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YORKSHIRE

Yorkshire

SEPTEMBER 2026 / £3.95

S P ECI AL News and views from the county's best schools

PLU S JON MCCLURE On new music, Robbie Williams and Sheffield FC

SEPTEMBER 2026

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COASTAL CREATIVITY

Why Staithes is a centre for arts and heritage aa

• BOUNTY OF THE LAND

Real local dining at Swinton Estate

Time to

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EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA MAGAZINE DESIGNER MARIANA SUZUKI DESIGNER BRUNA FACCIN PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE MAGAZINE MANAGER MARTIN CUNNINGHAM CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES JAMES FUSCHILLO, ABIGAIL GARDNER NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents SEPTEMBER 2026

86 16

C U LT U R E AGENDA

INTERIORS 64 FARROW & BALL

JON MCCLURE

68 VINTERIOR

Top September events in Yorkshire

On his latest album and love for Sheffield

Exploring their Colour Consultancy

And a new collaboration with Liberty

30 HERITAGE OPEN DAYS

75 PRODUCTS

FOOD & DRINK 42 SWINTON ESTATE

E D U C AT I O N S P E C I A L 86 PREP EDUCATION

47 EATING OUT

90 HISTORY

FA S H I O N 52 THE SHOOT

92 CLARE POLLARD

55 JEWELLERY

103 YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK

A look inside historic venues across the county

Absolutely meets the new head chef

At The Ivy Harrogate

Modern Heritage from Barbour

Nine of the best necklaces

Cutlery to impress at your next dinner party

Investigating its value

Asking questions at Harewood House

A B S O L U T E LY M AG A Z I N E S .C O M

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

Reimagining Jason and the Argonauts

Unveil their latest Graduate Award

O N T H E C OV E R Barbour Modern Heritage (barbour.com)

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ABSOLUTELY • THIS MONTH

LISA BYRNE

YORKSHIRE

YAT T E R To open our education special, Lisa Byrne extols the virtues of picking up a good book

uring my formative teenage years, I relished embracing the 80s goth culture, behaving like I was a depressed gloomriddled extra on a Smiths’ video. The only joy I would allow myself, in private obviously, was being immersed in a good book. I’d spend hours devouring tomes by the Brontës, Dickens, and even the steamy bonkbusters by Jilly Cooper. Nowadays, I may have lost the Alice Cooper-style make-up, but reading has remained one of my greatest pleasures, which is why I was thrilled to hear Her Majesty the Queen has decided to gift books to all British schoolchildren. Queen Camilla came up with the genius idea of giving every child in Year 6 the

DOLLY PARTON

bestselling book, Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, as a Christmas present, to coincide with the end of the government’s National Year of Reading. This special edition, which will include a note from the Queen, aims to help fight against the depressing fact that reading amongst children steeply declines between primary and secondary school. Apart from being an extremely pleasurable experience, reading enhances brain connectivity and strengthens focus. It also boosts empathy and emotional intelligence as readers can experience events from diverse perspectives. And for me personally, it hugely lowers stress levels. Over in the USA, the queen of country music, Dolly Parton, is a major advocate of reading. The icon set up her Imagination Library, a book gifting programme to help inspire children to grow their imaginations at a young age. So far, this amazing facility has mailed over seven million books to young bookworms across the UK. Dolly explains why she personally adores reading: “Because books, my friends, are true magic bound between two covers.” To stop me from automatically reaching for my phone, I never leave the house without a book. It’s so much more enjoyable to catch up on a dramatic storyline while waiting for a friend in the coffee shop or a doctor’s surgery. Try it; escaping into your imagination by reading makes life so much more fun.

THIS MONTH I shall be...

Emulating our glowing Queen Camilla by smothering my face in her favourite Silver Bee Venom Mask by Heaven Skincare. A truly miraculous product. Keeping up my energy levels up and staying hydrated, sipping Oshun Electrolyte drops – sourced from the Great Salt Lake in Utah, USA. Proudly taking up my position as an Independent NonExecutive director at York Theatre Royal, one of my favourite theatres in the world.

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

WRAP PA R T Y Beach cover-ups, sarongs and kaftans are all part of the late summer holiday wardrobe, and there's no better place for the perfect look than Amelie's Follies. ameliesfollies.co.uk

COLOUR CODE Habitat's new collection is full of well-designed and colourful accessories. We love this striped vase, a snip at just £14. habitat.co.uk

MUSHROOM M AG I C Need a bit of extra clarity and motivation in the morning? Try Ancient Extracts' Morning Magic Mushroom Coffee. It's a low-caffeine blend of functional mushrooms, adaptogenic herbs and supportive nutrients that'll give you a little lift to last the day. ancientextracts.co.uk

HOLD ON The Alice cross body bag has been handmade from the highest quality Tuscan calfskin. Light and deceptively capacious, it's a keeper, £600. neo87100.com

I N T H E D E TA I L Jewellery designer Francesca Villa's collections feature a diverse range of motivs ranging from tomatoes to whales – and this adorable puffer fish ring is reverse painted on crystal backed with turquoise, with a bezel set in yellow gold, £5,870. francescavilla.it

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES EDITOR’S PICK

CLOCK THIS This ladies watch – the IWC Portofino 34mm Automatic Day & Night Le Petit Prince – has a blue dial with a sunray finish, rose gold hands and indexes and 12 round diamonds marking the hours. The watch also features a rose gold day and night display in the 6 o'clock position. berrysjewellers.co.uk

TIED UP Avani Haus' collection of beautiful silk scarves are designed as wearable art. Tie them around your neck or wrist or wear them as tops. avanihaus.com

S TAT E M E N T DESIGN This blue topaz and diamond ring belongs to the extensive range of gemstone and diamond jewellery designs at Berry’s Jewellers. berrysjewellers.co.uk

CHARM SCHOOL Jeweller Tilly Sveaas is celebrating 10 years of her brand with a collection of charms inspired by the symbols and stories that have shaped her style. Mix and match the charms with the ‘Charm Builder’, or choose one of her curated necklaces. tillysveaas.co.uk

B OT T L ES U P For the ultimate fashion water bottle, make it Dior. This simple yet chic stainless steel bottle channels 18th-century rococo and will set you back £170. dior.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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16 SEPTEM BER ,

HYD E PARK BOOK CLU B

Fresh off the back of three critically acclaimed, sell-out Edinburgh Fringes, Dave’s Funniest Joke of the Fringe winner Lorna Rose Treen is heading out on her debut tour with Now That’s What I Call Characters doing what she does best – a silly and joyful hour of nonsense character comedy. hydeparkbookclub.co.uk

PHOTO: MATT STRONGE

C U LT U R E

LORNA Rose Treen

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The Agenda

S E PT E M B E R ' S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

MU S IC

Evanescence 8 September FIRST DIRECT BANK ARENA When Evanescence stormed onto the scene in the early 2000s, they introduced a sound that captured the world’s attention. Their debut album Fallen became one of the most critically and commercially successful releases of the 21st century, earning two Grammy Awards and achieving diamond certiﬁcation in the United States. Two decades later, that connection remains as strong as ever. ﬁrstdirectbankarena.com

CO M E DY

EV E N T

Maisie Adam

Annual Steam Gala

24 S E PTE MBE R , GRA ND THEATRE LEEDS

Taskmaster Champion Maisie Adam is back on the road in 2026 with her brand-new show Whatsherface. The ‘tall, chaotic one with the weird hair’ (a genuine description given by her best friend’s mum) returns to the stage with her trademark wit and ﬁrecracker gags, and probably a few angry outbursts along the way. leedsheritagetheatres.com

24-27 September N O R T H YO R K S H I R E M O O R S R A I LWAY The North Yorkshire Moors Railway has announced the return of its highly anticipated Annual Steam Gala. This fourday event promises a thrilling celebration of Britain’s steam heritage, with a fantastic line-up of guest locomotives and home ﬂeet. Visitors can also look forward to a barbecue at Grosmont, as well as the popular Annual Beer Festival. nymr.co.uk

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CULTURE • DIARY SECOND

LO O K Love to be… 5 September T H E S T R AY Iconic house music brand, Love to be…, returns with its ﬂagship festival at The Stray in Harrogate with a newly reworked site designed to elevate the experience for its 6,000-strong crowd. Following last year’s sold-out success, the 2026 edition – which over three stages welcomes Claptone, Sam Divine, Paul Woolford, Todd Terry, Gok Wan (left) and many more – introduces an expanded main stage, new chillout zone, upgraded VIP offering and a host of fresh additions. lovetobeevents.co.uk

T H E AT R E

KING LEAR

This Month’s Must See

UNTIL 19 SEPTEMBER, C R U C I B L E T H E AT R E King Lear has decided to pass his lands and responsibilities to his three daughters. When he tells them they must secure their inheritance by proving how much they love him, his eldest daughters make dramatic speeches. The youngest refuses and is banished by her father. Now in control, Lear’s remaining daughters turn to cold hearted treachery. Ian McDiarmid returns to Sheffield to play the title role. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

DogFest on the Farm

12- 13 S EPTEMBER, HAREWOOD HOUSE

ogFest on the Farm is a high-energy, dog-ﬁrst celebration in the heart of Yorkshire. Watch dogs in full ﬂow through sheepdog trials and working displays, then let your own dog loose on welfare-led, have-a-go activities built for action. From fun dog shows and breed meet-ups to high-energy races, agility, displays and hands-on challenges, DogFest is packed with plenty to see and do. dogfest.co.uk

Olivia Bax is now showing her colourful work at Yorkshire Sculpture Park

PHOTO: DENISA LLIE

EV E N T

orkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) presents Double Take by Olivia Bax, a vibrant exhibition bringing together 20 new and recent sculptures that revel in the joy of the familiar and the invented. Double Take – running until March 2027 – celebrates Olivia’s distinctive combining of materials, colour and construction techniques to reveal new relationships between objects, spaces and the ways we experience them. The title reflects the artist’s use of multiple perspectives in an exhibition that invites moments of pause and reconsideration. Olivia uses welded frames, metal mesh and highly coloured paper pulp forms to create dynamic sculptures that shift between solidity and openness. Transparency plays a significant role in her current investigations. A fascination with windows and apertures focuses on how they frame passing moments and shape our perceptions. Snapshots and memories from her everyday life are transformed into intriguing works: an aerial view during a bus journey, the wooden shutters of her childhood bedroom or supermarket shopping with a child sitting in the trolley. Salvaging and reusing materials has always been an important part of the artist’s practice. Incorporated within the sculptures are discarded objects including musical instruments, wheels, kitchenware and shopping trollies. Removed from their intended context and usefulness, the obsolete objects exist in an incongruous union with the abstract forms. ysp.org.uk

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& Steel

soul From football's oldest club to his latest album, Jon McClure remains driven by Sheffield, community and authentic connection By MARK KEBBLE

on McClure has never been short of projects, but perhaps none says more about the Reverend and the Makers frontman than his latest role as chairman of Sheffield FC. As another football season begins, his focus is as much on restoring pride to the world’s oldest football club as it is on filling venues with his band. For Jon, the two passions are intrinsically linked: both are about bringing people together, celebrating Sheffield and telling stories that deserve a bigger audience. Even a painful accident has done little to slow him down. Having delayed our interview after breaking his ribs in a scooter accident, he laughs off the injury with typical Yorkshire resilience. “I bought a Lambretta scooter and tried to drive it back to Sheffield from Birkenhead, and I fell off and bashed my ribs on the handlebars,” he says. “It still really hurts... but no rest for the wicked!”

That relentless energy is now being channelled into Sheffield FC, a club whose history stretches back to 1857. While it currently competes in non-league football, Jon believes its story deserves a global audience. “It is a non-league football club, yes, but it is also the club that invented the game of football,” he says. “Telling that origin story of the game itself is something that needs to be done much better by the club, by the city and by the country. We are the ones who are able to do that.” His ambition extends well beyond results on the pitch. “It needs to be positioned as a global brand because it’s the world’s first club. There are 3.4 billion football fans so let’s see what we can do. It’s a great project to be involved in, I feel very proud to be doing it as a Sheffield boy.” The scale of the task isn’t lost on him. “You’re turning around 169 years of relative dysfunction,” he says. “But it’s exciting, we are looking forward to reviving the fortunes and making it something important.”

Looking ahead, Jon hopes the club can return to the heart of the city where football itself was born. “I want it to be positioned more as a global brand... and ultimately build a development back in Sheffield, ideally in the city centre where the club can have a home. It currently plays just beyond the city limits and that’s no good.” His affection for football in the city extends to Sheffield Wednesday. Optimistic about the club’s fresh start, he says: “I’ve bought my season ticket, I will be buying the kit and turning up whenever I can, looking forward to a new era.” Music, meanwhile, continues to evolve alongside life itself. Reverend and the Makers’ latest album, Is This How Happiness Feels?, reflects a man now in his 40s, balancing contentment with the inevitable ups and downs that come with family life and personal loss. “I am in the place in my life where I’ve got a great family, good vibes, everything for a while is going very well,” he says. “The

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

“Sheffield FC is the club that invented the game of football”

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

THE DAY FEVER TEAM

death of my dad derailed that a little bit, but the album is into that idea that you can be happy one minute, sad the other. Nobody is happy all the time or sad all the time. Life is a rollercoaster... he had it right Ronan Keating, didn’t he.” Rather than revisiting the swagger of his early years, Jon embraces where life has taken him. “I am 44-years-old, so you make music where you currently are in your life rather than where you were when you were 21. It’s in the pocket of where I am now.” He looks back fondly on the band’s catalogue too. “The early stuff is great, the later stuff is great, I love it all. That was who I was then, this is who I am now... It’s a different expression of the same person.” The new record also features some notable collaborators, including Robbie Williams, who has become a close friend.

“Sheffield is the mother of all inventions” “I’ve known him for a couple of years... He’s a lovely, lovely man is Rob, like a wise elder. I love chatting to him, I chat to him most days actually. He’s just a very warm, open, generous human being.” Another familiar voice on the album is actor Vicky McClure, with whom Jon also co-founded the hugely successful Day Fever daytime clubbing phenomenon. Yet whether it is music, football, comedy or events, he insists the motivation is always the same. “I just follow my nose. I am not motivated particularly by money, I am motivated by things that interest me. I move towards good people, warm people, good energy.” It’s a philosophy that explains why Sheffield FC appealed so strongly. “It felt like a good project to get involved in that’s about the right stuff,” he states. “I just like to be where ordinary people are, who enjoy themselves, whether it’s music or sport or whatever. If you can make people dance or laugh or smile in some way, then I think you are doing alright.” That sense of community inevitably brings the conversation back to Sheffield itself. While Jon admits there was a period when he distanced himself from business ventures in the city, he now feels optimistic about its future. “There is some good political leadership in the city at the minute who want to push it forward, which is

JON AT SHEFFIELD FC

good, and we need to lift Sheffield up. It’s a great place to be, but could be better.” His pride in his hometown is unmistakable. “I love Sheffield, I love being from here, I love living here, I love the vibe here. I think it’s a very special city. We invented football, Robin Hood is from here, we invented electronic music... It’s the mother of all inventions Sheffield. We are having culturally a great moment... we just need to have the infrastructure now to match it.” As ever, there’s little chance of Jon slowing down. Between festival appearances, a Reverend and the Makers tour, a new season with Sheffield FC, new BBC podcast episodes and even a long-awaited Italian holiday – not to mention recovering from broken ribs – his diary remains packed. “Just keeping busy,” he shrugs. Given everything he has on his plate, it is perhaps the only way Jon McClure knows how to live. Catch Reverend and the Makers on tour in November, including on the 16th in Leeds at Beckett SU. reverendandthemakers.co.uk / sheffieldfc.com

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Moving with the

TIMES From industrial powerhouse to creative, culinary and cultural destination, Sheffield blends rich heritage with a ﬂourishing modern identity

ew British cities have reinvented themselves quite as successfully as Sheffield. Long defined by the roar of furnaces and the glow of molten steel, today it is a city where worldclass culture, independent businesses, award-winning restaurants and vast green spaces sit comfortably alongside its industrial legacy. It remains proudly authentic, refreshingly unpretentious and one of Yorkshire’s most exciting places to explore. The story of Sheffield stretches back more than a thousand years. The area was settled during the Anglo-Saxon period, with the city’s name deriving from the River Sheaf, which still flows beneath parts of the city centre today. Following the Norman Conquest, Sheffield Castle was constructed in the early 12th century, becoming a strategically important fortress that stood for centuries before being demolished after the English Civil War. Its international fame accelerated in the 18th and 19th centuries. Benjamin Huntsman’s invention of crucible steel production in the 1740s transformed manufacturing, allowing stronger and more consistent steel to be produced than ever before. Later innovations, including stainless steel, developed in Sheffield by Harry Brearley in 1913, cemented the city’s global reputation. Victorian Sheffield became one of Britain’s industrial powerhouses, exporting cutlery, tools and engineering products around the world. While heavy industry declined during the late 20th century, the city embraced regeneration without losing sight of its past. Former factories have become galleries, breweries, apartments and creative workspaces, while historic industrial districts now buzz with independent businesses.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO TODAY

Visitors often arrive expecting an industrial city and leave surprised by just how green, creative and vibrant Sheffield has become. The city centre has undergone significant investment in recent years, yet retains a welcoming, human scale that makes exploring on foot particularly rewarding. A natural starting point is the impressive Winter Garden, one of the largest temperate glasshouses in Europe. Housing more than 2,000 plants from around the world beneath an elegant timber and glass roof, it offers a tranquil escape in the very heart of the city. Connected directly to the Millennium Gallery, the two attractions combine beautifully for a leisurely morning. The Millennium Gallery celebrates Sheffield’s heritage while showcasing contemporary art and design. Alongside

WINTER GARDEN

CRUCIBLE THEATRE

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• AREA• FOCUS CULTURE XXXXXXXX XXXXX

changing exhibitions, visitors can admire the renowned Ruskin Collection, metalwork displays and exhibitions highlighting the city’s extraordinary craftsmanship. Next door, the Graves Gallery continues the artistic journey with an excellent collection that includes works by Turner, Cézanne, Bridget Riley, Grayson Perry and David Hockney. For anyone interested in modern British art, it is an underrated gem. No visit would be complete without discovering Kelham Island, perhaps Sheffield’s greatest success story. Once the beating heart of the city’s steel industry, it has evolved into one of Britain’s coolest urban neighbourhoods. Historic brick workshops now house independent cafés, artisan bakeries, breweries, design studios and some of Yorkshire’s finest restaurants. Shopping in Sheffield has become increasingly focused on independents.

KELHAM ISLAND

Division Street and Ecclesall Road are packed with fashion boutiques, record shops, bookshops, coffee houses and lifestyle stores that give the city its distinctive personality. Meanwhile, the historic Moor Market showcases more than 90 independent traders selling everything from artisan food to local produce. Culture lovers are spoiled for choice. The Crucible Theatre remains internationally famous as the home of the World Snooker Championship each spring, but throughout the year stages exceptional drama alongside neighbouring venues the Lyceum Theatre and the intimate Playhouse. Together they form one of Britain’s strongest regional theatre complexes.

Music has always been central to Sheffield’s identity. This is the city that gave the world Pulp, Arctic Monkeys, Def Leppard, The Human League and Cabaret Voltaire. Fans can follow self-guided music trails or catch live performances at iconic venues including The Leadmill, Corporation and Sheffield City Hall. For architecture enthusiasts, Sheffield Cathedral offers a fascinating blend of medieval and modern design, while the nearby Park Hill estate has become internationally recognised for its pioneering post-war Brutalist architecture. Nature is never far away. Sheffield boasts more trees per person than any other European city, and parks such as the Botanical Gardens provide peaceful Victorian A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

BOTANICAL GARDENS

JORO

landscapes filled with exotic planting and elegant glass pavilions. Nearby Endcliffe Park marks the beginning of the Porter Valley, where walking trails follow rivers through woodland towards the Peak District.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Sheffield’s culinary reputation has risen dramatically over the past decade, with ambitious chefs embracing Yorkshire produce while creating restaurants capable of competing with those in Leeds, Manchester and beyond, seeing visitors flocking to the city. The city’s flagship dining destination is undoubtedly JÖRO. Originally transforming a shipping container into one of Britain’s most exciting restaurants, the team has since moved into a spectacular permanent home while retaining the inventive tasting-menu approach that has earned widespread national acclaim. Expect beautifully presented seasonal dishes built around exceptional local ingredients, served with confidence and creativity. Equally celebrated is Rafters, tucked away in a quiet suburban setting. Holding three AA Rosettes and regularly appearing in prestigious restaurant guides, Rafters has become synonymous with refined modern British cooking. Multi-course tasting menus showcase impeccable technique while remaining warm and welcoming rather than intimidating.

Another outstanding option is Domo, bringing Sardinian cooking to Kelham Island with remarkable authenticity. Family recipes, handmade pasta, wood-fired cooking and carefully sourced ingredients have made it one of Sheffield’s most beloved restaurants. The stylish industrial surroundings only add to its appeal. Native, also in Kelham Island, champions local ingredients through an imaginative menu that bridges casual dining and fine cooking. Sustainability sits at the heart of the kitchen, resulting in dishes that feel thoughtful, modern and deeply connected to the surrounding region. No Name has similarly developed an enviable reputation among food lovers for beautifully executed sharing plates served in an intimate setting. Its constantly evolving menu encourages repeat visits, while the relaxed atmosphere ensures serious cooking never feels overly formal. Sheffield’s pub scene has also evolved beyond traditional ale houses. The Milestone, another Kelham Island institution, combines excellent modern British food with an impressive drinks selection, while The Broadfield has become renowned for quality local produce and expertly kept beer. Coffee culture thrives too. Steam Yard remains one of Sheffield’s pioneering speciality coffee shops, famous for exceptional espresso and irresistible doughnuts, while Marmadukes has expanded from beloved independent café into one of the city’s defining brunch destinations, combining outstanding baking with stylish interiors. Craft beer enthusiasts are particularly well served. Sheffield has become one of Britain’s leading brewing cities, with venues including Neepsend Craft Beer, The Crow Inn and numerous taprooms showcasing outstanding local breweries such as Abbeydale Brewery and Triple Point.

Five Things You May Not Know About

SHEFFIELD 1. Perhaps surprisingly, Sheffield contains more than 4.5 million trees, giving it one of the highest ratios of trees to people anywhere in Europe. Around 61 per cent of the city consists of green space, making it considerably greener than many visitors imagine. 2. The city is home to Sheffield FC, officially recognised by FIFA as the world's oldest football club. Founded in 1857, it predates every professional football club on the planet and helped shape many of the rules that define the modern game. 3. Harry Brearley accidentally invented stainless steel in Sheffield in 1913 while searching for a more durable metal for gun barrels. His discovery revolutionised industries worldwide, from medicine to architecture and domestic kitchens. 4. The famous Henderson's Relish, often described as Sheffield's answer to Worcestershire sauce, has been produced in the city since the late 19th century. Fiercely defended by locals, it has become one of Yorkshire's most iconic culinary products. 5. Beneath modern Sheffield lie the archaeological remains of Sheffield Castle. Although little survived above ground for centuries, recent excavations have uncovered significant sections of the medieval fortress, with ongoing regeneration helping reveal more of one of Yorkshire's most important historic sites.

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ARTISTIC

With a celebrated arts festival, dramatic coastline and timeless ﬁshing heritage, Staithes is one of Yorkshire’s most rewarding autumn escapes

here are few places on the Yorkshire coast quite as captivating as Staithes. Clinging to the cliffs between Whitby and Saltburn, this former fishing village is a maze of narrow ginnels, red-roofed cottages and steep lanes that tumble towards one of the most picturesque harbours in England. It is a place where history, creativity and the natural world have always gone hand in hand, making it the perfect setting for the annual Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage. Returning from

11-13 September, the 2026 edition promises to be one of the most immersive yet, offering visitors far more than a traditional arts festival while providing the ideal excuse to discover everything this remarkable corner of North Yorkshire has to offer. Now firmly established as one of Yorkshire’s most distinctive cultural weekends, the festival transforms the entire village into an open gallery. More than 100 artists will once again throw open the doors of cottages, studios, galleries, village halls and hidden spaces, allowing visitors not only to admire their work, but also to meet the artists themselves. Rather than

being confined to a single exhibition venue, the whole of Staithes becomes part of the experience, encouraging visitors to wander its winding streets, stumble across unexpected exhibitions and discover corners of the village they may otherwise have missed. The festival begins with a Preview Evening on the Friday before the popular Artist Trail takes over throughout Saturday and Sunday. This year’s programme adds even more reasons to linger. Among the highlights is the return of the outdoor cinema at Kippers Corner, where audiences are invited to settle into deckchairs beneath the evening sky to watch films celebrating

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CULTURE • ARTS

E S C A P E

Staithes, both past and present. As darkness falls, the village itself becomes part of the spectacle thanks to an atmospheric lighting installation that bathes the historic streets and harbour in colour, creating an entirely different mood once the daytime visitors have departed. Live music will also provide the soundtrack to the weekend, with performances taking place throughout the village and further headline acts still to be announced. The festival also embraces the landscape that surrounds Staithes. Earth Science Outreach UK, the team behind the Yorkshire Fossil Festival, will host guided fossil walks across the ancient rock platforms between Staithes Harbour and Old Nab, alongside interactive workshops exploring palaeontology and fossil-inspired art. It is a reminder that this dramatic stretch of

coastline forms part of the famous Jurassic heritage of the Yorkshire Coast, where millions of years of geological history are revealed with every tide. Families, amateur fossil hunters and seasoned geologists alike can all find something to fascinate them. History plays an equally important role. Visitors will have the chance to watch rare archive footage of the arrival of Staithes’ motorised lifeboat in 1924, alongside Victorian magic lantern slides that capture everyday village life generations ago. Popular local historian Bill Hinchley returns with his much-loved guided walks, sharing stories that mix humour, personal memories and tales from Staithes’ fishing heritage. These experiences reveal that beneath the village’s picture-postcard appearance lies a resilient community shaped by the North Sea and centuries of maritime tradition.

Hands-on creativity is another defining feature of the weekend. Visitors can try everything from printmaking and jewellery making to spin art and painting demonstrations, while established artists open their studios to explain techniques and share inspiration. It perfectly reflects the village’s enduring artistic legacy. More than a century ago, the Staithes Group of Artists made the village one of Britain’s most important artistic colonies, attracted by its extraordinary light, dramatic coastline and working fishing community. Today that tradition continues, with painters, photographers, sculptors and craftspeople still drawing inspiration from the landscape that captivated their predecessors. Festival co-ordinator Becky Tempest believes this broader programme captures everything that makes Staithes unique. “Visitors can come for the art trail, but A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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“Staithes has

such a rich story and this year's events help bring that to life”

they can also watch films under the evening sky, enjoy live music, go fossil hunting, join a history walk, try printmaking, make jewellery, see artists at work and explore old Staithes through film and photographs,” she says. “Staithes has such a rich story – from art and fishing to fossils, lifeboats, local families and the landscape around us – and this year’s events help bring that story to life.” Of course, there are countless reasons to visit Staithes beyond festival weekend. The village itself remains wonderfully authentic, escaping much of the commercialisation seen elsewhere along the Yorkshire coast. Cars are left at the top of the hill, leaving visitors to explore on foot through atmospheric cobbled lanes lined with colourful cottages that seem almost untouched by time. Around every corner lies another perfect view across rooftops towards the harbour or out across the North Sea. The harbour remains the heart of village life. Fishing boats still operate from here, while visitors gather along the quayside to watch children crabbing from the harbour wall or simply enjoy fish and chips overlooking the sea. At low tide, the beach stretches out to reveal

fascinating rock pools, towering cliffs and fossil-rich ledges, making it one of Yorkshire’s most rewarding coastal walks. Walkers are particularly well served. Staithes sits directly on the Cleveland Way National Trail and the King Charles III England Coast Path, offering spectacular cliff-top routes north towards Runswick Bay and Whitby or south towards Port Mulgrave and Skinningrove. The scenery changes with every season, but September is especially rewarding, with softer light, quieter paths and sea views that stretch for miles. The village also provides an excellent base for exploring the wider North York Moors National Park. Within a short drive visitors can discover heather-covered moorland, historic villages, steam railways and dramatic coastal scenery, combining countryside and coast in a single break. Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay and Saltburn are all within easy reach, making Staithes an ideal base for a longer Yorkshire escape. Food is another increasingly compelling reason to visit. Traditional pubs, welcoming cafés and seafood restaurants celebrate the area’s fishing heritage while making the most of Yorkshire produce. Freshly

landed seafood remains a highlight, whether enjoyed overlooking the harbour or after a day’s walking along the cliffs. Independent galleries, artisan shops and cafés complete the village’s gentle pace of life, encouraging visitors to browse rather than rush. Perhaps that is ultimately Staithes’ greatest appeal. While many seaside destinations compete for attention through bigger attractions and larger events, Staithes succeeds through atmosphere. It rewards those willing to slow down, lose themselves in its twisting streets and spend time appreciating its remarkable setting. The Festival of Arts & Heritage simply amplifies everything that already makes the village special, celebrating creativity, community, history and landscape in equal measure. For anyone seeking an authentic Yorkshire coastal experience this autumn, few destinations can match it. Whether you come for the art, the history, the coastline, the walking or simply the chance to escape modern life for a few days, Staithes continues to prove that some of England’s greatest treasures are also among its smallest. staithesfestival.com

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Past

R E V E A L E D PHOTO: ALASTAIR WALLACE

Explore Yorkshire's remarkable past as Heritage Open Days opens historic landmarks, hidden gems and fascinating stories across the county

WAINHOUSE TOWER

very September, Heritage Open Days invites people to discover the stories behind England’s historic buildings, remarkable landscapes and cultural landmarks – all completely free of charge. From grand country houses and Victorian engineering marvels to medieval churches, working railways and hidden museums, the annual festival offers a rare chance to step inside places that are often closed to the public or to experience familiar attractions from a completely different perspective. Yorkshire’s programme is particularly rich, reflecting the county’s extraordinary heritage, from Roman settlements and maritime history to industrial innovation, religious architecture and vibrant local communities. Whether you’re planning a family day out or looking to delve deeper

into Yorkshire’s fascinating past, these are some of the standout events taking place during Heritage Open Days this September. ALL SAINTS ECCLESALL , SHEFFIELD OPEN: 14 & 19 SEPTEMBER

Few churches tell the story of a community quite like All Saints Ecclesall. First opened for worship in 1788, the Sheffield church blends Georgian origins with later architectural additions by Temple Lushington Moore and George Pace, alongside beautiful Kempe stained glass. Heritage Open Days visitors can enjoy guided talks, tours and family activities while discovering thousands of stories hidden within the churchyard through an innovative digital mapping project. It’s an engaging celebration of Sheffield’s everyday history and the generations who have shaped this remarkable place of worship.

ALL SAINTS ECCLESALL

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BARNBURGH DOVECOTE , DONCASTER OPEN: 12 SEPTEMBER

Only accessible for one weekend each year, Barnburgh Dovecote is a genuine hidden gem. Dating from the late 16th or early 17th century, the Grade II*-listed octagonal limestone structure once housed around 2,000 birds as part of the now-demolished Barnburgh Hall estate. Although the hall disappeared during the 1960s, the dovecote survives alongside the former stable block and gardener’s cottage, carefully preserved by local residents. Heritage Open Days provides a rare opportunity to see one of South Yorkshire’s most unusual historic monuments up close. WAINHOUSE TOWER, HALIFAX OPEN: 12 & 13 SEPTEMBER

Standing 253 feet above Halifax, Wainhouse Tower is Britain’s tallest folly and remains one of Yorkshire’s most recognisable landmarks. Visitors willing to tackle its 369 spiral steps are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views across Calderdale, but the climb is only half the attraction. Guides reveal the fascinating Victorian feud that inspired the tower’s enduring nickname, the "Tower of Spite", making this one of Heritage Open Days’ most memorable experiences for lovers of architecture and local history alike. JAMIA MASJID ABU HURAIRA, LEED S OPEN: 12 SEPTEMBER

Heritage Open Days celebrates living heritage as well as historic buildings, and Leeds’ Jamia Masjid Abu Huraira offers a fascinating insight into modern religious architecture. Completed

CITY VARIETIES MUSIC HALL TOUR

in 2018, the mosque combines impressive craftsmanship with striking decorative details, including magnificent bronze doors and one of the largest chandeliers in Leeds. Visitors will also learn about Islamic beliefs, worship and daily life, making this an enlightening experience that promotes understanding alongside architectural appreciation.

PHOTO: BRADFORD MARKETS

BARNBURGH DOVECOTE

CELEBRATING BRADFORD'S CYCLING HERITAGE OPEN: 20 SEPTEMBER

Bradford’s long association with cycling comes under the spotlight in this lively event at Darley Street Market. Historic bicycles, archive photographs, family activities and films chart the city’s contribution to Britain’s cycling story, including the legacy of the Bradford Bicycling Club and the renowned Pennine Cycles. With local enthusiasts on hand to share their expertise, it’s an engaging celebration of a pastime that has shaped generations of Yorkshire communities.

CELEBRATING BRADFORD'S CYCLING HERITAGE

CITY VARIETIES MUSIC HALL , LEEDS

BEVERLEY GUILDHALL

OPEN: 13 SEPTEMBER

OPEN: 11, 12, 16 & 18 SEPTEMBER

The City Varieties Music Hall has entertained audiences for more than 150 years and proudly holds the Guinness World Record as Britain’s longest-running music hall. During these exclusive guided tours, visitors can uncover stories of legendary performers including Harry Houdini, Charlie Chaplin and Ken Dodd before continuing across to Leeds Grand Theatre for refreshments. It’s an unmissable experience for theatre lovers and anyone fascinated by Yorkshire’s rich entertainment heritage.

One of East Yorkshire’s finest civic buildings, Beverley Guildhall offers more than five centuries of history beneath one roof. Highlights include the medieval Great Hall, an elegant Georgian courtroom and impressive historic silver collection, while this year’s special exhibition, Subterranean Beverley, explores the hidden world beneath the town’s streets. Living history demonstrations showcasing medieval carpentry add another dimension, making this a superb day out for all ages. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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BRIDLINGTON HARBOUR HERITAGE MUSEUM

operation. Visitors will explore original Victorian engineering, historic documents and the operational wheelhouse before enjoying a complimentary return journey on the tram itself. It’s a fascinating blend of engineering heritage and seaside nostalgia. NATIONAL TRUST ORMESBY HALL OPEN: 11-13 & 18-20 SEPTEMBER

BEVERLEY GUILDHALL & COMMUNITY

BRIDLINGTON HARBOUR HERITAGE MUSEUM OPEN: 17-19 SEPTEMBER

For over a thousand years, Bridlington Harbour has played a vital role in Yorkshire’s maritime story. This intimate museum brings that history to life through fascinating artefacts, historic photographs and detailed models of traditional vessels. Visitors can also discover the restoration of The Three Brothers, one of the area’s historic sailing cobles, while learning about the fishing industry that continues to define the harbour today.

One of the highlights of this year’s programme, Ormesby Hall throws open its doors with free entry throughout Heritage Open Days. The elegant Georgian mansion, once home to the Pennyman family, combines beautiful interiors with extensive gardens, model railways and a growing contemporary art exhibition created in partnership with students from The Northern School of Art. Add in the newly accessible estate trail and there’s more than enough to fill an afternoon. GIGGLESWICK SCHOOL CHAPEL OPEN: 20 SEPTEMBER

Dominating the skyline above Settle, Giggleswick School Chapel is one of the

PHOTO: NATIONAL TRUST, ESME MAI

PHOTO: KLOSKK TYRER

CULTURE • EVENT

ORMESBY HALL

Yorkshire Dales’ most striking buildings. Built in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, its copper dome and richly decorated interior continue to impress visitors today. Guided tours throughout the day are accompanied by live music, including performances on the magnificent Henry Willis organ, creating an unforgettable atmosphere within this architectural masterpiece. NYMR SIGNAL BOX DEMONSTRATIONS OPEN: 14-16 SEPTEMBER

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers a hands-on experience that will delight visitors of every age. At Pickering Station, Heritage Open Days guests can step inside a working signal box to discover how Britain’s railways have been safely operated for generations. From changing signals to using the token machine under expert guidance, this interactive event provides a fascinating insight into the skills that keep heritage railways running today. heritageopendays.org.uk

GIGGLESWICK SCHOOL CHAPEL

OPEN: 11 & 14 SEPTEMBER

Scarborough’s famous cliff tramway has been carrying passengers between the town and South Bay since 1881, and Heritage Open Days offers a rare behindthe-scenes glimpse into its remarkable

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

F O R E V E R

LO V E Team Evelyn: a short life, a lasting legacy

artin House Children’s Hospice gave Caroline and Michael Lambert precious time to be Evelyn’s parents, rather than always having to be her carers. The couple, both 38 and from Leeds, now fundraise as Team Evelyn, honouring their daughter’s memory while helping other families receive the same support. Evelyn was their second child and “a fighter from the very beginning”. After a healthy pregnancy, she suffered a loss of oxygen during birth, resulting in a severe brain injury and complex medical needs. “To us, Evelyn represents pure resilience and love, and a reminder to find hope in every single day, no matter how challenging,” Caroline and Michael said. “Some of our most cherished moments are the simplest ones, like having family cuddles during our respite stays at Martin House, where we could just

be Mummy and Daddy rather than carers. We also treasure the memories of taking her to some of our favourite places, and her being fully immersed in our everyday life at home.” Martin House’s community team visited the family at home, while respite stays allowed Evelyn’s medication to be reviewed and her symptoms managed by doctors. “Martin House gave us the gift of time, allowing us to spend most of Evelyn’s life at home, where she belonged, rather than stuck in hospital wards. They continue to help us navigate the emotional rollercoaster that comes after the worst has already happened.” Following Evelyn’s death, the hospice’s bereavement team provided counselling and family events, including Dragonflies, its group for bereaved siblings. Caroline and Michael promised that Evelyn would always be talked about. Through Team Evelyn, they have raised more than £125,000. “Fundraising is our coping mechanism. To date, we’ve raised over £125,000 through various challenges, and every event keeps

Evelyn present and in the minds of those who know us. We want to ensure that other families facing the unthinkable never have to feel like they are coping alone.” They also want to challenge misconceptions about children’s hospices. “Many people think hospices are just about the end of life, but for us, Martin House was about living comfortably and making time to celebrate small milestones as a family.” They say hospices can hold immense sadness while also being full of life, hope and fun. “Finding out that your child has a lifeshortening condition is devastating, scary and very isolating. But meeting people who have the time, compassion, knowledge and facilities to help you make the most out of whatever time you have is simply invaluable.” For Caroline and Michael, leading Team Evelyn is “an honour and a privilege”. “It’s how we keep our promise to her.” For more information about Martin House Children's Hospice, visit martinhouse.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

WAY WITH

words

Exploring the many reasons to visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum

et in the picturesque village of Haworth on the outskirts of Bradford, Haworth Parsonage was the home of the Brontë family from 1820 to 1861 and the place where Charlotte Brontë wrote Jane Eyre, Emily Brontë wrote Wuthering Heights and Anne Brontë wrote The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. Now the Brontë Parsonage Museum, it houses the world’s largest collection of Brontë items and offers an inspirational and evocative experience for people of all ages from all around the world. Whether you know the Brontës’ works cover to cover, are just a casual reader, or you’re simply in the area, the Museum is a beautifully preserved historic house with something to interest everyone. Items on display in the intimate rooms include handwritten letters, notebooks, personal belongings and household artefacts. Highlights include Emily’s paint box, Charlotte’s wedding bonnet,

Anne’s writing desk and the table where the three sisters gathered to write each of their world-famous novels. The Museum presents a regularly changing programme of events including the Brontë Women’s Writing Festival from 25-27 September. Join them as they celebrate women writers across fiction, non-fiction, poetry and scripts. Whether you’re into Gothic novels, historical fiction or folklore, they’re putting women’s stories at the centre. This year’s festival will be opened at a sold-out launch event with the BAFTA award-winning screenwriter and director Sally Wainwright, celebrating 10 years since the release of her Brontë biopic To Walk Invisible. While they’re looking back fondly on To Walk Invisible, they’re also looking forward to the upcoming adaptation of Jane Eyre, starring Aimee Lou Wood. Screenwriter and playwright Miriam Battye, who is working on the adaptation with Working Title, will also be attending the Festival this year to talk all about her experiences adapting Charlotte Brontë’s most famous novel. Plus, following the success of the Wandering Imaginations project in 2025, they’re continuing their literary partnership with Bradford Culture Company and Writers Project of Ghana. Literary Sisters: Accra to Bradford features writers Barsa Ray and Tabitha Bast from Bradford, and Emma Ofosua and Priscilla Adipa from Accra, as they share new work developed as part of this international writers exchange. This event will be twinned with a partner event taking place at Pa Gya! Festival in Ghana, and they’re so delighted to be continuing and strengthening their relationship with them. You can find out more about the upcoming Brontë Women’s Writing Festival at bronte.org.uk/whats-on A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK

Reserve THE DATE THE PENNY BUN

The Penny Bun, located near Ilkley, has been awarded AA Inn of the Year for England at the prestigious AA Bed & Breakfast Awards 2026. It will go on to compete for the national title at an Awards Ceremony in London in September. Part of the progressive Denton Reserve, The Penny Bun has a focus on Yorkshire produce under head chef Tim Kitchen. pennybunilkley.co.uk

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WHAT TO DRINK

TASTING NOTES

GRAPE news

Food news and the most exciting openings this month across Yorkshire By MARK KEBBLE

Wine recommendations for the month By THE WINE SOCIETY

Perdebee Sauvignon Blanc, Darling Hills 2025  £9.95 Bright and aromatic sauvignon blanc from the cool Darling Hills region on South Africa's western coast. Made by Groote Post, a beautiful old producer in Darling, this is crisp and vibrant with aromas and ﬂavours of gooseberry, Granny Smith apple and lime.

Le Bosc Pinot Noir Rosé, Pays d'Oc 2025  £9.75 A wonderfully fresh pink made from pinot noir grown close to the seaside town of Agde on volcanic soils. This reveals appealing notes of redcurrants, and makes the perfect aperitif come rain or, hopefully, shine and it goes surprisingly well with spicy food.

The Society's Chinon 2025  £9.95 Juicy, ﬂoral, and appetising Loire cabernet franc made by Maison Bougrier in the young, fresh 'brasserie' style. Expect aromas of fresh blackberry and redcurrants, white pepper spice and a lovely hint of dried herb with a juicy, medium-bodied ﬁnish. 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

Warm front B O OT H S

It’s the season for cosy nights with hearty recipes and an abundance of autumnal fruit and vegetables. Made with carrot, parsnip, fresh tomatoes and haricot beans, warm up with Booths’ latest recipe, Haricot Bean Cassoulet, paired with seasonal greens with melted butter and a glass of your favourite red wine. Scan the QR code for more recipes, or visit booths.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

YES TREAT YOU YOURSELF CAN Canned Indulgedrinks in these for delicious picnics and desserts more

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On Sunday 4th October, Michelin-starred restaurant Mýse from Joshua and Victoria Overington will host their inaugural Churn Supper. Inspired by the age-old tradition – a gathering to give thanks to the farming communities for their hard work – all proceeds will go to RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution). restaurantmyse.co.uk

GISBOROUGH HALL

North Yorkshire’s beloved privately owned country house hotel, Gisborough Hall, has launched a brand-new Wine & Dine Stay package (from £270). The package combines an overnight stay in the historic country house hotel with award-winning dining and a bottle of English wine waiting in guests’ rooms on arrival. gisborough-hall.com

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Autumnal ﬂavours H OT E L V I C TO R I A

Hotel Victoria in Robin Hood’s Bay have launched new dishes for autumn, overseen by Executive Chef Ryan Osborne. Ryan’s menus celebrate the very best of Yorkshire produce, combining seasonal ingredients with modern techniques to create dishes that are both familiar and reﬁned. victoriarhb.com

SWINTON PARK HOTEL

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Yorkshire’s Swinton Park Hotel near Masham is delighted to announce the appointment of Jamie Keeble as Head Chef of the refreshed Chef’s Table at Swinton. Jamie, formerly of Michelinstarred Mýse and recognised as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging culinary talents, will join the estate in September ahead of the Chef’s Table opening from 1 October. swintonestate.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Rooted in FLAVOUR Steve Darou discusses leaving London’s acclaimed St. John to shape a new era of estate-to-plate dining at Swinton Estate

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

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FOOD & DRINK • Q&A

STEVE DAROU

fter more than a decade helping shape the food philosophy at London’s legendary St. John, Steve Darou has swapped the capital for the Yorkshire Dales. Now Executive Head Chef at Swinton Estate, he’s bringing his ingredient-first approach, nose-to-tail expertise and passion for exceptional local produce to one of the county’s most celebrated culinary destinations. We sat down with him to talk about his journey, Yorkshire’s remarkable larder and his vision for the estate’s next chapter.

Q After 12 years at St. John, what was it about Swinton Estate that convinced you this was the right moment for a new challenge? A After starting a family, I knew it was the right time to leave London after so long. There was also a personal connection. My partner has Yorkshire roots, so relocating here felt like a natural step for us.

Swinton Estate immediately stood out because of the scale of the estate and the breadth of opportunities it offers. Having access to the estate’s land, kitchen gardens, game, livestock and wider natural environment gives you the chance to build something that’s deeply rooted in place, which is incredibly exciting as a chef – and opportunities like this don’t come along very often. To lead the food offering at an estate with such a strong reputation and so much potential felt like a rare opportunity that I didn’t want to let pass. In many ways, it feels like a full-circle moment. My career has always been centred around celebrating exceptional British produce, and Swinton offers the chance to do that on an even more immersive level by working so closely with ingredients from the estate itself. Q St. John has become synonymous with

ingredient-led, nose-to-tail cooking. How has that philosophy shaped you as a chef? A St. John has had a huge influence on the way I cook and think about food. It’s where I learnt the importance of respecting every ingredient,

EVERY MENU SHOULD TELL THE STORY OF SWINTON ESTATE minimising waste and letting exceptional produce speak for itself. Those principles have shaped me throughout my career and feel like a natural fit for Swinton Estate. With such incredible produce on our doorstep – from estate-reared game and livestock to the Walled Garden and fantastic Yorkshire suppliers – the focus is on celebrating what’s available season by season. Yorkshire also has a rich culinary heritage, so it’s an exciting opportunity to bring together everything I’ve learnt at St. John with the outstanding ingredients and traditions that make this region so special. Q Swinton talks about creating food that is “truly rooted in place”. What does that mean in practical terms? A For me, being “truly rooted in place” means that every menu should tell the story of Swinton Estate. Whether it’s vegetables and herbs from the Walled Garden, venison from the deer park or ingredients A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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sourced from trusted local Yorkshire producers, guests should be able to taste a genuine connection to the estate and its surroundings. Each dining experience – whether that’s the Chef’s Table, Samuel’s Restaurant or the Terrace – will have its own distinct character, but they’ll all be united by the same commitment to provenance, seasonality and showcasing the very best of what Swinton has to offer. The aim is for every meal to feel unmistakably of this place. Q The estate has everything from

a walled kitchen garden to game, livestock and local producers on its doorstep. Which ingredients are you most excited to start working with? A What excites me most is really the rhythm of the seasons and how each one brings something completely different to work with. The focus is always on using ingredients at their absolute peak – whether that’s the first asparagus of the year, the arrival of game season, or the abundance of summer vegetables from the garden. There’s also something very special about working

with hyper-local produce, like flour from Falshaw’s Farm, which has travelled just a few hundred metres rather than hundreds of miles. That sense of proximity and provenance is incredibly rare, and it’s exactly what makes cooking at Swinton so exciting. Q Sustainability and reducing waste are central to your approach. How do you balance making the most of every ingredient while still delivering a luxurious dining experience? A For me, luxury in food comes from treating exceptional ingredients with the utmost respect and allowing them to be the best version of themselves. It isn’t about excess or unnecessary complication, but about care, precision and restraint. At Swinton Estate, we’re incredibly fortunate to have access to outstanding produce right on our doorstep, and that in itself is the real luxury. Sustainability and reducing waste naturally sit within that approach – when you value every ingredient properly, you instinctively use it more thoughtfully and ensure it’s celebrated at its peak. Q Yorkshire has one of the UK’s richest food cultures. How much are you looking forward to building relationships with local farmers, growers and producers? A Yorkshire has some of the very best producers in the UK, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have many of them right here on our doorstep. I’m really looking forward to building strong relationships with local farmers, growers and producers, because for me the best cooking always starts with those connections and the trust you build over time. We’re already working with outstanding suppliers such as Falshaw’s Farm for flour, and Rob Middleton at Hilltop Farm for beef, alongside producers like Ed Stavely at Highfield House Farm – who, in a full-circle

LOCAL RELATIONSHIPS WILL HELP SHAPE THE MENU moment, I actually used in London without even realising he was supplying from Swinton’s own estate. That sense of provenance is incredibly special. These relationships won’t just supply the menu; they’ll shape it. It’s a real honour to work so closely with people producing such exceptional ingredients, and it’s what makes cooking here so unique. Q Swinton has earned an excellent culinary reputation in recent years. How do you build on that success while also putting your own stamp on the estate? A Swinton already has a very strong culinary reputation, and there’s a real foundation here to build on, so it’s not about reinventing the wheel. For me, the focus is on refining and strengthening what’s already working, while ensuring each dining space has its own clear identity. Although each restaurant will have a different style and experience, everything will still be rooted in the same place, with the same commitment to provenance and quality. We’re also fortunate that our suppliers are constantly evolving, which naturally elevates what we’re able to offer. My role is to continue that momentum, stay closely aligned with the existing restaurants, and allow things to evolve in a way that feels considered, consistent and true to Swinton.

swintonestate.com

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FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

T H E I VY

Harrogate Where style, atmosphere and exceptional dining meet

ew restaurants have mastered the art of creating a truly memorable dining experience quite like The Ivy Harrogate. Renowned for its distinctive interiors, impeccable service and consistently high standards, it has firmly established itself as one of North Yorkshire’s most desirable destinations for everything from leisurely lunches and celebratory dinners to relaxed cocktails and weekend get-togethers. Inspired by classic Parisienne cafés and grand European brasseries, the beautifully curated interiors feature rich fabrics, luxurious furnishings,

striking artwork and elegant finishing touches. The atmosphere is one of The Ivy Harrogate’s defining features. Whether visiting during the day or into the evening, there is an unmistakable energy that flows throughout the restaurant. The menu reflects The Ivy’s commitment to delivering classic dishes with contemporary flair, using quality ingredients and elegant presentation throughout. During our visit, guests were enjoying a wide variety of dishes, including selections from the popular Edition Vol. 3 menu, showcasing the breadth of choice available. Among the highlights were the beautifully prepared Queen Scallops,

FOOD Classic dishes served up with elegance

DECOR Beautiful ﬁnishes create a warm ambience

PRICE Starters from £9.50, mains from £18.95

VERDICT The Ivy Harrogate delivers on every level

delicately cooked to preserve their natural sweetness while delivering impressive depth of flavour. The centre-cut fillet steak, cooked medium rare, demonstrated the kitchen’s attention to detail, arriving perfectly cooked and wonderfully tender. Served alongside the restaurant’s indulgent truffle fries, it provided a timeless combination executed with confidence and precision. For dessert, the classic crème brûlée offered exactly what diners hope for – silky smooth vanilla custard beneath a perfectly caramelised sugar topping that cracked satisfyingly with every spoonful. To conclude the evening, the Toffee Fudge Espresso Martini provided a luxurious finish, balancing rich coffee notes with indulgent sweetness to create a cocktail that is every bit as memorable as the desserts themselves. The drinks offering is equally impressive, catering for every occasion. While the food undoubtedly plays a leading role, it is the service that consistently elevates The Ivy Harrogate above many of its contemporaries. Professionalism comes naturally to the team, with staff delivering attentive yet unobtrusive hospitality. During our visit, Olivia exemplified this approach, providing exceptional service with warmth, efficiency and an impressive knowledge of both the menu and drinks selection. What continues to distinguish The Ivy Harrogate is its remarkable consistency. Every element, from the carefully designed interiors to the quality of the food, comes together to create a dining experience that feels both luxurious and accessible. ivycollection.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

BLOSSOMING

appeal Calluna: a new dining experience at Saltmoore

T Calluna will offer a seasonal tasting menu that tells the story of North Yorkshire

his autumn marks a new chapter for Saltmoore, as Calluna, its highly anticipated fine dining restaurant, opens on 15th October. Set amongst the wild beauty of the North Yorkshire coast and moors, Calluna takes its name from Calluna vulgaris – the Latin name for heather. A resilient bloom that carpets the surrounding landscape in soft hues of purple, thriving amongst the elements, it is a fitting emblem for a restaurant shaped by its sense of place. Led by Saltmoore’s Executive Chef Adam Maddock, Calluna will offer a seasonal tasting menu that tells the story of North Yorkshire through ingredients drawn from garden, coast and moor. Produce from Saltmoore’s own kitchen garden will sit alongside ingredients sourced from a close network of local growers, farmers, fishermen and producers, with each dish guided by what is at its very best in that moment. For Adam, seasonality is at the heart of the experience. The menu will evolve throughout the year, allowing ingredients to lead the creative process and giving guests a reason to return as the landscape changes around them. It is a style of cooking rooted in provenance, but delivered with creativity, precision and a considered approach to every plate. Calluna is the latest evolution of the food and drink offering at Saltmoore, the luxury coastal retreat nestled between Sandsend and Whitby. Since reopening as Saltmoore, the estate has established itself as a destination for considered hospitality, bringing together restorative wellness, beautiful surroundings and a growing collection of dining experiences inspired by its Yorkshire setting. The new restaurant will offer an intimate experience, with just 24 covers each evening, creating a sense of occasion without losing the warmth and ease that defines Saltmoore. Open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, Calluna has been designed as a destination in its own right, somewhere to settle in, discover

the tasting menu and experience North Yorkshire through a distinctly Saltmoore lens. An insider tip: book the final seating at 8pm and you’ll remain at the Kitchen Counter for the evening, offering a frontrow view of Adam and the team at work. It’s an opportunity to experience Calluna from a different perspective, watching each course come together from one of the best seats in the restaurant. Its arrival comes at an exciting time for Saltmoore, following a year of continued evolution across the estate. Yet Calluna feels less like an addition and more like a natural expression of everything Saltmoore has become: deeply connected to the landscape, led by the seasons and unmistakably Yorkshire. From the first signs of heather on the moors to ingredients harvested from the kitchen garden, the landscape is never far from the table. Calluna opens at Saltmoore on Thursday 15th October 2026. Reservations are now open. Follow @callunarestaurant on Instagram for the latest from Calluna. Visit saltmoore.co.uk for more information and to make your reservation A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FA S H I O N

Sparkling SAPPHIRE

BERRY’S JEWELLERS

Berry’s OPEIA Collection captures the magic of the night sky through celestial-inspired designs. Sapphire pieces add rich colour and meaning, making them especially perfect for September birthdays – the month’s beautiful birthstone, symbolising wisdom, loyalty and protection. Discover the collection at berrysjewellers.co.uk

The Shoot 52 • Trend: Necklaces 55 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Changing

F A C E S Prepare for the transition to autumn with Barbour Leeds’ Pre AW26 Modern Heritage collection BARBOUR.COM

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Chain reaction New necklaces for layering or wearing solo B y PENDLE HARTE

ROBINSON PELHAM Paragon Diamond Necklace, £18,900 robinsonpelham.com

FRANCESCA VILLA

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

18k Yellow & White Gold Diamonds, Blue & Yellow Sapphires, Enamel, Titanium Keep Dancing Sea Horse Pendant, £8,860 francescavilla.it

Verve Collection 18ct White Gold GIA Certiﬁcated Diamond Loop Full Pendant, £4,995 berrysjewellers.co.uk

OTIUMBERG

TILLY SVEAAS

COEUR DE LION

Gold Vermeil Quartz Heart Necklace with Clear Quartz, £195 otiumberg.com

Wings of Peace Necklace, £240 tillysveaas.co.uk

Signature Collection Y-Style Necklace in Gold, £369 coeur-de-lion.org

H.AZEEM LONDON

Black & 18ct Gold Plated Silver White Topaz Green CZ Maya Necklace, £195 lauravann.co.uk

BERRY'S JEWELLERS Verve Collection 18ct Yellow And White Gold GIA Certiﬁcated Oval Cut Diamond Loop Pendant, £4,195 berrysjewellers.co.uk

Gaia Oval Necklace, £70 hazeem.co.uk

LAURA VANN

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

A REAL GLOW CHARLOTTE TILBURY

The secret to Sienna Miller’s effortless, lit-from-within glow? Charlotte Tilbury’s skincare-infused Unreal System – a summer glow-up in three sticks and just three steps. charlottetilbury.com

Beauty News 59 • SpineArt 61 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

FOCUS

HAIR HERO

EDITOR’S PICK

JVN

You might not have known that you need an Air Dry Cream, but if you want sleek, frizz-free hair that smells fabulous, this is your friend. There’s also a set of three miniatures in different scents that’s perfect for travelling. Complete Air Dry Cream, Jumbo, £45.

Diva RITUAL CECRED

Want to have hair like Beyonce? Cecred is Beyonce’s own haircare brand and we love the Nourishing Hair Oil – it’s a blend of 13 oils and plant-based extracts designed to seal in moisture and add a soft, natural shine without silicone ﬁlters, £43.

cecred.com

DY S O N

Dyson’s new Supersonic Travel Hairdryer is a portable hair tool doesn’t compromise on hair health or styling results. Complete with global voltage compatibility, it weighs less than a can of soda, fitting easily into handbags, carry-ons, and cabin luggage, £249.99.

National Fitness Day returns this month: time to get moving

spacenk.com

A IR P OW E R

POWERED BY YOU ational Fitness Day returns on 16th September, encouraging people across the UK to discover just how how much difference a little extra movement can make. Organised by ukactive, this year’s theme is “Powered by you!”, celebrating the idea that physical activity belongs to everyone, whatever their age, ability or current fitness level. Crucially, taking part doesn’t have to mean signing up for a marathon or committing to hours in the gym. National Fitness Day is about finding achievable ways to move more – and hopefully enjoying them enough to continue. That could mean joining a free local exercise class, heading out for a 20-minute walk, trying a new sport or simply taking a tenminute stretch break during the working day. Workplaces are also encouraged to get involved through lunchtime walks, walking meetings and group activities, while gyms, leisure centres and sports clubs will be hosting events and taster sessions. The message is simple: doing something is better than doing nothing. Regular movement can support physical and mental wellbeing, but National Fitness Day also offers the perfect excuse to experiment. Discover the kind of activity that works for you. ukactive.com/national-fitness-day

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Westward Care Luxury Retirement Apartments The complete package in later life

The perfect package to see you through your retirement years.

When you move to a Westward Care Apartment you are doing more than buying the perfect home. You get to retain your independence whilst also gaining the reassurance and peace of mind that care and support is on hand 24/7. Prices from £215,000 – £450,000

One and two-bed apartments available Luxurious high-end finish Locations in Headingley and Roundhay Active social programmes Freshly cooked meals prepared daily

Contact Catherine Reuben to arrange your visit: creuben@westwardcare.co.uk 07834 804 186

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Making an informed choice now about the advantages of moving to a more manageable property as you grow older will ensure you make the right choice for later life. Twitter @WestwardCare Facebook Westward Care

Headingley Hall 5 Shire Oak Road Headingley Leeds LS6 2DD Southlands Wetherby Road Roundhay Leeds LS8 2JU

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

Back up

PLAN Does your back hurt after ﬂying? Dan Fagan offers some travel tips for the pain

ave you ever arrived at your destination only to find your lower back feels stiff, sore, or painful? Lower back pain from flying is a common complaint, particularly during summer holidays when long periods of sitting, carrying luggage, and spending time in airports can put extra strain on your spine. Wherever you’re flying from, back discomfort can quickly affect the start of your holiday. The good news is that lower back pain from flying is often manageable, and there are several simple steps you can take to reduce discomfort before, during, and after your journey. Several factors can contribute to lower back pain from flying, especially during longer journeys: PROLONGED SITTING Sitting for several hours increases pressure on the discs, joints, and muscles in your lower back. Aeroplane seats often provide limited support, making it harder to maintain a comfortable posture. This is one reason why lower back pain from flying is so common, particularly among people who already notice discomfort during long periods of sitting. REDUCED MOVEMENT Long flights naturally limit how much you move. When muscles remain inactive for extended periods, they can become tight and stiff, particularly around the hips, pelvis, and lower back. POOR POSTURE Looking down at a phone, tablet, or laptop throughout a flight can place additional stress on the spine.

DAN FAGAN

Slouching or leaning forwards for long periods may increase strain on the muscles that support your back. LIFTING AND CARRYING LUGGAGE Heavy suitcases, backpacks, and lifting bags into overhead lockers can aggravate existing back problems or trigger new pain, especially if you twist while lifting. EXISTING BACK CONDITIONS For people with existing conditions such as sciatica, disc degeneration, spinal stenosis, or chronic back pain, prolonged sitting may make symptoms more noticeable during travel. If you regularly experience lower back pain after long journeys, understanding the underlying cause is important.

These symptoms may suggest an underlying spinal condition rather than simple travel related discomfort. Understanding when symptoms need professional expert assessment and treatment can help prevent ongoing problems. At SpineArt, we help patients understand the underlying causes of back pain and explore appropriate treatment options. If lower back pain or sciatica is affecting your travel, work, or everyday life, we can help assess your symptoms and discuss the most suitable next steps. Contact Dan Fagan on 07539 330360, or book online at spineart.org to start your treatment journey before your holiday

WHEN IS LOWER BACK PAIN FROM FLYING A SIGN OF SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS? Temporary stiffness after a flight is usually nothing to worry about. However, you should consider seeking medical advice if you experience: • Pain lasting several weeks after travelling; • Pain that regularly ruins your holiday or returns after flights or long journeys; • Pain spreading into the buttock, thigh, or leg; • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg; • Symptoms that affect sleep, walking, or daily activities. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS

LIGHT HOUSE C R I T TA L W I N D OW S

Internal and external systems from Crittall Windows combine minimal sightlines with maximum glazing, allowing daylight and borrowed light to flow throughout a property. Backed by more than 175 years of craftsmanship, Crittall creates beautifully designed architectural features that unite heritage character with contemporary performance. crittall-windows.co.uk

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BEYOND THE

paint From ﬁrst impressions to lasting comfort, discover how expert colour advice from Farrow & Ball can completely transform the way you live

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

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INTERIORS • FEATURE

BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS ARE CREATED THROUGH EXPERT KNOWLEDGE AND GENUINE COLLABORATION

here is a moment in every decorating project when inspiration gives way to uncertainty. Perhaps you’ve collected countless screenshots, built up a wall of colour on Pinterest, and still something just doesn’t quite fit. More often than not, it isn’t a lack of imagination that’s holding people back. It’s knowing how to make every decision work together. That’s where Farrow & Ball Colour Consultancy takes a refreshingly different approach. Rather than beginning with paint charts, the service starts with people. Every consultation is built around understanding how a home is lived in, how each room connects to the next and, perhaps most importantly, how you want your home to feel every day. Colour is treated as far more than decoration; it’s the first layer of comfort, quietly shaping the atmosphere long before the furniture is arranged or the finishing touches are added.

Whether you’re redesigning a single room, renovating an entire property or planning a commercial project, the consultancy is designed to remove the guesswork while giving clients the confidence to make bold or beautifully understated choices. Every project begins with conversation. Before the consultation itself, your Colour Consultant takes the time to understand your home, your aspirations and your personal style. Some clients arrive with detailed mood boards and a clear vision, while others simply know how they want their home to feel. Both approaches are equally valuable because every recommendation is tailored to the individual rather than following trends. The consultation itself is collaborative from start to finish. Rather than prescribing colours, consultants explore the property alongside you, noticing the details that often go unseen. The changing quality of natural light throughout the day, original architectural features, existing furniture, flooring, artwork and even the view through the windows all become part of the conversation. It’s this wider perspective that often makes the greatest difference. Instead of treating rooms as separate decorating projects, Farrow & Ball encourages a whole-home approach. Hallways, staircases and connecting spaces are considered just as carefully as kitchens or bedrooms, allowing colours to flow naturally while still giving each room its own distinct personality. Even exterior surroundings, from garden planting to brickwork, can influence the palette, creating a home that feels beautifully connected inside and out. Of course, every household lives differently. A family kitchen has different demands from a peaceful reading room, while an openplan entertaining space needs to balance energy with relaxation. Colour Consultancy isn’t simply about selecting attractive shades; it’s about creating environments that genuinely support everyday life. The service is equally accessible whether you choose an in-home or virtual appointment. Virtual consultations provide the same one-to-one expertise, with colour cards and fan decks supplied beforehand so

ideas can be explored together in real time. For those welcoming a consultant into their home, sampling tools allow colours, finishes and patterns to be viewed within the unique conditions of each room, helping decisions feel informed rather than instinctive. Once the consultation is complete, clients receive a comprehensive set of personalised recommendations covering colours, finishes, wallpaper suggestions, practical guidance and quantities, allowing every aspect of the project to move forward with confidence. The service also includes a 15 per cent discount, making it even easier to begin bringing the vision to life. Perhaps what makes the experience stand apart is that the relationship doesn’t end once the paint is ordered. Colour Consultants remain available for follow-up advice, with showrooms and customer services continuing to support clients throughout the decorating journey. It’s an approach that reflects a steadfast belief at Farrow & Ball: that beautiful interiors aren’t created through one perfect colour alone, but through thoughtful guidance, expert knowledge and genuine collaboration. In a world where decorating advice is often reduced to social media trends and fleeting fashions, Colour Consultancy offers something far more enduring. It gives homeowners the confidence to make decisions that not only look beautiful today, but continue to feel right for years to come. Because the best interiors aren’t simply designed to impress. They’re designed to feel like home. Turn over for an exclusive interview with a local Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • Q&A

FIRST HAND

knowledge Absolutely meets Naomi C, the local Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant covering Harrogate and Wilmslow Q Tell us a little bit about your career with Farrow & Ball… A I’ve been working for Farrow & Ball for over five years now, covering both Yorkshire and the North West. I feel extremely lucky to have the privilege of stepping into people’s homes and collaboratively working together to create schemes that completely transform their spaces. Q Can colour actually change how a room feels, even if nothing else changes? A Absolutely. Paint and wallpaper can dramatically change how a room looks and feels. Paint, in particular, is a really costeffective way of changing how a room looks,

at a fraction of the cost of flooring, textiles and furniture, but it can be one of the most impactful ways to transform a space. Wrapping a whole room, like a kitchen, in a colour such as Dimity, which has warm undertones, can instantly make a space feel warm and inviting. It can give a busy kitchen a more relaxed feel. Alternatively, creating a decadent dining room in something like Brinjal fills the room with a more opulent atmosphere. Q How do you help couples or

families with very different tastes reach one scheme everyone loves? A Probably one of the most important

parts of understanding a customer’s brief is listening to how they would like that space to feel, and equally importantly, how they use it. The biggest battle is usually between light and dark, which is completely understandable. Some people love neutrals for their calming impact, while others love colour because it makes them feel energised and instantly creates a bold statement. I like to start by understanding who predominantly uses a room and what its purpose is, whether it’s an office space or a family movie room. This can instantly help determine what type of colours might work best. Lots of clients want a dark, moody colour in an office space, but as a working environment, many people find that they don’t feel as motivated in very dark spaces. However, a family movie room that is predominantly used in the evening and lit by soft lighting could be the perfect space to create a tranquil sense of escapism with a colour like De Nimes. If couples have been clashing over colours for weeks, having a colour consultation is a great way to get an expert point of view that is completely independent. Q Do you have a favourite Farrow & Ball colour right now? A Oh, that’s tough because it can change weekly. I think I would have to say I’m drawn to Scallop at the moment. It’s a beautifully soft, brown-based pink that works so well in every setting because of its warm undertones. I’m also really enjoying some of the neutrals, like Lime White and Fawn from our Archive Collection, particularly for kitchens. They are light enough not to feel heavy, but the green undertones give them a crisper interest than some creamy whites.

Visit your local showroom to find out more about Farrow & Ball Colour Consultancy. Book an appointment with Naomi in store at 18-22 Albert Street, Harrogate, HG1 1JT, or 19 Church Street, Wilmslow, SK9 1AX, and visit farrow-ball.com

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Modern

VICO MAGISTRETTI CARIMATE CHAIRS IN LIBERTY’S MOUNT STITCH IN ACACIA

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INTERIORS • VINTAGE

LOVE Design lovers rejoice as Vinterior launches an exclusive capsule collection in partnership with Liberty

F 1960S BEECH STANDARD LAMP PAIRED WITH A BESPOKE LIBERTY LAMPSHADE IN OTTOMAN SPOT

or many design lovers, this is a match made in heaven. Liberty prints and midcentury furniture: both highly collectible and popular categories, both markers of style, and yet usually unconnected. This partnership sees carefully selected pieces of midcentury furniture upholstered with iconic Liberty prints for a highly collectible family of items to cherish. Vinterior, the leading home for preloved design, has partnered with British Liberty on an exclusive capsule collection. Carefully selected vintage finds are reimagined with Liberty interior fabric designs to produce a five-piece collection of one-of-a-kind furniture items. This partnership brings together Vinterior’s dedication to sustainable style and Liberty’s pioneering design innovation, in a testament to long lasting design. United through thoughtful craftsmanship, these brands are partnered in a shared creative vision and appreciation for legacy. Led by Liberty’s Head of Design for Home and Interiors, Genevieve Bennett, each item was carefully sourced from Vinterior, with Liberty’s fabric collections in mind. These are pre-loved pieces that have been made to last, reenvisioned through a Liberty lens, using fabrics that continue to inspire and resonate. Each unique item is rooted in quality and conscious design. Archival Liberty prints have been reinterpreted and appear alongside contemporary new artworks created in the London design studio. An archive of more than 60,000 pattern books, paintings, and drawings collated since the 1880s continues to serve as the inspiration for today’s designs. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • VINTAGE

“The collection offers pieces that feel both iconic and unmistakably contemporary” CASSINA MARALUNGA 2-SEATER SOFA IN LIBERTY’S SHADOW STRIPE WEAVE

ALKY CHAIR IN LIBERTY'S ZIGZAG VELVET

The collection includes a Cassina Maralunga 2-Seater Sofa, originally designed by Vico Magistretti for the Italian label Cassina. The renowned piece of Italian furniture has been reimagined using Liberty’s Shadow Stripe Weave in Amalfi. The fabric is an exploration of the unexpected in the Liberty archive, inspired by and celebrating the artistic movements of Futurism, Vorticism, and a century of avant-garde. Together, the sofa and fabric merge luxury, softness, and engineering, without compromising on aesthetic. Sitting alongside this is the iconic Alky chair designed by Giancarlo Piretti in 1969 and produced in Italy by Anonima Castelli. An original production from the early 1970s, the chair is a rare and highly collectible example of Italian modernist design brought to life by Liberty’s Zig Zag Velvet in Cetona from the FuturLiberty collection. Reworked from a Liberty archive design reference that is thought

to date from the early 20th century, the fabric evokes the vibrancy of jazz dance and features cut and uncut Jacquard velvet to create additional tones and textures. Sourced from Vinterior’s exclusive archive, two Vico Magistretti C1960s Carimate Chairs are available in Liberty’s Mount Stitch in Acacia – a densely embroidered fabric evoking mountainscapes and ancient forests. The charming scenery is framed by the bold red mid-century chairs, presenting an endearing character. While the fabric Cravat in Scarab Lacquer is used across a 1960s Swedish Lamino Footstool Ottoman. Chosen specifically for its curved attributes, the footstool offsets the geometric design in a dynamic harmony. Completing the collection is a Vintage Retro 1960s beech standard lamp paired with a bespoke Liberty lampshade in Ottoman Spot, an elegant cut-pile velvet inspired by a 19th century artwork

discovered in the Liberty archive and reimagined for contemporary appeal. “We’ve always been drawn to Liberty’s uncompromising commitment to craft,” says Vinterior founder and CEO Sandrine Zhang Ferron. “Their designs have outlasted trends for over 150 years. The pieces in this collection have done the same.” Liberty’s Genevieve Bennett explains: “We were naturally drawn to fabrics from our FuturLiberty and The House of Liberty collections, inspired by the same 1960s-1970s periods as the selected furniture pieces – each fabric felt perfectly aligned in history and aesthetic. Sculptural, curved silhouettes juxtapose dynamic geometrics, charming scenic landscapes, and bold textures. Bringing together our commitment to craftsmanship with Vinterior’s sustainable style, the collection offers pieces that feel both iconic and unmistakably contemporary.”

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

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

Small Details,

BEAUTIFUL

SPACES From statement tiles to mirrors, a few carefully chosen changes can make a surprisingly big difference

hen we think about improving our homes, it’s easy to imagine a complete renovation – new floors, a new bathroom and everything stripped back to start again. But sometimes it’s the smaller, more considered changes that give a room a completely new personality. A beautiful surface, a striking mirror or even a radiator can become the detail that brings an entire space together. The key is choosing elements that complement what you already have while introducing something fresh. Make a Statement with Tiles Tiles offer one of the simplest ways to inject colour, texture and character into a room without covering every surface. A tiled feature wall can transform a bathroom, while a new splashback can give a kitchen an instant lift. Rich greens and blues bring depth and personality, while warm neutrals and stone-inspired finishes create a softer, timeless look. Reflect Your Style Never underestimate the impact of a mirror. As well as being practical, the right design can introduce light, create a greater sense of space and provide a focal point in its own right. From elegant curves and statement frames to contemporary illuminated designs, changing a mirror can be one of

the easiest ways to refresh a bathroom without embarking on a complete redesign.

change the atmosphere of a space without changing everything around it.

Turn Up the Heat Radiators have undergone something of a transformation too. No longer something that simply needs to blend into the background, today’s designs come in an array of shapes, sizes, colours and finishes. A slim vertical radiator can add architectural interest while making clever use of wall space, while a traditional column design can introduce character to both classic and contemporary interiors.

Sometimes Less Really Is More A home should evolve with the people who live in it. Rather than replacing everything at once, consider which elements would make the greatest difference. New bathroom furniture, a statement tiled wall, an illuminated mirror or a beautifully designed radiator might be all that’s needed to make a familiar room feel exciting again. For more than 35 years, family-run The Tile Company has helped Yorkshire homeowners discover those finishing touches, with inspiring collections of tiles, natural stone, bathrooms, radiators, mirrors and accessories.Whether you’re planning a complete transformation or simply looking for one beautiful idea, a visit to the showrooms can provide the inspiration to get you started.

Introduce Natural Character Natural stone has a beauty that’s difficult to replicate. Its subtle variations, texture and individual markings can add warmth and authenticity to a room, whether introduced across a floor, feature area or carefully chosen surface. Pair it with existing furniture and complementary materials and it can

Visit thetilecompany.co.uk or call 01904 436085 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • TREND

OKA Pompadour faux shagreen cutlery set, 28 piece, £195 oka.com

COX & COX 16-piece cutlery set, wooden handles, £75 coxandcox.co.uk

CASA BY JJ

ADDISON ROSS

Four-piece Bamboo cutlery set, £80 casabyjj.com

Wave cutlery, 16-piece set, £80 addisonross.com

NKUKU Osko brushed gold cutlery set of 16, £190 nkuku.com

KNIVES OUT

CASA BY JJ Four-piece Pearl cutlery set, £80 casabyjj.com

Colourful cutlery is having a moment By P E N D L E H A R T E

VISTA ALLEGRE

SOPHIE ALLPORT Green handle 12-piece cutlery set, £150 sophieallport.com

REBECCA UDALL Tortoiseshell four-piece set, £60 rebeccaudall.com

EDITOR’S PICK

Domo matt gold cutlery set of 16, £495 micucci.store

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

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TRAVEL

ON THE CASE KAPTEN & SON

The key to a successful holiday? Obviously choosing the right location is paramount, but after that, surely it's packing. Pack right and you'll have everything you need to hand – and what you need to pack right is a suitable bag. Kapten & Son's collection has them all, clever pockets, dividers, and flexible options. kapten-son.com

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TRAVEL • MALDIVES

Kandima gives the classic Maldivian escape an energetic, stylish and unexpectedly playful twist B y C R A I G D AV I E S

here is a particular image of the Maldives that has become almost impossible to escape: an overwater villa, a hammock suspended above impossibly turquoise water and very little to trouble the diary beyond lunch, a swim and the important business of deciding where to watch the sunset. Kandima Maldives has all of that, of course. What it also has is rather more momentum. Set in the Dhaalu Atoll on an island stretching for almost three kilometres, Kandima takes the ingredients that make the Maldives so irresistible – dazzling white sand, warm Indian Ocean water and a colour palette that seems to run through every conceivable shade of blue – and adds something unexpected: energy. This is a resort where you can dive, snorkel, cycle, play tennis, make art, work out at midnight, dance after dark or, should the mood take you, race an electric go-kart beside the ocean. Getting here provides the first reminder that the Maldives really does look like the photographs. From Malé, Kandima can be reached by domestic flight and speedboat transfer, and as the resort

appears amid the blue, the transition from London life to island life feels satisfyingly dramatic. Once ashore, it’s clear this isn’t a resort overly concerned with traditional notions of Maldivian luxury. There is colour, contemporary architecture and a playful confidence to the place. Bicycles are part of the furniture, music drifts from the bars and there is a sense that you are arriving at a tropical resort with the scale and variety of a small village rather than disappearing into an isolated honeymoon hideaway. That distinction is important. Kandima isn’t the Maldives at its most hushed. It’s the Maldives with its shoes off and music on. ISL AND LIFE There are 270 studios and villas on offer, ranging from Beach and Sky Studios to Beach Pool Villas and those quintessentially Maldivian overwater retreats. The aesthetic throughout is contemporary: clean lines, generous proportions and splashes of colour rather than dark woods and faux-rustic castaway chic. For the full experience, however, it is difficult to resist life above the lagoon. Aqua Villas have private decks and direct access to the ocean, while Aqua Villas with Swirl Pools add an outdoor pool

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INTERIORS • FEATURE

to the equation. Ocean Pool Villas go further still with private pools and uninterrupted Indian Ocean views – and, if luck is on your side, dolphins passing in front. There’s something wonderfully indulgent about waking up, opening the curtains and seeing nothing but water. Morning entertainment comes courtesy of the reef fish beneath the deck; your commute to the sea involves a few steps. Kandima’s scale becomes apparent when you start exploring. Cycling quickly became one of my favourite ways to get around, particularly towards the end of the afternoon when the sun begins to soften. Palm-lined paths link villas with restaurants, pools, sports facilities and quieter corners of beach, and moving between them gives the island a sense of discovery that smaller resorts can sometimes lack. And there is a lot to discover. The facilities include tennis and badminton courts, a football pitch, beach volleyball and KULA Art Studio, where guests can join painting and craft classes with the resident artist. Then there is Fast Track, billed as the Maldives’ first asphalt oceanfront electric go-kart track, a 500-metre circuit that may not feature prominently in most fantasies of Maldivian serenity, but rather sums up Kandima’s determination to do things differently. There’s more indoor entertainment at PlaySpace, Kandima’s dedicated gaming hub, designed for all ages and packed with activities when you fancy a break from the sun. It’s another slightly unexpected addition to a Maldivian resort – and further evidence that Kandima has thought beyond the traditional beach-and-lagoon formula. The same applies to fitness. BURN is open 24 hours a day, while the wider sporting offering means it would take considerable determination to remain

AQUA VILLAS

LINEAR PLUS DRAWERS

PLAYSPACE

horizontal for an entire week. Not that anyone is judging if you do. FOOD FOR THOUGHT With a resort of this size, dining could easily become the weak link: enormous buffets designed to satisfy everybody but excite nobody. Happily, Kandima’s food offering is one of the reasons I would return. There is enough variety to ensure that dinner

Kandima doesn't ask you to subscribe to one particular idea of paradise feels like an occasion rather than a routine. Flavour and Zest provide the more relaxed market-style international dining, but the speciality restaurants are where Kandima really starts to show its personality. Azure is exactly the sort of restaurant you hope to find on a tropical island. Sitting beside the beach, it has a Mediterranean sensibility that suits the surroundings perfectly. Fresh seafood, salads and grilled dishes are the natural order of the day, and this is somewhere where lunch can very easily consume an afternoon. Add a chilled glass of wine, the lagoon a few metres away and nowhere particularly urgent to be, and plans tend to evaporate. Smoked offers something altogether richer. Built around an open BBQ kitchen, its menu moves through steaks, ribs, fresh fish and vegetarian dishes. Watching food cooked over the flames adds theatre without tipping into gimmickry, and it feels sufficiently special for a celebratory dinner while retaining the informality that Kandima does so well. Then there is Sea Dragon. Positioned over the water and specialising in Asian

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cuisine served family-style, it is one of the island’s most atmospheric dinner spots. There is the rather wonderful distraction of blacktip reef sharks gliding through the water beneath the restaurant – the sort of detail that makes even an excellent meal difficult to replicate once home. The casual options are equally important because they give the resort rhythm. Aroma Café overlooks a lake rather than the ocean and is an appealing stop for coffee, juices and baked treats; Deli covers quick bites and ice cream; while Breeze supplies the poolside drinks and soundtrack. It’s this choice that makes a longer stay work. One day can involve coffee at Aroma, lunch overlooking the water and dinner at Sea Dragon; another can revolve around the pool before heading to Smoked. Despite the resort’s size, dining doesn’t feel corporate or over-orchestrated. INTO THE BLUE If the restaurants surprised me, the ocean ultimately defined the trip. Aquaholics, Kandima’s diving and watersports centre, ensures that the lagoon is something to experience rather than simply photograph. Diving and marine biology activities sit alongside a watersports programme, and there is something particularly appealing about being able to switch so easily between doing nothing and doing rather a lot. Paddleboarding across water that barely seems to move is an excellent way to begin the day. Snorkelling, meanwhile, reveals the other Maldives: coral formations, flashes of tropical colour and rays moving silently beneath the surface. We loved seeing schools of reef fish and having encounters with rays, while the wider

IT IS A HAVEN FOR WATERSPORTS

Dhaalu Atoll offers opportunities for divers to see turtles, reef sharks and eagle rays. It is this accessibility that makes the difference. You don’t feel as though every adventure needs to become a major expedition. The ocean is simply there, waiting. Eventually, even the most enthusiastic diver needs some downtime, and esKape Spa provides the counterpoint to Kandima’s activity. Hidden amid tropical greenery, it offers treatments alongside steam and sauna facilities, yoga, a nail bar and hairdresser. After several days of swimming, cycling and being in the sun, surrendering an afternoon to the spa feels entirely justified. Families are well catered for too. Kandiland runs a daily programme of activities for younger visitors, while the abundance of sport, water-based activities and space gives older

FAST TRACK

children considerably more to occupy them than another afternoon around the pool. That helps explain why Kandima feels different from resorts built almost exclusively around honeymooners. Couples can find romance and privacy here – quite easily – but families and groups don’t feel like interlopers. As darkness falls, the island changes gear again. Music and live entertainment replace some of the daytime activity, and Breeze becomes a natural meeting point. Yet the clever part is that participation is optional. Kandima may have more going on than many Maldivian islands, but you can always walk away from it and find silence, stars and the sound of the Indian Ocean. And perhaps that is the real luxury here: choice. Kandima doesn’t ask you to subscribe to one particular idea of paradise. You can spend the morning beneath the ocean and the afternoon beneath an umbrella. You can have dinner cooked over flames at Smoked or linger over Asian food above the lagoon. You can cycle three kilometres, take an art class, visit the spa, go diving or ignore absolutely everything and sit on the beach. For anyone imagining the Maldives solely as a romantic cocoon, Kandima might initially come as a surprise. It is bigger, brighter and considerably more energetic than the archetypal private-island retreat. For me, its scale is precisely what makes it compelling. The Maldives supplies the beauty effortlessly. Kandima gives you reasons to engage with it. The villas are stylish, the dining impressively varied and the service warm, but my strongest memories aren’t confined to a room: they’re of cycling beneath the palms, slipping into the lagoon, discovering what lives below the surface and sitting over the water as another Maldivian day disappeared. You still return home with the photographs everyone expects: white beaches, blue lagoons and sunsets that scarcely look real. Kandima simply makes sure you return with a few stories as well. For full pricing information, visit kandima.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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TRAVEL • DUBAI

It holds the Guinness World Records title for Most Waterslides in a Waterpark

FANTASY

ISLAND Dubai’s Atlantis, The Palm, is a vast, sprawling world of its own

tlantis, The Palm is a 46-hectare, oceanthemed entertainment resort on Dubai’s man-made Palm Jumeirah island. The resort draws inspiration from the legendary lost city of Atlantis, blending Arabian architectural motifs such as Moorish archways, palm-shaped pillars and hand-wrought iron detailing with dramatic features. The vast resort holds 1,544 rooms and suites across two 22-storey towers, including six signature suites (notably two Underwater Suites), an Imperial Club with dedicated lounge and VIP perks, and over 2km of private beachfront, making it the largest continuous privately-owned stretch in Dubai. Dining is a major pillar, with 38 restaurants, bars and lounges spanning celebrity-chef venues (Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen and Street Pizza,

Nobu, Hakkasan, FZN by Björn Frantzén and Brasserie Frantzén), Michelinstarred options, and the award-winning underwater restaurant Ossiano. Family entertainment runs through Wavehouse, and Casablanca Beach Club, is an elevated beach club with a designer twist. The resort’s signature attraction is Aquaventure World, now the world’s largest at 22.5 hectares. It holds the Guinness World Records title for Most Waterslides in a Waterpark, with over 105 rides and attractions across three towers, three river rides, and dedicated kids’ zones, plus record-breaking slides like Odyssey of Terror and Shockwave. It’s also the Middle East’s first certified Autism Center waterpark. Marine life is central to the experience: The Lost World Aquarium and The Ambassador Lagoon together house over 65,000 animals across 250+ species, AZA-accredited since 2020. Dolphin Bay and Sea Lion Point offer conservationfocused encounter programmes. Wellness is served by the 2,400sqm AWAKEN Spa (27 treatment rooms, holistic "four elements" concept, vegan/ cruelty-free products) plus a fitness centre, nail bar, and salon/barber. Shoppers can browse The Avenues, a 2,200sqm retail souk with 30+ luxury boutiques including Tiffany & Co. and Stefano Ricci. The resort has earned extensive recognition, including multiple World Travel Awards, Forbes Travel Guide recognition, and sustainability honours, cementing its status as one of the region’s premier destinations. atlantis.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CREDIT: TOM ARBER, COURTESY OF HAREWOOD HOUSE

SPECI A L

LO O K CLO S E LY HAREWOOD HOUSE

Harewood House has won the 2026 Frances Garnham Award for Education for its programme exploring the estate’s links to the transatlantic slave trade. Through workshops, online sessions and visits, it encourages young people to examine Britain’s colonial past with empathy, question perspectives and understand history’s continuing influence on society today. Read more on p90.

Inside this section 8 6 VA L U E O F A P R E P E D U C AT I O N 9 2 JA SO N AN D TH E ARGO NAUTS R E I MAG I N E D 1 05 LOCAL NEWS & VIEWS

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POSITIVES As more parents weigh up options and budgets, Nathaniel McCullagh of Simply Learning Tuition considers the long-term value of a prep education

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EDUCATION • PREP

or many parents, paying for independent school for their child’s entire education is no longer an option. With the inclusion of VAT, average day fees are now around £19,000 a year or £50,000 for boarding, but this is an average. Many top schools charge far more – for example, Brighton College charges more than £19,000 a term for UK sixth form boarders. In effect, this would mean spending somewhere between £350,000 and £700,000 on independent schooling through nursery, prep and senior school – for one child. Unsurprisingly, a significant minority of families are now considering independent school for a limited time. For example, applications to sixth forms have remained strong despite fee increases, as parents choose to make financial sacrifices for two years. As more families mixand-match state and independent, the question becomes what age to prioritise. Many parents might consider it sensible to focus on senior and sixth, particularly as this covers off public exam years. They may also believe that home environment and family support can have a bigger influence on children when they are younger, but as they become teenagers their peer group matters more. It would be an oversimplification to assume that independent education in the earlier years (to Year 6 or Year 8) is a luxury, with the greatest value added at senior level. For example, if you live in the catchment area of an academically

Prep schools typically have smaller class sizes and more specialist teaching rigorous senior grammar but a poorperforming primary, then the opposite may well be true. Local situation plays a key part in such decisions, but there are also more general reasons why independent education through the formative prep years delivers long-term value. EXPANDING HORIZONS Prep schools typically have smaller class sizes, more specialist teaching, excellent facilities, high expectations for academic achievement and behaviour, varied extracurricular activities and outstanding pastoral care – including before and after school hours. Prep settings are important – they are often idyllic. For example, Sunningdale School, near Ascot, is set within 25 acres of woodland and playing fields, and boys can go fishing, mountain biking, climbing and camping. More rural still, at Pinewood School in Wiltshire, there are 84 acres and pupils can ride and go clay-pigeon shooting. Preps provide both breadth and depth of experience. Annie Gent, Head of Sherborne

Prep in Dorset, notes that senior school Heads, “really value the children who come on to them from us – their willingness to get involved in school life, their excellent education grounding across all subjects, and their quiet confidence, sense of community and maturity”. At Sherborne Prep, pupils are offered more than 130 different enrichment opportunities each term. Children play sport every day of the week (by contrast, state primary schools may offer as little as one lesson of PE a week), and every day pupils have a co-curricular lesson – whether that be Art, DT, Music, Drama or project work. STRETCH AND SUPPORT State primary schools can work well for confident independent learners who find the three Rs (Reading, Writing and Arithmetic) relatively straightforward. At the other end of the scale, those with severe learning difficulties (critically, children with an Education, Health and Care Plan – EHCP) get one-to-one help for free, and so can also be well-supported. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • PREP

However, an independent prep can really come into its own for both all-rounders and those who sit in the ‘middle’ of the academic spectrum. In a typical cashstrapped primary, it is easy for ‘middling’ or quieter children to be overlooked. An overstretched primary school teacher, trying to instruct a mixed-ability class of 30 with a range of educational and behavioural needs, may simply not be able to adequately support or stretch those students who are not obvious over- or under-achievers. THE 'PREPARATION' FACTOR By design, an independent prep school can help your child get a place at a top secondary school. Most parents are already aware that prep schools are excellent at readying students for the demanding entrance tests to academically selective independent schools, but they can also give students the best possible chance of moving on to a non-fee-paying selective school. For example, Gayhurst Prep in Buckinghamshire sees about 40% of its leavers head to one of the popular local grammars, while Holmwood House in Essex loses half its pupils after Year 6 to Colchester Royal Grammar and Colchester County High. Preps such as these help to prepare students for the rigours of the 11+ exam and senior life, but in a way that is less pressured than the Standard Assessment Tests (SATS) of state primaries, which are invariably much more about teaching to the test.

EXTENDED CHILDHOOD A critical benefit of the classic prep school – educating children from 7 to 13 – is that it gives children an opportunity to stay in primary education for longer. Those extra two years allow time to mature and enjoy a more carefree school existence for longer. Once children are in secondary school, immersed in the world of adolescence and surrounded by much older pupils, some innocence and confidence can be lost. Christine Cook, Head of Kitebrook School in the Cotswolds, points out that Years 7 and 8 in a prep school are valuable for offering plenty of leadership opportunities. “Students here have lots of chances to be role models to the younger pupils – for example, being a prefect – and can also excel in lots of areas, such as being a Scholar in an academic subject,” she says. “As well as helping to extend their childhood and hold off the pressures of teenage life for a little longer, it can really build up their confidence. For some students, moving to secondary school at Year 7 can make them feel like a very small fish in a very big pond, and force them to grow up very quickly.” It’s also worth noting that teachers at independent prep schools are specialists, both in terms of subject and age group. At secondary school, teachers are often incredibly busy prioritising A level or GCSE classes, or spending time writing references or assisting with university personal

statements, and so Year 7 and 8 classes can sometimes be a bit of an afterthought. At prep schools offering places up to 13, these year groups are the top of the school. In many respects, they are the priority. Despite prep schools’ many attributes, this may not be the right route for every child. Ultimately, it comes down to family circumstances, local options and your child’s interests, strengths and personality. There are opportunities outside school that help to add breadth and depth. In particular, working with a tutor can be invaluable for parents considering the independent school route for senior years, but nervous about the academic leap required. Tutoring represents an accessible investment to help ensure that, wherever your child spends their senior years, they can thrive. Nathaniel McCullagh is founder and director of Simply Learning Tuition. Find out more at simplylearningtuition.co.uk

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Learning

L EGACY Harewood House is earning national acclaim for an education programme encouraging young people to explore Britain's complex past with empathy

or generations, Harewood House has been celebrated as one of Yorkshire’s finest stately homes. Visitors flock to admire its magnificent architecture, priceless collections and sweeping Capability Brown landscape, but increasingly it is becoming known for something far more contemporary: its willingness to confront the more challenging aspects of its own story. That commitment has now been recognised on the national stage after Harewood House received the prestigious 2026 Frances Garnham Award for Education, presented by Historic Houses. The accolade celebrates an education programme that explores Harewood’s connections to the transatlantic slave trade while encouraging

young people to think critically about Britain’s history and its continuing legacy. Set between Leeds and Harrogate, Harewood House has always occupied a unique place within Yorkshire’s cultural landscape. Built during the 18th century to designs by celebrated architect John Carr, the grand Palladian mansion sits amid more than 100 acres of gardens and parkland, welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond. Yet while its architectural splendour remains undiminished, the estate has increasingly focused on telling a richer, more complete version of its past. That ambition lies at the heart of the award-winning learning programme. Through a combination of on-site workshops, live online sessions and self-guided educational visits, hundreds of students have been encouraged to look beyond dates and grand buildings to

discover the human stories connected with Harewood’s history. Rather than simply presenting facts, the sessions are designed to develop empathy, encourage thoughtful discussion and inspire pupils to question how the past continues to shape the present. The programme reflects a growing movement across Britain’s heritage sector to acknowledge difficult histories openly and honestly. At Harewood, educators have spent the past four years continually developing their approach, creating experiences that are engaging, age-appropriate and relevant for modern audiences. The aim is not simply to educate about historical events, but to give young people the confidence to ask questions, consider different perspectives and understand the complexities behind Britain’s colonial past.

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PHOTOS: TOM ARBER, COURTESY OF HAREWOOD HOUSE

HAREWOOD HOUSE HAS BECOME A PLACE WHERE HISTORY IS EXPLORED HONESTLY AND WITH PURPOSE

For Learning and Engagement Manager Mary Walsh, the recognition represents years of careful work. She describes the award as an acknowledgement of the team’s commitment to developing meaningful learning experiences around challenging subjects, while expressing the hope that other historic institutions will feel encouraged to explore their own difficult histories with similar openness. The ultimate goal, she says, is helping to shape the next generation into thoughtful, balanced thinkers who are prepared to engage critically with Britain’s past. The judges were particularly impressed by the way Harewood has woven together its house, archives and gardens to make history tangible for students. Rather than confining learning to traditional classroom settings, the estate uses the entire landscape as an educational resource, creating sensory

experiences that bring historical events to life. One element singled out for praise focused on "small acts of rebellion", giving children positive and personal ways to connect with complex themes that might otherwise feel distant or overwhelming. The Frances Garnham Award itself carries considerable significance within the heritage world. Named in honour of Historic Houses’ former Director of Policy and Campaigns, it celebrates innovative educational initiatives that broaden audiences and deepen public engagement with Britain’s historic places. Frances Garnham was passionate about ensuring heritage sites remained relevant, accessible and inspiring, making Harewood’s people-focused approach a fitting recipient of the honour. This year’s award also marks the first sponsorship by conservation specialists

Purcell, whose work preserving some of Britain’s most important historic buildings mirrors the programme’s emphasis on safeguarding not only architecture, but also the stories connected to it. By recognising projects such as Harewood’s, the award highlights how heritage organisations are increasingly balancing conservation with education, ensuring historic estates continue to evolve for new generations. For Yorkshire, the accolade is another reminder that Harewood House is far more than an impressive visitor attraction. Alongside its events programme, it has become a place where history is explored honestly, thoughtfully and with purpose. At a time when conversations around Britain’s past continue to evolve, the estate is demonstrating how heritage can be both beautiful and challenging. That willingness to embrace complexity is perhaps Harewood House’s greatest achievement. Beautiful stately homes have always inspired admiration, but the very best also inspire conversation. By inviting young people to engage with history in all its richness, nuance and humanity, Harewood is proving that the most valuable lessons are often those that encourage us not simply to look back, but to think more deeply about the future. harewood.org A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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PHOTO: SOPHIE DAVIDSON

CLARE POLLARD

E P I C

A DV E N T U R E While Jason and the Argonauts is not famous for laughs, Clare Pollard has delivered a funny and gripping take on the myth to delight middle-grade readers 92

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EDUCATION • BOOKS

ow do you solve a problem like Medea? It’s one of the reasons Clare Pollard believes Jason and the Argonauts is a story that hasn’t been retold for a young audience in a while. But it’s a challenge she decided to take on, in part because it began her lifelong fascination with the myths and legends of Ancient Greece. “I think for me the starting point was seeing the movie of Jason and the Argonauts when I was a kid, which is why the story means so much to me. I absolutely adored it.” The result is The Othernauts, with adventure, characters to love and – it has to be said – a slew of epic jokes about the weirder aspects of the tale and the lives it describes. The time felt right because Clare has her own children as inspiration: “I’ve got children who are nine and 12 so middle grade is right in the zone.” And there is, she admits, a little bit of their sibling dynamic in central characters Phoebe and (plot spoiler) her twin brother Perry. This is an author who has worked across genres and age groups – from The Weather, a play that premiered at the Royal Court, to poetry, adult fiction and non-fiction, plus a new translation of Ovid’s Heroines that she toured as a one-woman show. “I’ve always loved writing everything, really,” she smiles. Her book Fierce Bad Rabbits was an exploration of the sometimes dark and sinister elements of children’s stories. “I take children’s literature very seriously,” she says. “I think we should all take children’s literature seriously and think about what stories we’re telling them. These books completely shape our imagination and often shape our moral code, our sense of what’s

possible in the world.” Now with two children of her own, she’s believes the biggest mistake a writer can make is to underestimate the audience. “Your storytelling needs to be just as good, your descriptions just as evocative, your characters just as rounded, your jokes just as witty.” In The Othernauts, there’s no dumbing down in the language, and she shows the

same respect for the wit of a child audience as an adult one, albeit with some thought about the grislier bits of Greek myths. “There is dark material in them that you have got to handle quite carefully. But I just love the idea that I’m telling a story to children that is a version of the same story told to children thousands of years ago. I find that just incredible,” she says. “I really love reinterpreting these myths and trying to make them relevant now.” Medea, that problem character, is handled rather beautifully. “I had quite good fun turning her into a Goth teenage witch,” she laughs. From her first stomping and slamming entrance, because she’s taken a night off from the shrine (where she spends her time making potions and sun-drying shrews’ hearts), she’s riveting and ghastly in equal measure. As Phoebe puts it: ‘I thought she’d be cooler than this’. The seriously cool character in The Othernauts is Phoebe, who is also incredibly funny. What’s not to love about a heroine who starts out telling us how deeply bored she is, with only a wicked stepmother and poisonous flowers for company on the dust-smothered and man-free island A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • BOOKS

CHILDREN START GIVING ME A BLOWBY-BLOW ACCOUNT OF THE ODYSSEY of Lemnos. She certainly doesn’t want to be a boy – having been educated in man hating since she was small – but she wouldn’t mind a change of scene. “I really wanted Phoebe to be that cynical, sarcastic character,” says Clare. Here, she admits she was influenced by her own children and the way they crack jokes – part of the shared language of home. “We all really love that deadpan humour,” she laughs. She believes jokes are a hook for this age group, as long as they are actually funny, but she had the perfect judging panel of two. “Children are a particularly good audience to test jokes on. A joke will fall absolutely flat – it’s humbling,” she says. There’s no doubt that audiences – boys and girls – are going to enjoy the polished humour in a story that treats a dark myth with lightness. Clare thinks the Greek myths endure because they have a plot that’s for everyone. “What’s so appealing about Greek myths – and the same is true of fairytales and a lot of these traditional tales – is that they weren’t aimed at children. There

wasn’t such a thing as childhood in those days. It was literature for everybody.” She’s looking forward to taking The Othernauts into schools – where she already does a lot of work with The Poetry Society – because she knows there’s a keen audience. “The couple of workshops I’ve done so far, it’s been hard to get a word in edgeways because children start giving me blow-byblow accounts of The Odyssey – they get geeky about it!” She’d like the workshops to cover something else the Greek myths gave us. “I think the Greeks invented the shapes of stories – the stories that we still tell now,” she says. “One of the things I’m going to be asking is, how does a story work?”

The good news for readers who get behind Phoebe and Perry is that they ride off into the sunset in search of another adventure. The second book is well into production – no plot spoilers but expect monsters, a fiendish female and other typical hazards of ancient times. Clare is delighted because these are two characters she isn’t ready to let go of quite yet. “I’m fond of Phoebe and Perry. It’s really nice to take them forward into another story and see them grow up a bit.” The Othernauts, written by Clare Pollard and illustrated by Macha Yao, is out now (£7.99, Piccadilly Press)

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

“Aboremp orerisque et labor solo volorehenda eiunt, odiam fuga. quam eum volut”

Building

character Values-led education praised by ISI at a leading independent school in Lancashire

ounded in 1593, Stonyhurst is a leading day and boarding school and the world’s oldest continuously operating Jesuit school. Set within a spectacular 1,000-acre estate in Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, it has spent more than 430 years educating young people through a philosophy that values character as highly as academic achievement. A commitment to educating the whole person lies at the heart of Stonyhurst’s mission. Guided by the Jesuit principle of cura personalis – care for the whole person – pupils are encouraged to develop intellectually, socially, spiritually and emotionally. Head of Stonyhurst, William Doherty, believes this holistic approach is more relevant than ever. “A Jesuit education is not one dimensional – too often schools are focused on academic achievement, but a Jesuit education focuses on the whole person,” he says. “It is about putting morality, spirituality, wellbeing, reflection

and service at the core of education.” This enduring philosophy begins in the Prep School, Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, where curiosity is nurtured through a broad and engaging curriculum, and continues through to Sixth Form, where pupils benefit from increasing opportunities for leadership, independence and personal responsibility. This approach was recently recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), which confirmed that Stonyhurst met all Independent School Standards and awarded the school the rare distinction of a Significant Strength for its co-curricular programme. Inspectors concluded that “the cocurricular programme promotes pupils’ wellbeing particularly effectively, and is a significant strength of the school”. From leadership and service to sport, music, drama and outdoor education, pupils are encouraged to discover their strengths beyond the classroom while developing confidence, resilience and compassion. For William, the inspection affirms a vision that has guided Jesuit education for centuries. “Again, this is about educating the whole person,” he explains. “Pupils grow and develop because of the co-curricular programme – it makes an impact on their formation.” The school’s boarding provision was also praised, with inspectors describing boarding as “a vibrant, diverse and inclusive community where pupils learn

the value of living together in harmony”. William sees the combination of day and boarding pupils as one of Stonyhurst’s great strengths: “From a boarding point of view, we recognise that it often represents a great sacrifice on behalf of parents as it is all about letting go – preparing your children to fly from the nest with confidence.” Whether day pupils or boarders, every pupil benefits from a strong culture of care and support throughout their educational journey. Inspectors praised the school for its “embedded culture of safeguarding” and recognised the strong whole-school approach to pupil welfare promoted by leaders. Looking ahead, William’s ambition is clear: “Our aim is to cultivate outstanding team players who have a global perspective. A Jesuit education encourages discernment and gratitude – understanding what gives you joy and being appreciative of it.”

Find out more at an Open Day – scan the QR code for more A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

THRIVING

ONLINE Alex Wilson, Head of Sheffield Girls’ GDST, discusses the school’s ethos and actions on such a crucial topic for young people

he debate around children’s use of smartphones and social media has intensified over the past year. New government guidance encouraging schools to become mobile phone-free, alongside wider discussions about strengthening online protections for young people, reflects a growing recognition that the digital world is having a profound impact on children’s learning, wellbeing and development. For schools, however, this conversation is far from new. Like many educators, we have witnessed the growing pressures that constant connectivity can place on young people. While technology brings extraordinary opportunities for learning, creativity and communication, it can also amplify distraction, anxiety, social comparison and misinformation. The challenge is particularly complex for girls, whose online experiences are often shaped by friendship dynamics, image-based platforms and the relentless pressure to present a curated version of themselves.

That is why, at Sheffield Girls’, we introduced a phone-free school day for pupils in Years 7 to 9 at the start of the last academic year, ahead of the government’s latest announcements. Our decision was not driven by legislation, but by what we knew would best support our pupils’ learning, relationships and wellbeing. The impact has been striking. Breaks and lunchtimes have become opportunities for conversation rather than scrolling. Pupils are spending more time together, participating in clubs and activities and simply enjoying being present with one another. Teachers have also reported calmer starts to lessons and greater focus throughout the day. This phone-free environment will now be expanded to our entire senior school. Yet while restricting access to phones during the school day has clear benefits, it is only one part of the solution. Children’s digital lives do not begin at the school gates, nor do they end there. Today’s young people learn, communicate, socialise and increasingly seek information online. Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday life, while social media algorithms influence not only what young people see, but often how they think, feel and interact with the world around them.

We therefore believe that our responsibility extends beyond limiting screen time. Our role is to educate. Through our pastoral programme, pupils are encouraged to become thoughtful and critical consumers of digital content. They explore how algorithms shape what they see, why misinformation spreads, how AI-generated content should be questioned and what their digital footprint may mean for their future. They are encouraged to ask not simply whether something is popular, but whether it is reliable, ethical and true. Perhaps most importantly, we create opportunities for discussion rather than instruction. Girls are encouraged to question, debate and reflect on the online world they inhabit. We know that confidence grows not from being protected from every challenge, but from developing the judgement to navigate those challenges independently. Government policy has rightly focused attention on the role of smartphones in schools. That is an important step. But if we want to prepare young people for the world they will inherit, we must look beyond the devices themselves. The real opportunity lies in helping children become discerning, resilient and responsible digital citizens, capable of engaging with technology thoughtfully rather than being shaped by it. That, ultimately, is the education that will serve them for life. sheffieldhighschool.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

Starter

FOR TEN The reasons why Queen Ethelburga's stands out for parents in Yorkshire

or families exploring independent education in Yorkshire, Queen Ethelburga’s has built a reputation that extends well beyond strong academic results. Here are ten reasons why many parents consider it one of the region’s standout schools. 1. OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE Queen Ethelburga’s consistently achieves some of the strongest GCSE and A Level results in the North of England, with students regularly progressing to leading UK and international universities. Independent league tables frequently place the school among the country's top performers. 2. A COMPLETE EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY Children can begin from nursery age and remain through to Sixth Form, providing continuity in learning, friendships and pastoral care without the disruption of changing schools. 3. EXCEPTIONAL FACILITIES Few schools in North Yorkshire can match the campus. Students benefit from extensive sports facilities, performing arts

spaces, science laboratories, boarding houses, fitness centres and dedicated learning environments, all set within more than 220 acres of countryside. 4. PERSONALISED LE ARNING PATHWAYS Whether a student excels academically, creatively or practically, Queen Ethelburga’s offers a broad curriculum including A Levels, BTECs and specialist pathways, allowing pupils to pursue strengths that suit their ambitions. 5. STRONG FOCUS ON STUDENT WELLBEING Parents consistently value the school’s emphasis on pastoral care. Dedicated wellbeing teams, tutors and support staff help students develop confidence, resilience and independence alongside academic success.

the school offers a genuinely global learning environment. For many North Yorkshire families, this provides children with cultural awareness and international friendships without leaving the region. 8. FLEXIBLE OPTIONS FOR MODERN FAMILIES Queen Ethelburga’s caters for day pupils, flexi boarders and full boarders, giving families flexibility to choose an arrangement that fits their lifestyle and their child’s needs. 9. INVESTMENT IN INNOVATION The school continues to expand its offering with programmes in areas such as esports, motorsport, digital technology and leadership, alongside traditional academic subjects, preparing students for a rapidly changing world. 10. A REPUTATION THAT EXTENDS BEYOND YORKSHIRE While it serves many local families, Queen Ethelburga’s also attracts students nationally and internationally, reflecting its reputation for academic excellence, impressive facilities and a broad educational experience. For parents in Yorkshire, it offers access to a globally recognised school close to home. To find out more, book on to an Open Day or arrange your own private tour with the Admissions Team visit qe.org, call 01423 333330 or email admissions@qe.org

6. OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND THE CL ASSROOM From elite sport and performing arts to engineering competitions, debating, entrepreneurship and international trips, students are encouraged to discover new interests and develop valuable life skills. 7. INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE With students from dozens of nationalities, A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

ARTIST RESIDENCES HAVE BEEN PART OF YSP'S DNA FOR ALMOST 50 YEARS

WORK BY JIM EVER

S H A P I N G

tomorrow Yorkshire Sculpture Park is once again investing in the county’s creative future with a prestigious award for emerging artists

orkshire has long punched above its weight when it comes to producing artistic talent, and now one of the county’s most celebrated cultural institutions is ensuring that tradition continues. Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) has launched its 2026 Yorkshire Graduate Award, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists and giving recent graduates the chance to develop their practice in one of the most inspiring creative settings in the country. Open to graduates from universities across Yorkshire, the annual award offers much more than financial support. The successful applicant will spend up to two weeks in residence at YSP, with accommodation, travel, curatorial guidance, technical support and funding to create new work inspired by the park’s extraordinary landscape. The residency

culminates in a public presentation, offering an invaluable platform for an emerging artist at a pivotal stage in their career. Artist residencies have been part of YSP’s DNA for almost 50 years, allowing creatives to experiment, refine ideas and push their practice in new directions. Since the Yorkshire Graduate Award was introduced in 2018, it has become an important launchpad for artists working across sculpture, photography, performance, film, sound and beyond, reflecting the diversity of contemporary artistic practice in the region. Among those to benefit is the latest recipient, Jim Ever, whose residency has allowed him to create an ambitious body of site-responsive work that will be exhibited in The Boathouse over the August Bank Holiday weekend. “Receiving the Yorkshire Graduate Award from YSP has been a formative experience in the early stages of my career,” says Jim. “The combined experience of an on-site

JIM EVER AT YSP

residency and the opportunity to exhibit has allowed me to work site-specifically across image, sound, sculpture and light, exploring the complex boundaries of the human and non-human world and acoustic ecology. “I’m thankful for the generous and ongoing support from the team, and I’m looking forward to showcasing the work that’s been developing over recent months.” His forthcoming exhibition reflects the layered histories of the YSP landscape and the relationship between people and place. “The work I’ve produced for YSP, which will culminate in an audiovisual installation, is siteresponsive,” he explains. “I’ve been working on a floor-based sculpture, a sound piece, and projected moving image, as well as imagebased pieces… aiming to keep the presentation as subtle and nuanced as possible.” Applications for the 2026 Yorkshire Graduate Award are now open to recent BA and MA graduates from Yorkshire-based universities, with submissions welcomed from artists working in all disciplines. For anyone hoping to take the next step in their creative career, it represents a rare opportunity to develop new work at one of the world's leading sculpture parks while joining a legacy that has supported more than 1,000 artists over the past five decades. ysp.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • NEWS

EDU CATION NEWS The latest from schools across the county

Good to talk

Highly acclaimed Duchy College, Harrogate (formerly Harrogate Ladies’ College), is celebrating multiple commendations in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards. Duchy College has been commended in the Regional Independent School of the Year: North category, while Duchy College Prep (formerly Highfield Prep) received a commendation in the Independent Prep School of the Year category, the only North Yorkshire prep school to be commended. “To gain recognition in these national awards is a fantastic achievement for our family of schools,” Principal, Joanna Fox, said. “We are exceptionally proud to represent our region in the North, with our pupils achieving some outstanding accolades in the past 12 months. We were the only Yorkshire school to feature in the TeenTech Finals, with three of our pupils going on to win in their category, our senior netball team was Yorkshire’s lone representative in the finals of the Sisters N Sport Seniors Trophy and our Chapel Choir flew the flag as the only Yorkshire school in the National Choir Competition Grand Final.” hlc.org.uk

Sheffield Girls’ GDST recently welcomed BBC Radio 4’s flagship current affairs programme Any Questions?, hosting the live broadcast from its historic Trinity building before an audience of more than 1.5 million listeners. The programme brought together leading political and economic voices, including Sarah Champion MP, Dr Caroline Johnson MP, economist Gerard Lyons and Danny Sriskandarajah, with BBC presenter Alex Forsyth chairing the discussion. The event reflected the school’s commitment to encouraging debate, critical thinking and confident communication, giving pupils the chance to see national conversations taking place first-hand. Headteacher Alex Wilson said it was “a privilege” to welcome the programme, adding also that education should equip young people “with the confidence and critical thinking skills to think for themselves”. sheffieldhighschool.org.uk

Top marks Bootham School in York has been commended in the Independent Boarding School of the Year category at the Independent School of the Year Awards 2026. The city-centre school, for girls and boys aged 2-18, believes that happy students achieve more. Its focus on creating a kind, supportive community built on mutual respect sits at the heart of the Bootham experience, balancing academic excellence with outstanding pastoral care. Alongside Day places, Bootham offers Flexi, Weekly and Full Boarding from age 11, with choices to suit busy family lives. If you’re exploring school options this autumn, discover Bootham at an

upcoming Open Event; College Open Evening: Thursday 24th September; Senior School Open Day: Saturday 26th September; Junior School Open Week: Monday 28th September – Friday 2nd October. Book your place at boothamschool.com/open-days

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PROPERTY

Harrogate Road, Leeds LS17 GUIDE PRICE

£2,250,000

rare opportunity to acquire a residence of

prestige, Millfield House is a A unparalleled stunning synthesis of period architecture and high-specification modern living. From its striking stone façade to its meticulously curated interiors, this property represents the gold standard of luxury real estate. Amenities include five bedrooms and six acres of gardens.

STRUTT & PARKER HARROGATE

01423 205442 struttandparker.com

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PROPERTY • FOCUS

MONEY CAN BUY… Absolutely takes a look around Tipperthwaite Lodge, a wonderful rural escape in North Yorkshire WHERE Situated along a quiet country lane on the edge of Giggleswick, the property enjoys a tranquil setting surrounded by open farmland while remaining within easy reach of Settle. WHAT Extending to approximately 2,404 sq. ft., Tipperthwaite Lodge combines period charm with stylish contemporary interiors. INSIDE Beautifully presented throughout, the home offers a superb balance of character and modern comfort. The triple-aspect sitting room is centred around a striking stone fireplace with log burner, while limestone flooring with underfloor heating flows across the ground floor. The bespoke Shaker-style kitchen connects seamlessly to the formal dining room, creating an ideal space for entertaining. A separate family room, home office and utility room provide excellent flexibility for modern family living. Upstairs, four spacious double bedrooms are finished in a calm, neutral style, with the principal bedroom benefiting from an en-suite shower room. A contemporary family bathroom with separate bath and rainfall shower completes the first floor. OUTSIDE Set behind a five-bar gate, the property offers ample private parking and beautifully maintained south-facing gardens extending to approximately 150 feet. A generous circular lawn, mature trees, stone wall boundaries and a paved terrace create wonderful spaces for relaxing and entertaining. A detached outbuilding provides useful additional storage. PRICE Asking Price £775,000 AGENT Fine & Country Ribble Valley 01200 420747 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s 109

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Pastures

NEW The next chapter: more than a move

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rom future-proofing your lifestyle to understanding what really comes as standard, choosing a new home means thinking beyond the floorplan. At The Pastures in Hambleton, a new collection of bungalows is putting that thinking into practice. The way we choose our homes is changing. Bedroom numbers and location will always matter, but increasingly, buyers are looking beyond the basics. How much will a home cost to run? What will it need to maintain? What comes included in the price? And, perhaps most importantly, will it still work for the life you want five, ten or even 20 years from now? It’s a different way of thinking about moving. Less about simply finding a bigger house and more about finding the right house.

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PROPERTY • PARTNERSHIP

Downsizing doesn't have to mean downgrading That can be particularly important when approaching a new chapter in life. Downsizing, for example, doesn’t have to mean downgrading. For many buyers, it can mean exchanging unused bedrooms and unnecessary upkeep for a home that is easier to manage, more energy efficient and better suited to the way they actually live. At The Pastures in Hambleton, Banks Homes is putting that idea into practice with the release of its two-bedroom bungalows, alongside a wider collection of three, four and five-bedroom homes. The single-storey designs offer an interesting alternative for buyers who want to plan ahead without sacrificing the pleasures of owning a brand-new home. And that leads to one of the most useful questions to ask before any move: are you buying for the life you have now, or the one you’re creating? LOOK BEYOND THE ASKING PRICE Affordability is inevitably part of every homebuying journey, but the asking price tells only part of the story. Before making a decision, it is worth considering the ongoing costs of the property too. Heating, energy efficiency, maintenance and improvements can all have an impact on household finances long after the keys have been collected. A new build offers the advantage of starting afresh, with modern materials, contemporary heating technology and fewer immediate renovation jobs competing for attention. Banks Homes places energy efficiency and sustainability at the heart of its homes, with features including air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging forming part of its approach to creating homes designed for modern living. FIND OUT WHAT YOU'RE ACTUALLY BUYING There is another question worth asking when comparing homes: what comes as standard? The beautiful kitchen or bathroom that first catches your eye can look rather different on the final bill if many of its features are upgrades. Banks Homes takes a “more built in” approach, with high-quality designer kitchens and bathrooms from recognised partners and carefully considered specifications helping to reduce the list of extras buyers may otherwise expect to add. Visitors to The Pastures can see that philosophy brought to life inside the four-

bedroom Elvet showhome, which is now open. Rather than simply looking at plans and measurements, walking through a finished home provides the opportunity to consider the details that really influence everyday living: natural light, storage, how rooms connect and whether the spaces work for the routines of real life. THINK ABOUT EVERYTHING OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR Of course, you don’t just buy a home. You choose everything around it too. The school run, Sunday walks, trips to the shops, visits from family and the daily commute all become part of life in a new place. Hambleton offers village living and countryside surroundings while retaining connections to the wider North Yorkshire area. And The Pastures itself is beginning a new chapter. With the first homeowners moving in, what was once a collection

of plans, CGI images and construction activity is gradually becoming a neighbourhood. Front doors are opening, gardens are beginning to be lived in and new routines are taking shape. For prospective buyers, that makes now an interesting time to visit. You can experience the Elvet showhome, explore the development as it evolves and consider not only which house you might choose, but what you want your next move to give you. Because perhaps the best question to ask when viewing your next home isn't simply. “Can I see myself living here?” It’s, “Can I see myself still loving living here years from now?” V I S I T T H E PA S T U R E S The Elvet showhome at The Pastures, Hambleton is open Thursday to Monday, 10am–5pm. Email: thepastures@bankshomes.co.uk Telephone: 01757 560171

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LAST WORD • PLACE

why everyone is talking about…

Ripon Workhouse

Museum

The major new visitor experience brings Victorian stories of poverty, justice and survival to life

tep into the shoes of Victorian paupers, vagrants and workhouse children as the newly transformed Ripon Workhouse Museum has opened following a £2.8 million redevelopment. Through hands-on activities, interactive displays and powerful storytelling, visitors will discover what life was really like inside one of Britain’s most complete surviving Victorian workhouses. The new and expanded museum trail takes visitors on an immersive journey telling the individual stories of past residents, who entered the workhouse gates as a last resort. The reopening marks the culmination of extensive conservation and restoration work undertaken as part of the Inspiration for a Fairer Future project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Other supporters include The Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation and North Yorkshire County Council. The largest building on the workhouse site, the Residents’ Block, where paupers ate, slept and worked, has had a complete and sensitive restoration as part of the project. This building had been acquired by Ripon Museum Trust in 2017, but was in a state of disrepair after years of changing uses such as a care home and council offices. As part of the project, the leaking roof and rotten windows have been fixed, and historical features reinstated to restore its authenticity. Revamped rooms include the Old Men’s Day Room, Kitchen and Dining Hall, and the original workhouse cellar has been opened up for the first time. Dr Laura Allan, curator at Ripon Museums Trust, says: “The cellar is particularly exciting as it’s the only part of that building that had been untouched since it

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was turned into council offices. It has the massive original meat block table where the workhouse pigs would be butchered, trough and sink. It’s like glimpsing behind the curtain, seeing how it truly was.” The hands-on visitor experience is designed to be a unique thought-provoking and engaging day out. Alexa Vernon, Director of Ripon Museums Trust, says: “We’ve transformed the workhouse into a powerful, immersive experience where visitors can step into the shoes of real people who lived through extraordinary hardship. Their stories challenge us to think about fairness, dignity and opportunity, both in Victorian Britain and today. “This project is about much more than restoring a historic building. It is about

preserving important heritage, creating opportunities for communities and young people to engage with history, and inspiring visitors to reflect on how we can build a fairer future. We want people to leave feeling not only informed, but also more compassionate, thoughtful and connected to the stories of those who came before us.” The reopening introduces new spaces for creativity and community participation, including the museum’s Discover Space, where visitors can explore connections between past and present through exhibitions, conversations and creative activities. For opening times, tickets and events, visit riponmuseums.co.uk

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