluedini on Crown Street that o ers three di erent escape rooms that older children and teenagers will love to try breaking out of. The Dolphin Centre has swimming, bowling and a soft play, so it’s a great place to spend a couple of hours, and Sim King Gaming on King Street is a gamer’s paradise with consoles and driving simulators. Or if you’re a family of food lovers, you could try your hand at a pasta making workshop at The Pasta Shop on Bondgate. One thing that Darlington isn’t short of is history, playing a central role in the Stockton and Darlington Railway. To celebrate
the 200th anniversary of the first steam passenger railway journey, the borough is playing host to lots of events, like the STEAM to the Future exhibition at Hopetown Darlington (from Friday 11th July-Sunday 5th October), the North East’s newest railway attraction. There’s also the Ghost Train event on Saturday 20th September, which will see a cavalcade of great inventions parade through the town, and the Anniversary Journey, a stunning recreation of that very first 26 mile journey on Saturday 27th September, exactly 200 years to the day. Find out more about the celebrations at sdr200.co.uk. Darlington prides itself on its retail, especially the independent business scene in the town centre, so you can expect a vibrant and bustling shopping experience, with lots of variety. From artisan bakers, like Bakerman and Number Eight Bakehouse, to jewellery designers, like Renne and AD Designs, there’s so much to discover. You can visit Origins for beautiful homewares, Leggs for designer fashion or Bliss Gifts for the most perfect trinkets. There’s even a whole community of independents in the Indoor Market Hall! But if you like shopping with high street names, there’s plenty of those in the Cornmill Centre, including Primark, Next and Warren James, to name just a few.
Darlington town centre is home to a huge range of restaurants that serve cuisine from all around the world, so there’s endless options available. There are a fantastic variety of Indian restaurants to choose from, like Abu’s on Duke Street, Café Spice which is tucked away on Clarks Yard, and awardwinning Bangladeshi street food eatery Babul’s on Skinnergate. If it’s Italian food you like, try out Uno Momento on Blackwellgate, Al Forno on Skinnergate or Neapolitan pizzeria, Stable Hearth, on Duke Street. For something a bit di erent, try out
“Darlington is incredibly well connected”
Casa Del Alma for Mexican food cooked by MasterChef’s Matei Baran. Or if you like to try a bit of all sorts, you’ll love Old Yard Tapas Bar, where you can have Greek meze and Spanish tapas at the same time. Or if it’s something more indulgent and elegant you’re after, you’ll love The Bay Horse in Hurworth. This multi awardwinning venue has been featured in the Michelin guide and for very good reason!
Street food is always a really popular choice and it doesn’t get much more laidback than with the street vendors in the Indoor Market, like Haus Der Bratwurste and Masala Magic. Their food is great to enjoy while at the market’s weekly quiz night! Or if you want street food in more of a restaurant setting, look no further
than Salt. This spot serves up the most delicious smash burgers, loaded fries, bao buns and so much more. It’s a total hidden gem on Grange Road and is definitely worth a look for some casual dining.
Darlington is incredibly well connected, so no matter where you are, it’s simple to get there. There are regular trains from major cities like Durham, Newcastle and York that run directly to the town with plenty of hotels within walking distance. It’s also very easy to reach by road, with the entire borough being accessible on the A1, A66 or A19.
Find more inspiration for your stay in Darlington at enjoydarlington.co.uk
Exploring the story of how Matilda journeyed from book to stage
By CATHERINE LOVE
Since opening in 2010, Matilda
The Musical has won over 100 awards across the world, including 24 for best musical. It broke records at the 2012 Laurence Olivier Awards, claiming the most wins of any show up to that date when it went home with a total of seven awards.
The Roald Dahl estate approached the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2003 about creating a musical version of the beloved 1988 children’s book. Though with the benefit of hindsight the show might look like a sure-fire hit, it was far from guaranteed that Dahl’s novel would work on stage. There’s the problem of Matilda’s magic, for a start. How do you make audiences believe that this character is moving objects with her mind? Then there’s the love of literature embodied by Dahl’s bookish heroine, which doesn’t easily translate to dramatic action.
The RSC’s approach to these challenges was – like Matilda herself – unorthodox.
They started with the book, approaching playwright and screenwriter Dennis Kelly to write the script long before a composer had been found. Usually, musicals work the other way around, prioritising the songs. And Kelly was an unusual choice to pen a family musical, with a background in gritty drama and acerbic comedy.
The RSC’s eventual choice of composer, comedian Tim Minchin, was no less risky. But what these two outsiders shared was something that makes this show sing: a love of words and of storytelling.
After premiering at the RSC’s Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon in November 2010, the show quickly earned a string of rave reviews and a West End transfer to the Cambridge Theatre, where it opened in October 2011. Then followed a run on Broadway and tours of the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, before the first non-English language production of the show opened in South Korea. This was followed by an international tour
which opened in South Africa in October 2018 before heading to Singapore, China and Manila. The international tour reopened in Tel Aviv in 2023, followed by a transfer to Dubai before heading back to Asia, transcending borders in the process.
Having achieved huge success on the stage, in 2022 a film adaptation of the production conquered the screen. Also directed by Matthew Warchus, the twice BAFTA nominated film starred Emma Thompson as Miss Trunchbull. More than 13 years on from its West End opening, Matilda The Musical already feels like a British musical classic with just as much appeal for misty-eyed grown-ups as it does for rebellious kids and has found a lasting place in audiences’ hearts. Sometimes, after all, you have to be a little bit naughty.
Catherine Love is a freelance arts journalist, theatre critic and academic. Discover the latest tour dates at uk.matildathemusical.com
Meet the woman behind HAUS OF SC –the bold brand redefining success for women
HAUS OF SC isn’t just a business – it’s a movement. Founded by Shanice Childerley, a powerhouse in leadership, empowerment and strategic transformation, HAUS OF SC was built for ambitious women who want wealth, impact, and fulfilment – without apology.
With a background in high-level event management and leadership development, Shanice brings a grounded yet bold approach to everything under the HAUS OF SC umbrella. From 1:1 coaching and corporate training to transformational events and keynote speaking, this is a brand built for growth that sticks.
The HAUS was built from lived experience. Shanice’s own career journey – through toxic leadership, burnout and reinvention – inspired a brand that doesn’t do flu and doesn’t play small. She brings truth, energy and executional firepower to every client, event, and stage.
At its core, HAUS OF SC is about transformation. Through high-impact coaching and strategic leadership training, the brand supports women to break through self-doubt, outdated systems, and limiting definitions of success. For progressive businesses, HAUS OF SC is a partner in developing confident, emotionally intelligent leaders – and creating cultures that retain top talent. A standout feature of the brand is HAUS OF SC EVENTS – curating exceptional experiences, most notably its signature retreat Wild & Well, launching in September 2025. This 24-hour women’s wellness experience blends luxury, connection, and grounded self-care for women ready to restore, reset and reconnect. Designed to nourish nervous systems and deepen connection with sound baths, yoga, cold plunges and sunrise fitness, it’s a transformative escape set in Riverdale, North Yorkshire for women ready to return to themselves.
Shanice is also a sought-after public speaker – known for her high-energy, no-BS delivery and her ability to ignite real action. She regularly speaks at corporate events, retreats and leadership panels on topics like confidence, navigating change, and redefining success as a modern woman in business.
Most recently, HAUS OF SC expanded into physical space with the launch of THE HAUS – a light-filled countryside location in North Yorkshire, now available for photoshoots, private workshops, brand activations and intimate events. Like everything under the brand, it’s intentional, impactful, and designed to connect.
HAUS OF SC isn’t here to play by the old rules – it’s here to rewrite them. For the woman who knows she was made for more. Powerful. Strategic. Unapologetic. This is the new era of women’s success – and it starts here.
To find out more visit www.hausofsc.com and Instagram: @hausofsc_
Charlotte Farrington, who established the Yorkshire Children’s Charity, on their important projects and initiatives
Yorkshire Children’s Charity launched on 1st January 2022 with one sole purpose: to transform the lives of disadvantaged children, from the Yorkshire Dales through to our inner cities.Through their grant-giving programmes, they address the immediate needs of children and young people living with the hardships of sickness, disability, and deprivation. Since the inception of Yorkshire Children’s Charity, they have raised £7m and supported over 50,000 children across more than 200 schools. Here, the charity’s CEO Charlotte Farrington tells us more about their work.
Q What are some of the standout projects or initiatives you're currently working on?
A When I started Yorkshire Children’s Charity, I made a promise to myself that everything we do would be completely needs-led and focused on outcomes. The work we do has to be responsive to the unique needs of children because those needs change all the time!
One project that really brings this to life is our ‘Warm, Dry and Ready to Learn’ campaign, which we run every winter. It came about as time and again we were
receiving family applications for basic essentials... children in dire need of new shoes so they can walk to school without getting wet feet, clean bedding after a flea infestation, or pyjamas to keep warm in the winter. We wanted to do something practical and immediate to help – so we set this campaign up to provide children living in destitution with these basic winter essentials. Last year alone, we supported 154 schools and delivered over 10,000 essential winter items and more than 6,000 Christmas gifts for children who would otherwise go without. I always say, the proof is in the pudding – and as a result of this support, 80% of schools have reported better attendance from their most vulnerable pupils.
Q If you could have one wish granted, what would it be?
A If we could have just one wish granted, it would be to make child poverty in our region a thing of the past. Yes, this is an ambitious goal, but we passionately believe that with trusty old Yorkshire graft and the support of good people who share our values, nothing is impossible! We very much see ourselves as Yorkshire’s children’s charity and it is only through our collective e orts that we will be able to shift the needle on child poverty in our region.
QWhat inspires you personally to keep going – even on the challenging days?
A Without a doubt, the families we support. Giving hope to others is why I founded the charity, and it’s what motivates me every day. As a mum myself to two young children, there isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t think about how lucky I am that I get to put them to bed in a warm house with full tummies, knowing they’re happy and safe and content. Our work is a daily reminder of how unequal things can be –and why it’s so important we keep showing up for the families who need us most.
yorkshirechildrenscharity.org
Raby Castle’s Walled Gardens are bursting with colour and life this summer
The vision of worldrenowned garden designer Luciano Giubbilei and Lady Barnard, creative director and custodian of Raby Castle, continues to wow visitors in the revitalised 18th century Walled Gardens. Featuring three di erent gardens encased within the historic brick walls, the remodelled five-acre space reopened in
summer last year. Luciano and Lady Barnard have retained the gardens’ distinctive spirit; one in which the character of Raby and its rich history is deeply embedded.
The East Garden is home to a flower garden of grasses and perennials above the tiered grass amphitheatre capable of seating 300 people; the Formal Garden is where guests can see the historic Raby Yew hedge and water feature; and the productive West Garden is dedicated to growing an abundance of flowers for cutting.
Lady Barnard led the Walled Gardens project, which was part of a major threeyear restoration development at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens to create a new lifestyle destination in the north east, and believes the gardens can be a cultural and calming retreat for visitors.
Lady Barnard said: “The gardens have been inspired by Raby’s heritage however now incorporate contemporary planting, Amelanchier woodlands and a series of unique mazes, as well as a tiered grass amphitheatre where people can relax as they look out to the castle and enjoy musical and theatrical events. It was a joy to work with Luciano on this project.”
Award-winning garden designer Luciano Giubbilei, who was selected as garden designer of the year in the House & Garden Design Awards 2024, is one of Britain’s most successful garden designers and the newly redesigned Walled Gardens at Raby Castle are his first public project.
The gardens, as well as the wider landscape and extensive public areas which were designed by acclaimed landscape architect Alistair Baldwin, have been nominated in the prestigious and much-anticipated 2025 European Garden Awards. Raby Castle’s gardens have also been nominated for the Historic Houses 2025 Garden of the Year Award.
The beautifully designed gardens will also play an integral role in Raby Castle, Park and Gardens’ plans for summer, and will host a selection of open-air theatres in the East Garden. On selected dates in July and August, visitors can take a seat and relax in the grass amphitheatre, the first of its kind in the north of England, and watch performances of Shakespeare classics such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Much Ado About Nothing with the 14th century castle in the background.
raby.co.uk/raby-castle/whats-on
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At Hethertons Solicitors, we’ve got you covered – whatever life brings
By KHAL SHAHJAHAN
Life has a way of throwing up challenges and opportunities – often when you least expect them. Based in York and Boroughbridge, Hethertons Solicitors has built a reputation for providing calm, uncomplicated legal support to individuals and businesses alike.
We are here and ready to help you with all of life’s big moments by providing advice that has real impact. Our team works across a wide range of areas, combining years of experience and specialist knowledge with a practical, down-to-earth approach.
Whether you are buying your first home or looking to sell part of your property portfolio, completing a deal is rarely without its complexity.
With an in-depth knowledge of the local property market and beyond, Hethertons’ property team make the home buying
and selling process simpler by o ering straightforward guidance to keep things moving with as little stress as possible. Our expertise also extends to agricultural land transactions and commercial property matters, too, so whether you need a hand with a land sale or purchase, want a lease drafting, or perhaps, need assistance with your latest commercial refinancing deal, Hethertons will be able to provide practical, reliable advice tailored just for you.
From the legal formalities around marriage to the often-complex realities of divorce and the dissolution of civil partnerships, family law requires sensitivity and sound judgement. Putting compassion and client care first, Hethertons' tenacious family law team advise on prenuptial agreements, financial arrangements, and child-related issues –always focusing on reducing tension and finding the best outcomes for our clients.
Running a business comes with plenty of legal considerations, whether you’re just starting out or looking to sell. Hethertons o ers advice on contracts, shareholder arrangements, disputes, mergers, and more that helps leadership teams achieve the best results. Our commercial team collaborates closely with owner-managers, helping them plan ahead and avoid common, costly legal pitfalls.
WHEN IT MATTERS MOST Redundancy, discrimination or dismissal, workplace disputes can be di cult for businesses and employees alike. Hethertons’ employment team works with both businesses and individuals to understand their rights and options when disputes arise, while also providing businesses with comprehensive 24/7 support on a variety of HR issues.
Planning for the future can feel daunting, but putting the right arrangements in place, such as Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, can provide real peace of mind.
Hethertons’ private client team o ers clear, compassionate advice to help individuals make informed decisions about their estate and legacy, taking into account their wishes and the best interests of their beneficiaries.
Whether you’re making plans, responding to a change, or simply looking for clarity, Hethertons aims to provide reassurance and guidance when you need it most.
Khal Shahjahan is Associate Director at Hethertons. To ensure your legal needs are covered now and in the future, visit hethertons.co.uk or call Hethertons Solicitors on 01904 528200 or 01423 322940
The Great Yorkshire Show is back for its 166th edition - and this year’s event looks like one of the most exciting yet. It’s the first under new Show Director, Rachel Coates, and you can expect more livestock competitions, a brilliant and lively line-up for the Main Ring, and new tech advances. Buy tickets at greatyorkshireshow.co.uk
This year marks Rachel Coates’ debut as the Great Yorkshire Show Director. Absolutely finds out how she is feeling
Q How were you feeling when the Great Yorkshire Show first opened last year?
A I was as excited last year as I am this year as I take over the Show Director role. The Great Yorkshire Show has been important in my life for so many years that I already felt part of it.
Q Did anything at the Show take you by surprise?
A Because my involvement in the past has been around the livestock element, competing against, meeting with and learning from other farmers, I was surprised to see just how many volunteers it takes to make every element of the Show work, from the GYS Chat Shows to the Art Show and from the Discovery Zone for young people to the Forestry section. We would be lost without them and they all have our heartfelt thanks.
Q What were the highlights for you last year?
A Personally I love learning and I was delighted to find out that I am not alone in that, and that so many of our visitors thrive on discovering new things about our farmers, our regionally produced food and the rural community in general.
Q Are you looking to introduce anything new this year?
A We are always looking for new ways to spread the message about the importance of the Yorkshire rural sector to new audiences, so this year we have launched our own YouTube channel, which gives a real “behind the scenes” look at all the e ort that goes into a successful Show for our exhibitors. We have also launched the new Great Yorkshire Show App, designed to enhance the visitor experience by o ering event timetable planning, an interactive showground map, and information on trade stands and shopping. Added to that, we have no fewer than five national championships – three for cattle and two for sheep – taking place at the Show, and we are welcoming a group of German farmers to learn more about the best practice in Yorkshire animal husbandry.
Q How have things been on your family farm this year?
A In common with farmers across the region, we have been desperate for rain. This is the driest spring in many years and obviously that has a big impact on our grazing – vital for a dairy herd – milk yield and ongoing costs. I am also very aware of the impact on our friends in the arable sector.
Q It’s been a year of added pressure on farm owners all over the UK. How do you look to support them?
A The Yorkshire Agricultural Society, which
organises the Show, works with farmers all year round to provide support. Our first ever Farming Outlook survey revealed that almost two in every three farmers (65%) fear for the future viability of their business and there remain concerns about mental health in an occupation which is not only demanding, but quite often isolating. We have an important role to play in helping farmers to navigate uncertainty, see opportunities, foster community spirit, provide networks that connect those working in the industry and encourage the next generation.
Q Is this partly why the Great Yorkshire Show is so important, to throw the spotlight on our farms and local producers?
A A resounding yes to that! Our farmers and producers need the support of everyone in Yorkshire and I can think of no better way to highlight their value to the community. The Show is a fantastic way to demonstrate what they do and how they do it, and we are always eager to spread that message to as many people as possible.
Q Are there elements of this year’s Show you are particularly excited about?
A I can’t wait until we open the gates on the first day! My new role means that I will get to learn more about every section at the Show and that is always exciting. We want to o er the best visitor experience we possibly can and I am also eager to see how our new YouTube channel will help to give those who can’t attend a real flavour of what the Show is about. We already stream action in the Main Ring and we know that is watched by people across the world, so I look forward to extending our reach to tell everyone how great Yorkshire and its farmers are still further.
Celebrities from the farming world have been unveiled for the Ariat GYS Stage at the 166th Great Yorkshire Show
Presenters Helen Skelton and Matt Baker MBE, Rob and Dave Nicholson, of Cannon Hall Farm, and popular Peter Wright of Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet will appear on the Ariat GYS Stage in a series of chat shows hosted by TV presenter Christine Talbot. For the first time, the Fashion Show will also be held on the Ariat GYS Stage – expect a famous face or two to appear with the professional models in the muchloved element of GYS. Farming YouTuber and TikTok star Joe Seels will be on the catwalk every day and don’t miss radio presenter Georgey Spanswick on Tuesday’s fashion show. Brands on the catwalk will include Ariat, Manteaux, Maude & Fox, Lakeland Leather, British Wool and TOG24. Abraham Moons is also showcasing its range of large and small ruanas in Yorkshire Agricultural Society Tweed. The Ariat GYS Stage timetable will stay the same each day of the Show, with the celebrity chat shows at 11am and 3pm each day, and the Fashion Show at 1pm every day.
Tuesday of the Show will be a welcome return for Helen Skelton who appeared for the first time last year. Helen, who grew up on a farm, recently became a regular host of the BBC’s flagship daytime show Morning Live. Helen also appeared on Channel 5’s Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure where she explored the countryside and took on a series of local activities. She also hosted Channel 5’s On The Farm, bringing the best stories from the farm, and beyond. “I am excited about being at the Show again,” Helen says. “Last year I met some really lovely people, all of whom had the countryside at heart, and it will be great to hear from more this year.”
Wednesday will welcome back Rob and Dave Nicholson of Cannon Hall Farm (the o cial host farm for Channel 5’s Springtime on the Farm series). Rob says: “We had a great time last year, meeting a wide range of people interested in the countryside and agriculture and being able to share stories of what we have learned along the way.”
“BEING A PROUD YORKSHIREMAN I CONSIDER IT A PRIVILEGE TO BE A PART OF THE SHOW”
Thursday will welcome back the everpopular Matt Baker MBE. Matt has been a regular guest at the Show and last took to the stage in 2023. Known to millions for presenting on both Countryfile and the One Show, his background in farming at home in Durham brings his own insights to his chats. Matt says: “The Great Yorkshire Show has been part of my life for many years and, every time I visit, I see or learn something new so I can’t wait to see what the 2025 Show will bring. I always know there will be new breeds of animals and new ideas to share, which makes it a brilliant event for everyone interested in the countryside.”
Friday will see the return of Peter Wright from Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet, another guest who is always very popular with visitors. He says: “As a vet it is always a pleasure to see the very best animals showcased from throughout the UK here on my doorstep at The Great Yorkshire Show. Being a proud Yorkshireman I consider it a privilege to be part of the Show. Each year I cannot wait to see everything the Show has to o er and to meet up with friends.”
The Ariat GYS Stage is being sponsored by Ariat for the first time this year. James Wilson, Brand & DTC director of Ariat, says: “We’re delighted to partner with the Great Yorkshire Show and celebrate what makes our local country and agricultural community so special – the people, the passion, and the produce. Our team can’t wait for the opportunity to meet so many people at such a great event. Whilst our focus is on Workwear for this year’s Show, we will also have plenty of our favourites across our Western, Country and Denim collections. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the GYS stage and at stand no 444.”
The Show is elevating its digital platforms this year with a new GYS App and a new YouTube series focussing on some of the exhibitors and contributors who make the Show the success it is today – so expect to see this year’s roster of celebrities play an important part in the next step of the evolution of the Great Yorkshire Show.
The 166th Great Yorkshire Show welcomes back a popular stunt team, introduces additional national breed shows, and steps into the future of innovation in the farming industry
Areturn of the hugely popular Atkinson Action Horses will be the Main Ring attraction for this year’s Great Yorkshire Show. The liberty and stunt team last appeared at the Show in 2021 when Ben Atkinson wowed the crowd as he proposed to his girlfriend and co stunt rider, Georgie, during the daring equestrian act in the Main Ring. The couple have now been married for two years and are expecting their first baby, a son, in February.
It has been a busy year for the act, performing at shows across the UK and in the US and providing horses for a host of television shows, including Yorkshire favourites All Creatures Great and Small and Emmerdale. They have also played a part in shows for Netflix and Disney, together with some high-profile film appearances which are still under wraps.
Earlier this year, state-of-the-art tractors, an Aberdeen Angus bull and some famous faces joined forces to launch the countdown to this year’s Great Yorkshire Show. This year will see the Show host five national
breed shows, with Aberdeen Angus, Longhorn and Charolais cattle and Zwartbles and Kerry Hills in the sheep section.
To mark the Presidency of Geo Brown MBE, Chairman of Ripon Farm Services, two of the latest John Deere tractors took up prime position in the Main Ring, which will also be on display at the Great Yorkshire Show.
New to the equine rings this year are Su olk Punch, the handsome and heavy draught horses from that county which are always chesnut (traditional Su olk spelling) in colour and are classified as a critically endangered breed by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.
For the first time, the Show also welcomes British Miniature horses, bred to resemble quality riding horses but standing only 87cm high.
A native UK sheep breed that assumed its name at the Great Yorkshire Show nearly 150 years ago is being celebrated at this year’s event. Wensleydale sheep are recognisable for their large frame and heavy fleece of long locks and are a popular fixture in the sheep rings at the Great Yorkshire Show. Now, both the heritage and modern-day story of
this iconic Yorkshire breed will be told in a dedicated new exhibition at the 166th Show.
The Wensleydale traces its lineage back to a single sire born in 1839 in the Yorkshire Dales, but the breed was as-yet-unnamed when it was first given its own class at the Great Yorkshire Show in 1876. At the time, the breed was used as the sire of the Masham – the result of a Wensleydale ram crossed with a Dalesbred ewe – and from the Show onwards it was formally named and recognised as the Wensleydale.
To celebrate this rich history and the breed’s qualities as a luxury wool producer, the Wensleydale Sheep: A Handcrafted History exhibition is a fascinating showcase of work produced by 40 textile artists throughout the UK.
The Show is elevating its digital platforms this year with a new GYS App and a new
YouTube series focussing on some of the exhibitors and contributors who make the Show the success it is today. The YouTube series Great Yorkshire Show: Behind the Scenes will see TV presenters Christine Talbot, Jon Mitchell and Duncan Wood joined by farming YouTuber and TikTok star Joe Seels as they meet some of the farmers and exhibitors as they prepare for, and compete in, the Show. Farming innovations will also be celebrated at Great Yorkshire Show. Increasingly sophisticated advances in farm machinery and technology are part of a forward-thinking line-up at the 166th Great Yorkshire Show, with entries now open to celebrate agricultural innovation.
As part of a bigger and better Innovation Zone at the Show, the best of agricultural innovation is celebrated with the GYS Innovation Awards, which have grown to include five categories this year in recognition of this thriving area of the industry. All farming and agri-businesses across the UK can enter the Awards,
not just exhibitors at the Show. The GYS Innovation Awards and Innovation Zone are organised by the Farmer Scientist Network, which is supported by Show organisers, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, to highlight new ways in which science and technology can find solutions and underpin innovation in agriculture.
The Innovation Zone is a one-stop shop for farmers who are chasing percentage gains to drive forward e ciency, productivity and diversify income streams, with a comprehensive line up of experts on-hand to o er guidance and spark ideas.
All are welcome at the daily talks on a drop-in basis; there’s no need to register in advance. The topics are wide-ranging, including precision agriculture, soil health, renewable energy, future fuels, livestock health and nutrition and next-gen skills.
The Innovation Zone stage will also host informative guest sessions including the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s Women In Farming Network summer social on Thursday.
The 166th Great Yorkshire Show has a lot to live up to… The very best of British agriculture was in the national spotlight as the 165th Great Yorkshire Show attracted high-profile political figures, famous faces and 140,000 visitors for a sold-out four-day celebration of farming, food and the countryside in Harrogate.
Some 8,500 animals were exhibited in pursuit of all-important prize rosettes, and the future of the industry was debated and demonstrated in a bigger and better Innovation Zone and by the Future Farmers of Yorkshire at their ever-popular Breakfast Meeting at the GYS Vertu Motors Stage.
Against this busy backdrop, the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, and the then newly elected Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, visited the Show for the first time, and visitors had the chance to meet TV stars Adam Henson, Helen Skelton, Peter Wright, and Rob and Dave Nicholson of Cannon Hall Farm who took part in packed-out chat shows.
Charles Mills, Show Director for the final time after nine years in the role, said: “It was a pleasure to host the Archbishop who made his first visit – hopefully the first of many! We were also delighted to host the new Secretary of State, Steve Reed OBE MP and Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner who could connect with farmers and farming bodies like the NFU, CLA, RABI and our Future Farmers to start the conversation about the future of farming.
“The Show has also underlined how the many issues being tackled in the rural sector are being handled in some very creative ways, from conservation and sustainability to food production and education.”
New additions to the Show last year included a craft beer bar, a Battle of the Butchers, Theakston’s Great Yorkshire Inn and Main Ring performances from Forever Tenors and the Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show. The Show also
hosted the World Ayrshire Federation Annual Conference for the first time. Around 100 farmers from countries including Kenya, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and America attended the Show as part of a UK tour.
There were new equine classes for Ridden Heavy Horses and Rescue Equine, and the Countryside Area included a new marquee o ering talks and videos on various subjects such as river management, game keeping and moorland management.
Competition was typically fierce in the show rings, with cattle, sheep, pigs and horses all challenging for the titles of Supreme Champion in their sections. The Dairy Supreme Championship went to Johnny Adamson’s senior cow Ayrshire Swaites Bracken, and the Supreme Beef Champion title went to British Limousin heifer Maraiscole Tangerine, owned by Ian Nimmo of Wishaw, Lanarkshire.
The Blythewood Dairy Pairs title in the Main Ring went to a pair of Jersey
heifers, Guillyhill Webcam Daisy, owned by Messrs TAML Jackson and shown by Katie Jackson, and Messrs RAM Scott’s Nethervalley Oliver Regina shown by Gregor Brown. In the Blythewood Beef Pairs, the Continental pair winners were Sophie Harvey and Stewart Bett with their British Limousins, while the Native winners were Jennifer Hyslop and Carol Rettic with their Beef Shorthorns.
The Overall Supreme Sheep Champion trophy went to a homebred Kerry Hill shearling ewe, Whitfield Double Diamond, from Chris Adamson’s Whitfield flock. Chris, from Littleborough, Lancashire, beat o competition from more than 3,000 sheep entries to claim the top prize. Ali Jackson’s shearling Su olk gimmer was named Supreme MV Champion.
“THE SHOW UNDERLINES HOW ISSUES IN THE SECTOR ARE BEING HANDLED IN SOME VERY CREATIVE WAYS"
Top showjumping class, the Ripon Select Foods Cock O’ the North, gave the packed Main Ring its usual nail-biting finish. Local hero Richard Howley from Wetherby won with HK Horses’ Zodiac Du Buisson Z with treble clears. The Supreme In Hand Championship saw the culmination of the equine showing classes, with Highland mare Perburn Annabella, owned by Mike and Catherine Taylor of Lancashire declared as champion.
The Supreme Champion Cheese title went to Shepherds Purse for its Organic Yorkshire Blue, and the Supreme Champion Dairy title went to Ryeburn of Helmsley for its Mango Ripple ice cream. The Show was rounded o with outgoing Show Director Charles Mills handing over to new Show Director Rachel Coates before YAS President Martin Cockerill handed over to Geo Brown MBE. On we go to Show number 166…
BLOODHOUNDS AND DRAGHOUNDS
The title of overall champion ewe lamb pair went to CJ Cormack and Gaynor McDowell from Leicestershire with Blue Texels. Supreme Champion pair title went to David McKerrow from Aberdeenshire with Texels, who also took the Champion tup pair. The Supreme Champion interbreed pair was won by Stephen Short from Halifax with Hampshire Downs, and the Supreme Champion Interbreed Group of Three went to Francis Barbour from Sanquhar, Dumfriesshire, with British Berrichon.
At the sheep shearing stage, the open shearing champion was New Zealand Shearer Jack Fagan and Yorkshire shearer of the year was Anthony Rooke.
The Supreme Pig Championship was won by Duroc gilt Hazeway Havnbjerg 6, who was also female champion, owned by Hayley Loveless, of Bridport, Dorset. The Collins family made it back-to-back wins in the prestigious BPA Pig Of The Year contest, claiming victory with a Welsh pig. Last year also saw the return of the poultry classes and the Supreme Champion title went to a Blue Leghorn bantam exhibited by Joe and Paul Heeley from Drighlington, West Yorkshire.
Nigel Morgan is Operations Director of the Show, a role he has performed for over two decades
Q When was the first time you visited the Great Yorkshire Show and what do you remember about it?
A I visited the Show as a schoolboy, but my first real recollection was working as a car park attendant as a 16-year-old. I thought it was great, but little did I know what was to follow.
Q How important would you say the Show is to the Yorkshire agricultural industry?
A The Show is massive supporting farming and countryside industries across Yorkshire and North East England as well as agricultural charities.
Q You started working at the Show two decades ago. What was your first job there?
A In my previous career I was the Police Commander for the Show. When I was due to retire the Society was going through a period restructuring and had created a new post of Operations Manger which they o ered to me. Twenty years later I am still here performing the same role and enjoying every minute.
Q How would you say the Show has evolved over the years?
A Popularity without a doubt – every day is sold out weeks before the Show starts. The content is of the highest calibre and varied so as to appeal to everyone, adults and children alike, whether you are from a farming background, or an urban environment, the Show has something to o er.
Q Are you able to pick out 3 personal highlights across the 20 years?
This could be someone you met, someone you saw appear at the Show etc etc…
A This is a very hard one as I have had the pleasure of meeting so many fabulous people from all walks of life. Royal visits have always been a highlight, and I have had the privilege of accompanying King Charles as he is now, and the late Queen Elizabeth II around the Showground.
Q Today, what does your job as Operations Manager involve?
A In a nutshell my main areas of responsibility include coordinating VIP visits, the security and safety of everyone on the Showground, planning the tra c management to get visitors to and from the Show and car parking. I am also responsible for the movement of all the animals to the Show and their welfare while they are with us.
Q Is the job full on, or do you get a chance to actually enjoy the Show?
A Yes, the job is full on, on Show days I work on average a 15-hour day, but I still make a point visiting many of the attractions and taking in the sights.
Q Anything in particular you are looking forward to this year?
A The livestock and equine competitions are always a great feature for me, along with the Sheep Dog trials which is one of my favourites. If visitors have a great day out at the Show, then for me it will be a job well done.
This summer, Wakefield is buzzing with creative energy, and at the centre of it all is WX –Wakefield Exchange, the city’s boldest new cultural hub. The venue o ers a dynamic space for exhibitions, performances, workshops and events as well as its own onsite brewery and food vendors. WX o ers a year-round programme that is as eclectic as it is exciting, from craft workshops and exhibitions, to
beer festivals and family activities. This summer, the venue’s programme is set to be one of its most vibrant yet.
Kicking things o is a spectacular exhibition by Wakefield-born artist Jason Wilsher-Mills.
“Jason and the Wakefield Adventure”, which runs from 20th June to 7th September, is the first major solo exhibition by the artist in his hometown. Jason’s work is infused with personal storytelling; his experience of disability, his working-class roots, and a childhood love of 1970s comics all shine through in his vivid, unapologetically joyful style.
“Jason and the Wakefield Adventure” brings Jason’s technicolour world to life through vibrant inflatable sculptures, interactive digital artworks and playful projections. At its heart is a brand-new 20-metre inflatable, Jason’s largest and most ambitious work to date. This sculpture is inspired by the legendary Jolly Pinder of Wakefield and Jason’s own time at Pinderfields Hospital. Fantastical, colourful, and larger than life, it captures both local history and personal mythology in one epic creation.
Visitors can also engage with a rich programme of exhibition events, from artist talks and workshops to wearable sculpture walkabouts performances taking place across the summer. Don’t miss a unique opportunity to lose yourself in music as WX hosts a Silent Disco beneath WisherMills incredible inflatable sculptures on 9th August. Families will love the drop-in craft sessions, themed toddler discos, and inclusive creative experiences designed to make art fun and accessible for all.
But WX isn’t stopping there. From 11th-13th July, the Big Jolly Beer & Ale Weekend transforms the venue into a paradise for craft beer lovers. Enjoy street food, brewery talks, and live music including brass bands and a lively Ceili. And on Saturday evenings, expect free high-energy entertainment with events like Summer Sound System: Electric Boutique, bringing Ibiza-style house music to Wakefield, and Rockaoke, where you can live out your rock star dreams backed by a full live band.
Get ready to laugh out loud at the monthly Comedy Night. With a mix of local talent and special guests, WX Comedy Nights have quickly become a must-visit fixture on Wakefield’s entertainment calendar. Whether you’re here for the art, the ale, or the atmosphere, WX –Wakefield Exchange is your go-to creative playground this summer.
Find out more at wxwakefield.co.uk
Bruce and Rebecca Elsworth, a husband-and-wife duo, have beautifully combined Bruce’s years of experience as an award-winning chef in top kitchens with Rebecca’s extensive background in hospitality. Together, they have created Elsworth at the Mill, a versatile, unique event space celebrating local, seasonal produce and provenance.
Located in the historic High Corn Mill in the heart of Skipton, Elsworth at the Mill o ers an unmatched venue for a wide range of occasions. From luxury food events and supper clubs to wine and food pairings, live music nights, weddings,
cooking masterclasses, co-working spaces, and corporate gatherings… the possibilities are endless. Situated right on the doorstep of Skipton, this vibrant hub is a testament to Bruce and Rebecca’s commitment to their Yorkshire roots. Both originally from Skipton and Embsay, they have remained dedicated to supporting local suppliers and producers. Bruce often curates menus that embody regional pride, showcasing dishes made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms and artisans. Having grown up involved in farming, Bruce champions small-scale producers, highlighting the exceptional quality of Yorkshire’s local ingredients, many just a stone’s throw away.
Over the years, Elsworth at the Mill has proudly celebrated Yorkshire’s rich culinary heritage through a series of events that place local produce front and centre. From seasonal farm-to-table dinners to special evenings marking regional highlights like the Tour de Yorkshire, the focus has consistently been on showcasing the very best the county has to o er.
These occasions have welcomed some of Yorkshire’s finest farmers, growers, and artisan producers, not just as suppliers but as guest speakers sharing the stories behind their produce. Their insights bring to life the deep connection between land, food, and community, reinforcing the importance of buying local and cooking with care.
Bruce reflects: “Being a Yorkshire lad and chef, I feel privileged to work with some of the finest produce that God’s Own County has to o er. These evenings are all about celebrating the suppliers, their
“IT IS A TESTAMENT TO THEIR COMMITMENT TO THEIR YORKSHIRE ROOTS”
stories, and their incredible products.”
While Bruce and Rebecca proudly celebrate Yorkshire, their events also explore diverse culinary traditions, from North African supper clubs to French-inspired Bastille food and wine pairings. Guests enjoy a warm, buzzing atmosphere paired with delicious, carefully crafted food. Despite the variety, one thing remains constant: every event is memorable, full of charm, and marked by Bruce and Rebecca’s passion for great food and genuine hospitality.
You can find Bruce live on Friday 11th July at 12pm in the Great Yorkshire Food Theatre. For all enquiries and an event list call 01756 462902 email elsworthatthemill@gmail. co.uk, or visit elsworthatthemill.co.uk
Does your garden lack impact or privacy?
Mature planting provides screening and adds value too
If you want to add scale and maturity to your garden you don’t have to wait years. Whether for improved security and privacy or simply just to make it more attractive, improving and spending time in your garden is good for your physical and mental health. However, the value of a wellkept garden can also be expressed in more absolute terms financially.
Studies have shown that an untidy garden can knock over £5,000 o the asking price of a house. Two thirds of British homebuyers would be put o buying a house with an untidy garden, and privacy is the main thing homebuyers look for in a garden.
At Wykeham Mature Plants you really can buy time, giving any garden or planting scheme maturity which would otherwise take years to achieve. The sta of this Yorkshire nursery are experts in providing instant screening for privacy and security, whether the job requires carefully selected trees, mature hedging, or plants clipped or trained specifically to address the issues on site, and their professionally executed design and planting services are available to both private and commercial clients. If you need help or inspiration, site visits
are available so you can discuss your requirements with one of the experienced horticulturists to help you achieve guaranteed results with instant hardy plants, with expert guidance given not only in selecting the right plants, but also in how to look after them on an ongoing basis.
As well as a range of colourful Yorkshiregrown mature shrubs, which provide that “wow factor” to any garden, a particular specialty is a range of plants and trees selected or trained specifically to provide
screening. The sta will guide you through available screening options, whether that’s tall hedging, evergreen trees with clear trunks to provide screening above a wall or fence, or “pleached” trees – trained horizontally on tiers or fanned out on a flat panel, above a tall clear stem, to give a twodimensional e ect, rather like a narrow hedge on a stick to allow dense screening without taking up much space.
For further information, call Wykeham Mature Plants on 01723 862406 or visit wykehammatureplants.co.uk. Alternatively, if you wish to enquire about booking a site visit, email m.howe@wykeham.co.uk
Thousands of schoolchildren from across Yorkshire got a close-up look at the journey of food from field to fork at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate back at the start of June. Countryside Days is a two-day educational experience organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and it is free for primary schools to attend. It gives schoolchildren opportunities to experience the countryside through interactive workshops, demonstrations and displays that tell the story of farming, the natural world and how landscapes are carefully managed. At a soil station, children found out all about the importance of worms and how they transport nutrients around the soil. They met sheep and pigs, got to sit in a tractor cab and made sausages. The great array of activities covered many topics, from potato harvesting and the story of grain, to birds of prey, British wool and willow weaving.
Rachel Coates, dairy farmer and Show Director of the Great Yorkshire Show, which is organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, said at the time: “This week’s event was a wonderful occasion, with thousands of primary schoolchildren at the Showground from all across Yorkshire. Over the two days, so many children learnt about things that the national curriculum wouldn’t ordinarily cover. Countryside Days covers everything from how livestock are reared and how wheat is grown and turned into flour, to how healthy soils and worms support sustainable farming. For many of the children, this was their first experience
The work of the Great Yorkshire Show extends far beyond the fourday extravaganza
of getting a front row view of farm animals.”
The Yorkshire Agricultural Society will welcome schools back to the Showground for the Great Yorkshire Show. As a farming charity, the Society wants schoolchildren to have access to the Show and so it o ers school pupil tickets at a subsidised rate, with free places available for accompanying teachers on a pupil-to-teacher ratio basis. Education about all things farming, food and the countryside is a key objective of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and it holds other events for schools and teachers
“CHILDREN LEARNT ABOUT THINGS THAT THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM WOULD NOT COVER”
throughout the academic year. In the autumn, Apple Day sees schoolchildren visit the Great Yorkshire Showground’s orchard and a rolling programme of free training courses is o ered to school sta across the North of England to take learning outdoors.
The Society’s popular vegetable box competition sees primary schools grow vegetables from scratch, with finalists’ boxes on display at the Great Yorkshire Show, where the winners are revealed. Also at the Show, access to workshops in the Discovery Zone are fully subsidised by the Society as part of its educational o er.
The Society funds visits to working farms via the Country Trust and runs a small grants scheme which gives schools the opportunity to apply for small grants towards projects and initiatives linked to farming, food and the countryside. Who knows, perhaps several of these schoolchildren will be heavily involved in the Show when the 200th edition comes around.
FROM WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & FRESH PASTA TO SEASONAL SPECIALS & INDULGENT DESSERTS, EVERY DISH IS MADE WITH FLAIR & THE FINEST INGREDIENTS.
FLYING PIZZA, ROUNDHAY – A YORKSHIRE ICON.
WAGAMAMA
Yorkshire branches of wagamama are serving up bold new flavours with the launch of a new summer menu. At the heart of wagamama’s new offering are the light and fragrant pho noodle soups, made with a clear yuzu broth, and konjac noodles, a highfibre, low-calorie noodle alternative, perfect for summer. wagamama.com
Wine recommendations for the month
By THE WINE SOCIETY
The Society's Exhibition Spätburgunder 2022
£13.95
This Spätburgunder is fruit forward, wonderfully expressive and juicy in style. Expect wild strawberries, cherries and plum notes combined with smoky hints that add additional layers.
Sauvignon Blanc 'Pure Vallée' Vin de France, Famille Bougrier 2024
£7.95
This wine combines Loire and southern French fruit for a delicate, slightly tropical aroma, and easy, creamy finish.
Beaujolais Villages Vieilles
Vignes d’Emeriniges
2022 £9.50
Made from a blend of grenache, cinsault and syrah, this is a dry, fruity rosé from the south of France that is pale, refreshing and charming.
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
Food news and the most exciting openings across Yorkshire
By MARK KEBBLE
THE GAMEKEEPER’S INN
Now is the perfect time to discover the new summer menu at The Gamekeeper’s Inn. Tuck into tempting sharing platters – from salt & pepper pork belly bites to crispy calamari and scampi. Or enjoy hearty favourites like the slow-braised lamb shank or famous homemade pies. All are perfect for relaxed dining in a cosy, countryside setting.
gamekeeperinn.co.uk
CINNAMON KITCHEN
Chef Vivek Singh is bringing bold, spice-kissed flavours, inspired by a journey through 12 Indian states, right to the heart of Leeds with Cinnamon Kitchen. From Yorkshire fields to Indian spice markets, the menu is bringing together the best of both worlds. pairing carefully sourced Indian spices and regional flavours with seasonal ingredients from across the British Isles. cinnamon-kitchen.com
HAREWOOD ESTATE
The team behind one of Yorkshire’s destination dining venues are gearing up for a jam-packed lineup of immersive foodie events - kicking o with their flagship event, Hidden Harewood. This o ers guests the chance to dine with a real di erence with immersive foodie events featuring tasting menus using the estate’s produce. harewoodfoodanddrink.com
Farhi's Dubai Chocolate with Pistachio Knafeh is a refined fusion of Middle Eastern tradition and indulgence. These truffles feature a creamy pistachio Knafeh centre enveloped in smooth milk chocolate. farhi.co.uk
Il Gattopardo has added Dubai Tavoleta to its menu. The dessert is an exclusive take on Dubai Chocolate, with an Italian twist. gattoparto.restaurant
Whittard of Chelsea’s Pistachio Hot Chocolate is a creamy, sweet white hot chocolate coupled with the flavours of nutty, roasted pistachio, inspired by the unstoppable Dubai chocolate trend. whittard.co.uk
THE OLD LIQUOR STORE
The Old Liquor Store in York has launched a limited-edition cocktail to celebrate World Chocolate Day (7th July) with a boozy twist. The spicy chocolate tequila martini, featuring chilli infused tequila, creme de cocoa blanc, mozart dark chocolate and chocolate bitters, will be served in July.
ALDWARK MANOR ESTATE
Aldwark Manor Estate has been recognised in Tripadvisor’s® Travellers’ Choice® Awards for 2025.
The hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Chartwell, also recently received a Michelin Guide recommendation and 3AA Rosettes. theoldliquorstore.co.uk aldwarkmanorestate.co.uk
North Yorkshire’s acclaimed restaurant Pignut is all set to embark on a bold new chapter as they move to a new venue. Absolutely finds out more
Tom and Laurissa Heywood, the dynamic husband and wife duo behind the acclaimed Pignut restaurant in Helmsley, are preparing to write the next chapter in their remarkable journey. In a move that marks both a professional milestone and a deeply personal dream, the couple have acquired the renowned Hare at Scawton – a 12th-century inn nestled in the heart of the North York Moors – from Paul and Liz Jackson. The transition will see Pignut relocate to the historic site, which will be reimagined as Pignut & The Hare. The venue will retain its charm while o ering new possibilities for Tom and Laurissa, including onsite accommodation and the chance to become more self-su cient by growing produce on the surrounding land.
Pignut opened in June 2023 and quickly established itself as one of North Yorkshire’s most exciting fine dining destinations. Known for its fiercely sustainable approach, the restaurant has earned numerous accolades, including three AA Rosettes, a recommendation in the Michelin Guide, and recognition as a carbon-neutral business. Tom’s innovative cooking and Laurissa’s warm hospitality have put Pignut on the map, with menus that celebrate hyper-local, foraged ingredients, and a zero-waste philosophy. At the heart of the restaurant is a commitment to community and the environment. Ingredients are sourced from nearby producers such as Otterburn Farm and Castle Howard, while herbs, vegetables and flowers are picked by hand at Helmsley Walled Garden – a project run by volunteers to promote mental health through gardening. Even the dried flowers on the tables are from Tom and Laurissa’s own garden.
“I THOUGHT THIS IS THE KIND OF RESTAURANT I WANT TO BE A PART OF”
Now, the pair are ready to bring their values, creativity and passion to their new home at Scawton. The Hare, which Paul and Liz Jackson lovingly restored over more than a decade, has long been a destination for food lovers. With its rustic charm, contemporary interiors, and four beautiful guest rooms, it was named AA Restaurant with Rooms of the Year for England in 2021. As they prepare to say farewell to Bridge Street in Helmsley and hello to Scawton, the team behind Pignut remain grounded in the same values that made them a success: authenticity, sustainability, and a deep love of food and hospitality – as Tom tells Absolutely here.
Q When was the first time you visited The Hare in Scawton and what were your first impressions?
A About eight years ago. It’s a beautiful building, the atmosphere was great, Liz was really warm and friendly, and the food was outstanding. I remember thinking this is
the kind of restaurant I wanted to be part of, so I called up asking if there were any vacancies, but unfortunately there wasn’t.
Q How long have you been planning the move?
A Since February after we got married in Vegas. We wanted to take the restaurant to the next step.
Q Why is this perfect for you both?
A It has rooms which means we can complete the diners’ experience. It’s a bigger space and kitchen meaning we have the ability to do more for the guests. There is also a lot of land at the back so we can grow more produce helping us be self-su cient.
“WE WANTED TO OFFER THE BEST QUALITY LOCAL INGREDIENTS WITH A SUSTAINABILITY ETHOS”
Q It’s only two years since you opened Pignut – could you have imagined things moving as quickly as they have done?
A We always had a plan of moving on eventually and knew we would outgrow this space one day, we never thought it would happen this quickly or even to a space as amazing as the Hare. One thing we’ve learned from having a restaurant is that you have to take opportunities that come your way.
Q When you opened Pignut, what were you determined to o er?
A Best quality local ingredients with a sustainability ethos around the restaurant, relaxed service where we are not overbearing, but there when you need it. Personable, friendly and knowledgeable almost the feeling of being in our home.
Q What do you think has been the secret of your success?
A Hard work and taking necessary risks, but also keeping everything consistent. The constant change in menu so people rarely have the same thing twice because when doing a tasting menu nobody wants to pay for the same meal multiple times, and with the seasons we have to change constantly to keep it more sustainable.
Q What does the recognition for your sustainability mean to you?
A It means a lot to us as working this way is very hard and sometimes frustrating,
but it’s what we believe in. It’s what we base our restaurant and ethos around and that will never change.
Q Will the same values be in play at Pignut & The Hare?
A The only change is we are now doing a full and half menu, which means we will have more ability to incorporate more suppliers and use them more often throughout the menu. So rather than the rigid eight course it means we can o er more courses, but using more of a range of suppliers and use produce such as whole animals and better techniques.
Q What can we expect to see on the menu?
A Depends when and what time of the year you come and eat! But expect local suppliers, foraged and home grown produce.
Q Will there be noticeable di erences for those who often frequent Pignut?
A Only the space and building. The food style and ethos will remain the same and the service just as personable as we’ve always been.
Q When are you looking to open the doors?
A We’re opening 1st August and we can’t wait to get started with getting the restaurant ready and to meet new guests and see our regulars again.
restaurantpignut.co.uk
NATALIA SUTA @_winerocks_ winerocks.co.uk
Sandridge Barton in South Devon has just opened its much-anticipated restaurant, serving up seasonal, locally-sourced dishes - think turmeric-pressed chicken, Brixham squid with garlic confit, and fermented potato flatbread with wild garlic. Can’t make it to Devon? Their low-intervention awardwinning wines are available online. sandridgebarton.com
Provence rosé royalty Minuty has dropped its 2024 vintage – and it’s fresher, prettier, and more crushable than ever. Minuty M is light, crisp and berry-bright. Prestige adds a saline twist with peachy vibes and extra finesse. Both wines exemplify the balanced, food-friendly style that's made Minuty a global benchmark for quality rosé. minuty.com
The Mar de Frades Albariño 2024 is here, and it’s making waves. Winemaker Paula Fandiño masterfully blends Albariño grapes from across Rías Baixas to create a bright, saline, citruscharged white with serious staying power. Fermented on skins, aged on lees - fresh, expressive, and unapologetically Atlantic. mardefrades.es/en
Tucked into Shropshire’s sun-drenched slopes, Rowton Vineyard is the passion project of twin sisters Zoë and Melissa Evans — a dynamic duo whose winemaking blends innovation with e ortless cool. Their 5-acre vineyard focuses on resilient varieties: Solaris (a Sauvignon Blanc-esque standout), Seyval Blanc (reminiscent of Chablis), and Pinot Noir Précoce, an early-ripening clone yielding silky reds with dark fruit allure.
In just a few vintages, their wines have scooped awards from Wine GB and the International English Wine Awards (IEWA), while their standout Solaris earned a coveted spot in the Top 100 UK Wines list, praised by judges for its 'electric vibrancy'.
The sisters' experimental spirit shines through in their solidsfermented sparkling wines and lateharvest Solaris dessert wine, proving that great English wine isn't limited to traditional styles. Visitors to their laidback tastings can sample these awardwinners alongside local charcuterie, experiencing first-hand why this small Shropshire vineyard is making such big waves in the UK wine scene.
rowtonvineyard.co.uk
Natalia Suta is a WSET-certified wine writer and educator with a knack for making wine accessible and fun. When she is not writing, she’s busy curating wine experiences and offering consultancy to help others discover the joy of wine. Follow Natalia on Instagram @_winerocks_
Flying Pizza in Roundhay has long been part of the fabric of Leeds dining. First opened in 1974, it quickly became a favourite for locals and celebrities alike. Now under the San Carlo Group and following a multi-million-pound transformation, this Yorkshire institution has been reimagined for a new era while honouring everything people loved about it. The setting is as stylish as it is welcoming. Interiors blend Italian elegance with relaxed sophistication, featuring handcrafted terrazzo floors, olive trees, and soft lighting that transitions beautifully from sunny lunches to intimate dinners.
The terrace, with its retractable roof, is one of the most desirable dining spots in Leeds, perfect for alfresco afternoons or evening cocktails under the stars.
At the heart of Flying Pizza is a passion for exceptional Italian food. The menu is a celebration of both regional classics and elevated favourites. Think fresh burrata with heritage tomatoes, hand-rolled pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and indulgent seafood platters. Signature dishes such as tagliolini with lobster and grilled tomahawk steak showcase both quality ingredients and culinary flair. Guests can expect attentive service, a warm welcome, and an atmosphere that balances buzz with comfort. Whether you are enjoying a long lunch with friends,
“This Yorkshire institution has been reimagined for a new era”
marking a special occasion, or simply craving a great pizza midweek, Flying Pizza makes every visit feel like a treat.
The wine list is just as thoughtfully curated, with a focus on Italian producers and bottles that perfectly complement the menu. An elegant cocktail menu and digestivo selection round o the experience, whether you start at the bar or linger after dessert.
Flying Pizza is more than just a restaurant. It is a local landmark with decades of stories woven into its walls. Under San Carlo’s expert touch, it has retained its character while embracing a fresh and vibrant identity.
Open seven days a week, Flying Pizza o ers something for everyone – from leisurely weekend dining to lively evenings with family and friends. It is a place to gather, to indulge, and to create new memories in the heart of Roundhay.
sancarlo.co.uk
Sukhothai proudly supports local Yorkshire suppliers
or over two decades, Sukhothai has been bringing the vibrant flavours of Thailand to Yorkshire, building a loyal following and becoming one of the region’s most cherished restaurant groups. This year, Sukhothai proudly celebrates its 23rd anniversary, a remarkable milestone in Yorkshire’s ever-evolving food scene.
Founded in 2002 by Ban Kaewkraikhot, who arrived from Thailand’s Sukhothai province with a passion to share her homeland’s cuisine, Sukhothai began as a small, family-run restaurant in Chapel Allerton, Leeds. Drawing on family recipes and a deep love for Thai hospitality, Ban’s hands-on approach quickly earned a reputation for quality, authenticity, and warm, welcoming service. Today, Sukhothai has grown into a thriving group with multiple locations across Yorkshire, each one proudly carrying forward Ban’s original vision.
At the heart of Sukhothai’s Yorkshire success are the incredible teams who bring each restaurant to life. In Harrogate, manageress O y has become a much-loved and familiar face, leading her team with passion and care, earning a loyal customer base who return time and again for the restaurant’s bold flavours. Over in Chapel Allerton, local legend Pat ensures the original Sukhothai continues to thrive with the same warmth and attention to detail that first made it a favourite. Meanwhile, in Leeds City Centre, Thibet expertly manages the flagship restaurant, supported by long-standing team member Tui, whose dedication and hospitality help create an exceptional dining experience for every guest. Together, these talented teams embody the passion, quality and hospitality that have made Sukhothai a standout name in Yorkshire dining for 23 years.
Key to Sukhothai’s lasting success is a commitment to using only the finest ingredients. The group proudly supports local Yorkshire suppliers, sourcing ethicallyreared meats from Sykes House Farm and fresh, sustainably caught fish from family-run Tarbett’s Fish, just a stone’s throw from Sukhothai Chapel Allerton. This dedication to quality ensures every dish, from fragrant curries to aromatic stir-fries, bursts with fresh, authentic Thai flavour.
To celebrate 23 years of Thai excellence in Yorkshire, Sukhothai is o ering Absolutely Yorkshire readers a complimentary bottle of house wine when dining in at any branch, Sunday to Thursday. Simply order a starter and main course per person to redeem the o er (T&Cs apply, see advert to the left).
Here’s to 23 years of Sukhothai –and to many more in Yorkshire!
sukhothai.co.uk
Lister Horsfall 88 • The Shoot 92
JEWELLERS For the perfect holiday jewellery, it has to be yellow gold and diamonds. Effortlessly chic, these beautiful pendants transition perfectly from beachside brunches to evening dinners. Discover the range at your nearest Berry’s Jewellers boutique or berrysjewellers.co.uk
Absolutely visits Lister Horsfall to find out more about its o ering as an O cial Rolex Retailer
For Rolex aficionados, Lister Horsfall in Halifax and Ilkley is a must visit. As an O cial Rolex Retailer, they are a font of all knowledge when it comes to the servicing of the hugely popular watches. From the conception of a Rolex watch to the time it leaves the workshop, every step of its development and manufacture follows a single critical requirement: quality. As a result, there is no limit on how long a Rolex watch can keep working, being handed down from one generation to the next, and living several lives.
Want to learn more? Lister Horsfall is home to a host of experts in Rolex watches, from advice and what to buy, to how you can maintain them. Here, Absolutely chats to a recent addition to the team, plus we return to speak to Luke Mills, who back in March gave us a fascinating insight into the world of Rolex.
ALISTAIR COCHRANE Watchmaker
Q Did you develop an interest in watches from an early age?
A I’ve always been drawn to how things work – even as a child, I was the type to take things apart just to figure out how to put them back together. That natural curiosity evolved over time, but it was during a college work experience placement at a clock repair boutique that my fascination with watches truly began. It was a hands-on introduction to the fundamentals of mechanical timekeeping – a brilliant foundation – but I quickly realised I wanted to take things further. I was eager to
work towards becoming a brand-accredited watchmaker and to immerse myself in artistry that fine watchmaking involves.
Q Have you had an interest in Rolex watches for some time?
A From the moment I became interested in watchmaking, Rolex stood out to me. Long before I earned my Rolex accreditation –and had the privilege of working on their timepieces first-hand – I used to spend hours watching videos of watchmakers disassembling and assembling Rolex movements. There was something captivating about the care that went into every component. I think what drew me in most was the balance Rolex achieves: their movements aren’t just engineered to perform to incredibly tight tolerances, they’re also finished to an exceptional aesthetic standard. That harmony between technical mastery and visual perfection is what continues to inspire me every day at the bench.
Q Why were you keen to join Lister Horsfall and work at their Rolex showroom?
A What first drew me to Lister Horsfall was the exciting development of their new workshop – I’d heard about it through the manager at the British School of Watchmaking, where I trained. When I came for my interview, the refit of the showroom wasn’t yet complete, but it was immediately clear from speaking with CEO Nick Horsfall and Managing Director Gemma Moody that this was a place driven by real passion and a commitment to excellence. That stuck with me. Since then, the workshop has been fully transformed and fitted with state-of-the-art Rolex tools and equipment.
Q What does your job entail?
A When you leave your watch with us, it begins with a thorough assessment to ensure everything is working as it should – from timekeeping and winding to overall condition and water proofness.
Our specialists then carefully disassemble the watch, inspecting each component with precision and care. Any part showing signs of wear is replaced – we believe in doing things properly to preserve both performance and longevity.
Once reassembled, your watch undergoes a series of checks over several days to confirm it’s running perfectly. The result is a timepiece you can wear with complete confidence, knowing it’s been expertly looked after..
Q How would you describe what we would find in the Rolex showroom?
A A visit to the Lister Horsfall showroom is a chance to explore a carefully curated collection of fine watches and jewellery in a welcoming, beautifully designed space. There are private areas where you can take your time discussing pieces with our team, surrounded by bespoke artwork and thoughtful details. We’ve even got a fully stocked bar, with a dedicated barman ready to o er you a drink while you visit.
IT IS ABOUT DOING THINGS THE RIGHT WAY. NO SHORTCUTS, JUST PROPER WATCHMAKING
LUKE MILLS Watchmaker
Q Are you able to tackle all kinds of services for a Rolex watch?
A Yes, as an Authorised Rolex Service Centre, we carry out a full range of servicing for Rolex watches. Every job is done using o cial Rolex parts and tools, which means everything is completed to the exact standards set by the brand. It’s about doing things the right way – no shortcuts, just proper watchmaking.
Q Rolex is well-known for its top quality and longevity, so what kind of servicing is typically needed with the watches?
A Rolex watches are built to be tough and reliable, which means they don’t need constant attention. In most cases, they only require servicing around every 10 years – though that can vary depending on how the watch is worn and used.
Q How does the servicing journey start?
A When a watch arrives with us, the first thing we do is carry out a detailed inspection. This allows us to carefully assess the condition of the watch and identify any issues that need attention. Once we’ve completed this check,
we can provide the customer with a clear, honest report on what work is necessary to restore or maintain their timepiece before any repairs begin.
Q How long does it typically take to fully service a Rolex watch?
A The time a service takes really depends on what’s needed. That said, most of the watches we handle come in for a full service, which usually takes around 2 to 3 weeks. This timeframe covers everything –from the moment the watch arrives, through the full servicing, testing, and final quality checks, right up until it’s ready for collection.
Q You are an Authorised Rolex Service Centre – essentially what does this mean?
A Being an Authorised Rolex Service Centre isn’t just a title - it’s a responsibility we take seriously. Rolex trusts us to maintain their watches to the highest standards, and that means every service we complete comes with an o cial international warranty. So, wherever you are in the world, your watch’s service history is recognised and backed by Rolex’s global network. It’s peace of mind that your timepiece is in safe hands, no matter where life takes you.
Q Do you often find customers bringing in older Rolex watches that mean a lot to them for whatever reason?
A Many of the watches we service carry a deep sentimental value. Some have been lovingly passed down through generations, others were bought to celebrate a personal milestone, and many have spent years as a trusted companion on their owner’s wrist. It’s these stories and connections that remind us how much more than just a watch these timepieces truly are.
Q Has there been a recent service you have taken on that had a really nice story attached to it?
A We recently had a watch come through our workshop that held years of sentimental value for its owner. Unfortunately, it had taken a significant hit after being dropped. After a full service, we not only restored its functionality, but also refinished the case to bring back its original shine. With the watch looking and working like new again, the customer chose to pass it on to their daughter – giving the timepiece a fresh chapter to be enjoyed for years to come.
listerhorsfall.co.uk
“I love seeing a person's face light up when they put that ring on”
to us,” Jonathan says. “But we also work with designers from all over the world to complement our own designs.”
But, bespoke creations sit at the heart of the Phillip Stoner experience, whether that means sourcing a loose diamond and setting, or creating something completely unique. Clients often arrive with ideas rooted in emotion – a favourite place, a detail from a loved one’s ring, or a family stone passed down through generations.
“The bespoke route is a big part of our business,” Jonathan explains. “We might sketch out a design in pencil right there with the client, then work with our CAD designer to bring it to life. Once the client has approved the design, we make the ring in-house.”
Some bring jewellery from their family, hoping to give it a new lease of life. Others want something completely new. Whatever the brief, the team feels privileged to be part of the journey.
How Phillip Stoner became Leeds’ finest boutique jeweller
From a small family workshop in Shipley to a name synonymous with quality craftsmanship and love, Phillip Stoner The Jeweller continues to make meaningful pieces, by hand, in the heart of Leeds.
There are moments in life charged with electricity and the journey to your wedding day is full of them. Speaking to the team at Phillip Stoner, in their beautiful Victoria Quarter store, this is the theme they return to again and again.
They feel honoured to be part of that journey. It’s incredibly personal. And the moment when someone finds “the one” – the ring they’ll wear for the rest of their life – is pure magic. “We made it.”
For owner and managing director Jonathan Stoner, those words carry an even deeper meaning. They reflect his
own life in jewellery, from his father’s first shop in a small market town, to two stunning stores in Leeds city centre.
At the centre of it all is something that makes Phillip Stoner truly special. The on-site workshop, tucked beneath their Victoria Quarter boutique, is where pieces are lovingly restored, heirlooms reimagined and bespoke creations brought to life.
Jonathan has been immersed in this world since childhood. “I was fortunate enough to get an apprenticeship with my father,” he says. “I did five years at the bench, learning how to repair and craft jewellery. I think that’s why, even 35 years later, it’s so important to me that we still have our own workshop. It’s a big part of who we are.”
It’s not just bespoke. Their stores hold some of the largest selections of wedding and engagement rings in the city. “We have our own collections that are unique
We asked Jonathan what makes a truly great engagement or wedding ring. He smiles and says: “Seeing a person’s face light up when they put that ring on and knowing they’ve found the one. That’s what makes a great engagement ring.”
So yes, Phillip Stoner made it. From a small store in Shipley to something truly special. And they’re still making it – every day, with love, in Leeds.
Visit Phillip Stoner stores in The Victoria Quarter and Trinity Leeds, or discover more at phillipstoner.com
For over 100 years, Wagsta has led the way in producing stunning watches that last. Here’s their story
“We are pleased to see our watches on every continent and in exotic places”
In 1923 Albert Wagsta , a farmer, countryman and engineer, began making watches for his friends and family as a hobby, and Wagsta Watches grew from there; the family are still producing timepieces today.
Wagsta Watches is still run by his grandson and great-grandsons, and continues to supply elegant and functional precision timepieces to those who enjoy country life and rural pursuits.
Wagsta Watches takes a no-nonsense approach to modern mechanical watches, o ering extended warranties and the kind of customer service typically found in a familyowned business. The company mainly sells to farmers, landowners, fishermen, shooters, equestrians, and anyone else who enjoys the great British outdoors. They have specialist ranges for military partnerships and emergency services teams, such as mountain search and rescue, as well as dress watches for those special occasions. They also have a specialist team for bespoke watches for those very special occasions.
The family prides itself on supporting rural charities and donates 15% of annual profits to help rural charities and skills development, giving something back to the communities that have, for generations, bought Wagsta Watches.
Wagsta Watches do not sell on the high street, as Peter, the current CEO, says. “We like to provide the service direct to our customers, we get to know them and we feel this can only come from dealing direct with those looking for a fine timepiece. We love the fact that grandfathers and fathers now are bringing their children to buy a Wagsta watch from us.”
Wagsta Watches can be found all over the world now – something the family find very exciting. Peter says: “We always ask our customers to send us pictures of where they take their Wagsta s after we release
them into the wilds, as we like to call it, and are pleased to have seen them now on every continent and in exotic and exciting places, including the top of Mount Everest. In fact a lot of climbers and explorers seem to have a Wagsta on their wrist these days!”
So if you want a reliable wristwatch which will last and stand the test of time, then put a Wagsta on your list.
wagsta watches.com
Sales of fi ne watches, jewellery, ANTIQUES AND VINTAGE items, ranging from Rolex, Omega, Tag Heuer. Our showroom includes Whitefriars glass, Murano, Silver items, paintings, objects of desire and lots more gifts.
“Let your jewellery tell your story and add sparkle to your summer adventures”
The experts at Berry’s on styling jewellery for the season
s the days grow longer and the warmth of summer envelops us, it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe and elevate your style with the brilliance of fine jewellery. This season, embrace the art of layering, indulge in the vibrant hues of coloured gemstones, and let diamonds add their timeless sparkle to your look.
Layering jewellery is a trend that continues to captivate, o ering a canvas to express individuality and creativity. This summer, the key is to mix and match pieces that resonate with your personal style. Combine delicate chains with statement pendants or stack rings of varying widths and designs to create a harmonious yet eclectic look. The beauty of layering lies in its versatility: there’s no right or wrong way – only what feels authentic to you.
Summer is synonymous with vibrant colours, and what better way to embrace this than through the rich tones of coloured gemstones? This season, stones like aquamarine and coloured tourmalines are making waves, o ering a refreshing departure from traditional diamonds. Pairing coloured gemstones with neutraltoned outfits can create a striking contrast, allowing the stones to take centre stage.
While coloured gemstones o er a burst of colour, diamonds remain the epitome of elegance and sophistication. Their timeless appeal makes them a staple in any jewellery
collection, seamlessly transitioning from day to night, and from casual to formal settings. This season, diamonds are being reimagined in contemporary designs, often combined with coloured gemstones to add a modern twist. Fancy cut diamonds, such as marquise or emerald shapes, are gaining popularity for their unique silhouettes and ability to catch the light in captivating ways. Incorporating diamonds into your jewellery ensemble can elevate your look, adding a touch of luxury and refinement.
EMBRACE
Summer is a time to celebrate life, love, and the beauty around us. Jewellery is more than just an accessory; it’s a reflection of personal style and a way to commemorate special moments. Don’t be afraid to experiment with di erent styles, mix metals, and combine various pieces to create a look that’s uniquely yours. Let your jewellery tell your story and add a touch of sparkle to your summer adventures.
Update your summer style at your nearest Berry’s Boutique or berrysjewellers.co.uk
Saltmoore
: a refined retreat on the Yorkshire coast
Tucked away in the peaceful village of Sandsend, just moments from Whitby, Saltmoore is a coastal sanctuary that combines understated luxury with a deep sense of calm. With elegant interiors, warm Yorkshire hospitality, and a focus on rest and wellbeing, it’s no surprise that Saltmoore is quickly becoming one of the region’s most sought-after destinations, for both overnight stays and day visits. While the hotel itself o ers a restorative escape for those seeking space to switch o , Saltmoore also welcomes non-residents to enjoy its many experiences. The Brasserie is open daily for relaxed yet refined dining, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. During the summer months, Saltmoore has wonderful BBQs on the Terrace followed by live acoustic music in the afternoon. Pet-friendly areas mean dogs are more than welcome, making it an ideal stop after a walk along the coast. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a celebratory dinner, or simply co ee and conversation, Saltmoore o ers a laid-back setting with polished charm.
Afternoon Tea is a particular favourite, served in the Orangerie. It’s a gently indulgent experience, thoughtfully presented and perfect for marking a special occasion or simply enjoying a slow afternoon with family or friends.
This summer, Saltmoore introduces an exciting new addition, a relaxed, familyfriendly Pizzeria at The Beach House. Just a short stroll from the main hotel, it promises generous, flavourful pizzas with seasonal toppings in a welcoming setting, perfect for guests of all ages. It’s a further reflection of Saltmoore’s growing lifestyle o ering and its desire to create memorable moments for locals and visitors alike.
The Sanctuary at Saltmoore is another standout. Rooted in tranquillity and balance, it o ers a curated menu of treatments from Wildsmith Skin, a British brand known for its science-led, skin-first approach and botanical formulations. Whether you’re booking a signature facial or a restorative body ritual, the treatments are designed to nurture both body and mind.
Saltmoore’s facilities, from its treatment rooms to serene relaxation areas, o er a peaceful pause from everyday life.
saltmoore.co.uk
The Coppergate Clinic, nestled in the heart of historic York, o ers world-class plastic surgery in a discreet, elegant setting. Led by expert surgeons, the clinic combines medical excellence with an artistic eye, delivering natural, confidence-enhancing results tailored to everyone.
01904 675222
Info@coppergateclinic.co.uk
8 Coppergate, Coppergate, York, YO1 9NR.
www.coppergateclinic.co.uk
By DAN FAGAN FRCS
Back pain is one of the most common medical complaints, a ecting millions of people at some point in their lives.
While it’s often caused by muscle strain or poor posture, it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying issue. Knowing the type of back pain you’re experiencing – and when to seek professional help – can make all the di erence in managing symptoms and preventing long-term problems.
In this article we’ll explore the di erent types of back pain and help you understand when it’s time to consult a spinal specialist.
MECHANICAL BACK PAIN
This is the most common form of back pain and typically relates to the spine’s muscles, ligaments, joints, or discs. It’s often triggered by poor posture (when
sitting working), prolonged driving, heavy or sudden lifting or twisting, repetitive strain, or sudden movement. Symptoms may include: localised pain in the lower or middle back; pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest; occasional sti ness or limited range of motion. Common causes include muscle strain, facet joint irritation, and degenerative disc disease.
In many cases, mechanical back pain responds well to conservative treatment – such as physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment, massage, yoga, pilates, posture correction (workstation modification), or activity modification and sensible lifting techniques.
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back
down the leg, becomes compressed or irritated – most commonly due to a herniated disc on a nerve root.
Symptoms may include: radiating pain from the lower back into the buttock and leg; numbness, tingling, or weakness in the a ected leg; pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing; a limp or postural tilt called a “sciatic list”.
This type of pain is often more than just uncomfortable – it can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. It is sometimes only relieved by lying down and strong painkillers! If sciatica doesn’t settle within a few weeks, imaging and a targeted treatment plan are required from a specialist.
Back pain and sciatica can be frustrating, but understanding its type and cause is the first step toward e ective relief. Whether your pain is recent or long-standing, don’t ignore what your body is telling you. Early intervention can often prevent more complex problems down the line. If you’re experiencing ongoing back discomfort, it’s best to seek expert advice. As a spinal consultant, I’m here to help you navigate your symptoms with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care.
Need support with back pain or sciatica? Reach out to schedule a consultation with us at SpineArt and take the first step toward lasting relief.
Find out more at spineart.org or call 07539 330360
DAN FAGAN
Tucked between the rugged beauty of the Clwydian Range and the golden coastline of North Wales, Marian Resort & Spa is more than just a destination – it’s an experience.
Located in the charming village of Dyserth, Denbighshire, this hidden gem o ers the perfect escape for anyone looking to unwind, celebrate, or start a new chapter in style.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend spa break, a day of pampering, or to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments, Marian Resort & Spa delivers luxury, tranquillity, and unforgettable memories in equal measure. With a mix of stunning selfcatering lodges, hot tub suites, and boutique hotel rooms, every stay feels special.
For couples planning their big day, Marian Resort & Spa now o ers a range of brand-new bridal packages, making it one of the most romantic wedding destinations in North Wales. Imagine saying “I do” against a backdrop of rolling hills and coastal views, surrounded by nature and loved ones. With the perfect blend of luxury and elegance, this enchanting venue promises a day that’s not only seamless but deeply personal.
The dedicated events team works with each couple to bring their unique vision to life – o ering a stress-free planning experience so you can focus on the joy of the moment. From ceremony to celebration, every detail is carefully curated to make your day truly unforgettable.
Before the big day, gather your closest friends for a Hen Party to remember. The Marian’s exclusive Hen Party Package is designed to o er both fun and relaxation, with an itinerary that combines indulgence and bonding.
Enjoy a luxurious stay in the resort’s stylish accommodation – from cosy lodges to hotel rooms with a hot tub. Start the celebration with a bottle of Prosecco on arrival, savour a twocourse dinner at the fabulous VIEW Restaurant, and indulge in a 30-minute spa treatment. With robes, slippers, a spa lunch, and spectacular surroundings, it’s the perfect pre-wedding retreat.
Whether you’re visiting for a celebration or just passing through, don’t miss the new spring and summer menu at the VIEW Restaurant. Featuring the freshest seasonal ingredients and locally sourced Welsh produce, it’s a feast for the senses – best enjoyed with panoramic views and great company.
At Marian Resort & Spa, wellness, luxury, and celebration come together in perfect harmony. From bridal bliss to serene escapes, it’s your invitation to escape the ordinary – and embrace something truly special.
marianresortandspa.com
How Andrew Port is leading the way when it comes to alleviating issues with hips and knees
For the past 25 years, Consultant Andrew Port has specialised in hip and knee replacements, utilising his skills to restore mobility and alleviate pain. Andrew became a consultant orthopaedic surgeon in 1999, and has been with Woodlands Hospital since it opened in 2002. He studied medicine at Manchester University, and passed his surgical exams with exceptional results, before embarking on the orthopaedic training scheme. Over the years, Andrew has witnessed significant advancements in surgical techniques. Since working with the Mako robot at Woodlands Hospital, he has achieved remarkable results in hip and knee replacements. The robot’s precise 3D imaging and planning capabilities have significantly improved surgical accuracy and reproducibility, enhancing patient satisfaction.
“Using this new technology vastly increases the accuracy of surgery for hip and knee replacements, resulting in potentially more rapid, easier recovery, and greater satisfaction rates,” he says. “The technology combines 3D planning with accurate intra-operative reconstruction of the hip or knee replacement, and patients report less pain, quicker recovery, and improvement of function.”
While the British Orthopaedic Association, along with the Department of Health directive, ‘Getting It Right First Time’ (GIRFT), advocate that surgeons should be performing at least 15 revision joints and partial knees surgeries per year, Andrew performs more than 50 revisions and 40 partial knee replacements every year.
Woodlands is one of only a few hospitals in the region that o ers access to augmented surgical assistance with the Stryker Mako Robotics system, with which Andrew has carried out hundreds of robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement procedures and is one of the biggest users in the region.
He is a regional specialist in complex primary and revision surgery, and set up the region-wide standardisation of care in revision joint replacement. Knowing what can go wrong in joint replacement surgery has allowed him to develop his own surgical technique to minimise such errors.
With thousands of successful surgeries under his belt, Andrew has transformed the lives of countless individuals, enabling them to regain their mobility and enjoy a better quality of life. His ambition is to ensure equality of access to orthopaedic surgery for everyone in Teesside, North Yorkshire and across the North East, with outstanding outcomes.
circlehealthgroup.co.uk/ consultants/andrew-port
Contact Cheryl Holiday, Private Practice Manager to Andrew Port on 07855-364475, cheryl.holiday@ntlworld.com or cheryl.holliday@nhs.net
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“We are here for people who want to feel more comfortable in their own skin”
estled in the historic centre of York lies Coppergate Clinic, a boutique private hospital o ering a comprehensive range of plastic surgery services. Renowned for its calm, discreet setting and highly personalised approach, the Clinic is redefining the standards of aesthetic care and has become a trusted destination, free from the pressures of commercialised cosmetic care.
Unlike cosmetic chains focused on transformation for its own sake, Coppergate Clinic takes a more considered approach. The focus here isn’t on changing how people look, it’s on helping patients resolve long-standing issues, restoring confidence, and improving their quality of life. Patients also benefit from the expertise of the UK’s leading plastic surgeons, each specialising in a distinct area of practice. Their collaborative, patient-focused approach ensures a gold-standard surgical experience; bespoke, safe, and guided at every stage by trusted professionals at the forefront of their disciplines. For patients who value discretion and medical integrity, it’s a truly reassuring environment.
Coppergate’s expert surgical team brings skill, sensitivity, and discretion to every case, for people who are ready to feel more like themselves again. Whether it’s correcting the results of injury, addressing changes from ageing or childbirth, or relieving physical discomfort caused by breast or body-related concerns.
“We’re here for people who want to feel more comfortable in their own skin, not to push unrealistic ideals,” says Orla Rhodes, the clinic’s founder and Medical Director. “Our ethos is about restoring balance, function and selfassurance, never about chasing trends.”
Coppergate Clinic specialises in face, breast, and body procedures, o ering expert care in areas such as breast augmentation or reduction, body contouring, post pregnancy procedures, and facial correction surgery. Housed in a purpose-built, boutique facility, many patients come to Coppergate Clinic for highly individualised care that larger institutions simply can’t o er. Each procedure is preceded by an in-depth consultation to understand the patient’s goals, followed by a carefully structured treatment and recovery programme.
But perhaps what truly distinguishes the Coppergate Clinic is its unwavering aftercare service. From the first appointment to long after surgery, patients are supported every step of the way, with dedicated follow-up and clinical oversight that ensures both peace of mind and the best possible outcomes.
With a reputation built on trust, results, and refined expertise, Coppergate Clinic has quietly become a leading name in cosmetic surgery. It’s not about changing who you are, it’s about helping you feel at home in your body again.
coppergateclinic.co.uk
As we age, the need for extra care and support often becomes more apparent. While many assume a care home is the only option, Westward Care – a Leedsbased care and support provider – o ers forward-thinking alternatives by creating real choices for later life. With four locations across Leeds in Headingley, Roundhay, Methley, and Beeston, Westward Care is small enough to o er a personalised approach, but large enough to provide care that adapts as your needs change.
At their Roundhay and Headingley sites, Westward Care o ers stylish one- and twobedroom apartments designed for those looking to ‘right-size’ – downsizing without sacrificing quality or independence.
Available to purchase, the apartments allow you to retain your property asset while enjoying a secure, companioned
environment with 24/7 on-site care that can be accessed if, or when, needed. Apartment owners say they feel truly independent yet supported by services and surroundings tailored to their evolving needs.
For those requiring a higher level of support, Headingley Hall o ers exceptional residential care. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and recently scoring 10 out of 10 on carehome.co.uk, it’s among the leading care homes in Leeds. The home feels more like a luxury hotel, with beautifully landscaped gardens and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Specialised dementia care is also available in Shire Oak House, which is based at the Headingley Hall location. Angela, the daughter of a former resident, shared: “Our mother went in for two weeks’ respite but settled in so well, we made her a permanent resident. She embraced life to the full – loved the events, crafts, bingo, dancing, and theatre trips. She was loved and cared for by all the sta … they
became like a second family to her.” Residential care is also available at The Cedars in Methley, which specialises in dementia support, and Pennington Court in Beeston.
Westward Care also provides respite and short stays at all locations – ideal for post-operative recovery or a break for caregivers. Many short-stay guests later choose to move in permanently after experiencing the outstanding care.
All Westward Care locations o er highquality dining, enriching activities, and a relaxed, supportive lifestyle. To hear from residents and families, visit westwardcare.co.uk or carehome.co.uk.
To arrange a visit call 0113 331 4830 or email Rebecca at rvdmerwe@westwardcare.co.uk. Or check out their social media channels on Facebook and Instagram @WestwardCare
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We are increasingly spending our private lives in our homes rediscovering how much of a pleasure it is to spend time with family and friends.
A pool is an attractive extension of your living areathe ultimate way to enjoy your free time and enhance your lifestyle and health.
Choose from a wide range of designs and sizes with a comprehensive package that leaves nothing to be desired. A state-of-the-art product with a quick hassle-free installation. Your pool will not only enrich your family’s life, but also increase the value of your home.
Effortlessly connect your indoor and outdoor spaces with high quality steel doors. Modern systems manufactured today perfectly combine traditional style with premium performance, keeping homes well insulated and protected for many years. Featuring impressively slim sightlines, these external doors flood homes with natural light, creating bright and uplifting living areas. Choose from a range of sizes, styles and colours to create a bespoke solution. crittall-windows.co.uk
Pedro Almodovar has designed a collection of furniture for Roche Bobois. Here he reveals his thoughts about colour, furniture and film sets
Q Where does your fascination with colour come from?
A Since I began working as a director, initially unconsciously and later with intention. When I was a child, the films that interested me were from the 1950s, particularly the late '50s, the era of Technicolour. In a way, I tried to recreate the colours of Technicolour; they were very vibrant colours, highly contrasted and explosive. Due to technological advancements, it is no longer possible to achieve those colours nowadays, as they were tied to the chemistry of the liquids used to develop the negative. But they weren’t realistic colours. They truly weren’t. Nowadays, the trend is to achieve a photograph as realistic as possible.
Q Do you have a favourite colour?
A I remember, for example, that red has always been present in my films. But green also comes to my mind, which I currently use a lot. I remember perfectly the first time I used it, in Tie Me Up! with a green sofa in which Victoria Abril appeared. That was the first time. Green is a complex colour when it comes to its gradations; you must find the right shade. Moreover, if you look closely, few women wear green, except for redheads, who require a particular setting. There’s also another colour I’ve used a lot since the beginning, especially on walls:
mustard or albero tones. We call it albero here because it looks like the colour of the sand in bullfighting arenas. I started using it in the Law of Desire, where I painted the walls of that colour for the first time, and then again in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. This tone pairs very well with all kinds of furniture and with the actors’ faces.
Q Do you believe there’s a similarity between the decoration of a space, a house and a film scene?
A For example, my house appears in Pain and Glory; it’s the house where Antonio
lives. There are many paintings and colours, and that corresponds to the kind of colours that appear in my films. It often happens to me that I buy a piece of furniture, a lamp, or an object that I don’t need at the time, simply because I like it, and I know it will eventually appear in one of my films. I’m constantly collecting small elements, little details, that later will be brought to life on screen.
Q Are there any furniture styles you’re especially drawn to?
A In the case of my films, it depends on the time period in which they’re set. They’ve almost always been contemporary or, at most, set back in the 1960s.
In Broken Embraces, for example, when I was drawn to pop, I used a red piece of furniture from Cassin, the chairs, because it was so representative of that style. Red and white are iconic colours of early 1960s pop art. Later on, pop became more complex. On the one hand, I like clean lines, defined edges, and strong silhouettes. But within that framework, anything is possible. I try to find a coherent style.
In Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, for example, the furniture was Italian. On the terrace, there was a turquoise piece completely rectangular and very minimalist. In the 1980s, that kind of furniture was often used in bold colours, with matching cushions. Then you place the actress sitting on it, and you start composing the image. In general, I’m quite eclectic. I like many styles, regardless of the period in which the film takes place.
The 1950s, for example, were very rich in furniture design. Even today, you can still find chairs and armchairs from that era in antique shops. I’m interested in everything that belongs to the pop universe. But of course, after, it all has to be mixed and depending on how you do it, the result can be entirely di erent.
Q In Pain and Glory, you used Roche Bobois furniture, didn’t you?
A Yes, of course, and also in my latest film.
Q How do you feel about the idea that this furniture, this collaboration, will suddenly enter people’s homes, becoming part of their daily lives?
A Well, I’d love to see it. If someone decides to decorate one of their rooms with this furniture, I’d love to see who those people are living there.
Q How would you describe this collaboration?
A I believe it’s furniture you can truly live with, and there’s a very positive feeling, like a kind of joy of living in the colours and patterns we’ve used. I think that simply getting up and walking across this rug, or sitting down, will give you a certain sense of optimism. Or at least, that’s how I perceive it.
Q You once said that your interior sometimes resembles the universe of your films. Your interior, your own house, would you say it looks like your movies or is it the other way around?
A Both. Because, for example, especially if you look at Pain and Glory, it’s my house, and you can see everything there. In other words, I live surrounded by paintings, furniture and lamps, chosen very carefully and of all the secondary elements, like wall sconces, small tables, co ee tables. All of this is essential for creating a set. At first, I thought I would go for the serenity of a home that comes together little by little for the minimalism. But I quickly realized that as soon as I started buying furniture,
the minimalism disappeared right away. The idea of "lack" used to appeal to me (my home is very eclectic; it has many things), but of course, if I buy things, I want to place them there because I like to see them. I mean, it’s like with paintings, why keep them away? No, I want to see them. In fact, I have a new house, and I think I bought it more to decorate it than to live in it and display all the paintings I’ve been collecting over the years.
Q Are you also your own interior decorator at home?
A At home, I decorate less. It’s much more relaxing, because in my house there’s a selection of the furniture used in the films I’ve made. Therefore, they don’t occupy the same place they had in the movie. That is to say, they’re not as harmoniously arranged as they are on screen. But for example, as soon as you enter the house, you see a Jonathan Adler table, a designer I really like. You walk in, and there it is, a Jonathan Adler table. It’s not in its ideal spot. In the film I made, The Human Voice, it was perfectly
placed. But what I mean is that sometimes, in my house, the furniture I’ve used in films ends up there because I bought it, but it doesn’t have the same harmony it had in the movie, since it’s not always placed in the best possible spot. So sometimes, it kind of looks like a furniture store, a boutique. When I was a child, well, between 15 and 20-years-old, I used to walk past furniture stores, past department stores, and look through the windows. I would dream of having all kinds of furniture, and I could perfectly imagine a house like that for myself. I mean, sleeping in one bed one night and in another the next. In fact, I once made a short film for television called Trailer for a Forbidden Lover, in which the two main characters live inside a furniture store. I thought the idea was funny. Because for me, living in a furniture store, surrounded by so much furniture, maybe even too much doesn’t bother me. And I don’t feel like I’m in chaos. For someone else, I imagine it would be pure chaos.
roche-bobois.com
“With 30,000+ installations across North Yorkshire and over 190 5-star Google reviews, we’ve been the region’s go-to experts in home warmth and style.”
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CRAIG & ROSE
Etruscan Red Paint, £45 craigandrose.com
JONATHAN ADLER
Miami Flush Mount, £1,095 jonathanadler.com
BESSELINK & JONES
Flat Ring Chandelier, £2,117 besselink.com
Dip Dye Candles set of 4, £8.95 rexlondon.com
RICHARD GRAFTON
Orange Jellyfi sh, £109 & £73 richardgra oninteriors.com
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JONATHAN ADLER
Portofi no Tray Set, £98 jonathanadler.com
Mid Century Geo Wool Rug, £250 habitat.co.uk
The Tile Company offer the region’s largest choice for tiles and bathrooms - with more than 500 global brands and thousands of products waiting for you. Whatever your style, we have something for every home, from affordable to luxury.
With decades of experience, the Tolson family knows a thing or two about lighting. Serving domestic and commercial customers across Yorkshire and beyond from their two premises, they shed light on their journey, and where they are today.
Nick Tolson started in electrical wholesale right after school, working his way up to become an on-the-road sales rep. In 2000, he launched his own 100-squaremetre electrical wholesale business, which later became Luxor Lighting in Birstall. This venture uniquely combines a public showroom with wholesale supply.
Nick’s son Josh worked with his father and team part-time while he was at school, and then when he left school he did an electrical course at college for two years. He joined the business full time in 2019. Luxor Lighting has become a favourite among the leisure vehicle and boating communities, thanks to its outstanding selection of 12v products ideal for battery-operated vehicles. Before COVID, the company began showcasing its o erings at campervan enthusiast
festivals, even attending the popular VW Festival at Harewood House.
Combining a stunning showroom with his expert industry knowledge, Nick o ers a unique, personalised shopping experience where you can be confident in the advice you’re given. “LEDs have not only replaced ‘traditional’ halogen bulbs as a legal requirement, but they have also become more versatile,” explains Nick. “It’s easy now to add lighting to practically any space.”
A move to the Yorkshire Dales inspired Nick to open The Lighthouse, a decorative lighting shop in the heart of Skipton.
Karen Tolson, Nick’s wife, o cially joined the team to manage the day-to-day running of the store. Karen says: “Being part of the local business community is fantastic, and it’s great to get to know local shoppers and become their point of call for home lighting solutions. We also have regular customers from across Lancashire and North Yorkshire, who we know by name as repeat customers.
“By popular demand, we introduced a local light fitting service, starting from £50. It’s proven to be very popular and we’re more than happy to help our customers get the best from the products they buy!”
Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Position floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces strategically to create depth and warmth that can be suited to any season.
Choose your temperature. Opt for bulbs with warm colour temperatures (2700K-3000K) for a cosy, homely feel. Avoid harsh, cooltoned lighting in living spaces, though these are ideal for illuminating under cupboard spaces.
Choose energy-e cient LED bulbs. They last much longer and consume less electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Install dimmable LED bulbs or fittings to adjust the light intensity according to the mood and time of day.
Indirect lighting is key! Place lights behind furniture or in corners to create a soft, indirect glow that reduces glare and enhances the cosy ambiance. Remember, lighting is about creating an inviting atmosphere, so play around with these tips to find the perfect balance for your space.
luxorlighting.co.uk
Natural materials are ever-popular – and wood and marble both exude a true sense of nature by featuring unique veinings, markings, knots and details. Marble and wood are an ideal combination; the wood can add warmth and contrast to a cold marble surface.
There is an increasing trend for green bathroom ideas, whether in the form of plants, feature tiles, botanical wallpaper – and even artificial moss walls! The bathroom is often an oasis of peace and escape for many family members, and green evokes a natural sense
Planning a revamp and want to know what’s key this year? With more than 30 years’ experience in the tile industry, The Tile Company knows exactly what it takes to create a bathroom design you’ll love. Their six showrooms in Yorkshire showcase the best tile and bathroom products from across the world.
Call 01904 436085 or visit thetilecompany.co.uk
Having a beautifully designed bathroom can make all the di erence in your life. The Tile Company explains the latest bathroom trends and ideas
of harmony and calm. Other colours inspired by nature are popular in bathroom design this year, especially o whites, gentle sages and warm blues – all part of a trend to make our homes cosier and more comforting.
Marble bathroom designs create a subtle statement with white and grey shades used to create a more luxurious ambience. A feeling of opulence is achieved by door hardware and electrical accessories that contrast against the marble tones, while many opt for a coordinated look with cabinet hardware matching the marble veining.
The combination of coloured bathroom furniture with marble e ect porcelain tiles creates a visually stunning bathroom space. Whether aiming for a classic or contemporary look, this pairing delivers a harmonious blend of colours, textures and materials, resulting in a bathroom that is both appealing and
functional. For those seeking a bolder and more contemporary aesthetic, contrasting colours can be employed.
Adding a softness to bathroom designs, whether that’s through curved units or fluted textures, gives your space a unique and artistic expression. Sinks are round or oval with smooth finishes, and vanities follow similar lines with fluted wood fronts and sides. As well as a great look, there’s no corners to bump on while you rush in and out of the bathroom first thing!
Brushed nickel emanates a slightly golden hue that glows with subtlety, gently reflecting back light sources in the room to create a spa-style atmosphere. This makes it the perfect choice for those with warm-toned bathrooms. O ering the perfect contrast for tiled bathrooms and an elegant edge to classic marble bathrooms, aged brass works in almost any bathroom design and adds instant warmth.
Two distinct rooms, one beautifully cohesive home. Richard Grafton Interiors takes us behind the scenes of a North Yorkshire project
There’s nothing quite like being invited back into a client’s home, especially one we’ve worked with before. For this North Yorkshire project, our long-standing relationship with the homeowners meant we already understood their style: confident with colour, drawn to texture, and never afraid to mix the classic with the contemporary.
This time, the brief was to reimagine two living rooms with distinct personalities that still feel connected. The result? A pair of spaces that are rich in character, joyfully layered, and wonderfully liveable.
Karen Draper, one of our interior designers based in our Ilkley showroom, led the design on this project. If you love the look and feel of these rooms, do pop in to say hello – she’s full of brilliant ideas and always happy to chat through your own home plans.
FORMAL SITTING ROOM CALM, CURATED,
The first of the two spaces is the formal sitting room, a light-filled haven that feels calm but never dull. Karen anchored the design with a stunning Coordonné mural wallpaper that washes the walls in dreamy,
painterly foliage. It’s soft, romantic, and gives the room a sense of quiet drama.
The palette is grounded in neutrals, but it’s the warm accents of mustard, rust, ochre and sage that give the space its personality.
We layered in texture and pattern with velvet cushions and Andrew Martin floral blinds that frame the garden views perfectly. There’s a strong sense of balance here as each element feels thoughtful, but never over-styled. It’s relaxed, refined, and ready for anything from fireside reading to evening drinks.
“What ties all three spaces together is a shared design thread: confident colour, layered texture and a sense of flow”
Just next door, the TV room brings a completely di erent vibe, cosier, a little more playful, and made for laid-back family time. Karen went decorative on the walls with a luxurious Arte wallpaper that adds subtle texture and warmth, wrapping the space in a cocoon-like feel.
The real scene-stealer? The Roman blinds. Taken from GP&J Baker’s Kit Kemp collection, they feature a joyful swirl of pink and green that feels fresh and fun without tipping into chaos. Pattern play is big here, from the check and abstract cushions to the tactile lampshades and earthy ceramics dotted throughout.
The structured sofa and artisanal touches all contribute to the room’s inviting, lived-in feel. It’s a space that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still feels polished and intentional.
Tucked into a quiet corner of the bedroom, this scene is a masterclass in contrast and harmony. The Andrew Martin ‘Mythical Land’ wallpaper brings a folkloric charm, its whimsical scenes playing out across
a blush-toned backdrop that softens the graphic detail. It’s a bold choice, but balanced perfectly by the calm symmetry of the space. The full-length curtains pull everything together, in a green linen blend that feels both fresh and rooted in tradition, filtering the light in a way that bathes the room in warmth.
What ties all three spaces together is a shared design thread: confident colour, layered texture, and a lovely sense of flow. The formal sitting room feels grown-up and elegant, while the TV room is a touch more playful and relaxed, but both reflect the same attention to detail and understanding of how the family lives. The bedroom, meanwhile, strikes a confident balance between decorative flair and calm retreat: layered, textural, and thoughtfully curated. Karen has a knack for bringing personality into her projects without things ever feeling overdone. If these spaces spark inspiration for your own home, we’d love to welcome you into our Ilkley showroom where you can meet her in person, browse our latest schemes, and start dreaming up something beautiful together.
richardgraftoninteriors.com
Quorn Stone explore the flooring trends for 2025
When it comes to renovating, extending, or perhaps building an entirely new home, flooring plays an integral part to any space, binding all design choices together. As we celebrate 30 years of Quorn Stone this year, our passion for beautiful stone flooring remains at the core of who we are. Read on for our top 5 flooring trends for 2025 and be inspired for your own project.
2025 is all about texture in the home and textured limestone is at the top of our list for flooring. Natural stone tiles remain an enduring and diverse choice when it comes to floor tiles, used for centuries in estates and country homes, loved for their beauty and practicality. Across the interiors industry, we have seen more wanting to create this timeless feel in their kitchens, whilst also wanting to incorporate the trend of textured and tactile finishes. Opt for textured grey stone flooring for a contemporary yet organic take on traditional kitchen flooring.
Ivory stone e ect tiles are set to be a key floor trend for 2025, o ering a calming neutral aesthetic that perfectly complements modern or traditional country interiors. Stone e ect porcelain is a wonderful alternative to natural stone, with the prints available more realistic than ever, o ering blends of soft ivory and white that will brighten any space.
Marble is a timeless and sophisticated material that has been used in the home for hundreds of years and has seen a resurgence in recent years as flooring. Marble tiles o er both charm and practicality, exuding a luxurious feel, and are available in a whole host of shades and patterns, from a classic Carrara white marble to bolder more dramatic hues. Marble flooring as chequerboard or with cabochon inserts will instantly elevate a hallway and create an e ortlessly inviting space.
When it comes to flooring, certain styles never date, and honey beige limestone is the one material you can guarantee will work in any interior and any style, complementing all colour palettes. Limestone tiles are versatile and hardwearing options for the home with these warmer toned hues and finishes being a popular choice for flooring that will stand the test of time.
The final flooring trend for 2025 we are seeing is herringbone floor tiles. Herringbone has been a much-loved laying pattern as wall tiles for many years, but now homeowners are choosing this design for flooring, with limestone bricks or ‘stackers’ providing a rustic and natural take on herringbone tiles.
See more at mystonefloor.com
This might not look like a billiard table – but remove the tabletop and that's what it is. French brand Cornilleau's clever outdoor games tables convert into dining tables. Ping pong a er dinner? Why not. cornilleau.com
Habitat's Hania outdoor dining table and chairs are built to last in solid wood, with curved details for comfort and elegance. Waterproof cushions add to the practicality of the set. habitat.co.uk
Outdoor dining is all about salads, whether they're accompanying barbecued meat or acting as the main attraction. Monoware's beautiful new wooden salad servers are a stylish addition to your outdoor table. monoware.com
EAST LONDON PARASOLS
Six limited edition handmade bamboo parasols have been designed in collaboration between Celia B and East London Parasol Company. The patterns are hand drawn by Celia Bernardo, and lined with parachute fabric. eastlondonparasols.com
Anna + Nina's SS25 collection ranges from playful ceramics to frilly striped cushions, all full of character and Dutch charm and designed for pretty outdoor settings. anna-nina.nl
F“WALTER DIX & CO ISN'T JUST ABOUT THE APPLIANCES, IT IS ABOUT PROVIDING AN EXPERIENCE"
or over 95 years, Walter Dix & Co has specialised in range cookers with premium brands such as AGA, Everhot, Lacanche, LaCornue, Wolf, Bertazzoni and Ilve, to name just a few. Their mission is to provide the best selection of appliances, whilst providing unbiased advice on their full product range for the home, whether it be for cooking via a range cooker, built-in oven, hob; or for cooling, refrigeration, freezers and wine store appliances. They have dedicated sta and evolved their business, now in its fourth generation, to become well known as the North East’s premier destination for premium range cookers and luxury home appliances.
Inside their elegant showroom, not too far from the Metrocentre at Team Valley, you will be greeted not only by beautiful spaces, but by the unmistakable feeling of quality. The company proudly showcases a curated collection of the world’s most desirable cooking and refrigeration brands as well as extraction and cookware. Customers can make an appointment or be welcomed anytime six days a week.
Walter Dix & Co is your premium independent supplier of kitchen appliances
Supplying the highest quality brands also allows a full catalogue or suite of appliances to be made available to their customers, and the team at Walter Dix & Co will work closely to ensure that their needs are fulfilled on every level. For individuals who have chosen their kitchen supplier, but who do not necessarily want the often linked brands that their kitchen company may supply, a customer can select alternatives and see them in situ at Walter Dix & Co.
Walter Dix & Co isn’t just about appliances, it is about providing an experience. Their knowledgeable team will listen, inspire and advise. Whether you are building your dream kitchen or just replacing a tired appliance, then contact Walter Dix & Co for your personalised journey.
Call 0191 482 0033 or visit wdix.co.uk
The experts at Longden Doors on why their designs are built to last
At Longden Doors, attention to detail is more than just a guiding principle; it is the foundation of everything we do. With a proud heritage that spans generations, we have built a reputation as specialists in crafting bespoke doors that combine timeless elegance with uncompromising quality. Every Longden door is meticulously hand-made in the UK by skilled artisans who are deeply passionate about their craft. We work exclusively with the finest sustainably sourced solid timber to ensure that each door is as durable and environmentally responsible as it is beautiful.
“A Longden door is an investment that will stand the test of time”
What sets a Longden door apart is not only its functionality, but also its ability to make a lasting impression. More than just a practical necessity, our doors have distinctive design features that bring a unique sense of character and sophistication to any interior. Whether you live in a traditional country home, a period property, or a sleek modern apartment, a Longden door adds warmth, texture and authenticity to the space it inhabits. Each design is created with purpose and individuality, reflecting the desired purpose. Our extensive range includes both classic and custom styles, each tailored with precision to meet the individual requirements of your project.
We understand that no two spaces are the same, which is why we o er a fully bespoke service. Whether you’re looking to replicate an historic design with defined accuracy or wish to create something entirely new, our team will work closely with you to bring your vision to life exactly the way that you want it. Every door we produce represents a perfect balance between time-honoured craftsmanship, enduring materials and contemporary design sensibilities.
Our commitment to quality and longevity ensures that a Longden door is more than just a beautiful addition to your property, it’s an investment that will stand the test of time. Doors are among the most frequently used elements in any interior, and we take great care to ensure that each one we make is not only visually stunning but also robust, reliable and built to withstand daily use for generations. This attention to structural integrity ensures peace of mind and lasting value for people who demand the very best. We are proud to uphold traditional British joinery techniques, while also incorporating modern finishing methods to guarantee a flawless result. From the natural grain of the wood to the rich tones of our handapplied finishes, every detail is thoughtfully considered. The outcome is a door that feels as good to the touch as it looks to the eye. For those who value authentic British craftsmanship, exceptional personal service and timeless design, Longden remains the natural choice.
For more information, call Longden on 01325582583 or visit longdendoors.co.uk
THE MALDIVES
Picture this: powdery white sand beneath your feet, crystal-clear turquoise waters stretching across the horizon and the gentle lull of waves welcoming you to paradise.
Sun Siyam Iru Veli, a luxurious escape in the Maldives, offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From overwater villas to world-class diving, this island retreat is where your dream getaway becomes reality. trailfinders.com
For a family considering a London staycation this summer, hit the beat and choose the Great Scotland Yard Hotel
By MARK KEBBLE
Tucked just o Whitehall, Great Scotland Yard Hotel blends discretely into its historic surroundings – and passing a policemounted horse just around the corner was a rather apt reminder of its past.
Upon entering through the iconic green doors, you descend a few steps into a lobby alive with Victorian- and Edwardianera artefacts – original police uniforms, sni er-dog handles in the elevator – that immediately set the tone. Being a true crime bu , I was fascinated by the mugshots on the wall, trying to picture what each of these criminals were snared for, creating my own stories in my head.
Our stay was, wonderfully, in the Sherlock Suite. You enter in the separate lounge area, o ering a comfy sofa facing a TV above a marble fireplace, before venturing into the bedroom and being greeted by a four-poster king bed. The adjoining bathroom, however, is the highlight: XL-sized, with twin sinks on a marble top, spacious shower, full-size bath,
and a separate toilet (Japanese Toto model). I have never had so much fun going to loo.
The hotel’s prime spot makes this perfect for a family staycation. It is just minutes away from Big Ben, Churchill’s War Rooms, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye, plus London’s iconic National Portrait Gallery. The hotel itself will delight many a history bu : originally the HQ of the Metropolitan Police, it’s where Jack the Ripper suspects were interviewed, Charles Dickens shadowed o cers here, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle used it as a base for his detective tales.
The history continues in the hotel’s distinctive cocktail bar, The 40 Elephants. Paying homage to history’s most glamorous and notorious all-female crime syndicate, The 40 Elephants redefines the art of mixology with its signature female-inspired cocktails. On our visit for some nibbles and aforementioned cocktails, we were also enamoured by the hotel’s current collaboration with Emma Chapman, the award-winning jewellery designer. Drawing on old heritage traditions, her jewellery incorporates carving, engraving,
enamel, jaali and embossed work. To celebrate the partnership, the hotel has curated a dedicated cocktail in honour of the partnership, ‘Punch to Beware Of’ (Lakes the One, Palosanto, Oloroso, Menthe, Veuve Clicquot) – and it certainly did pack a punch when we tried it.
The hotel’s main spot to eat is at Ekstedt at The Yard. The flagship restaurant brings Michelin starred chef Niklas Ekstedt’s signature style of wood fired ‘old Nordic’ cooking to the UK for the very first time. Ekstedt at The Yard focuses on Scandinavian cooking techniques using the very best seasonal British ingredients; featuring a menu of signature dishes, alongside an inventive cocktail menu and extensive wine list. Prepare yourself for an immersive journey to Scandinavia. On the menu on our visit was a host of familiar ingredients, but cooked and presented in unexpected ways: Flambadou oysters and beurre blanc; Sussex Pink Fire potatoes, grilled white asparagus, Elderflower; Juniper smoked lobster, fennel, fire cooked vegetable foam; Hay smoked lamb, sea buckthorn, mint;
Bay leaf ice cream, fermented strawberries, honey mead; and Cep mushroom sou e, woodru ice cream, blueberries. It was, indeed, quite the experience.
Despite the hotel’s location in the heart of London, it is remarkably quiet and the four-poster bed was a welcome retreat after an evening of indulgence. We only had a
one-night stay, so didn’t have a chance to sample the hotel’s afternoon tea, but do look out for their Tea Chronicles: The Royal Interlude for summer – fit for royalty, and steeped in intrigue. Set in The Parlour, the new afternoon tea is paired with Lavazza and features a celebration of timeless elegance and royal fascinations paying tribute to the British royal family.
For anyone looking for a UK break this summer in the capital in an iconic building, you can’t go far wrong with the Great Scotland Yard Hotel. We’d be quite happy for them to lock us up and throw away the key.
The Family Package starts from £550 per night. Find out more at hyatt.com/unboundcollection/en-US/lhrub-great-scotland-yard
SAVE £400 PER COUPLE
13 Nights | April 2026 | Quote CTS 128
YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
· Return flights from the UK (Various regional departures)
· 3-night hotel stay in Vancouver
· Coach transfer from your hotel to railway station
· 2-day rail journey on board the Rocky Mountaineer on ‘First Passage to the West’ route, travelling in SilverLeaf Service from Vancouver to Banff. Includes breakfast and lunch each day, plus an overnight hotel stay in Kamloops
· Coach transfer from railway station to your hotel
· 3-night hotel stay in Banff
· Coach transfer to Calgary
· 2-night hotel stay in Calgary
· Internal flight from Calgary to Toronto
· 4-night hotel stay in Toronto
· Vancouver Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour
· Banff Gondola admission
· Calgary Tower admission
· Toronto Distillery District Walking Tour
· Full day tour to Niagara Falls includes lunch & boat trip at the Falls
Step aboard the Rocky Mountaineer rail journey, where breathtaking landscapes unfold beyond the panoramicwindows. Indulge in gourmet cuisine, top-tier service, and a journey that promises not just views, but memories to last a lifetime. Let this be the holiday where the journey truly becomes the destination.
SAVE £600 PER COUPLE
YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
• Return flights from the UK to Vancouver & returning from Calgary
· 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay in Vancouver
· 7-night cruise with Holland America on board Koningsdam
Cruise Itinerary includes: Inside Passage
Tracy Arm Inlet • Juneau • Skagway • Glacier Bay • Ketchikan
· 2 nights post-cruise hotel stay in Vancouver
· Coach transfer from your hotel to railway station
· 2-day rail journey on board the Rocky Mountaineer on ‘First Passage to the West’ route, travelling in SilverLeaf Service from Vancouver to Banff. Includes breakfast and lunch each day, plus an overnight hotel stay in Kamloops
· Coach transfer from Banff railway station to your hotel
· 2-night hotel stay in Banff
· Coach transfer from Banff to Calgary Airport
• Banff Gondola Admission
· Vancouver Hop-On-Hop-Off 48-hour Bus Tour
• Includes upgrade to Balcony Cabin on board your cruise
Nestled within 150 acres of rolling Lincolnshire countryside, Laceby Manor Resort o ers
five-star, awardwinning luxury in a serene setting. Independently owned and thoughtfully developed over the past decade, the resort blends natural beauty with modern wellbeing experiences, making it one of the region’s most sought-after destinations for relaxation, indulgence and outdoor living.
At the heart of the resort lies its celebrated purpose-built spa, hailed by Glamour Magazine as ‘the best new spa in the north of England’ following its 2022 launch, and ranked one of The Times’ Top 50 Spas in 2024. Designed as a sanctuary for wellness, the spa harnesses the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding countryside to deliver an unrivalled retreat experience. Facilities
include an impressive indoor-outdoor pool, two saunas, a steam room, two outdoor natural swimming ponds and a newly built relaxation room allowing guests to unwind in harmony with nature.
A diverse menu of treatments awaits at Laceby Manor, delivered by expert therapists using carefully chosen, sustainably sourced products from VOYA, 111Skin and Tribe517. Guests can enjoy radiance-boosting facials, tension-releasing massages, hot stone therapies, Hammam rituals and soothing pregnancy treatments. There are also specialist therapies designed to ease menopause and perimenopause symptoms, along with cryotherapy treatments and a state-of-the-art Hydro Massage Bed for a touchless, full-body massage experience. Spa days, evening escapes and bespoke spa breaks are also available, o ering everything from halfday indulgences to full weekend retreats.
Luxury accommodation at Laceby Manor has been designed to complement the resort’s peaceful, rural setting. Guests can choose from stylish Lake View Suites, complete with private terraces, outdoor bathtubs and king-size beds, or opt for one of the beautifully appointed lodges. Each lodge o ers a spacious, contemporary retreat, perfect for couples or families, while those seeking a cosy, intimate escape can relax in one of the resort’s charming garden pods nestled within landscaped grounds.
The resort is also a popular choice for weddings and special celebrations, with its breathtaking natural backdrop, elegant event spaces and exceptional hospitality making it the perfect setting for unforgettable occasions.
While wellness is at the heart of the resort, Laceby Manor also boasts an 18-hole parkland golf course, o ering a picturesque setting for both seasoned golfers and beginners alike. The course, with its manicured fairways and tranquil lakes, is complemented by a welcoming clubhouse and professional coaching services.
For further information, spa bookings and luxury breaks, visit lacebymanor.co.uk
Family friendly events throughout the year Indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room Luxury bar, restaurant and sports lounge Snooker room, games room, tennis courts, football field, nature trail and adventure playground
Open throughout Christmas and New Year
Low affordable finance available
No Site Fees to pay this year
Ajourney on the Rocky Mountaineer is more than just a train ride – it’s an unforgettable passage through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Western Canada has to o er. With several incredible rail routes to choose from, this luxury train experience takes you deep into the heart of the region, o ering awe-inspiring views, impeccable service, and a journey like no other.
Travelling on Rocky Mountaineer allows you to follow in the tracks of the great explorers, weaving through mountain passes, lush forests, and sparkling rivers. The journey begins in Vancouver, a vibrant city perched on the Pacific Coast, and extends to one of three stunning destinations: Jasper, Ban , or Lake Louise. Each route provides passengers with an unparalleled view of Western Canada’s diverse geography, from towering peaks to expansive valleys, all while experiencing the refined comforts of luxury rail travel.
Rocky Mountaineer: a rail trip like no other
Rocky Mountaineer o ers two exceptional levels of service: SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf. SilverLeaf Service provides a single-level glass-dome coach, allowing guests panoramic views of the landscapes. An outdoor viewing area o ers the chance to take in the crisp mountain air while enjoying delicious, chef-prepared meals served at your seat.
GoldLeaf Service elevates the experience further with bi-level glass-dome coaches, providing an even more immersive vantage point. GoldLeaf guests also enjoy a spacious outdoor viewing platform and gourmet dining in an exclusive lower-level dining room – an indulgent experience.
For those seeking the ultimate adventure, pairing Rocky Mountaineer with an Alaska cruise creates a journey unlike any other. This introduces travellers to two contrasting yet equally spectacular landscapes –Canada’s rugged mountains and rivers, and Alaska’s dramatic coastal scenery.
On board Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll travel through parts of Western Canada that remain mostly untouched by humans. The experience is a deep dive into nature, moving e ortlessly through landscapes where civilization feels far away. Meanwhile, an Alaska cruise o ers the chance to explore hidden bays, glaciers, and inlets that are accessible only by ship. One of the highlights of an Alaska cruise is sailing through the UNESCO-listed Inside Passage, an area renowned for its dramatic scenery and rich marine life.
A Rocky Mountaineer journey o ers a one-of-a-kind adventure that elevates any travel experience, and Canada Travel Specialists are here to make it happen. Their team are experts in crafting tailor-made itineraries, ensuring that your Canadian and Alaskan adventure is everything you imagined – and more. So why not take the leap and embark on a journey that blends luxury, nature, and pure wonder?
canadatravelspecialists.com
Stay at a unique Yorkshire Hideaways property in the heart of
Located within its own grounds on the Thornton Watlass Estate near the thriving market town of Bedale, Pasture House was thoughtfully restored in 2024 to create a beautifully appointed detached holiday home that provides comfortable accommodation for up to eight guests. Set in a perfect location for discovering the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and the highly sought-after Ripon and Harrogate area, this hideaway is not to be missed.
With far-reaching, 360-degree views across surrounding countryside, Pasture House is a welcoming family friendly and dog friendly property, boasting a large garden, beautifully decorated rooms, a spacious farmhouse kitchen, and a dining room. Exuding grandeur and oozing style, this home is a special place to enjoy time away with loved ones all year round.
The spacious open-plan kitchen and dining area features an Aga, roaring wood burning stove set in the original
fireplace, and magnificent rural views from every window. There are two tastefully decorated sitting rooms, both with an electric living flame stove or traditional open fire and delightful views across the garden. A convenient ground floor bedroom o ers full size 3' twin beds, with a shower room and utility room also located on this floor. Upstairs on the first floor there are two family bathrooms each featuring a free-standing roll-top bath and large walk-in shower, three bedrooms (a super-king size and two king-size) each individually designed using luxury soft furnishings. There is also a games room should any guests seek to bring out their competitive side. Stepping outside, guests have various patios for taking in the superb views across toward the North York Moors or Penhill looking down onto Wensleydale. A charcoal barbecue is provided for guests to enjoy throughout the warmer months. For dining out, the local pub The Buck Inn is a 15
minute walk away – perfect if you have spent the day watching the village cricket from the green or exploring one of the many bike trails and walks from the doorstep. After a day of long walks, a designated dog wash with hot and cold running water is located in the rear courtyard. Pasture House has secure bike storage available for those wishing to bring their own bikes, and there is an app operated EV charger on site.
Pasture House makes for the ideal base for all ages to experience an action packed holiday discovering North Yorkshire and more. From the Himalayan Gardens near Masham to Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes, famous for Wallace and Gromit’s favourite, Wensleydale cheese, there is something for everyone. For smaller groups, Pasture House is also available as a sleeps six option.
Photographs by Tracy Kidd Photography enquiries@yorkshirehideaways.co.uk 01969 600 600 yorkshirehideaways.co.uk
Why Lyons Holiday Parks should be your goto UK destination this summer
If you’re planning the ultimate staycation this summer, one name should be at the top of your list: Lyons Holiday Parks. With 20 stunning locations across North Wales and Cumbria, Lyons o ers a truly unforgettable UK holiday experience for every type of traveller. From action-packed family fun to peaceful countryside escapes, dog-friendly stays to luxury hot tub retreats, Lyons Holiday Parks really does have something for everyone. This year, Lyons has been nominated for the 2025 British Travel Awards, which would be a welcome addition to the awards received in 2024 for Best UK Parks and Lodges Holidays, UK Family Holidays, and UK Short Breaks. These accolades are a true testament to the quality, care, and commitment Lyons brings to every guest experience.
Whether you’re heading o with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, Lyons makes every guest feel right at home. In fact, many of their parks o er dog-friendly accommodation, so no one in the family has to miss out. It’s more than just a holiday; it’s a chance to relax, reconnect, and make memories together in a setting that feels personal, welcoming, and built for comfort.
From the majestic peaks of Snowdonia to the sun-soaked sands of Talacre, Barmouth,
Prestatyn, and Rhyl, every Lyons park is set in a carefully chosen location. Love walking, wildlife, and stargazing? Head to the Lake District or St Asaph. Want to be minutes from the beach? Lido Beach, Robin Hood, and Sunnysands are made for you. Each park o ers a di erent vibe, but the same core values run through them all: warm hospitality, outstanding facilities, and unforgettable experiences.
For families looking for a break that’s full of fun and excitement, Lyons Holiday Parks are packed with entertainment. With kids’ clubs, swimming pools, arcades, themed nights, and live shows, every day is an opportunity to create magical moments
together. Whether your little ones want to make new friends or you’re planning a multi-generational holiday, these parks provide something for all ages –without ever having to leave the site.
Plus, many parks are just a short distance from popular family attractions, including Zip World, Llandudno Pier, Conwy Castle, and countless beaches, walks, and wildlife parks.
For those in search of something more serene, Lyons o ers an impressive range of luxury hot tub lodges and tranquil park settings. Whether it’s a romantic retreat, a special birthday weekend, or simply a break from the busy everyday, these peaceful escapes are ideal for slowing down.
Imagine mornings with co ee on the deck, afternoons exploring the local countryside, and evenings spent soaking in your private hot tub under the stars. It’s comfort, calm, and complete relaxation.
One of the reasons Lyons has become a household name is its wide variety of accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a ordable static caravans, dog-friendly lodges, cosy cottages, touring and camping pitches, or even a 5-star resort-style experience, Lyons delivers comfort and flexibility for every kind of traveller. Every stay includes access to excellent facilities and a team that truly cares about your holiday. lyonsholidayparks.co.uk
Q How delighted are you with your recent Independent School Inspection?
Huddersfield Grammar School is celebrating an historic ‘Significant Strength’ in their Independent School Inspection. Head Stuart Rees tells us what this means
A We are absolutely thrilled with the outcome to be honest. ISI Inspections are such rigorous and thorough processes, that to receive such a strong endorsement is incredibly rewarding. However, I can take very little credit for the outcome to be honest. The report really is a reflection of the talent and dedication of our sta , the infectious enthusiasm of our students, and the support and strength of our wider school community. I think that perhaps, most importantly to us, it o ers a clear confirmation that we o er our students a truly excellent and well-rounded educational experience.
On top of the holistic report, I am also so proud that the quality of our teaching and learning was singled out and awarded the specific accolade of ‘significant strength’. With under 10% of all independent schools being credited as having a ‘significant strength’ I am humbled by such recognition.
Q It comes on the back of what has already been a successful year hasn’t it?
A It certainly does! No matter which lens we choose to view HGS through, this year has been incredibly successful. As a proudly non-selective school, we were absolutely delighted that our students secured some incredible GCSE examination results: 50% of all grades achieved this year were graded at 7-9 (A-A*) compared to the average of 18% across the rest of Yorkshire and the Humber. Similarly, the school has experienced a great deal of success on the sports’ field, where we have seen massive success in
a rich and diverse range of sport. From football to netball, swimming to karate, HGS has represented at local, regional, national and even international levels.
Finally, the school has seen some wonderful success across the arts. On the stage, the school has performed a number of productions, with our most successful by far being the whole-school production of Frozen. Similarly, the school has performed in numerous concerts and choral competitions, with certain students performing in front of the entire Independent Schools Association at their Annual Summer Conference, whilst our performance in fine art competitions has continued to go from strength to strength with our artists winning awards in a range of local and national competitions.
The year may be drawing to a close now, but it certainly is one that we are very proud of.
“We make sure every child has the chance to pursue their passions”
Q What opportunities do you o er to enhance your pupils’ learning?
A How long do you have?! As a school, we are completely committed to the intrinsic value of holistic education, in which ‘The Whole Child Is The Whole Point’, and so we have worked incredibly hard to ensure that learning extends far beyond the traditional curriculum at HGS. The school o ers a rich array of co-curricular opportunities available to all our students. From coding clubs to debating societies, outdoor education, musical ensembles and international trips, our aim is to spark a curiosity and passion within our pupils and equip them with the broader skills that prepare them for life.
Our Ignite programme is designed to allow students the opportunity to experience a range of di erent activities, ranging from Movie Special FX to Political Literacy and Philosophy in order to develop a range of explicit skills across speaking, listening, creativity, leadership, problem solving, resilience and aspiration in order to ensure our students develop the requisite skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Whether it is through the school’s extensive leadership opportunities, creative expression or extensive community service projects, we make sure that every child has the chance to discover and pursue their passions.
Q How do you look after the mental health of your pupils?
A Pupil wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do and it is woven into the very fabric of school life. We not only have an incredibly
strong pastoral system in place, with form tutors, Heads of Year and dedicated pastoral leads alongside a full time nurse onsite all day, every day, working together to support our children. We also deliver a structured, age-appropriate PSHE programme that is designed to build on prior learning and continually support our pupils to navigate the challenges of growing up.
On top of this, we work closely with a number of mental health charities for children and o er numerous mental health workshops aimed at both students, but also to help parents understand how they can support their children.
Most importantly, we foster a school culture where it is ok to talk, to listen and to support each other. A culture that places an absolute premium on the importance of kindness.
Q What are you already looking forward to in the next school year?
A There is already so much to be excited about. We have been exploring some new opportunities and initiatives aimed at enhancing digital learning, we have explored our curriculum and are looking forward to introducing some new subjects, but above all, we are looking forward to welcoming our new families into the school community and continuing to help every child flourish. Each new school year always brings a fresh energy as well as exciting opportunities, so I really cannot wait to see where the next year takes us.
huddersfield-grammar.co.uk
Adopting a clear approach to AI at Queen Ethelburga’s
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here to stay. Schools cannot a ord to ignore it and, indeed, are doing students a disservice if they do not properly discuss and agree their fundamental approach to its use. Academic Director at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, Kevin Oldershaw, believes it’s vital for schools to have a clear approach to the use of AI.
“At QE, our approach has been to see AI as a tool to enhance and support learners and teachers,” he says. “Why wouldn’t we? It is already so embedded in daily life, and in use in a range of careers, we feel obligated to increase student exposure to its potential.
They will be entering a very di erent employment landscape from even 10 years ago, and we owe it to them to prepare them as best we can for their futures.
“Our new AI policy outlines to sta not only how AI can be used by teachers, leaders and support sta , but also how this must be done in a responsible way, considering ethics, data privacy and bias,” he continues. “The same message has been repeated to students in a series of age-appropriate assemblies. For younger students, the approach has been to work with teachers using AI as a class; for older ones, the focus is on encouraging experimentation with how AI can help them, in a controlled and managed environment.”
There has been an emphasis with all students under 18 to use AI models that do not require a log in and to ensure they appreciate they should not be entering personal identifiable information into any website, including an AI model, if they do not know how it will be used.
As we have moved through the year – as we, other educators and governing bodies began to get to grips with how AI can and is being used by sta and students, and various guidance began to be published and updated – we produced our own documentation for students helping them to better understand when it is, and isn’t, acceptable to use AI in their education, how to appropriately reference the use of AI in coursework, and how to work closely with their teachers to learn the best strategies.
Our programme continues throughout lessons, where students are taught to think critically about the chatbox prompts they enter and are shown how to analyse what is returned from an awareness that the information isn’t regulated, can be biased or, occasionally, incorrect. Further work was done with teachers on how to use AI most e ectively, ensuring the use was conversational, crafting the most e ective prompts and then building on these to train the AI model exactly what you need from it. As teachers, used to clearly articulating to students what we want them to do, observing their responses and then amending our instructions and guidance, we are ideally placed to be able to train AI models in the same way. Our academic sta have been able to opt into a range of CPD training sessions, learning how to model AI best practice in the classroom, how to use AI to personalise their teaching, provide feedback to students and how they can help tackle intense workloads to increase their contact time with students.
Appreciating the importance of the need to keep up to date with this rapidly developing area and to ensure that AI is seen as a tool for people to use, not to fear, we created and recruited a new role of Head of Cognitive Science. As an experienced teacher within Creative Media and enthusiastic user of technology, Jason Sharma-Pay has supported us in further developing our digital strategy to better understand how human creativity, empathy, emotional intelligence and capacity for critical thought can ensure artificial intelligence works in collaboration with human decision-making to enhance, rather than replace, the importance of the person.
To find out more about studying at QE or to book a private tour for your family this summer, visit qe.org or email admissions@qe.org
As Queen Mary’s School in North Yorkshire steps confidently into its second century, it does so with a renewed vision of what it means to educate girls for the future. At the heart of that vision is Fe Beadnell, the school’s newly appointed Head, whose passion for girls’ education is matched only by her belief in what young women are capable of achieving.
Fe is at Queen Mary’s to do more than lead a school – she’s there to prepare girls to lead the world. “What employers and communities need now are people who can listen, adapt, collaborate, think critically and creatively, and lead with integrity,” she says. “And those are exactly the skills we teach our girls.”
It’s a compelling perspective in an era where emotional intelligence, creativity, and communication consistently top the list of most sought-after workplace skills. For Fe, these traits aren’t just desirable – they’re foundational. “Leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room,” she explains. “It’s about having the courage to speak up,
the curiosity to listen, and the resilience to keep going when things get tough.”
Fe’s belief in the power of girls’ education is deeply personal. Having grown up in an all-girls school, she saw first-hand how leadership opportunities could be shaped to fit di erent personalities and strengths. “I was always encouraged to lead in ways that felt right for me,” she reflects. “Whether I was captaining a team or speaking up in a meeting, I was never made to feel that leadership had a fixed definition.”
Now, she brings that same ethos to Queen Mary’s – a school with a long tradition of nurturing independent, capable young women. As she steps into her new role, Fe is launching a dedicated leadership programme, designed to equip pupils with the self-belief, skills, and emotional intelligence they’ll need to thrive – not just in school, but in life. “This is about realworld readiness,” she says. “It’s about giving girls the toolkit they need to lead, wherever life takes them – whether that’s a business boardroom, a research lab, a creative studio, or a local community group.”
Fe joins Queen Mary’s at a moment of celebration and transformation. This
year marks the school’s centenary, and the community is honouring 100 years of girls' education with a vibrant programme of events – from a festivalstyle party in Queen Mary’s parkland and a commemorative service at Ripon Cathedral, to a glittering Centenary Ball. But the focus is not only on the past. With Fe at the helm, Queen Mary’s is looking firmly to the future. “There’s something truly powerful about watching a girl realise she can lead,” she says with a smile. “Our all-girls environment is critical to what sets Queen Mary’s apart from other schools. Girls thrive in our school where they are free to be themselves and encouraged to be bold, confident leaders. The skills they gain here carry them forward in life and we see this in our amazing and diverse alumnae. We are a top 10 school for girls to age 16, sharing an inspiring and empowering environment that enables every girl to happily make their way in the world, their way.”
Find out more at queenmarys.org, where you can register for the school's Open Morning on 4th October
A unique collection from Yorkshire Sculpture Park is recognised for its influence shaping the approach to art education
orkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) has announced that children’s artwork from its own National Arts Education Archive (NAEA) has been inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. Marking a major achievement for Yorkshire and the UK, the decision places YSP’s Franz Cižek Collection alongside globally significant documents such as Beethoven’s 9th Symphony and the Diary of Anne Frank. For more than seven years, YSP has played a leading role in a pan-European initiative to nominate “drawings and writings of children during wartime in Europe: 1914–1950” for the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. This nomination, coordinated through the International Research and Archives Network (IRAND), brings together 17 collections from across Europe, highlighting the voices and creativity of children who lived through the upheavals of the First and Second World Wars.
YSP’s significant contribution to this international project was the Franz Cižek Collection, comprising 101 paintings, wood
PAINTING BY GRETE BLATNEY, 1922
COURTESY OF THE FRANZ CIZEK COLLECTION. IMAGE COURTESY OF WILL WIEN MUSEUM AND ROLF LAVEN
and lino cuts created by children at Vienna’s pioneering and free Juvenile Art Classes which Professor Cižek organised during holiday times and weekends, between 19151922. This rare collection is on loan to YSP and held in the NAEA, one of the UK’s foremost repositories for arts education materials.
The UNESCO Executive Board has now confirmed the inclusion of this submission in the Memory of the World Register. The decision underlines the importance of children’s perspectives in the documentation of Europe’s wartime history.
The Franz Cižek Collection, first exhibited in London in 1921 by Birmingham art teacher Francesca Wilson, has played a pivotal role in shaping modern approaches to art education, inspiring generations of teachers and students in the UK and beyond.These works o er a unique window into the lives, hopes, and fears of children during some of Europe’s darkest times, serving as a powerful testament to resilience and creativity.
“We are deeply honoured that the children’s artwork in our care has been recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s documentary heritage,” says Clare Lilley, Director of Yorkshire Sculpture Park. “This inscription not only celebrates the extraordinary vision of Franz Cižek and the children he taught, but also a rms the vital role that Yorkshire Sculpture Park and the NAEA play in preserving and sharing stories that matter.”
The UNESCO Memory of the World Programme, established in 1992, aims to preserve and provide access to the world’s most significant documentary heritage. The UK has several inscriptions on theInternationalMemory of the World Register, including some of the nation’s most iconic documents such as The Domesday Book, The Magna Carta, The Bill of Rights (1689), the Personal Archive of Sir Winston Churchill and most recently added (2024) Charles Darwin Archive.
ysp.org.uk
At Barnard Castle School (or Barney as they are a ectionately known), they are proud to stand alongside the rural and agricultural community in supporting this year’s Great Yorkshire Show – a celebration of everything that makes countryside life so rich in tradition, innovation, and opportunity.
As an independent, co-educational day and boarding school set in the stunning northern countryside, they understand the rhythms of rural life and its values of hard work, responsibility, and connection to the land. Their school community reflects these values – shaped by their environment, guided by strong principles, and energised by a bold academic vision.
They believe deeply in the power of education to unlock potential, and they are proud to combine pastoral warmth, high academic expectations, and an ambitious outlook in all they do. They are especially excited to announce the launch of their new Animal Management course next year, an innovative addition to the Sixth Form curriculum designed to meet the growing demand for careers in animal science, veterinary medicine, environmental sustainability, and land-based industries. The course will provide a rigorous, hands-on introduction to animal care and management, combining theoretical study with real-world experience. Students will develop scientific knowledge alongside practical skills, preparing them for further study or immediate vocational opportunities in a sector that is both essential and evolving.
In launching this course, Barney builds on its long-standing connection to the rural economy and countryside heritage, while preparing students to thrive in modern agricultural, veterinary, and environmental fields. Whether a student’s goal is to become a vet, conservationist, animal behaviourist, or to contribute to sustainable farming and agri-tech, the Animal Management course o ers a meaningful pathway to those futures.
Supporting the Great Yorkshire Show reflects their commitment to the land and the people who shape it. They see rural life not as a constraint, but as a springboard – where character is built, curiosity is nurtured, and ambition is encouraged. Barnard Castle School: where community, character and ambition come together in the countryside.
To find out more about Barnard Castle School, their academic o er, or the new Animal Management course, visit barnardcastleschool.org.uk
By ANDY RUSSELL
What is the purpose of a scholarship?
Many may question the motivation behind scholarships o ered by private education providers and universities, with cynics concluding that they do little more than provide a mechanism for a deal-closing discount. It’s true that scholarship schemes may indeed positively tip the balance of a ordability for some families, but there is more value to a scholarship than can be recorded on an accountant’s spreadsheet. These days, scholarships do not need to be aimed solely at the academically elite, but can be a reward for more holistic e orts and achievements by individuals.
At St David’s College in Llandudno, we have just launched our 60th Anniversary Excellence Scholarships, which will provide 60 scholarship opportunities over a five-year period for – yes – academic accomplishment, but additionally in recognition of sporting
achievement, leadership in outdoor education and overcoming barriers to learning, amongst other categories. Scholarships are meant to celebrate and reward the extraordinary, and it’s imperative to recognise that excellence takes many forms. Excellence is seen in the pupil who works hard to achieve academically when faced with the challenge of dyslexia; it’s seen in the pupil who is the first to volunteer for extra-curricular activities and as a result galvanises the pupil community; it’s seen in the footballing sensation who puts in so many hours of dedicated practice to hone their fitness and skills to compete at the highest level.
St David’s College has long recognised these extraordinary traits in our pupils, which is why we have remained a nonselective school that o ers mainstream education alongside an exceptional range of other activities essential to the pursuit of a whole-person education: award-winning outdoor activities, sport, performing arts, music, design & technology, to name a
few. The school embraces pupils with barriers to learning such as dyslexia and dyscalculia, and provides expert support to ensure that they are taught in a way that best suits their style of learning.
At the heart of this ethos lies outdoor education and sport. Whether it’s heading o into the mountains for orienteering, battling the high seas in a kayak or braving the elements to do battle on the rugby pitch, pupils return from these activities buoyed with the confidence and joie de vivre which few other pursuits could instill in them. They have often achieved something that they feared they could not – standing up on a paddleboard, steering a powerboat safely onto its mooring, facing an opposing team on the sports pitch – and emerged stronger on the other side, discovering en-route the natural euphoria that physical activity engenders.
These are achievements that both support and transcend the academic, and if a school can use scholarships to both reward these individuals for their own achievements, and at the same time strengthen and invigorate a school community that values these traits and benefits, then – to return to the original question – the purpose of such a scholarship does not lie in the measurable, but in the immeasurable.
Andy Russell is the Headmaster of St David’s College, Llandudno. Find out more by visiting their website at stdavidscollege.co.uk
Silcoates School will be welcoming a new Head in the upcoming school year
Silcoates School is delighted to welcome Phil King as its new Head from September 2025. With extensive leadership experience in independent education, Phil is passionate about helping pupils reach their full potential, while fostering a supportive and inspiring learning environment. We caught up with Phil to learn more about his journey, first impressions, and vision for the future at Silcoates.
Q Tell us about your career to date…
A I qualified as an English teacher in 1999, and over the past 25 years, I have taught in five schools across South Yorkshire. I progressed from classroom teacher to Head of Department, then Deputy Head. For the last 14 years, I have worked at Birkdale Senior School in She eld, where I have been Deputy Head for both academic and pastoral areas, as well as Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Q What attracted you to the Headship at Silcoates?
A Silcoates' vision of providing a holistic education, knowing each child individually, and supporting them to become the best version of themselves is one I share. I believe schools should be places where children are supported to grow in confidence, develop skills and interests, and gain awareness of themselves and the world around them in a safe, happy environment. Silcoates is clearly a school that embodies these aims. Personally, attending an independent school had a huge impact on my life, and as a parent, I have seen the benefits for my own children. It is a great privilege to be able to lead Silcoates as
“Silcoates' vision to provide a holistic education is one I share”
its new Head and help pupils and their families enjoy the same experience.
Q What were your first impressions of the school?
A During my visits to Silcoates, I was struck by its wonderfully friendly and welcoming atmosphere. I really enjoyed meeting pupils and sta and hearing about their experiences and passions. It’s clear that everyone takes real pride in being part of the Silcoates community – it matters to be a Silcoatian – and this is a very tangible and valuable attribute that I am keen to learn more about, encourage, and support.
Q What parts of school life are you most looking forward to?
A Schools are all about people, so I’m most looking forward to meeting the pupils, sta , and parents who belong to the Silcoates community. Each section of the school o ers di erent experiences, so whether it’s working with infants in the Forest Classroom or supporting sixth formers with university applications, I’m looking forward to getting to know every aspect of Silcoates and all it has to o er. In my spare time, I enjoy running, playing the guitar, and walking in the mountains, so I’m also excited to support sport, music, and Duke of Edinburgh activities across the school.
silcoates.org.uk
From charming market towns to peaceful village settings, Harron Homes builds luxury developments in some of Yorkshire’s most desirable locations. Whether you’re looking for countryside calm or commuter convenience, we’ve got the perfect home for you.
Find your new
Our homes are designed for modern lifestyles yet rooted in traditional character. With features that reflect our Yorkshire heritage and a commitment to quality you can feel in every room.
in a
An idyllic village home featuring all the mod-cons
A beautifully presented detached family home o ering a harmonious mix of village charm, modern comfort, and stunning countryside views –ideal for families or those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Tucked away in a peaceful cul-de-sac in the sought-after village of Collingham. The village o ers excellent amenities, a primary school, medical centre, restaurants, shops, and good transport links via the A1, with Wetherby nearby for additional services.
A light-filled entrance hall with oak flooring leads to a spacious living room featuring a gas fire and French doors to the garden. A guest WC adds convenience. A dedicated home o ce includes built-in shelving and storage, while the generous open-plan kitchen/dining area features a range cooker, integrated appliances, stone flooring, and garden views through French doors. A utility room adds practicality, and a bright garden room provides a relaxing space year-round.
Upstairs, the main bedroom o ers built-in furniture, a Juliet balcony with countryside views, and an en-suite shower room. Three further bedrooms are served by a modern family bathroom.
The front of the property includes a gated driveway, double garage with EV charger, and a sunny lawned garden. To the rear, a meticulously landscaped garden features a lawn, paved patio, garden shed, and a stylish outdoor kitchen –perfect for al-fresco dining. All set against a backdrop of panoramic countryside views, making the garden a standout feature. O ered chain free, this is a rare opportunity in a highly desirable location.
PRICE
£950,000
SELLING AGENT
Fine & Country Wetherby 01937 223016
wetherby@fineandcountry.com
At Harron Homes, they understand that a home is more than just bricks and mortar –it’s where your story unfolds. With a proud Yorkshire heritage at their heart, they craft luxury homes that marry timeless character with uncompromising quality. Each of their developments is thoughtfully positioned across Yorkshire and the surrounding regions, o ering the perfect blend of rural charm and modern convenience. Whether you’re drawn to picturesque countryside or the vibrant pulse of market towns, their locations are chosen with lifestyle in mind. What truly sets Harron Homes apart is their unwavering attention to detail. Exquisite architecture gives their homes a distinctive presence, with kerb appeal that’s as lasting as it is immediate. Step inside and you’ll discover interiors finished to the highest specification: sleek Symphony kitchens, integrated Bosch appliances, bespoke Hammonds wardrobes, and elegant touches from
Porcelanosa – all curated to o er understated luxury and enduring comfort. Harron Homes believe that quality should be felt in every corner. From the integrity of their materials to the craftsmanship of their build, every home they create is a testament to their dedication to excellence. This commitment extends beyond the front door – their developments are designed to nurture a sense of community,
with thoughtfully planned layouts that reflect how people truly live. As a trusted name in housebuilding, they’re proud to carry forward the values of their Yorkshire roots: authenticity, pride in their work, and a genuine passion for helping people find their forever home.
To explore Harron Homes’ range of exceptional homes and find a development near you, visit harronhomes.com
A stunning detached residence in Dale View, Castle
Occupying an enviable position in the sought-after village of Holmesfield, Derbyshire and enjoying a truly idyllic setting with impressive views.
A contemporary detached residence, exuding luxury.
Upon entering the home, the feeling of quality and considered design is obvious, with glazed doors leading your eye straight towards the beautiful scenery beyond. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the open plan dining kitchen and adjacent lounge, providing bright, stylish spaces to cook, dine and relax. Also set on the ground floor is a spacious sitting room, shower room and an integral garage that can accommodate five vehicles. Four generously proportioned bedrooms are located on the first floor, including a beautiful master bedroom suite and two further suites.
Dale View boasts a striking facade and extensive o -road parking within a block paved driveway. A sanctuary for unwinding can be found to the rear, where a seating terrace spans the width of the house and presents a splendid vantage point of the uninterrupted views. Beneath, there is a lovely lawned garden and another patio.
Asking Price: £1,595,000
SELLING AGENT
Blenheim 0114 358 2020 blenheim.co.uk
Van Dyk Village is a development that brings together character and charm, with contemporary comforts. Located just outside the village of Clowne in Derbyshire, it is an area where heritage and craftsmanship are united in each detail. With only a handful of homes remaining, now is the time to discover this special place for yourself.
Built by one of the UK’s most trusted privately-owned housebuilders, Jones Homes, Van Dyk Village o ers an exclusive collection of three, four and five-bedroom homes that are anything but ordinary. Thoughtfully designed and carefully constructed, each of these high specification homes reflects over 65 years of Jones’ experience and their deep commitment to quality, care and building communities.
It has been announced that the last homes are remaining at Van Dyk Village . Here’s what you could miss out on
At the heart of the development, you will find The Manor House. This exquisite five-bedroom home perfectly combines grandeur and versatility, o ering endless possibilities for your family’s lifestyle. It is a home that is designed to adapt to your needs, providing space and elegance for every occasion. Its traditional stone facade and sash windows are complemented by spacious interiors and luxury finishes throughout, characteristic of Jones Homes. As one of only a few homes remaining, it represents a rare chance to own something truly special within this sought-after setting. Alongside The Manor House, the development includes a variety of thoughtfully designed Jones homes, including The Calder, The Connaught II and The Knightsbridge II, each of which o ers its own unique character and spacious, modern layouts. Van Dyk Village, however, isn’t just about standout homes – it’s a setting that feels special from the moment you arrive
at the development. Its leafy avenues, green spaces and peaceful atmosphere o er residents a sense of escape, all whilst being conveniently located close to great schools, local amenities and major transport links that connect its residents to the rest of the country. A range of tailored incentives is also available to help make your move even easier.
Whether you are a growing family, looking to downsize or simply seeking a home that o ers you lasting value, Van Dyk Village is a place to properly put down roots. Every Jones home is built with longevity in mind. They don’t just o er somewhere to live, but a foundation for life’s next chapter. At Van Dyk Village, that promise is realised in every street, every brick and in every carefully considered finish.
Van Dyk Village, o Worksop Road, Clowne, Derbyshire, S43 4TD. Find out more at jones-homes.co.uk
why everyone is talking about…
The Yorkshire Dales hotel is o ering a summer to remember
This summer, Grantley Hall – the 5-star country house hotel and wellness retreat in the Yorkshire Dales – is unveiling an exciting line-up of new experiences and events that celebrate the very best of food, luxury and the great outdoors. From immersive chef-led cookery experiences to an adrenaline-fuelled supercar showcase and tranquil garden escapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Grantley Hall has recently launched a new and very special opportunity for guests to step behind the scenes of the hotel’s award-winning kitchens, hosted by senior members of the talented culinary team. Guests can choose between two exceptional experiences: Modern British and The Art of Pastry. Led by the Senior Sous Chef of Fletchers Restaurant, the Modern British experience features a selection of delectable dishes from Fletchers, crafted with the finest local ingredients. The Art of Pastry, led by Grantley Hall’s Executive Pastry Chef Stefan Rose, focuses on refined patisserie techniques.
Grantley Hall is also introducing a bespoke family history experience in partnership with Folk Finders Family History. Perfect for guests curious about their ancestry, this immersive experience is led by professional genealogists who share over 50 years of combined expertise.
Recently launched for the summer season, Whispering Angel at The Orchard is a new al fresco dining experience at Grantley Hall, created in partnership with the iconic rosé brand. Set against the backdrop of Grantley Hall’s landscaped gardens, the space blends indoor and outdoor elegance with Provençalinspired design, o ering light seasonal
fare and a curated selection of wines from the Château d'Esclans portfolio.
On Sunday 6th July, Grantley Hall will host its luxury car and lifestyle event, Supercar Sunday, for the third year running. Held in partnership with the UK’s premier supercar community, Supercar Driver, visitors can enjoy an action-packed day filled with special supercar and classic displays; live music and a headline performance from The Hoosiers; a chance to experience the state-of-the art professional Grantley Motorsport simulated driving experience; and a rolling barbecue.
On top of all this, Grantley Hall makes the perfect base for guests to explore the outstanding scenery, unspoilt countryside and rich cultural heritage of the Yorkshire Dales.
grantleyhall.co.uk
Finest shirts and jackets handmade in Hudders eld from beautiful, natural materials. Men’s, women’s, o -the-peg and made-to-measure currently at no extra cost.
Find us at the Great Yorkshire Show, stand 220. Or available online and by appointment at our showroom in Slaithwaite.
