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C O N T E N T S 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

17 

CHING’S RECIPES 

I write this note on the 

morning that anxious sixthformers 

are awaiting those 

all-important A-Level results. 

Well, all-important for the next 

step, but as we all come to 

realise in the fullness of time, 

not the sole thing that makes 

or breaks a life’s trajectory. 

Here in the office, we’ve been 

comparing all our own results 

stories, and whether they 

were ones of celebration or 

commiseration, we all agree 

that, with hindsight, we can 

look back at our school 

experience and observe how 

it has shaped us, but not that 

it defined us. 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

It seems only right to reflect 

on school as we come into 

September - the time of 

shining shoes and laying out 

crisp new uniform. If you have 

children or grandchildren still 

on their educational journey, 

we have some advice to help 

choose the right school and 

ease those back to school 

nerves. 

INTERIOR DESIGN 

20 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk 

Assistant Editor Kate Norris 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose 

Contributors 

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave, 

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence 

FOR ADVERTISING 

Account Manager Steve Davies 

e steve.davies@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984506 

Cover image courtesy of Ching-He Huang 

CHING-HE HUANG 

15 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS 

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm, 

Hilperton BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Printed on sustainably sourced paper. 

Please recycle this copy or pass it along 

when you are finished for someone else 

to enjoy. 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be 

held liable for any loss occasioned by 

failure of an advertisement to appear, or 

any damage or inconvenience caused by 

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of 

this publication may be reproduced without 

prior permission from the publishers. 

The opinions expressed within are not 

necessarily those of the publishers. 

On the foodie side of things 

this edition, we have an 

interview with Taiwanese 

cooking sensation Ching-He 

Huang. You’ve probably seen 

her cooking up wonderful 

Chinese dishes on TV. She’s 

also given us some delicious 

recipes to sample. 

On the home front we’ve got 

a piece on how to use some 

interior design secrets to 

create a lovely space - it’s all 

about texture and tone! 

That’s all from me - I’m 

sorry to say that the next 

time you see us, we will be 

in Christmas mode. Fair 

warning! Ho ho ho! 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

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TIME TO Spa 

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IMPROVE SLEEPING PATTERNS 

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16 RACEDAYS

Top Tips 

when considering an independent school 

Every parent wants to give their child the best start in life, and this naturally 

includes choosing a school that best suits their child’s needs. For many this 

can be a daunting task, and it can be hard to know where to start. 

An independent education remains a 

popular choice for families, with lots of 

different schools to choose from including 

day and boarding, single-sex and coeducational, 

and schools with specialisms 

such as in the arts or sport. 

Open days give families the opportunity to 

see first-hand whether a particular school 

is the right fit. Some schools continue 

to run virtual open days in the aftermath 

of the pandemic, making it possible for 

families to explore what a school has to 

offer from the comfort of their own home. 

There are many different aspects to 

consider when attending an open day, 

so to help ease the process, here are 

some top tips for parents considering an 

independent school for their child: 

NARROW DOWN YOUR CHOICES 

If you live in an area with a number of 

good schools nearby, create a shortlist 

and take time to plan your school visits. 

For parents with a limited choice of local 

schools, the ‘Find a School’ tool on the 

isc.co.uk website is particularly useful, 

as it enables you to refine your search by 

distance, day and boarding, age range, 

fee assistance options and more! If you 

are considering a school which is further 

afield, it’s worth making a day of it so you 

and your child can get a feel for the area. 

THINK ABOUT THE SCHOOL’S 

SPECIALISM OR FOCUS 

All independent schools are different, 

offering unique specialisms and 

strengths. Ask yourself what type of 

school would best suit your child – are 

they sporty, academic or creative? If you 

have an academic child you might like 

to consider a selective school, whereas 

if your child is very creative, you might 

prefer a school with excellent arts 

provision and facilities. 

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS 

Teachers expect parents to be inquisitive 

and are well prepared to answer 

questions, so ask teachers everything you 

want to know; it is always best to speak 

up if you have any queries or concerns! 

Important areas that you might ask about 

include class sizes, the subjects on offer, 

methods of assessment, extracurricular 

activities and pastoral support. 

It would also be worthwhile learning more 

about how the school communicates with 

parents; it’s important that you feel wellinformed 

and able to discuss any matters 

pertaining to your child’s progress or 

wellbeing. If you are considering a 

boarding school for your child, take the 

opportunity to find out more about the 

on-site accommodation, flexi-boarding 

options and what activities take place 

over the weekends. 

Chat to pupils as well as staff and ask 

them about their experiences at the 

school. Much can be learned from 

observing their behaviour – do they seem 

happy, confident and at ease in their 

environment, are they engaged with their 

lessons and wider activities? 

MAKE A FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT 

An open day allows you to build an 

impression of what type of school is on 

offer. So, if you are happy with what you 

see, book a follow-up appointment with 

the school. This will enable you to speak 

more personally with the headteacher or 

registrar and provide another opportunity 

to ask any further questions or raise 

concerns you might have. 

The independent sector is diverse, with a 

huge array of schools and approaches to 

education on offer. Make the most of your 

open days, and use the experience to 

guide you as you choose the right school 

for your child. 


Open Morning 

23rd September 

2023 

ISI Rated 

Excellent 

Thoughtful • Adventurous • Ambitious 

“Our mission is to develop thoughtful, adventurous 

and ambitious young people who are life-long learners.” 

Located off the A435 between Cheltenham and Cirencester, 

in the heart of the Cotswolds. 

01285832306 | @rendcombcollege | info@rendcombcollege.org.uk 

www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

Leading girls and 

girls' schools 

Marina Gardiner Legge President of the 

Girls’ Schools Association celebrates the 

power girls-only education has to build a 

brighter world.. 

As President, what’s your mission and what does the GSA do? 

My mission as President of the Girls’ Schools Association is to 

celebrate the power of girls’ schools to transform young women’s 

lives for the better. GSA has always been at the forefront of 

campaigning for the best interests of girls and in our schools girls 

embrace life to its fullest. We’re incredibly proud to offer dynamic 

educations built for girls and GSA champions a girls-first education. 

We’re a membership organisation made up of Heads from a diverse 

range of independent and state girls’ schools including many of the 

top performing schools in the UK. Together we educate over 80,000 

students. I’m excited to lead GSA this year. 

Why should parents send their daughters to GSA schools? What 

opportunities can a GSA girl expect from life? 

At GSA we place girls and the best interests of young women at 

the heart of everything we do. Robust research consistently proves 

an all-girls education is best for our young women today, our future 

trailblazers and society makers. We know our Heads have a deep 

understanding of what girls need to thrive and every one of our 

schools puts them first. The expertise in girls’ schools lies in their 

understanding of how to teach girls in the best way possible - to 

bring the best out in them. In a girls’ school, she will study whatever 

interests her free from any stereotypical limitations, she will have the 

freedom to be herself. In girls’ schools we know girls are three times 

more likely to take maths and science at A-Level, for example, and 

they frequently outperform boys academically. 

How can parents choose the right school for their daughters, do 

you have any tips? 

I’m a passionate believer in taking the time to decide with your 

daughter what the best school is for her. There will be a whole host 

of unique considerations for you but a good place to start is to think 

about what environment suits your own family and child. Are they 

keenly academic but also want to be free to enjoy sport, do they like a 

rural setting or are they keen on a city? Does day or boarding suit you 

best? Does she thrive in a more formal or informal setting? How warm 

do you feel about the school community when you visit? Do take a 

keen interest in the caring support of pastoral team who will look after 

her personal development, you want a nourishing community for her 

to thrive in. Keep your conversations open, curious, and encouraging. 

It’s important too to consider your family needs. Is having wrap 

around care important? Check the logistics too as that is vital for 

family life. Finally, check with the Head of your current school; they 

know your daughter best and will have a wealth of experience to help 

you. With such a great choice and variety of schools at GSA there is 

one that fits your daughter. You can use our school search tool to see 

all the diverse range of GSA’s schools in the UK and abroad on our 

website: gsa.uk.com/schools/find-a-school 


A family school 

where children of 

all ages thrive 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

For parents looking for a forward-thinking, pupilcentred 

education for their child a visit to the next 

Open Morning at The King’s School in Gloucester, 

on Saturday 7th October, is a great opportunity to 

discover more about our school. 

For pupils in Years 10 and 11 we are also holding a Sixth Form 

Information Evening on Tuesday 17th October where you can find 

out more about the 24 A Level Subject choices, BTEC Sport, as 

well as our unique Future Skills and co-curricular opportunities in 

the Sixth Form. 

King’s is an award-winning, independent day school with just 

over 750 pupils, girls and boys, aged 3 to 18. These 2022 ISI 

Inspection Report stated that the quality of our pupils’ academic 

achievements and personal development is excellent – the 

highest possible achievement. 

The School is adjacent to Gloucester Cathedral, which is 

integral to the life of our community, giving us a special sense 

of identity, and whilst our history and surroundings are inspiring, 

King’s provides something even more valuable – a genuine love 

of learning. We do this by offering stimulating and engaging 

lessons in small classes and also by encouraging children to 

participate in the many Sport, Music, Performing and Creative 

Arts opportunities available. 

We celebrate individual talent and pupils of all ages have a very 

strong sense of community - this blend of personal achievement 

and team spirit is one of the defining qualities of King’s. 

We also know that growing-up can be challenging so pastoral 

care is a high priority. Working in close partnership with parents, 

we create a secure environment where children of all abilities can 

thrive and be happy. 

You can read much more about us on our website, but if you are 

new to King’s there is nothing better than visiting our School and 

discovering more in person. 

We warmly welcome visitors to King’s next Open Morning on 

Saturday 7th October and to our Sixth Form Information Evening 

on Tuesday 17th October. To attend either or both of these 

events, please pre-register via the School website, 

www.thekingsschool.co.uk. 

Tel: 01452 337337. Email: admissions@thekingsschool.co.uk 

DISCOVERING 

talent 

Independent Day School 

Girls & Boys 3-18 Years 

Open Morning 

SATURDAY 7th OCTOBER 

Sixth Form Open Evening 

TUESDAY 17th OCTOBER 

Discover our forward-thinking School where pupils 

develop a genuine love of learning and participate in a 

wide range of enriching, co-curricular opportunities 

ISI Inspection 2022: Excellent in all areas 

To attend, please register at www.thekingsschool.co.uk 

For more information call 01452 337337 or email admissions@thekingsschool.co.uk 


Ching’-He 

HUANG 

Sally Thomson was fortunate 

enough to catch up with 

Ching-He Huang MBE. She 

is affectionately known as 

Ching. Born in Taiwan she 

has appeared in a variety 

of television cooking 

programmes and is the 

author of nine best-selling 

cookbooks... 

The first thing I was going to ask you is 

when did you first start cooking? 

I think I was five years-old, but I wasn’t 

really cooking I was messing about in my 

grandmother’s kitchen watching her cook 

on this huge wood-fired stove. 

I really started cooking at about 11 - I 

was making congee (a Chinese rice 

pudding) for my dad because my mum 

was away. She went away for work a 

lot, so that’s how I actually learnt how to 

cook. But the young formative years is 

when I learnt from my grandmother as I 

lived with her. She took care of us before 

we emigrated to South Africa. It was 

amazing because we had all this produce 

and I just saw her preparing chickens, 

gutting fish and getting vegetables out of 

the ground. She was a full-on lady. Oh my 

gosh, such a lovely memory. 

So, we lived in a Chinese courtyard home 

There were twenty-five great uncles and 

aunts all living together with each of their 

families. Honestly, every meal-time, was 

like a party. It was like a mini street party 

and it was amazing. 

And that was all the time virtually 

every day? 

Yeah, because every day you have to eat 

a breakfast, lunch, dinner and everyone 

sat down to eat. All the families lived 

around each other and the centre of 

the courtyard so it had the buzz and 

We all stood around 

looking at an avocado 

thinking “what is that, 

and what the heck do 

you do with it?!” 

excitement of daily life. Also, each of the 

homes there were gardens and people 

kept chickens. 

So why did you end up going to South 

Africa then? 

We emigrated because my father was in 

construction management. He was one 

of seven children and the only one that 

went to university. He always had ideas of 

having his own business but he hated the 

construction management work and he 

went to the foreign office. 

He met this African businessman in 

the foreign office in Taiwan and at that 

time they were trying to get people to 

emigrate. Helping people to understand 

trade or go and emigrate. The Taiwanese 

Foreign Office said to him, “Oh, you need 

to go to South Africa!” 

That must have been a shock to the 

system? 

Absolutely - particularly the food - on 

reflection it was quite funny - we all stood 

around looking at an avocado thinking 

“what is that, and what the heck do you 

do with it?!”. It was such a culture shock 

but really exciting at the same time. 

Then, when I was 11, we moved again 

to the UK. Apartheid was about to 

be dissolved. And there were a lot of 

turbulent times in South Africa. He said 

“we better, you know, up and leave”. 

Many people were leaving. The South 

Africans had the Commonwealth link, we 

were told, “Oh, go to UK because you 

know you can send your daughter and 

your son to Oxford or Cambridge.” You 

know, it was all about education. And he 

worked really hard and built a great life 

for us over there, but then decided to up 

and leave all of that. 

We came to UK in 1989 and then soon 

after was a recession in 1990 we lost 

everything. My father had invested in a 

lot and he had started from scratch. But 


then because of the recession no one paid him back, so it all 

folded. They were very difficult times. We went from nothing to 

something in South Africa to back to nothing in UK. My brother 

and I were also the only non-white children in our school - it was 

very difficult, but it made the bonds we did make even stronger. 

But that’s how I learnt to cook, because my mum would go 

away for work a lot. My dad stayed here and I ended up cooking 

for him because he’s so clueless in the kitchen! My mum taught 

me how to make congee, which I did because I couldn’t make 

fried rice. And then I learnt how to do fried rice and then stirfried 

veggies. When she came back home she’d teach me some 

more and then I’d cook for him. 

What was the light bulb when you suddenly thought this is 

what I want to do? 

It came in gradually and dripped and you just thought this 

is what I need to do. I just went to university - Queen Mary 

Westfield and I studied economics. After uni everyone was 

going to banking and into the city, but I needed to start earning 

quickly - I just set up my own food business called Fuji and 

started making jacket potatos, sandwiches etc. 

You’ve presented 11 TV shows? 

Yes - some in the UK, some America. I started with Ching’s 

Kitchen, then I got a break a few years later on, with Chinese 

Food Made Easy for BBC and that was 2008. And then in 

2009, 2010, I did a show for Channel 5 called Chinese Food 

in Minutes. In 2011, I went over to the States and did Easy 

Chinese, San Francisco. 

Did you enjoy it whilst you were doing that? 

Oh my god I was like a treadmill. I loved every minute of it. I 

just loved my team. They were incredible. I mean I was much 

younger back then, so I had more energy. And then, I did 

Exploring China with Ken Holm in 2012. I love Ken. I don’t know 

where he gets the energy from. Nothing phases him. And he’s 

just so kind and so lovely - he put me at ease immediately. 

What’s next for you? 

I’m appearing on Saturday Kitchen soon, then at the Big 

Feastival. At some point I will have to proof my new book! 

Can you tell us more? 

I don’t know if I can talk much about it yet. It’s about the times 

that we’re living in now. Everything is stretched so it’s having to 

make everything go that much further. I’m always about nonwaste. 

I absolutely hate waste. I really do - so the book echoes 

that and is themed around making sure we make the most of all 

our ingredients - even the bits we’d typically throw away. 

VISIT US: APRIL- OCTOBER 

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*T's and C's Apply -see website for details 


Ching’s 

KITCHEN 

Ching’s 

Braised Hong Sao Pork 

Regional variations on Hong Sao Rou, 

or red braised pork can be found across 

China. It is said to have been one of 

Chairman Mao’s favourite dishes. 

Traditionally, belly pork pieces are cooked 

in a braising liquid of spices and sugar, 

the caramelised sugar imparting a rich 

brown colour. However, dark soy sauce 

is a popular way to enhance the umami 

salty-sweet flavour and I have used it in 

this dish. It adds depth and colour, giving 

the braising liquid a deep, reddy shine. 

The resulting pork should be sweet, 

salty and spiced and the sauce thick 

and sticky. I have reduced the amount 

of sugar to keep it healthier, but you can 

add more if you prefer a sweeter taste. It 

is best served simply with some steamed 

jasmine rice and stir-fried greens such as 

pak choy. 

PREP TIME 10 mins 

COOKING TIME 70 mins 

SERVES 4 

INGREDIENTS 

700g pork belly slices, rindless 

2 tablespoons rapeseed orgroundnut oil 

1 tablespoon grated peeled fresh ginger 

3 tablespoons Shaohsing rice wine or 

dry sherry 

3 star anise 

1 teaspoon whole Sichuan peppercorns 

3 long whole dried red chillies 

250ml chicken stock 

80ml dark soy sauce 

3 tablespoons brown sugar 

pinch of salt 

METHOD 

Bring 1.5 litres water to the boil in a 

large pan. Add the pork belly slices 

and simmer over a medium heat for 30 

minutes. Remove the pork and drain well, 

then pat dry with kitchen paper and slice 

into 2cm x 2cm pieces. 

Heat a wok over a medium heat, add 

the rapeseed or groundnut oil and give 

the oil a swirl. Add the pork pieces 

and brown for 2 minutes, then add 

the ginger, rice wine or dry sherry, the 

star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, dried 

chillies, chicken stock, dark soy sauce, 

brown sugar and salt. Cover with a 

tight-fitting lid and cook over a medium 

heat for 45 minutes, until the liquid has 

reduced and thickened slightly and is a 

glossy reddish-brown colour. 

Remove from the heat (see tip) and serve 

with steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried 

greens of your choice. 

CHING’S TIP 

For a smooth cooked sauce, strain 

through a sieve and discard the whole 

spices, or you can just eat around them 

like the Chinese do! 


Ching’s 

Three-Cup Chicken 

This classic Taiwanese dish is warm and 

comforting - perfect for the cold weather. 

The chicken, ginger and chilli will give 

you a warm zingy lift. It’s also quick and 

speedy - prepared in 5 minutes and 

cooked in 7 - which means chopping 

board to table in under 15 minutes. 

Traditionally the dish uses 1 cup of soy 

sauce, 1 cup of rice wine and 1 cup of 

toasted sesame oil (there’s not 1 cup of 

each in this recipe but equal quantities of 

all three). If Japan is famous for inventing 

their teriyaki sauce, Taiwan is famous for 

inventing Three Cup Chicken sauce. The 

sweet basil at the end imparts a sweet 

aniseed aroma and taste, which pairs 

perfectly with the dish. If you can’t get 

Taiwanese nine pagoda basil try Thai 

Sweet Basil instead. 

METHOD 

Place the chicken in a bowl, add the salt 

and ground white pepper and then dust 

with the cornflour. Mix well to coat then 

set aside. 



SERVES 4 

INGREDIENTS 

250g boneless chicken thighs, sliced 

into 1cm x 2.5cm cubes 

Pinch of sea salt flakes 

Pinch of ground white pepper 

1 tablespoon cornflour 

1 tablespoon rapeseed oil 

Large knob of fresh root ginger, peeled 

and cut into large slices 

2 garlic cloves, crushed but left whole 

1 red chilli, sliced into rings 

1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine or dry 

sherry 

50ml LKK Premium light soy sauce 

50ml toasted sesame oil 

1 teaspoon caster sugar 

5g Thai sweet basil 

Rice: 100g wild rice, 100g red rice, 100g 

Thai Jasmine rice 

Heat a wok over a high heat until 

smoking and add the rapeseed oil. Add 

the ginger slices and fry until crispy and 

golden, then add the garlic and red chili 

and toss for a few seconds to release 

their flavour. Add the chicken pieces 

and leave for 10 seconds to sear and 

colour, then flip them over. Season with 

Shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry and 

stir-fry for 2-3 minutes on a high heat 

until the chicken is almost cooked. 

Add the light soy sauce, the toasted 

sesame oil and sugar and cook for 

5 minutes until the liquid has almost 

evaporated. The chicken should have 

a dark brown, slightly sticky shine. Add 

the basil leaves and toss through to 

will, then take off the heat and serve 

immediately. 

For the rice 

Rinse the rice in cold water until the 

water runs clear. Add to 600ml of cold 

water and bring to the boil, put the lid 

on and leave to simmer for 15 minutes. 

Once the rice is cooked, it should fluff 

up with a fork 


Catonese-Style 

Egg and Tomato 

Macaroni Noodle Soup 

A classic comfort dish served in 

many of the licensed street vendors 

(dai pai dongs) offering Hong 

Kongers a quick snack. Add a good 

amount of sriracha for a kicked-up 

version. This is pure comfort in a 

bowl and yes, you read correctly, 

you’ll want canned plum tomatoes 

for a rich tart flavour. 



SERVES 2 

INGREDIENTS 

3 ripe tomatoes, sliced 

1 tablespoon vegetable bouillon 

powder 

200g canned plum tomatoes, 

retain juices from the can 

3 eggs, lightly beaten 

1 tablespoon light soy sauce 

dash of toasted sesame oil 

pinch of salt 

pinch of ground white pepper 

1 tablespoon sriracha chilli sauce, 

to taste 

300g cooked macaroni pasta, 

drained, dressed in some rapeseed oil 

1 tablespoon cornflour, blended with 

2 tablespoons cold water 

large handful of baby spinach 

2 spring onions, finely sliced 

METHOD 

If you want to skin the fresh 

tomatoes before chopping, cut a 

small cross at the base of each 

one. Plunge them into a wok or 

pan of boiling water for less than 

1 minute, then drain. The skin will 

peel off easily. Finely chop the flesh, 

discarding the hard centre. 

However, most of the nutrients 

are underneath the skin so I don’t 

bother – also it does make the dish 

even quicker to prepare. 

Pour 800ml boiling water into a wok 

and bring back to the boil. 

Stir in the bouillon powder and bring 

to a simmer, then add the fresh 

tomatoes and cook over a medium 

heat for 5 minutes until the tomatoes 

have softened. 

Add the canned plum tomatoes with 

their juices and bring to a simmer. 

Pour the beaten eggs into the broth, 

stirring gently. Add the tamari or light 

soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, white 

pepper, sriracha chilli sauce, cooked 

macaroni and blended cornflour. Mix 

well and heat through. If using, add 

the baby spinach and let it wilt, then 

garnish with the spring onions and 

serve immediately. 

Taiwanese-Style 

Seafood Pancake 

This delicious snack or quick midweek 

supper is inspired by my love 

of the oyster omelettes that you 

get in the street food stalls found 

in the night markets in Taiwan. It 

involves making a thin, egg crêpelike 

pancake. The trick is to stir-fry 

the seafood first and then pour in 

the potato and cornflour batter and 

cook it like a thin eggy crêpe. Serve 

it with a spicy sweet concoction of 

hoisin, oyster and sriracha sauces – 

so umami and full of yum! 

If you’re vegetarian, you can use an 

assortment of sliced fresh shiitake, 

shimeji and enoki mushrooms 

instead of the seafood. 


COOKING TIME 5-8 mins 

SERVES 2 

INGREDIENTS 

40g potato flour 

40g cornflour 

2 spring onions, finely diced 

1 red chilli, deseeded and finely diced 

2 tablespoons rapeseed oil 

100g fresh mixed seafood (squid 

rings, mussels and tiger prawns) 

2 eggs 

75g pak choy, each leaf sliced down 

the stalk into 5mm strips 

sliced spring onions, to garnish 

For the sweet hot sauce 

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 

2 tablespoons oyster sauce 

2 teaspoons sriracha chilli sauce 

METHOD 

Combine all the ingredients for the 

sweet hot sauce and set aside. Mix 

the potato flour and cornflour in 

80ml cold water, then add the diced 

spring onions and chilli. 

Heat a wok over a medium heat, 

add 1 tablespoon of the rapeseed 

oil and give the oil a swirl. Add half 

the mixed seafood and fry for a few 

seconds, then add half the spring 

onion and chilli mixture. Lightly beat 

one of the eggs and add to the wok 

with half the pak choy. 

Cook for 2–3 minutes until the 

potato starch has turned a 

translucent colour. Spoon out onto 

a serving plate and cover with foil 

to keep it warm. Make the second 

‘pancake’ in the same way, using the 

remaining ingredients. 

To serve, drizzle with the sweet hot 

sauce and garnish with some sliced 

spring onions. 


Texture and 

TONE 

Image from House Nine Design 

The key in elevating an interior into something that looks like an interior designer 

has created the scheme is to balance texture and tone - we look at some design 

considerations to help you pull together a beautiful rooom 

Texture is, quite simply, an object’s 

physical feeling or visual appearance. 

Everything from a nubby bouclé 

throw to a cane screen and a suede 

wall to a stone backsplash count as 

texture in a space. Tone is all about 

colour - by limiting our palette, but 

using many tones of a colour, we can 

create schemes which are cohesive 

and high-end. 

LAYER 

DIFFERENT 

TEXTURES 

Layering in interior design is key to 

producing a scheme that’s rich and 

full of depth. Try blending multiple 

different sources of texture so that 

you’re not relying on just fabric or 

furniture finishes. 

Texture can come through in a 

whole host of ways, so don’t 

forget the impact that the following 

can have: matte versus glazed 

ornaments on a bookcase, book 

spines stacked on a side table 

aside a sculpted glass lamp base, 

a polished granite fireplace hearth 

with a tasselled rug in front of it, or 

even wall treatments and artwork 

that have the ability to make the 

walls feel multi-dimensional. 

Every ounce of your room can bring 

spark a textural discussion, and 

as they form layers, the result is 

immersive and arresting. 

CONTRASTING 

FABRICS 

Interesting textures aren’t only 

pleasing to look at, but when 

you contrast them, they’re great 

providers of balance too. 

Is your colour palette comprised 

of very similar shades? If so, you 

can interrupt the consistency by 

changing up the textures of any 

fabric in the room. Even if your 

decor has multiple shades, using 

contrasting fabrics proves that 

colour and pattern aren’t the only 

routes to achieving difference. 

Remember to look beyond the 

obvious areas of fabric such 

as sofas and armchairs and to 

not leave curtains, blinds and 

lampshades out of the equation. 

You can also evolve these textural 

contrasts as the seasons change. 

For example, a linen sofa might 

go from having cotton and silk 

cushions in summer to velvet and 

faux fur in winter. 

ADD TEXTURED 

FURNITURE 

Furniture texture is worthy of 

exploring, especially as you’re most 

likely to come into physical contact 

with it. Imagine running your hand 

over a cool, smooth marble table, 

eating off a rustic oak dining table, 

opening the drawers of a shagreenlined 

chest and kicking back in an 

opulent velvet sofa. 

Texture doesn’t always have to be 

obvious. It’s these subtle differences 

as your eye moves around the room 

that are most alluring. 


Image @eyeswoon 

BLENDING ELEMENTS 

Mixing materials within a kitchen design is a brilliant way 

of easily creating visual variety in your interiors, without 

committing to a bold colour palette. Combining textures, 

such as exposed brick with natural wood and stone, adds an 

array of textures to your space, which ensures your interior is 

interesting without becoming overwhelming. 

For those who love to ‘mix up’ their 

interiors more frequently, laying the 

groundwork with a varied textural palette 

provides a great foundation upon 

which to play and experiment with 

different colours and seasonal 

elements using accessories. 

Globe Vase, from £49.99, 

hauslife.co.uk; Denham 

Bar Stool, on sale for 

£168 abigailahern.com; 

Ceramic Table Lamp Bubo, £69.95, sklum. 

com/uk; Tali Cushion Cover, from £28, 

hauslife.co.uk 

TONES 

Try to use the 60-30-10 rule - for a balanced 

scheme, keep 60% of the elements (say, 

walls and floors) as one colour, then add 

30% in another colour (fabrics such as that of 

upholstery, curtains and rugs), and 10% in an 

accent colour (cushions, décor objects etc.) You 

can play with shades of the colours, but try not 

to introduce too many colours into one space. 

Image Studio McGee 

This three-colour rule will allow you to create a 

balanced, restful-looking colour scheme that’s 

difficult to go wrong with – particularly if you 

are creating kitchen colour schemes and dining 

room colour schemes in one open-plan space 

that is likely to be busy and perhaps more 

cluttered than other rooms in your home. 


HALZEC DESIGN LTD 

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 

& TECHNICAL SERVICE 

Extensions, Alterations 

and New Builds. 

Residential Developments 

and Bespoke Houses 

We love designing and solving problems, 

we can usually find the answer. 

Architectural Services 

Up to 1hr free initial visit. To get a feel 

for your property and needs. Following 

the initial visit, we will send you a clear 

and concise fee proposal, set out as a 

shopping list of our charges. 

Designs & Feasibility studies 

Modern and traditional designs. We will 

discuss your brief and then sketch out 

some designs for you to compare and 

pick and choose from. 

OR 

If you have a design that does not 

quite tick the box, we can help! 

Planning application 

drawings 

Prepare presentation drawings 

suitable for submitting with a 

planning application. We can 

help with any type of planning 

application. 

Building regulation 

drawings 

Once you have the necessary 

planning approvals, either one of 

ours or done by others. We can 

provide high quality drawings for 

building regulation applications, 

that are suitable for builders to 

build from. 

Any architectural needs contact: 

07801 070166 halzacdesign@icloud.com

Image @hallie_and_harrisons_house 

BATHROOM BLISS 

You might think it’s challenging to add texture to a bathroom, but it is 

both possible and something that can really elevate the space. 

Wall treatments, flooring and tiling are great ways to add texture. Tiles 

with textured surfaces, including handmade tiles which are always 

beautiful, marbled or geometric tiles offer both visual and tactile 

textural qualities, as does natural stone on the walls or floors. 

Wood panelling also adds so much warmth and impact - you can opt 

for contemporary boarding or more classic wainscoting. 

Oasis Ceramic White, £49.25 per box of 38, 

capietra.com;Wooden Slat Feature Wall 

Panels, from £138, rubberduckbathrooms. 

co.uk; Berlin Shapes No1 Poster, from £5.97, 

posterstore.co.uk 

GET THE LOOK 

STYLE SECRETS 

Extra layers of texture are 

added by accessories, 

meaning you can easily 

change them 

VISUAL WEIGHT 

Texture is also a way to create accents. 

Interior designers will use texture to add 

what’s referred to as ‘visual weight’. In other 

words, how an object or section of the room 

is able to draw attention to itself. Contrasting 

textures is one way to make certain aspects 

stand out more than others. You can also use 

tone - dark colours carry more weight than 

light, so you can draw attention to one side 

of the room using deeper shades. 

Malvern Small Wall Light, £86.40, corston. 

com; Twinky rechargeable table lamp, 

£110, pooky.com 

LIGHTING 

A room’s overall textural feel translates in a similar way 

to physical and visual texture, but it also touches on 

how we perceive things. Lighting, for example, is neither 

physically or visually textured itself, but it’s one of the 

biggest contributors of texture in the home. Its ambient 

glow can transform an entire space into one of incredible 

softness or, conversely, one that’s hard and harsh. 

Image oneaffirmation.com 

STYLE SECRETS - If you don’t have a nearby plug socket, 

you can add soft light with a rechargeable table lamp 


Planting for Autumn colour 

NOTES FROM 

THE GARDEN 

As the full light of summer fades into 

Autumn so the colour palette of our gardens, 

changes and for me, Autumn is one of the 

most beautiful seasons in the garden. 

If you are starting from scratch and planning for colour, lucky you, 

then there are so many options, but the addition of some or any of 

the following will reward you as the summer wanes. Backlit plants 

can look amazing as the sun comes and goes and immediately, we 

think of Acers, that blaze of fire that creates so many spectacular 

exclamation points at this time of the year. Size certainly matters 

so check the height and spread that each plant will reach and then 

a little research will find you the ideal choice. If your soil type isn’t 

ideal – they are acid loving plants, then grow them in pots. A two- or 

three-year-old Acer in a beautiful pot can look spectacular and you 

can move it to the most advantageous spot to enjoy its autumn show. 

Trees are an obvious choice for colour and Amelanchier lamarkii or 

‘Snowy Mespilus’ is another beauty – it grows to about 7 metres so 

place it carefully, but it offers a lot- silvery leaves followed by snowy 

white flowers and pale copper leaves in spring. Berries follow that 

and then in autumn a stunning display of orange and red leaves – 

what more could you ask for? Shrubs also play a part – the wonderful 

‘Smoke Bush’, Cotinus ‘Grace’ has deep maroon leaves and a halo 

of fluffy grey toned flowers which look like the smoke of an autumn 

bonfire. Hydrangea quercifolia – the ‘Oak Leaved Hydrangea’ is 

“PALE AMBER SUNLIGHT FALLS ACROSS 

THE REDDENING OCTOBER TREES, 

THAT HARDLY SWAY BEFORE A BREEZE 

AS SOFT AS SUMMER: SUMMER’S LOSS 

SEEMS LITTLE, DEAR! ON DAYS LIKE THESE.” 

ERNEST DOWSON 

another treasure offering incredible leaf colour, and white flowers too. 

Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’, turning yellow in autumn, looks 

fabulous …… I am spoilt for choice! 

Smaller plants also offer great colour, from Nandina domestica ‘Fire 

Power’ to Asters, Helianthus, Japanese Anemone, Cyclamen – and 

let’s not forget the grasses. Miscanthus and Pennisetum or fountain 

grass add a totally different texture to the garden and as autumn 

winds increase also add a wonderful fluid movement too. 

YOUR LOCAL GARDEN 

MACHINERY EXPERTS 

B O O K I N 

F O R Y O U R 

W I N T E R 

S E R V I C E 

N O W 

Contact our team at CGM, your local garden 

machinery experts, to take advantage of our 

comprehensive Winter Service Package offers and 

ensure your garden equipment receives specialist care and 

attention throughout the cold months, ready for a hassle-free 

start in the Spring! From ride-on lawnmowers to chainsaws we 

cater to all types of garden machinery and provide collection 

and delivery throughout Gloucestershire. Don't hesitate to call our 

service department on 01242 238342 to secure your booking 

01242 238342 

www.cheltenhamgardenmachinery.com 


HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST ROSES FOR 

YOUR GARDENwith British Garden Centres 

What is better than a quintessential English 

Rose blooming in the sunshine, bees buzzing 

and the summer scent wafting in the breeze? 

Roses complement virtually any garden design and style and are 

one of the most versatile flowering plants around. British Garden 

Centres look at the different types and give you the best advice 

to allow your roses to bloom! 

HYBRID TEA Known for their beauty and scent, they have 

large, single flowers. Hybrid teas bear tall, pointed buds on long 

stems, so they are ideal for cutting. Free branching and upright, 

this shrub is ideal for beds and borders. 

FLORIBUNDA With clusters of flowers at the end of its 

stem, the looser blooms make a great garden display, but they 

aren’t as good for vase arrangements. Standard roses are most 

commonly the Floribunda type and bloom from early summer all 

the way through to early winter. 

SHRUB ROSES They produce large clusters of “old rose” 

flowers that bloom from summer to autumn, and many are 

fragrant. David Austin is a popular brand that sells these blooms. 

Modern shrub roses are often bred for repeat blooms, disease 

resistance, and a variety of colours. 

GROUND COVER ROSES Compact plants which create 

spreading carpets of colour. With plenty of sun, they’ll provide 

masses of rose flowers for most of the year and can be used in 

borders, cascading over walls and rockeries or spilling from large 

containers. 

CLIMBING ROSES Climbing roses produce abundant 

blooms on just one spreading plant. They can transform the 

facade of a house, a fence, or even a shed wall as long as they 

get ample sunlight. Just keep in mind that they all need some 

sort of support, as their branches need to be level. 

MINIATURE ROSES Even in the smallest of spaces, such 

as a sunny balcony, you can still enjoy growing roses. Miniature 

roses are perfectly proportioned dwarfed versions of their larger 

siblings, with all parts scaled down. 

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR ROSES 

It’s important to prepare the soil before planting. We recommend 

a well-rotted fertiliser, which will ensure strong, healthy growth. 

We also recommend that you use slow-release granulated rose 

food and sprinkle it on the soil. Your roses will benefit most from 

feeding before the leaves fully open in late March/early April. 

Pruning your roses can encourage further flowering and improve 

the appearance of your roses. 

For more great gardening tips, visit: www.britishgardencentres.com 

FIREPLACE GALLERY 

FIRES & STOVES 

Whether your fire is for 

warmth or a feature, 

traditional looking, 

modern or bespoke The 

Fireplace Gallery has a 

fire to suit your home. 

With 2 large showrooms to 

visit for inspiration, and an 

experienced sales and installation 

team, we can supply and create 

exactly what you are looking for. 

• Gas Fires 

• Electric Fires 

• Woodburning Stoves 

• Multifuel Stoves 

• Mantle Pieces, 

Surrounds and Beams 

• Bespoke Media Walls 

• Own Installation Team 

• Fire Servicing 

- CHELTENHAM SHOWROOM - - GLOUCESTER SHOWROOM - 

01242 680076 01452 290155 

Unit 18-19 Knightsbridge Business Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9TA 

Email: sales@fireplacegalleryfires.co.uk 

WWW.FIREPLACEGALLERYFIRES.CO.UK 

7A Northbrook Road, Gloucester GL4 3DP 

Email: glos@fireplacegalleryfires.co.uk 


Ensuring Consumer 

Safety and Compliance: 

The Vital Role of 

Professional Installers 

As the demand for sustainable and efficient home 

heating solutions continues to rise, the role of 

skilled installers becomes increasingly crucial in 

safeguarding homeowners. 

Highlighting the indispensable value of professional installers in 

maintaining safe and compliant homes, Alan Young, Compliance 

Manager for leading biomass and solid fuel heating expert 

HETAS, explores the importance of adhering to legislation for the 

benefit of both consumers and the environment. 

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF REGULAR MAINTENANCE 

A well-maintained stove or boiler is not only pivotal in ensuring 

optimal performance but is a fundamental aspect of homeowner 

safety. It’s vital that installers conduct regular maintenance 

checks that mitigate potential hazards, such as carbon monoxide 

leaks and fire hazards. By addressing these issues proactively, 

consumers can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their wood 

burning stove or boiler is running efficiently and safely. Regular 

maintenance such as an annual chimney sweep prolongs the life 

of the stove and also saves homeowners money in the long run 

by reducing the risk of costly breakdowns. 

COMPLIANCE WITH LEGISLATION 

Compliance with industry regulations and standards guarantees 

that the stove or boiler installed meets safety criteria and 

environmental guidelines. Homeowner safety should always be 

the top priority; and installers play a critical role in upholding this 

commitment. By staying up to date with the latest legislations, 

installers can guide homeowners towards sustainable and 

environmentally friendly heating choices, contributing to the 

global efforts in reducing carbon footprints. 

EMPOWERING CONSUMERS WITH KNOWLEDGE 

One of the most significant advantages that professional 

installers bring to the table is their ability to empower 

homeowners with valuable knowledge. From offering insights into 

the latest energy-efficient technologies to explaining the benefits 

of regular maintenance, installers can help homeowners make 

informed decisions about the best suited heating solutions for 

their home. Raising awareness fosters trust and loyalty and also 

encourages them to prioritise maintenance and compliance with 

legislation. Together, consumers and installers can form a strong 

alliance in driving the adoption of eco-friendly heating solutions 

and creating a safer environment for all. 

For more information about becoming HETAS registered, visit 

hetas.co.uk. 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

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STOVES | GAS FIRES | FLUES | FIREPLACES 

After the sunshine comes the storm and FireStyles 

are supporting customers to get warm and cosy 

this winter. Make you sure are winter ready and 

book those fire installations in before our diary gets 

washed away with the winter floods. 

Corinium Stoves offer an unrivalled range of wood burning 

stoves, fireplaces, gas fires and electric appliances. 

We have a large showroom nestled on the outskirts of 

Cirencester with over thirty brands on display. We can 

tailor our services to suit your needs from supply only to 

full installations. All works are carried out by our own in 

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01285 861 099 

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Unit H Lakeside Business Park, 

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We offer a wide range of wood burners, multi fuel 

stoves, electric and gas fires, fireplaces, media walls 

with 100 percent 5 star reviews on check-a-trader, 

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Please call to arrange your free survey or just call into 

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01594 738547 

www.firestyles.co.uk 


WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT 

FROM A GOOD CARE HOME? 

Finding out what a good care 

home looks like can help you to 

make choices about your care. 

It can also help you understand 

what you should be able to expect 

from a service you already use. 

When we inspect care homes, there are 

five questions we ask. 

Is it safe? 

Is it effective? 

Is it caring? 

Is it responsive to people’s needs? 

Is it well-led? 

In a good care home, you can expect 

to be safe because… 

The home and any equipment are well 

maintained and managers look for ways to 

improve safety. You should feel confident 

that your belongings are safe and secure. 

There are always enough staff on duty with 

the skills needed to make sure you are safe. 

You are protected from being bullied, 

harassed, harmed or abused. Abuse 

includes neglect and financial abuse. 

Staff deal with incidents and accidents 

quickly and openly (and investigate them if 

necessary) and they learn from mistakes. 

You feel safe and protected by staff, 

but you also have as much freedom as 

possible to do the things you want to do – 

regardless of your disability or other needs. 

Staff give you your medicine safely and 

store it correctly. Where possible, the 

home involves you in reviewing your 

medicines and supports you to be as 

independent as possible. 

The home is kept clean and hygienic to 

prevent any risk of infection to you or 

other residents. 

You can expect a good care home to 

be effective because… 

You are regularly asked for your views 

about the quality and choice of the food 

and other aspects of the home, and your 

feedback is consistently good. 

Staff make sure you get the right food 

and drink you need, and that you have 

enough of it. 

Staff have the right knowledge, 

qualifications and skills to carry out their 

role so that you have a good quality of life. 

You are always asked to give your 

consent (permission) to your care, 

treatment and support in a way you can 

understand. Where appropriate, your 

family and friends are also involved in 

decisions about your care. 

Staff know about your health needs and 

personal preferences and give you as 

much choice and control as possible. 

Staff speak with health and social care 

professionals, such as GPs, and take the 

right action at the right time to keep you 

in good health. 

You are asked for your likes and needs 

when the home is adapted or decorated. 

Any changes to the home are made to 

help you to be as independent as possible. 

You can expect a good care home to be 

caring because… 

Staff know about your background, likes, 

hopes and needs. This includes any needs 

you have because of your age, disability, 

sex (gender), gender identity, race, religion 

or belief, or sexuality (whether you are 

lesbian, gay, bisexual or heterosexual). 

You are encouraged to express your views, 

no matter how complex your needs are. 

You have access to advocates (people 

who can speak on your behalf). 

Staff also know your wishes for your care 

at the end of your life, if this applies. 

Staff treat you with dignity and respect. 

They spend time with you, develop 

trusting relationships and are concerned 

for your wellbeing. 

You have enough privacy. 

Your family and friends can visit you. 

You can expect a good care home to be 

responsive to your needs because… 

Your care, treatment and support are set 

out in a written plan that describes what 

staff need to do to make sure that you 

receive personalised care. 

You, and your family and friends where 

appropriate, are actively involved in 

developing this plan. For example, you 

should be able to have a choice about 

who provides you with personal care, 

such as help with washing and dressing. 

As your needs and preferences change, 

your plan is changed, and all those who 

need to know, such as your care staff, are 

kept up to date. 

The plan includes information about 

the whole of your life, including your 

goals, your abilities and how you want to 

manage your health. You may also have a 

health action plan. 

Staff work hard to prevent you from 

feeling lonely. They do this by helping you 

to keep in contact with your family and 

friends. 

Staff also help you keep up your hobbies 

and get involved in the community if you 

want to. 

If you need to visit hospital, staff plan 

this well with you to make sure it goes as 

smoothly as possible. 

If you have any concerns and complaints, 

staff always take them seriously, 

investigate them thoroughly and respond 

to them in good time. 

You can expect a good care home to 

be well-led because… 

You know who the manager is, and 

anyone else in charge. 

Managers know what their responsibilities 

are and are always honest, including 

when things go wrong. 

Staff know what is expected of them and 

are happy in their work. 

Managers are available to support their 

staff. 

Staff have the confidence to report 

concerns about the care that colleagues, 

carers and other professionals give. 

When this happens they are supported 

and their concerns are thoroughly 

investigated. 


FIVE LITTLE KNOWN FACTS ABOUT THE CHARITY 

LILIAN FAITHFULL CARE 

For over 77 years the Gloucestershire charity Lilian Faithfull 

Care has been providing residential and nursing care for 

older people in the county. Here we shine a light on five 

lesser known aspects of the charity’s work. 

End of Life care is 

provided in all of the 

Lilian Faithfull Care 

homes and in addition, 

a specialist suite was 

opened last year at St 

Faith’s in Cheltenham. 

The Fairhaven Suite 

gives privacy, peace 

and comfort for adults in 

their final days, weeks or 

months. A key part of its 

care is the support, space 

and facilities it offers to families and friends. 

Joan was the first person to be cared for in The Fairhaven 

Suite and her daughter explains; 

“Mum was here two weeks; it felt like a long time as we 

literally moved in. They really kindly put beds up in the room, 

and a lovely reclining chair. The rooms were so nice as they 

were so spacious and airy. The staff were fantastic, I couldn’t 

fault them, all through the day the day and night. They were so 

kind and caring, nothing was forgotten and nothing was too 

much trouble.” 

Care for those living with dementia is offered in all of the 

Lilian Faithfull Care homes and day care hubs. In addition, 

there are two specialist suites, across Faithfull House and 

Royal Court, with another opening soon. 

Suzanne Booker, Director of Care at Lilian Faithfull Care, 

explains; 

“We opened our first dementia care suite over 5 years 

ago and are continuing to expand them, as we’ve seen so 

many positive benefits for those living with us. Residents 

gain reassurance from the calm, quiet environment and the 

familiarity of having a dedicated staff team.” 

“The things I enjoy about going to the hub is the normality it 

brings and a feeling of being safe. If you get a chance to visit 

the hub, come, you will not regret it. My visits are the highlight 

of my week.” 

A new younger group has recently started each Tuesday for 

those diagnosed with early onset dementia. This separate 

group have activities and trips of their choosing and help 

people face the particular challenges of living with this 

condition at a younger age. 

Couples can live together 

at all six Lilian Faithfull 

Care homes. 

Margaret and Joseph moved 

to Faithfull House earlier in 

the year and Margaret shares 

her experience of ‘moving 

into care’; 

“It’s been good for us and 

we’re still together. I am 

very glad not to be running 

a house. I hadn’t realised 

what a pleasure it would be 

to come down for a meal that’s been cooked for you. We get 

a dessert at lunch and supper which is a treat and we have a 

sherry before lunch – something I would never have had time 

for at home as I would be busy cooking.” 

Recently they went on a canal boat cruise, which was 

particularly special for Joseph as he had been an officer in the 

Royal Navy reserves. It was the first time in a long while that 

he had been on a boat. 

Cycling Trips 

Have you spotted the ‘Trishaw’ bike around Cheltenham? 

When the weather allows they offer cycle rides on traffic-free 

routes to residents and day 

guests, thanks to a team of 

volunteers and staff. 

It was particularly special for 

two residents Doreen and 

Ernest, who met through a 

shared love of cycling in the 

early 1950s and were able to 

share a cycle ride together. 

Day Care 

For people living independently the charity has two community 

hubs offering adult day care. Mike Clayton who is a regular 

visitor to the Secret Garden Hub in Cheltenham explains; 

Lilian Faithfull Care have six 

homes with a ‘Home for Life’ 

promise and two day care 

hubs. 

For advice about care contact us on 01242 514319 or 

www.lilianfaithfull.co.uk

STYLISH 

Stays 

A resort-style hotel in the heart 

of central London, The Ned has 

all the ingredients of a decadent 

weekend away... 

STYLE 

The hotel opened in 2017 - a 

spectacular conversion of the original 

Midland Bank HQ designed in 1924 by 

Sir Edwin ‘Ned’ Lutyens. The project 

was a partnership between the US- 

Based Sydell Group and the inimitably 

stylish Soho House Group - the latter’s 

astonishing attention to detail evident 

in the impeccable interiors. Stylistically, 

the hotel references the 1920s, Thirties 

and Forties, all with a modern level of 

decadence. Think of polished marble 

floors, deep mahogany and plush 

velvet - plus the beautiful architectural 

framework of the original building. 

LOCATION 

The hotel’s location, steps from Bank 

tube station, is the City ‘proper’ - and as 

such the area is much busier during the 

week than weekends. But you needn’t 

worry about a lack of external activity - 

the hotel itself is so all-encompassing, 

you might not feel the need to leave. 

If you do venture out, the Millennium 

Bridge, leading to delights like the Tate 

Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe 

Theatre are only 15 minutes walk away. 

ROOMS 

The same attention to detail evident in 

the communal spaces is echoed in the 

rooms - many of them furnished with 

Soho House’s own furniture lines. The 

mahogany beds are large and deliciously 

comfortable - perfect for sprawling in 

your fluffy robe. 

There is a generosity in the room’s 

amenities too - full-sized Cowshed 

products in an array of ‘flavours’ are there 

to try, alongside thoughtful touches like 

hair straighteners and charging cables - 

everything is geared toward making sure 

your stay is as comfortable and stressfree 

as possible. 

THE SPA 

For a central-London hotel, the spa 

here is a surprise and a joy. Located in 

a bank vault, the space feels delightfully 

enveloping, and it oozes the same style 

as upstairs with its chequerboard marble 

floor and green verdite columns. The 

treatment menu is extensive - there’s 

a men’s grooming bar as well as a 

hairdressers, alongside a full menu of 

massages and facials. 

The spa space also includes a beautiful 

pink marble hammam space, as well as a 

relaxation lounge and a gym. 

FOOD & DRINK 

The former Grand Banking Hall is 

home to the Ned’s impressive array of 

restaurants, separated by partitions 

created from the bank’s former teller 

stations. From Asian-Pacific cuisine 

at Kaia, to Lutyen’s Grill and Malibu 

Kitchen, you can sample a world 

of flavours in one location. All are 

articulated by the central stage in the 

round, where diners can enjoy live music 

from each respective space. 

A personal favourite is Cecconi’s, an 

Italian restaurant with real flair - it’s food 

for the soul, elevated and made all the 

more special by the setting. Somehow, in 

all the vastness of this space, dining here 

still feels intimate. 

T O S T A Y : 

Bedrooms start from £425 per night. 

Find out more at thened.com 


Choose a property at Jenner Court in 

Cheltenham and you can enjoy the peace of 

mind knowing we take care of all the things 

you might have come to think of as a hassle. 

Our team look after everything from building 

maintenance to gardening, while our friendly 

on-site staff ensure things are always running 

smoothly. Leaving you free to enjoy life the 

way it should be. 

Take a tour of Jenner Court to see everything 

this development has to offer and enjoy lunch 

in our on-site restaurant. 

Available from £80,000* 

Low maintenance homes 

Safety & security 

Reduced energy bills 

Communal spaces 

Landscaped gardens 

Table service restaurant 

Hotel-style guest suite* 

*Terms & conditions and extra charges apply. Subject to availability, while stocks last. Prices correct at time of print. 

#Available to new visitors taking a guided tour of Jenner Court. Tours must be booked in advance, up to a maximum of 

4 persons per party. Imagery is representative and facilities vary by location. Source code: RS0340

MURRAY 

GREENLAW ROAD 

Park & 

Choose 

BLACK WALLS 

Reserve by 

September 2023 

enjoy the added 

benefit of our 

Summer offers 

Further details below * 

Discover Beechwood Park 

Retirement Living as it should be 

Beechwood Park is an Integrated Retirement Community of one, two 

and three-bedroom apartments, set in a sociable Cotswolds community. 

Prices from £345,000 ** and Essentials Rent from £2,765 pcm. 

For more information visit brioretirement.co.uk/stow or call 01451 885494 

Roman Road 

Teacake 

STREET 

Hume Square 

Chapelton 

Park & 

Choose 

Newtonhill 

Junction 

Stow Lodge 

Market Square 

Tesco 

Stow Lodge 

St. Edwards 

Church 

The Unicorn 

Majestic Wine 

Stow-onthe-Wold 

BP / Marks & 

Spencers 

B4068 

TALBOT SQUARE 

FOSSE WAY 

ROMAN ROAD 

WELL LANE 

MARKET SQUARE 

Co-op 

Lloyd’s 

Bank 

SHEEP STREET A436 

WELL LANE 

B4068 

Brio Stow-on-the-Wold 

Brio Sales office 

and showhomes 

Purchase and Part Buy/Part Rent 

£15,000 towards your retirement (HFM + £7.5k) 

OR 

Full Hassle Free Move Package plus 12 months 

concierge fee FOC to help you settle in 

Rental 

6 months rent FOC (pro-rated over 24 months) 

OR 

Reduced to 3 month’s rent FOC 

if a 12 month tenancy 

Only one incentive can be used per purchase/rental. All apartments are available to rent, buy or part buy, part rent. 

Scan to discover 

Beechwood Park 

Beechwood Park, Wintergreen Court, Fosseway, 

Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1FP 

*Valid until the 30th September 2023. Other T&Cs apply. **Please note, other charges may apply.

Cheltenham Living Sep - Oct 2023

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