Surrey Homes | SH115 | August 2024 | Taste of the South East Supplement inside
The lifestyle magazine for Surrey - Inspirational Interiors, Fabulous Fashion, Delicious Dishes
The lifestyle magazine for Surrey - Inspirational Interiors, Fabulous Fashion, Delicious Dishes
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
PRICELESS<br />
AUGUST <strong>2024</strong><br />
115<br />
AUGUST <strong>2024</strong><br />
TASTE OF THE SOUTH EAST SUPPLEMENT <strong>inside</strong><br />
Inspirational Interiors • Fabulous Fashion • Delicious Dishes
BESPOKE KITCHEN DESIGN<br />
DESIGN • SUPPLY • MANAGE • INSTALL
Come and visit our showroom:<br />
Bancr<strong>of</strong>t Road, Reigate, <strong>Surrey</strong>, RH2 7RP<br />
01293 826620<br />
www.rdokitchenstudio.co.uk<br />
rdokitchenstudio
A PLACE TO CHILL | A PLACE TO GRILL | A PLACE TO ENTERTAIN<br />
Featuring opening and closing waterpro<strong>of</strong> louvered ro<strong>of</strong>s, windpro<strong>of</strong> side panels and ambient LED lighting<br />
and infra-red heating, our award-winning all-wea<strong>the</strong>r aluminium pergolas branded Outdoor Living Pods TM<br />
allow you to make <strong>the</strong> most <strong>of</strong> your outdoor space 365 days a year.<br />
Bespoke UK manufactured and installed in 2 weeks.<br />
Draft Advert.indd 1
We can’t guarantee sunshine<br />
but we can control <strong>the</strong> rain<br />
OUTDOOR LIVING POD TM | IT HAS YOU COVERED<br />
VISIT OUR DREAM GARDENS SHOWSITE<br />
(pictured above)<br />
0344 800 1947 t<br />
info@cbsolarshading.co.uk e<br />
cbsolarshading.co.uk w<br />
Woodhall Business Park, Sudbury. CO10 1WH<br />
04/06/<strong>2024</strong> 14:27:35
Tunbridge Wells . 70 Calverley Road . TN1 2UJ . 01892 548 111<br />
Oxshott . 1 High Street . KT22 0JN . 01372 841 730
Contents<br />
<strong>August</strong> <strong>2024</strong><br />
12<br />
21<br />
25<br />
26<br />
43<br />
44<br />
26<br />
70supplement<br />
HOUSE OF THE MONTH<br />
Dream homes on <strong>the</strong> market<br />
NOTEBOOK<br />
Upcoming events for your diary<br />
THE MUST LIST<br />
Keep up-to-date with <strong>the</strong> latest<br />
must-see and must-have goodies<br />
INTERIOR COLLECTIVE<br />
A barn conversion with<br />
real personality<br />
GET THE LOOK<br />
Nail an eclectic aes<strong>the</strong>tic<br />
FAMILY HELPING FAMILY<br />
Tips to ease <strong>the</strong> financial<br />
load and get family members<br />
on <strong>the</strong> property ladder<br />
61<br />
89<br />
90<br />
93<br />
95<br />
GET THE LOOK<br />
Playful prints and<br />
tactile textures<br />
MEDITERRANEAN<br />
MOMENTS<br />
Rebecca Cuffe’s sunny syles<br />
COOL BEAUTY<br />
Josephine Fairley edits<br />
makeup and skincare that<br />
stands <strong>the</strong> heat test<br />
TAKE A BREAK<br />
To exercise or not to<br />
exercise on holiday, Sarah<br />
Maxwell gives her opinion<br />
NOURISH TO FLOURISH<br />
Charlotte Lau analyses <strong>the</strong><br />
benefits <strong>of</strong> eating beetroot<br />
100<br />
102<br />
105<br />
106<br />
50<br />
HAPPY HOLIDAYS<br />
Mike Piercy reflects on <strong>the</strong><br />
end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> school year<br />
OPEN DAY SEASON<br />
Find out when schools across<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> will be opening<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir doors to prospective<br />
students and <strong>the</strong>ir parents<br />
WHAT’S ON<br />
Fun-filled dates for your diary...<br />
FABLES FROM THE FARM<br />
Jane Howard’s latest instalment<br />
from Coopers Farm<br />
50<br />
HAPPY HOME<br />
A contemporary revamp <strong>of</strong> some<br />
l<strong>of</strong>ty Tunbridge Wells stables<br />
96<br />
SUMMER SURVIVORS<br />
Jo Arnell sings <strong>the</strong> praises<br />
<strong>of</strong> super-hardy succulents<br />
Published by Priceless Media Ltd. Kettle Chambers, 21 Stone Street,<br />
Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF | Call 01580 714705 | Email info@priceless-group.com<br />
Visit priceless-group.com Copyright © <strong>2024</strong> Priceless Media Ltd. The views <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
advertisers & contributors are not necessarily those <strong>of</strong> Priceless Media Ltd.<br />
TASTE OF THE<br />
SOUTH EAST<br />
SUPPLEMENT<br />
Explore <strong>the</strong> finest<br />
locally produced<br />
food and drink.<br />
After page 62<br />
istockphoto.com/ Alarcon Studio<br />
7<br />
priceless-magazines.com
MANY<br />
CLEARANCE<br />
MODELS ON<br />
DISPLAY<br />
Tel: 01420 590510<br />
www.distinctivelightinguk.com<br />
SHOWROOM OPENING HOURS<br />
9am - 5pm: Monday - Friday.<br />
9am - 1pm: Saturday<br />
Elstead House, Mill Lane, Alton, Hampshire GU34 2QJ<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> <strong>Homes</strong> - FP- <strong>August</strong> Edition.indd 1 04/07/<strong>2024</strong> 11:52:07
From <strong>the</strong><br />
Editor<br />
Food and drink features heavily in some <strong>of</strong> my favourite<br />
summer memories – trying out local delicacies,<br />
sampling amazing wines and picking out seasonal<br />
produce is always a highlight <strong>of</strong> exploring new places, both<br />
at home and away. It was, <strong>the</strong>refore, particularly wonderful<br />
to get involved with this issue’s food shoot, which celebrates<br />
all that’s so irresistible about things that have been grown,<br />
made and concocted in <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>of</strong> England. Charlotte<br />
Butterworth teamed up with Balfour Winery’s Alannah Wood<br />
for perfect wine pairings and Katharine Gray Ceramics for<br />
beautiful stoneware. Read on about all our favourite local<br />
producers, foodie events and eateries in our <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong>, just after our second house feature.<br />
We’ve been to Churt and Tunbridge Wells to<br />
photograph our interiors this month. With both owners<br />
involved in interior design, it was interesting to see<br />
how <strong>the</strong>y applied <strong>the</strong>ir individual tastes, styles and<br />
personalities to <strong>the</strong>ir own personal home projects.<br />
After a soggy start to summer, we’re still holding out hope<br />
for a decent helping <strong>of</strong> sunshine, so asked beauty expert<br />
Josephine Fairley to track down products that stand <strong>the</strong><br />
heat test (equally useful if you’re going away on<br />
holiday). And Jo Arnell focuses in on juicy<br />
succulents that thrive in warmer climates.<br />
Also, don’t miss <strong>the</strong> publication <strong>of</strong><br />
our education writer, Mike Piercy’s,<br />
new book ‘Careering’ which is out<br />
this month! (troubador.co.uk)<br />
The Artificial & Natural Grass Specialists<br />
The Artificial & Natural Grass Specialists<br />
Transform<br />
Your Transform<br />
Your Outdoor<br />
Space Outdoor<br />
Space<br />
Enjoy your Priceless Magazine<br />
Priceless Team<br />
EditorLucy Fleming<br />
<strong>Supplement</strong>s & Features EditorRebecca Cuffe<br />
Sub Editor & Features Writer Emily Pavey<br />
Design & Production DirectorAnthony Boxall<br />
Sales Manager, <strong>Surrey</strong> <strong>Homes</strong>Lisa Gordon-Hughes<br />
lisa.gordon-hughes@surrey-homes.co.uk<br />
Sales Manager, Wealden Times Maria Hurley<br />
maria.hurley@wealdentimes.co.uk<br />
Senior Account ManagerSarah Norwood<br />
Senior Sales ExecutiveAndrew Boughton<br />
Wealden Times Show Director Flo Simpson<br />
Events Manager Liz Miles<br />
Events Sales Director Jude Brown<br />
Financial ControllerStephen Hunt<br />
Accounts Sarah Davies<br />
Nicola O’Leary<br />
Social Media ManagerCharlotte Lau<br />
Managing DirectorVivien Cotterill-Lee<br />
Executive Chairman Julie Simpson<br />
Contact number for Wealden Times01580 714705<br />
Contact number for <strong>Surrey</strong> <strong>Homes</strong> 01580 236072<br />
9<br />
MASTER INSTALLERS OF PREMIUM<br />
ARTIFICIAL GRASS & TURF<br />
MASTER INSTALLERS OF PREMIUM<br />
ARTIFICIAL GRASS & TURF<br />
LAWN SOLUTIONS FOR<br />
EVERY LIFESTYLE<br />
LAWN SOLUTIONS FOR<br />
EVERY LIFESTYLE<br />
0800 540 4380<br />
0800 07718540 3764380<br />
798<br />
07718 376 798<br />
www.lovelawns.co.uk<br />
www.lovelawns.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Photo Credit: John Knight Glass<br />
Photographer: David Godfrey<br />
T: 01376 530800<br />
Traditional steel windows meet<br />
modern performance.<br />
Discover <strong>the</strong> real Crittall Windows today.<br />
Visit: www.crittall-windows.co.uk
Find us here!<br />
Call 01580 714705 to find your nearest distributor <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> <strong>Homes</strong> or to get free copies delivered for £30 a year.<br />
12,000 copies <strong>of</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong> <strong>Homes</strong> are printed<br />
every month. We are available in<br />
<strong>the</strong> following outlets and are <strong>the</strong><br />
only local magazine available at key<br />
commuter stations. If you have any<br />
questions about our distribution please<br />
contact Vivien Cotterill-Lee<br />
vivien.cotterill-lee@priceless-group.com<br />
istockphoto.com/ Maria Voronovich<br />
Ashtead<br />
• Patrick Gardner<br />
Bagshott<br />
• Cubbitt Antiques<br />
• Howlands<br />
Estate Agents<br />
• Longacres Nursery<br />
Banstead<br />
• King <strong>of</strong> Cotton<br />
Betchworth<br />
• Buckland Deli<br />
• The Community<br />
Shop<br />
Bookham<br />
• Patrick Gardner<br />
Buckland<br />
• Buckland Nurseries<br />
Garden Centre<br />
Camberley<br />
• Romans<br />
Caterham<br />
• Shard Solutions<br />
Cheam<br />
• Cook<br />
Chelsham<br />
• Knights Garden<br />
Centre<br />
Chobham<br />
• Melita<br />
• Pasha<br />
Claygate<br />
• Trew Art<br />
Cobham<br />
• Cobham Furniture<br />
• Fego Café<br />
• Oh So Coco<br />
Cranleigh<br />
• Curchods Prime<br />
• Notcutts<br />
• Roger Coupe<br />
Dorking<br />
• Dorking Travel<br />
• Patrick Gardner<br />
• Princess Alice<br />
Hospice<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Epsom<br />
• Mayfield Lavender<br />
Nursery & Shop<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Esher<br />
• Sandown Park<br />
Racecourse<br />
Farnham<br />
• Cook<br />
• ME Estate Agents<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
• Waterstones<br />
Felbridge<br />
• Doves Barn Nursery<br />
Godalming<br />
• Cook<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
• Sarah Louise Dix<br />
• Waterstones<br />
Godstone<br />
• Knights Garden<br />
Centre<br />
Guildford<br />
• BoConcept<br />
• Elm Nursery<br />
Farm Shop<br />
• High Clandon<br />
Estate Vineyard<br />
• Neptune<br />
Haslemere<br />
• Ly<strong>the</strong> Hill<br />
Hotel & Spa<br />
• Tesco Superstore<br />
Knaphill<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Lea<strong>the</strong>rhead<br />
• Patrick Gardner<br />
• Robert Leech<br />
& Partners<br />
Lingfield<br />
• Robert Leech<br />
Lyne<br />
• The Farm Shop Lyne<br />
Milford<br />
• Secretts<br />
Old Oxted<br />
• Fish Plaice & Grill<br />
Oxted<br />
• Cook<br />
• Jackson-Stops & Staff<br />
• Limpsfield Stores<br />
• Morrisons<br />
• Robert Leech<br />
Oxshott<br />
• The Bear<br />
Redhill<br />
• Priory Farm<br />
Reigate<br />
• Buckland Nurseries<br />
Garden Centre<br />
• County Clo<strong>the</strong>s<br />
• Robert Leech<br />
• RDO Kitchens<br />
Ripley<br />
• Ripley Nurseries<br />
Farm Shop<br />
• The Talbot<br />
Surbiton<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Walton on<br />
Thames<br />
• Waterstones<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Warlingham<br />
• Botley Hill<br />
Farmhouse<br />
• Rayners Estate<br />
Agents<br />
West Byfleet<br />
• Roman Tiles<br />
Weybridge<br />
• Tesco Extra<br />
Woldingham<br />
• Fine & Country<br />
TRAIN<br />
STATIONS<br />
• Dorking<br />
• <strong>East</strong> Grinstead<br />
• Epsom<br />
• Esher<br />
• Guildford<br />
• Haslemere<br />
• Kingston<br />
• Redhill<br />
• Richmond<br />
• Surbiton<br />
• Weybridge<br />
• Wimbledon<br />
• Woking<br />
11<br />
geo wall hung wc<br />
original original<br />
geo basin<br />
high quality, timeless design, au<strong>the</strong>ntic elements<br />
axis<br />
carlton<br />
astonian astonian original original brassware brassware<br />
priceless-magazines.com
House<br />
Month<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
OIEO £1,500,000<br />
Newdigate<br />
Gordon Lee picks out some <strong>of</strong> his<br />
favourite homes on <strong>the</strong> market<br />
The dream: An exceptional family<br />
home with heated swimming<br />
pool, that blends modern<br />
luxury and rural tranquillity.<br />
Where: On <strong>the</strong> edge <strong>of</strong> Newdigate<br />
village, near Dorking.<br />
Setting: This exquisitely designed<br />
home is nestled in half an acre and<br />
surrounded by 17 acres <strong>of</strong> beautifully<br />
kept, communal parkland.<br />
Beds: 4 Baths: 3<br />
Special features: A stunning southfacing<br />
kitchen/diner/family room is<br />
ideal for family life and entertaining,<br />
with sleek sliding doors that seamlessly<br />
blend indoor and outdoor living.<br />
Pleasing details: There’s<br />
underfloor heating in <strong>the</strong> kitchen;<br />
a surround sound audio system;<br />
air conditioning in <strong>the</strong> sitting<br />
room and main bedroom, and a<br />
fabulous study in <strong>the</strong> turret.<br />
Outside: A wonderful outdoor<br />
terrace, ideal for al fresco dining and<br />
summer drinks parties, leads onto<br />
<strong>the</strong> heated, retractable covered pool,<br />
all framed in green by <strong>the</strong> generous<br />
garden and <strong>the</strong> meadow and woods<br />
beyond. There’s a double garage<br />
and ample parking at <strong>the</strong> front.<br />
Time to town: Newdigate village<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers a variety <strong>of</strong> amenities<br />
including two pubs, a farm shop<br />
and a doctor’s surgery. Dorking<br />
(7 miles) and Reigate (6.5 miles)<br />
stations both connect to London.<br />
Agents: Fine & Country<br />
07507 114672 fineandcountry.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com 12
Lea<strong>the</strong>rhead<br />
£1,395,000<br />
The dream: A stylish modern home with a<br />
pool, in semi-rural setting, designed, extended,<br />
and refurbished to an exacting standard.<br />
Where: Effingham Junction, near Lea<strong>the</strong>rhead.<br />
Setting: Backing on to The Drift golf<br />
course, and surrounded by greens <strong>of</strong><br />
every hue, this home is a real haven.<br />
Beds: 4 Baths: 4<br />
Special features: Spacious and light, <strong>the</strong><br />
beautiful kitchen/dining room opens<br />
out onto <strong>the</strong> stunning pool and terrace<br />
and <strong>the</strong> pretty garden beyond.<br />
Pleasing details: Huge kitchen sky light;<br />
American style fridge freezer; wooden floors;<br />
stunning bathrooms with marble floors.<br />
Outside: A westerly facing garden with terrace,<br />
seating area, pond and saltwater plunge pool.<br />
The gravel driveway has parking for several cars.<br />
Time to town: Effingham Junction Station (0.2<br />
miles) links directly to London Waterloo; M25<br />
junction 10 provides easy access to Heathrow<br />
and Gatwick airports. Whilst Lea<strong>the</strong>rhead (6<br />
miles) and Guildford (11 miles) are close by.<br />
Agents: House Partnership<br />
01483 266700 housepartnership.co.uk<br />
Virginia Water<br />
£1,100,000<br />
The dream: A modernised, 4 storey Victorian<br />
townhouse with fantastic leisure facilities.<br />
Where: In <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> prestigious Virginia Water.<br />
Setting: Historic Virginia Park is an<br />
exclusive residential community.<br />
Beds: 4 Baths: 3<br />
Special features: High-ceilinged reception rooms<br />
and generous bedrooms give a wonderful sense<br />
<strong>of</strong> space, but set over 4 storeys, this home feels<br />
cosy and intimate. Residents have exclusive access<br />
to <strong>the</strong> indoor pool, gym, and tennis court.<br />
Pleasing details: Shaker style kitchen; shuttered<br />
windows; wooden floors; feature fireplaces.<br />
Outside: The dining room opens out onto a<br />
charming patio garden, with mature planting for<br />
al fresco entertaining. Delightful walks can be<br />
enjoyed over nearby Chobham Common, <strong>the</strong><br />
local golf courses and around Virginia Water Lake.<br />
Time to town: Fast trains connect to London<br />
Waterloo in 42 minutes. Sunningdale is 3 miles<br />
away. Whilst <strong>the</strong> towns <strong>of</strong> Windsor, Guildford<br />
and Kingston are all close at hand. Junction<br />
13 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> M25 is just 4 miles away giving<br />
access to London and Heathrow Airport.<br />
Agents: Chatterton Rees<br />
01276 408545 chattertonrees.co.uk<br />
13<br />
priceless-magazines.com
POOL CONSTRUCTION | MAINTENANCE | SPA | LANDSCAPING<br />
Simplicity and expert finishings have been our unbeatable combination for<br />
over 40 years. Based in <strong>Surrey</strong>, we are a family run business that is committed<br />
to providing a premier service on both private and commercial projects.<br />
www.lagoonpoolsltd.co.uk 01932 569 569 info@lagoonpoolsltd.co.uk
Contemporary, reliable<br />
and expertly crafted<br />
swimming pools
If you have an architectural or interior design project<br />
please email gp@gregoryphillips.com<br />
gregoryphillips.com |<br />
@gregoryphillipsarchitects
REDEFINING RETIREMENT IN<br />
THE heart OF SURREY AT<br />
HOMEWOOD GROVE, CHERTSEY<br />
Discover our exceptional age-exclusive lifestyle village, nestled<br />
among beautifully landscaped gardens on <strong>the</strong> outskirts <strong>of</strong> Chertsey.<br />
It is home to a stunning collection <strong>of</strong> spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom<br />
apartments, each expertly designed with you in mind. Indulge in<br />
new-found passions, relax in our state-<strong>of</strong>-<strong>the</strong>-art wellbeing facilities,<br />
and become part <strong>of</strong> this vibrant new community.<br />
Come and view our brand new showhome and learn about our<br />
fantastic new incentives.<br />
Reserve your dream home and we’ll pay<br />
your monthly community fee for 3 years<br />
and contribute towards your stamp duty!*<br />
Call us on 01932 645092 or visit<br />
www.rangefordvillages.co.uk<br />
Marketing Suite, Ottershaw, Chertsey, <strong>Surrey</strong> KT16 0AU.<br />
Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm<br />
Prices from £399,950 †<br />
*Terms and conditions apply. Offer includes <strong>the</strong> equivalent <strong>of</strong> three years <strong>of</strong> monthly community fees at today’s fee rate plus a contribution to stamp duty<br />
up to a maximum <strong>of</strong> £23,500. Available for reservations received from 3rd July to 3rd <strong>August</strong> <strong>2024</strong> with legal completion on or before 30th October <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
Offer applicable to new build purchases only. † O<strong>the</strong>r charges apply.<br />
23143 RV_HWG_<strong>Surrey</strong> <strong>Homes</strong>_Full Page Ad_A4.indd 1 12/07/<strong>2024</strong> 13:04
<strong>Surrey</strong>’s Premier Builder<br />
Upfold Construction has been established since 2009<br />
and is a domestic builder providing services throughout<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong>, Sussex & Hampshire.<br />
Located in Cranleigh we are perfectly placed to <strong>of</strong>fer a<br />
total building service to those clients seeking a local,<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional and reliable builder. We carry out all aspects<br />
<strong>of</strong> building from extensions, renovations to a complete<br />
home refurbishment allowing us to provide a package <strong>of</strong><br />
design, planning, building & finishing.<br />
We are members <strong>of</strong> The Chartered Institute <strong>of</strong> Building<br />
which guarantees our committment to quality <strong>of</strong> product,<br />
services and integrity <strong>of</strong> conduct.<br />
For more information, please contact us on: 01483 600335<br />
Email: info@upfoldconstruction.co.uk or www.upfoldconstruction.co.uk
*BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE<br />
SAVE OVER<br />
£8 *<br />
on advance tickets<br />
using discount code<br />
CRAFT<strong>2024</strong><br />
CIF<strong>2024</strong><br />
Purchase direct<br />
from 180 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> UK’s<br />
finest contemporary<br />
craftmakers and artists<br />
Live Music • Demonstrations<br />
12 – 15 September<br />
Hever Castle<br />
& Gardens<br />
TN8 7NG<br />
Putting <strong>the</strong> WOW back into Craft Fairs<br />
Craft Fair entry included in normal Garden<br />
admission charges • RHS Members free (weekdays only)<br />
*Admission £12 using <strong>of</strong>fer code<br />
until Friday 6th September, valid on dates <strong>of</strong> craft fair only<br />
See website for full details on<br />
discount and admission costs<br />
9.30am – 5.30pm Daily<br />
(Garden open until 6pm daily)<br />
CIF_Hever_Sept24_130x185_v1.indd CIF_Hever_Sept24_130x185_v2.indd 1 10/07/<strong>2024</strong> 11:34<br />
12:23<br />
rhs.org.uk/wisley<br />
RHS Wisley<br />
Flower Show<br />
BOOK NOW<br />
Tue 3 – Sun 8 Sep<br />
Join us for a vibrant show full<br />
<strong>of</strong> inspiration, expert tips and<br />
delicious food and drink.<br />
Your visit supports our work as a charity.<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
20
Notebook<br />
Tudor Talks<br />
Take note! We’ve rounded up <strong>the</strong> best<br />
<strong>of</strong> what to see and do near you<br />
Oh so<br />
Retro!<br />
It’s time to dial <strong>the</strong> nostalgia up to max! We’ve heard this years’ Retro<br />
Festival on <strong>the</strong> 9-11th <strong>August</strong> at Newbury Show Ground is going to<br />
be <strong>the</strong> biggest and best yet. These events have raised over £600,000<br />
for charities and have bought 12 puppies for <strong>the</strong> Guide Dog Association.<br />
It’s a celebration <strong>of</strong> all things vintage from <strong>the</strong> 1920s right through<br />
to <strong>the</strong> 1980s. The vast grounds will be crammed with attractions and<br />
eye-catching displays including over 1,000 classic vehicles. With 200<br />
vintage stalls (<strong>the</strong> largest collection in <strong>the</strong> UK) you’ll be able to buy<br />
anything your heart desires from <strong>the</strong> eras. From clo<strong>the</strong>s to furniture,<br />
from car parts to games, you’ll find it here. There’s also a full weekend<br />
<strong>of</strong> over 50 live bands and DJs playing music in three marquees.<br />
The Retro Festival is a real family affair with lots for<br />
children to see and do and <strong>the</strong> adults are catered for<br />
in <strong>the</strong> evenings with entertainment in all <strong>the</strong> marquees<br />
provided until 11pm. There’s camping available too<br />
so don’t miss out on 230 acres <strong>of</strong> all things retro!<br />
retr<strong>of</strong>estival.co.uk<br />
Hever Castle has to be one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
ultimate settings for a History Festival,<br />
and especially one focusing on Tudor<br />
Times. This deep dive into Tudor<br />
history will take place from Monday<br />
19th to Thursday 22nd <strong>August</strong> with<br />
talks being held at <strong>the</strong> Two Sisters’<br />
Theatre in <strong>the</strong> Castle grounds.<br />
A stellar collection <strong>of</strong> acclaimed<br />
writers and historians will present<br />
on fascinating topics including<br />
Dr Elizabeth Norton with her talk on<br />
Jane Seymour and Dr Tracy Borman<br />
will give an illustrated talk based on<br />
her new book about Anne Boleyn and<br />
Elizabeth I. This really is a fabulous<br />
opportunity to learn and immerse in<br />
this much-loved era. For tickets and<br />
details <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> many talks please visit<br />
heverfestival.co.uk<br />
CASTLE<br />
CRAFTS<br />
Craft In Focus presents<br />
<strong>the</strong> Contemporary Craft<br />
Fair – also at Hever Castle, from<br />
12-15th September – featuring over<br />
160 exhibitors showcasing a diverse<br />
range <strong>of</strong> contemporary craft and art.<br />
Discounted tickets are available until<br />
6th September with code CRAFT<strong>2024</strong>.<br />
Held amidst Hever Castle’s beautiful<br />
gardens, visitors can enjoy live music,<br />
food and drink alongside <strong>the</strong> event.<br />
Craft In Focus selects from <strong>the</strong> finest<br />
makers in <strong>the</strong> UK, <strong>of</strong>fering a unique<br />
opportunity to appreciate and<br />
purchase original, high-quality<br />
crafts. craftinfocus.com<br />
istockphoto.com/ ValeryEgorov<br />
21<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Plough On<br />
Biddenden Tractorfest<br />
is being held – in <strong>the</strong><br />
fields <strong>of</strong> Holden Farm<br />
Biddenden – over <strong>the</strong><br />
weekend <strong>of</strong> 17th &<br />
18th <strong>August</strong>. A fun<br />
day out for all <strong>the</strong><br />
family, it’s now in its<br />
10th year.<br />
While tractors<br />
remain <strong>the</strong> central attraction, with over 200<br />
expected to exhibit over <strong>the</strong> weekend, <strong>the</strong>re are plenty <strong>of</strong><br />
stalls, vehicles, demonstrations, children’s entertainment,<br />
animals and arena displays to entertain both young and old!<br />
Pair this with enticing food and drink, live music and so<br />
much more to see and do, and <strong>the</strong>re’s all that’s needed for a<br />
fun, family day out in <strong>the</strong> wonderful Kent countryside.<br />
tractorfest.co.uk<br />
Don’t<br />
miss <strong>the</strong><br />
Wilderness Ga<strong>the</strong>ring<br />
at <strong>the</strong> lovely Hole Park<br />
from 15th to 18th <strong>August</strong>.<br />
Expect family-friendly<br />
bushcraft, music, wild camping,<br />
primitive living skills,<br />
stalls and open fires.<br />
Turn<br />
wildernessga<strong>the</strong>ring.<br />
co.uk<br />
to What’s On<br />
in this issue to find<br />
out about our friend<br />
Raj Bisram’s Sissinghusrt<br />
and Cranbrook<br />
Mayor’s Day on<br />
17th <strong>August</strong>.<br />
Visit The Sculpture<br />
Park in Churt in <strong>August</strong> to be<br />
transported into a magical woodland<br />
and wildlife inhabited water garden. Three<br />
natural lakes and a stream run through this<br />
valley arboretum. A two mile undulating trail<br />
winds past hundreds <strong>of</strong> modern and contemporary<br />
sculptures in this lush, green outdoor art gallery.<br />
Shade and a lake breeze make it perfect on a hot day!<br />
Suitable for any art, nature or outdoor enthusiast,<br />
a third <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> park is wheelchair accessible and<br />
dogs are welcome, too. Do visit<br />
Bel and <strong>the</strong> Dragon opposite<br />
for refreshments. Adults £15,<br />
concessions £10.<br />
<strong>the</strong>sculpturepark.com<br />
TRULY ORIGINAL<br />
This month sees an exciting<br />
development in <strong>the</strong> world <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> iconic Art Deco Pullman<br />
poster collections. For <strong>the</strong><br />
first time ever <strong>the</strong> original<br />
artworks are to be sold.<br />
Each hand-painted artwork<br />
measures 60 x 84 cms and has<br />
been painted in gouache on<br />
art board. Protected with a<br />
4-ply ivory acid-free window<br />
mount, each painting is<br />
priced at £5,950.<br />
Please contact <strong>the</strong> gallery for<br />
more information or to make<br />
a purchase.<br />
pullmanedictions.com<br />
Great Outdoors<br />
PRINT WORKS<br />
Travel to <strong>the</strong> bustling metropolis <strong>of</strong> Edo through 19th century<br />
Japanese woodblock prints at Edo Pop: Japanese Prints 1825–1895<br />
on display at Watts Gallery Artists’ Village, until 6th October.<br />
This will be <strong>the</strong> first public display for a number <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se<br />
works, which were hugely popular in 19th century Japan<br />
and also in Europe, where editions were collected by artists<br />
including Rossetti, Whistler, Van Gogh and Monet.<br />
Discover <strong>the</strong> influence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> woodblock technique on<br />
contemporary art, through a new site-specific installation by<br />
Tokyo-born artist, Hiroko Imada. Imada’s work celebrates <strong>the</strong><br />
natural <strong>the</strong>mes in <strong>the</strong> 19th-century prints in <strong>the</strong> show.<br />
wattsgallery.org.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
22
9/10/11 AUGUST <strong>2024</strong><br />
WINGS • WHEELS<br />
SPEED • STEAM • MUSIC • DANCE • BANDS<br />
NEWBURY<br />
SHOWGROUND<br />
RG18 9QZ<br />
A GREAT WEEKEND FOR ALL<br />
THE FAMILY STARTS HERE!<br />
6PM ON FRIDAY TO<br />
11PM ON SUNDAY<br />
FEATURING 3 AMAZING STAGES/<br />
DANCE FLOORS/<br />
SHOW ARENA<br />
& FUNFAIR<br />
www.retr<strong>of</strong>estival.co.uk<br />
THE BLACK HANGAR ROCK N ROLL STAGE • THE RICKY TICK MOD STAGE<br />
THE VINTAGE SPITFIRE PAVILION & STAGE<br />
HUGE SHOW ARENA • AEROBATIC FLYING DISPLAYS<br />
ALL THE FUN OF A VINTAGE FAIRGROUND<br />
SHOPPING VILLAGE Incl. RETRO/VINTAGE MARKET, HELICOPTER RIDES, VINTAGE & CLASSIC CARS ARENA,<br />
CARAVANS, HOT RODS, MILITARY VEHICLES, RE-ENACTORS, STEAM ENGINES & MINIATURE STEAM, AUTOJUMBLE,<br />
KIDZ ZONE, FOOD & BARS, PUBLIC CAMPING SITES, SOUNDS, MUSIC & DANCE FROM THE 30’s to 80’s<br />
DAY & WEEKEND PASSES AVAILABLE
Traditionally Made Architectural Porches, Verandas and Door Canopies<br />
You can contact us by email info@zac.ltd or visit our website www.zac.ltd<br />
or call one <strong>of</strong> our helpful design team 020 3957 6150
Next month we’re looking forward to<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> Gin Fest. Expect a Festival Market,<br />
even more gin bars and live music all day<br />
set on <strong>the</strong> front lawn <strong>of</strong> Loseley Park with<br />
<strong>the</strong> magnificent Tudor manor house as a<br />
backdrop (which you may recognise from<br />
The Crown). Book at ginfestco.com<br />
must<br />
The<br />
From must-sees to must-buys and<br />
must-dos, don’t miss this month’s<br />
round up <strong>of</strong> what to buy, see, do,<br />
and generally get excited about!<br />
This month Taylor<br />
Swift returns to <strong>the</strong><br />
UK for a second dose<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Eras Tour. If you’re<br />
feeling inspired by that<br />
legendary red lip, you need<br />
something equally iconic.<br />
Chanel’s Rouge Coco is<br />
hydrating, nourishing and<br />
will deliver lasting colour.<br />
Try shades Gabrielle or<br />
Arthur for that red lip classic<br />
thing that never goes out <strong>of</strong><br />
style! £40 at chanel.com<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> author Ava Glass’s<br />
intelligent female-led spy<br />
novels are informed by<br />
firsthand experience in MI5 and<br />
MI6. Her portrayals <strong>of</strong> realistic<br />
three dimensional women in <strong>the</strong><br />
largely male dominated genre have<br />
earned her great success and she is<br />
now one to watch – she even has<br />
a Netflix series in <strong>the</strong> pipeline for<br />
2026. Her latest novel The Trap<br />
is released <strong>August</strong> 1 st and will be<br />
available for £8.99 at amazon.co.uk<br />
It’s <strong>of</strong>ficially <strong>the</strong> perfect time<br />
for outdoor entertaining,<br />
garden dining and sunlit<br />
parties. And if you’re<br />
looking for a new way to do<br />
outdoor cooking, we’d like to<br />
introduce Charlie. Charlie is<br />
a BBQ, smoker, pizza oven<br />
and charcoal oven all rolled<br />
into one. They are hand-built<br />
in Britain to a fine quality<br />
that will stand <strong>the</strong> test <strong>of</strong><br />
many a summer soiree and<br />
come in many delightfully<br />
stylish colours. This one is<br />
£5,500 but <strong>the</strong>y also have<br />
a pr<strong>of</strong>essional upgrade for<br />
£8,250 and a tabletop version<br />
for £4,500. Check <strong>the</strong>m out<br />
at charlieoven.com<br />
If you’re planning your<br />
summer hols outfits<br />
you mustn’t forget to<br />
accessorise with a few lovely<br />
jewels and for this we love Estella<br />
Bartlett’s mini jewellery boxes.<br />
Complete with fun colours<br />
and plenty <strong>of</strong> little hooks and<br />
compartments to keep each piece<br />
safe and untangled, <strong>the</strong>y are <strong>the</strong><br />
perfect travel buddy. This one is<br />
just £29 and <strong>the</strong>re are plenty more<br />
options at estellabartlett.com<br />
We’re always on <strong>the</strong> look out<br />
for interiors pieces made in<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong>. Which is why<br />
we have to introduce Josh<br />
Page Studio – a new Kentish<br />
furniture brand that designs<br />
and handmakes inspirational<br />
pieces <strong>of</strong> furniture with<br />
references to art works and<br />
movements to really capture<br />
<strong>the</strong> imagination. This Apple<br />
chair is £1,445 at<br />
joshpagestudio.co.uk<br />
It’s afternoon tea week from <strong>the</strong> 12th<br />
to <strong>the</strong> 18th, and Chessington Garden<br />
Centre’s Sedum Restaurant has a perfect<br />
quintessentially British one. Delectable<br />
homemade goodies include finger<br />
sandwiches, chefs’ speciality savoury bites,<br />
exquisite sweet treats, and homemade scones<br />
with strawberry jam and clotted cream. Enjoy<br />
with fine teas, infusions, c<strong>of</strong>fee, or for an<br />
added bit <strong>of</strong> elegance, a glass <strong>of</strong> prosecco or<br />
sparkling wine. chessingtongardencentre.co.uk<br />
For those planning a<br />
camping trip for <strong>the</strong><br />
summer hols – <strong>the</strong>se scent<br />
infused compostable sachets<br />
from Brit brand LORDS<br />
Fragrance House are great<br />
for adding a sweet scent to<br />
your camping space. They<br />
come in reuseable and<br />
recyclable velvety bags with<br />
three lovely scents. They are<br />
£12 lordsfragrancehouse.com<br />
25<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Interior<br />
collective<br />
Leigh Courtnage’s fascinating<br />
barn is packed with treasures<br />
she’s collected throughout her<br />
career and travels. From unique<br />
furniture to an extensive<br />
collection <strong>of</strong> artworks, her<br />
home <strong>of</strong>fers <strong>the</strong> perfect canvas<br />
to show <strong>the</strong>m <strong>of</strong>f to best effect<br />
“<br />
Friends and colleagues are always<br />
ringing me up to tell me <strong>the</strong>y<br />
have spotted something I might<br />
like!” says interior designer Leigh<br />
Courtnage. As a consequence, Leigh’s<br />
converted barn and stables – located<br />
on <strong>the</strong> edge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> enchanting village<br />
<strong>of</strong> Churt in <strong>Surrey</strong> – has proved<br />
to be <strong>the</strong> perfect backdrop to an<br />
eclectic collection <strong>of</strong> art and objects,<br />
sourced from vintage fairs, auctions<br />
and shops across <strong>the</strong> country. “I’m<br />
always on <strong>the</strong> lookout, as somebody<br />
else’s rubbish might in fact be your<br />
treasure,” she says. The house, which<br />
Leigh moved into over 20 years ago, is<br />
inspired both by <strong>the</strong> layered interiors<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> stately homes that she loves<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
26
Words: Antonia Deeson<br />
Photographs:<br />
David Merewe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
to visit and partly by her own love <strong>of</strong><br />
colour, pattern and quirky design.<br />
As head designer at Miscellanea<br />
<strong>of</strong> Churt, an emporium <strong>of</strong> interiors,<br />
Leigh has been <strong>of</strong>fering her advice<br />
and interiors skill for customers and<br />
clients for over 24 years. Leigh bought<br />
Butts Barn to create <strong>the</strong> perfect family<br />
home. Surrounded by a wonderful<br />
walled garden, brimming with plants<br />
and shrubs, <strong>the</strong> former agricultural<br />
building and accompanying stables<br />
have almost become an extension to<br />
<strong>the</strong> showroom <strong>of</strong> interiors that she<br />
manages, an homage to Leigh’s skill<br />
in creating drama and narrative, yet<br />
always with a nod to practicality.<br />
A keen horticulturalist, Leigh’s<br />
<br />
This page: Above <strong>the</strong> fireplace<br />
in <strong>the</strong> snug is an antique stag’s<br />
head, a nod to Leigh’s love <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
country house style. An artfully<br />
arranged display <strong>of</strong> pictures<br />
behind <strong>the</strong> s<strong>of</strong>a <strong>of</strong>fers a glimpse<br />
<strong>of</strong> things to come in <strong>the</strong> open<br />
plan living area that comprises<br />
<strong>the</strong> main body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> house<br />
27<br />
priceless-magazines.com
This spread: Off <strong>the</strong> entrance hall, original stabling now serves as a cosy <strong>of</strong>fice space, with storage on <strong>the</strong> floor above for Leigh’s collections <strong>of</strong><br />
art, antiques and taxidermy<br />
magical garden wraps around <strong>the</strong><br />
barn, which she adds to every year.<br />
“If <strong>the</strong>re’s a space,” she laughs, “it gets<br />
filled!” Perfectly positioned wrought<br />
iron furniture and elegant sculptures,<br />
an old chandelier, a tin bath, an<br />
antique haywain and various wooden<br />
mushrooms are dotted around <strong>the</strong><br />
area, each piece <strong>of</strong>fers both visual<br />
interest and a story, giving just a<br />
hint <strong>of</strong> what is to come <strong>inside</strong>.<br />
Entering <strong>the</strong> house via a wonderful<br />
hallway with exposed wooden beams,<br />
a sense <strong>of</strong> Leigh’s style instantly<br />
delights you. There are antiques,<br />
expertly chosen, contemporary art,<br />
deftly hung, <strong>the</strong>re are sculptures<br />
and Persian rugs and needlepoint<br />
cushions that all instantly add texture<br />
and a story to <strong>the</strong> space. Leigh’s love<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> outdoors is also apparent,<br />
with plants and architectural flowers<br />
dotted around, bringing <strong>the</strong> outside<br />
<strong>inside</strong>. She has dressed <strong>the</strong> hall’s low<br />
window with a pelmet and curtain<br />
in an Arts & Crafts style floral<br />
motif fabric, a contemporary bronze<br />
sculpture stands effortlessly next to<br />
an ornately carved Victorian lea<strong>the</strong>r<br />
wing back chair. “To me <strong>the</strong> ability<br />
to combine something from <strong>the</strong><br />
19th and 20th centuries with a very<br />
contemporary item is what I love to<br />
do, as <strong>the</strong>y bring both excitement and<br />
depth to a room,” says Leigh. “It’s<br />
what historic houses have always done<br />
with <strong>the</strong>ir interiors, as families have<br />
added to <strong>the</strong>m over <strong>the</strong> decades and<br />
it’s what I love to do in my home,<br />
so you get that sense <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> travel <strong>of</strong><br />
time, but in an entirely organic way.”<br />
Off <strong>the</strong> hallway Leigh has created<br />
a comfortable snug with a large<br />
inglenook fireplace. There are an<br />
abundance <strong>of</strong> textural cushions and<br />
throws, a large colourful rug from<br />
Ruggable and yet more greenery,<br />
with a sizeable potted tree fern.<br />
A substantial lea<strong>the</strong>r Knowle s<strong>of</strong>a<br />
and a pair <strong>of</strong> lea<strong>the</strong>r armchairs are<br />
accessorised with an array <strong>of</strong> cushions,<br />
next to which sit polished wooden<br />
tables and plenty <strong>of</strong> art books which<br />
have been collected over many years.<br />
Above <strong>the</strong> fireplace is an antique stag’s<br />
head, again a nod to Leigh’s love <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> country house style, which she<br />
has mirrored on <strong>the</strong> opposite wall<br />
with two gilt antler wall lights and<br />
an antler table lamp. An artfully <br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
28
29<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Above: The country style kitchen, to which Leigh has added her unique touch, hanging a collection <strong>of</strong> kitchen paraphernalia:<br />
antique whisks, moulds and sieves to a cross beam Right: A group <strong>of</strong> Chinese writing and painting brushes, discovered at auction,<br />
have been hung from a nearby beam, between <strong>the</strong> s<strong>of</strong>a area and ano<strong>the</strong>r seating area created in ano<strong>the</strong>r nook (top)<br />
arranged display <strong>of</strong> pictures behind<br />
<strong>the</strong> s<strong>of</strong>a <strong>of</strong>fers a glimpse <strong>of</strong> things to<br />
come in <strong>the</strong> open plan living area that<br />
comprises <strong>the</strong> main body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> house.<br />
For many people it can be<br />
intimidating to live with <strong>the</strong> soaring<br />
open ceilings and original wooden<br />
beams <strong>of</strong> an old barn structure, but<br />
Leigh has embraced <strong>the</strong> architectural<br />
oddities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> original building. In<br />
<strong>the</strong> snug she has wrapped one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
main overhead beams with lichen <br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
30
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE<br />
As seen on TV!<br />
Posh Pawn is just a stone’s throw away.<br />
As part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> esteemed Prestige<br />
Pawnbrokers family serving <strong>Surrey</strong>,<br />
London and <strong>the</strong> home counties,<br />
and made increasingly popular by<br />
<strong>the</strong> hit TV Show ‘Posh Pawn’; Posh Pawn has<br />
established itself as <strong>the</strong> ultimate destination<br />
for individuals seeking to sell, loan against,<br />
exchange or purchase preloved luxury items.<br />
SO WHERE ARE YOUR<br />
NEAREST STORES?<br />
In <strong>Surrey</strong> and <strong>the</strong> surrounding areas<br />
Posh Pawn is situated in Weybridge,<br />
Guildford and Richmond.<br />
The Weybridge store is <strong>the</strong> place it all<br />
began. Being <strong>the</strong> first branch and situated<br />
in a very affluent part <strong>of</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong>, as you’d<br />
expect, <strong>the</strong> team see some high value goods<br />
and collections including art and cars as well<br />
as amazing branded jewellery pieces such as<br />
Cartier and Bvlgari. Luxury brands like Rolex,<br />
Patek, Chanel and Hermes are appraised daily<br />
due to <strong>the</strong> clientele and current cash needs.<br />
“It’s certainly been busy in recent months<br />
with record numbers coming in to sell or<br />
borrow against luxury goods.”<br />
Owner, James Contantinou.<br />
After <strong>the</strong> success <strong>of</strong> Weybridge a<br />
second location opened up for Posh<br />
Pawn in Richmond, pawnbroking in <strong>the</strong><br />
highly influential borough <strong>of</strong> London for<br />
over 10 years, with a new retail premises<br />
opening in <strong>the</strong> past 2 years to fill <strong>the</strong> gap<br />
<strong>of</strong> luxury retail in <strong>the</strong> area. Richmond<br />
is a beautiful appraisal and retail store,<br />
<strong>the</strong> attention to detail in respect <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
finishes gives a true feeling <strong>of</strong> opulence.<br />
“Classic style and old money aes<strong>the</strong>tics are<br />
key factors for Richmond clientele. Chanel,<br />
Hermes and Cartier are brands that<br />
perform extremely well in our retail sector,<br />
even bringing in a few celebrities through<br />
<strong>the</strong> doors.”<br />
Store Manager, AnnaGrace Johnson<br />
More recently is <strong>the</strong> Posh Pawn<br />
Guildford branch. Purchased and fitted<br />
during <strong>the</strong> pandemic presented <strong>the</strong><br />
team with unique challenges, which<br />
were overcome, never<strong>the</strong>less.<br />
“Guildford really is a showcase <strong>of</strong> what we<br />
have achieved, giving a great insight into<br />
<strong>the</strong> variety <strong>of</strong> assets that we deal with. The<br />
large open space gives us an opportunity to<br />
display <strong>the</strong> larger assets among <strong>the</strong> array <strong>of</strong><br />
glorious luxury goods displayed on <strong>the</strong> walls<br />
and cabinets.”<br />
Owner, James Constantinou<br />
Loan Against or Sell or Buy Luxury<br />
With years <strong>of</strong> experience in <strong>the</strong> industry,<br />
Posh Pawn has become synonymous<br />
with trust, reliability, and exceptional<br />
customer service. This legacy <strong>of</strong> excellence<br />
is reflected in every aspect <strong>of</strong> Posh Pawn’s<br />
operations including <strong>the</strong>ir Weybridge,<br />
Richmond and Guildford stores.<br />
Posh Pawn are proud to <strong>of</strong>fer a flexible<br />
pawnbroking service, allowing you to leverage<br />
your luxury assets to secure a short-term loan,<br />
providing you with <strong>the</strong> immediate funds<br />
you need while retaining ownership <strong>of</strong> your<br />
prized possessions. Or if you are looking to<br />
part with your possessions for good, Posh<br />
Pawn <strong>of</strong>fers a seamless and confidential<br />
selling experience. Their team <strong>of</strong> experts<br />
possesses an in-depth understanding <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> luxury market, enabling <strong>the</strong>m to assess<br />
and appraise your items with precision.<br />
Also at Posh Pawn you’ll find luxury items<br />
at a fraction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir original retail prices!<br />
Each item undergoes rigorous au<strong>the</strong>ntication<br />
and quality checks, ensuring that you get<br />
genuine luxury without compromise – unable<br />
to visit in store? No problem! You can shop<br />
online at www.shopprestige.com. Whe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
you’re looking for an investment piece to<br />
add to your collection or statement accessory<br />
to elevate your style, Posh Pawn has it all.<br />
So why not take a trip to Posh Pawn<br />
today! 8 UK locations including:<br />
GUILDFORD - 01483 964019<br />
164-166 High Street, Guildford GU1 3HW<br />
guildford@prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk<br />
WEYBRIDGE - 01932 859880<br />
109 Queens Rd, Weybridge KT13 9UJ<br />
weybridge@prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk<br />
RICHMOND - 0208 948 4867<br />
2-2a George Street, Richmond TW9 1JY<br />
richmond@prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk<br />
www.prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk<br />
www.shopprestige.com
Your Dream, Our Vision<br />
Photo Credit: Louisa Grace Interiors<br />
Specialists in <strong>the</strong> supply & installation <strong>of</strong> contemporary bespoke aluminium glazing systems. Our showroom & <strong>of</strong>fices are based in<br />
a historical boatyard overlooking <strong>the</strong> River Thames in Hampton. Specified by Architects, recommended by Contractors, referred by Clients.<br />
Urban & Grey Ltd<br />
Constable’s Boatyard<br />
5-9 Thames Street<br />
Hampton<br />
TW12 2EW<br />
Telephone: 020 8979 6367<br />
info@urbanandgrey.co.uk<br />
www.urbanandgrey.co.uk<br />
Sliding Doors • Bifold Doors • Flush Casement Windows<br />
Steel Replacement Doors, Screens & Windows<br />
Frameless Glazing • Frameless Fixed Ro<strong>of</strong>lights<br />
Venting, Lantern & Walk-on Ro<strong>of</strong>lights<br />
Front Doors, Pivot Doors, Glazed Garden Rooms & Verandas<br />
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE<br />
Signature Style<br />
Monthly Community<br />
Fee for THREE Years<br />
and Stamp Duty<br />
Contribution Paid at<br />
Homewood Grove!<br />
Homewood Grove is an exceptional<br />
age-exclusive lifestyle village nestled in<br />
beautifully landscaped gardens on <strong>the</strong><br />
outskirts <strong>of</strong> Chertsey, <strong>Surrey</strong>. It is home to<br />
a stunning collection <strong>of</strong> spacious 1, 2 and 3<br />
bedroom apartments, each expertly designed<br />
to give owners flexibility, complete with<br />
state-<strong>of</strong>-<strong>the</strong>-art wellbeing facilities, onsite<br />
amenities and 24/7 support services.<br />
Rangeford Villages understand that<br />
<strong>the</strong> cost <strong>of</strong> moving home can mount up,<br />
that is why it has launched a number <strong>of</strong><br />
fantastic incentives to help ease <strong>the</strong> financial<br />
burden. For a limited time only, new<br />
owners at Homewood Grove can benefit<br />
from having <strong>the</strong>ir monthly community<br />
fees* paid for three years and it will also<br />
pay towards <strong>the</strong> cost <strong>of</strong> stamp duty*.<br />
For details, please call <strong>the</strong> friendly<br />
team on 01932 645092 or visit<br />
www.rangefordvillages.co.uk<br />
**Terms and conditions apply and are subject<br />
to change. See website for full details.<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
32
This page: Tucked underneath <strong>the</strong> minstrel’s gallery, below a pair <strong>of</strong> Italian 17th century antique cherubs, <strong>the</strong> dining area has been<br />
separated by a pair <strong>of</strong> antique early 18th century hand-carved Chinese bone panel ‘tusks’ (not ivory) with a polished Sia wood dining table<br />
covered branches and added fairy<br />
lights to which she has hung small<br />
ceramic birds and pinecones. “I did it<br />
originally as a Christmas decoration,”<br />
says Leigh. “But I loved it so much<br />
that I kept it and just updated it<br />
with <strong>the</strong> birds, so it’s now become<br />
an art installation in its own right.”<br />
From <strong>the</strong> cosy snug, a door leads to<br />
<strong>the</strong> main double height living area,<br />
that contains a dining area, several<br />
seating areas and <strong>the</strong> open oak <br />
33<br />
priceless-magazines.com
This page and next: On <strong>the</strong> ground floor are three generous double<br />
guest bedrooms and a family bathroom. Each room is filled with<br />
Leigh’s collectables as well as more pieces from her art collection<br />
ro<strong>of</strong> have been kept visible throughout <strong>the</strong> building, and <strong>the</strong><br />
oak staircase leads to a first-floor minstrel’s gallery that breaks<br />
up <strong>the</strong> height <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> space. Leigh has kept <strong>the</strong> plaster <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
walls to a neutral pale colour and has used <strong>the</strong> clever addition<br />
<strong>of</strong> rugs, furniture, decorative accessories and artwork to zone<br />
<strong>the</strong> living areas, with pops <strong>of</strong> colour, texture and pattern giving<br />
a sense <strong>of</strong> cohesion to what could be a complicated space. “It<br />
felt like <strong>the</strong> best approach was to keep <strong>the</strong> background as plain<br />
and natural as possible and <strong>the</strong>n to use furniture and textiles or<br />
art to add colour and texture. I knew I needed to create smaller<br />
living spaces ra<strong>the</strong>r than think <strong>of</strong> it all as one space,” says Leigh.<br />
The dining area has been separated by a pair <strong>of</strong> antique early<br />
18th century hand-carved Chinese bone panel ‘tusks’ (not ivory)<br />
with a polished Sia wood dining table, turned wood hurricane<br />
lamps and vase. Pale grey fabric upholstered dining chairs from<br />
Miscellanea add a sense <strong>of</strong> comfortable formality. A cheeky pair<br />
<strong>of</strong> Italian 17th century antique cherubs – that Leigh found at<br />
an antiques fair – have been cleverly hung from above, seeming<br />
to float in <strong>the</strong> air, which must provide a conversation topic for<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
34
guests as <strong>the</strong>y sit down below <strong>the</strong> flying duo. A set <strong>of</strong> glazed<br />
French doors, with subtle tied-back damask curtains, open to<br />
<strong>the</strong> walled garden outside. Again, Leigh has joined <strong>the</strong> outdoors<br />
to <strong>the</strong> interior with <strong>the</strong> large potted fig plant and a shaggy green<br />
carpet from Rug 2000. A giant ceramic lamp from Red Mud<br />
sits next to one <strong>of</strong> her collection <strong>of</strong> 20th century artworks.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> opposite side <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> room is a formal seating and<br />
TV area, with a deep L-shape red s<strong>of</strong>a, also from Miscellanea.<br />
Patterned textiles, antique furniture and stunning coloured<br />
glass from Czechia add yet more colour and texture. The<br />
area overlooks <strong>the</strong> vast double height glazed windows <br />
Leigh’s skill as <strong>the</strong> manager<br />
<strong>of</strong> Miscellanea <strong>of</strong> Churt has<br />
made its mark on her home,<br />
with her ability to create<br />
little corners <strong>of</strong> fun and<br />
escapism all over her house<br />
35
This spread: The minstrel’s gallery that wraps around three<br />
sides <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> barn has plenty <strong>of</strong> inviting seating areas, each<br />
carefully arranged and filled with Leigh’s eclectic collections<br />
Above: A wooden c<strong>of</strong>fin has found a new home<br />
as a side table Right: The downstairs loo<br />
that occupy <strong>the</strong> former cart entrance to <strong>the</strong> barn. “It’s<br />
a wonderful area for <strong>the</strong> summer, when you can throw<br />
open <strong>the</strong> windows into <strong>the</strong> garden,” comments Leigh.<br />
“We are lucky, <strong>the</strong> house seems to work in different<br />
ways depending on which season it is, with each space<br />
coming to life as <strong>the</strong> wea<strong>the</strong>r changes.” A group <strong>of</strong> Chinese<br />
writing and painting brushes, discovered at auction, have<br />
been hung from a nearby beam, between <strong>the</strong> s<strong>of</strong>a area<br />
and a seating area that Leigh has created in ano<strong>the</strong>r nook.<br />
Under <strong>the</strong> staircase a lea<strong>the</strong>r tub chair with vintage throw<br />
and textile cushion sits next to a vintage tripod camera<br />
surrounded again by some <strong>of</strong> her collection <strong>of</strong> British art.<br />
Off <strong>the</strong> main living space is a wonderful country style<br />
kitchen, to which Leigh has added her unique touch,<br />
hanging a collection <strong>of</strong> kitchen paraphernalia: antique<br />
whisks, moulds and sieves to a cross beam. Also downstairs<br />
are <strong>the</strong> three generous double bedrooms, each in a distinct<br />
colourway: ruby, amethyst and apricot. Each room is filled<br />
with Leigh’s collectables as well as more pieces from her<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
36
art collection, many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> nudes having been kept to <strong>the</strong><br />
more intimate <strong>of</strong> spaces. Each <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rooms provides an<br />
essay in maximalism, texture and comfort. A large family<br />
bathroom, which Leigh created from a second kitchen/<br />
scullery, <strong>of</strong>fers a generous stand-alone bath and a large walkin<br />
shower, ba<strong>the</strong>d in light via a wall <strong>of</strong> glass bricks where<br />
<strong>the</strong> old back door was once located. Pops <strong>of</strong> driftwood<br />
sculpture give <strong>the</strong> space a distinct nod to <strong>the</strong> seaside.<br />
Upstairs, Leigh has kept her own sanctuary with a main<br />
bedroom and bathroom suite. It’s accessed via ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
wonderful set piece on <strong>the</strong> landing: a green lea<strong>the</strong>r s<strong>of</strong>a<br />
and lea<strong>the</strong>r armchair sit opposite a stunning Arts & <br />
Exposed structural timbers<br />
in <strong>the</strong> walls and ro<strong>of</strong> have<br />
been kept visible throughout<br />
<strong>the</strong> building, and <strong>the</strong> oak<br />
staircase leads to a first-floor<br />
minstrel’s gallery that breaks<br />
up <strong>the</strong> height <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> space<br />
37<br />
priceless-magazines.com
ath, giving a sense <strong>of</strong> tropical escapism<br />
for any ba<strong>the</strong>r who is lucky enough to<br />
use <strong>the</strong> room. A vintage Persian rug sits<br />
atop <strong>the</strong> wooden floor, whilst Leigh’s<br />
love <strong>of</strong> reading is catered for with a pile<br />
<strong>of</strong> art books on a vintage bent wood<br />
chair that acts as a portable bookshelf.<br />
Leigh’s bedroom again shows her<br />
managing to adapt to <strong>the</strong> unique<br />
double height open ceilings and<br />
beamed nature <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> upstairs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
barn. Using colour she has anchored<br />
<strong>the</strong> room with pops <strong>of</strong> red in various<br />
rugs as well as pieces <strong>of</strong> highly<br />
individual furniture, that she sourced<br />
in France. Always practical, Leigh<br />
has used a series <strong>of</strong> deep red curtains<br />
and a black out blind to ensure that,<br />
despite <strong>the</strong> windows that drench <strong>the</strong><br />
room in sunshine during <strong>the</strong> day, at<br />
night-time <strong>the</strong> room remains a place<br />
<strong>of</strong> rest in <strong>the</strong> large lea<strong>the</strong>r bed.<br />
Leigh has created a world <strong>inside</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> barn (and also in <strong>the</strong> adjoining <br />
This page: Right at <strong>the</strong> top <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> barn,<br />
<strong>the</strong> main bedroom has double height open<br />
ceilings. Leigh has kept this red-<strong>the</strong>med room<br />
cosy and restful with plenty <strong>of</strong> texture and<br />
black-out blinds to ensure an undisturbed<br />
night’s sleep Below: The main en suite<br />
Crafts cabinet, an oil painting rests<br />
on an easel above a large Asianstyle<br />
pot. A huge decorative frame<br />
mirror is positioned in <strong>the</strong> corner<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> area, next to a free-standing<br />
antique fireplace. Leigh’s skill as<br />
<strong>the</strong> manager <strong>of</strong> Miscellanea again<br />
making its mark on her home, with<br />
her ability to create little corners <strong>of</strong><br />
fun and escapism all over her house.<br />
The main bathroom is Leigh’s place<br />
<strong>of</strong> relaxation. As well as a generous<br />
free-standing bath, cranberry glass<br />
bottles and jars have stylishly replaced<br />
any plastic and yet more stunning<br />
classic and contemporary nudes are<br />
dotted around <strong>the</strong> walls and artfully<br />
stacked on <strong>the</strong> floor. Greenery has been<br />
added thanks to a large flouncy potted<br />
fern which has been placed next to <strong>the</strong><br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
38
ANTIQUE MIRROR TILES AND BESPOKE FRAMED MIRRORS<br />
www.retro-reflections.com<br />
www.nosa.co.uk<br />
CREATING LUXURY BATHROOM SPACES<br />
ENQUIRE NOW<br />
020 3750 1110<br />
39<br />
priceless-magazines.com
priceless-magazines.com 40
stables where she has made an <strong>of</strong>fice<br />
area and a seating zone) that tells<br />
<strong>the</strong> story <strong>of</strong> her life. Twenty years <strong>of</strong><br />
sourcing, designing, planning and<br />
creating. Each wall and each surface<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers a narrative to her personal<br />
interests. However, although <strong>the</strong><br />
house and Leigh are so intertwined,<br />
now with her children grown up,<br />
Leigh has decided <strong>the</strong> time is right to<br />
search for a new project. “It’s a house<br />
“It’s a wonderful area for <strong>the</strong><br />
summer, when you can throw<br />
open <strong>the</strong> windows into <strong>the</strong><br />
garden... We are lucky, <strong>the</strong> house<br />
seems to work in different ways<br />
depending on which season it<br />
is, with each space coming to<br />
life as <strong>the</strong> wea<strong>the</strong>r changes.”<br />
that has meant an awful lot to me,”<br />
she says, “but things have to change.<br />
I don’t think <strong>of</strong> it as something to<br />
be afraid <strong>of</strong>, I like to think <strong>of</strong> it as a<br />
new adventure and I cannot wait.”<br />
Address Book:<br />
For more information on interiors<br />
projects, see <strong>the</strong> Miscellanea <strong>of</strong> Churt<br />
website miscellanea.co.uk<br />
41<br />
priceless-magazines.com
09/08/2017 Midsomer Blue.jpg (5616×3644)<br />
http://www.crowndownloads.co.uk/members/images/IMPKIT/300dpi/Midsomer%20Blue.jpg 1/1<br />
Open Tues - Fri: 8:30-5:00<br />
Sat: 9:00-4:00<br />
Crossways, Churt, Nr Farnham<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> GU10 2JA<br />
01428 714014<br />
www.miscellanea.co.uk
Get <strong>the</strong><br />
LOOK<br />
1 Mulroy antler 3 light chandelier with shades £160 Laura Ashley Lighting and Mirrors darlighting.co.uk 2 Peel and<br />
stick wood planks in Natural Oak Brushed £49.99/m 2 Naturewall naturewall.com 3 Thoughtful print from £3.57<br />
Desenio desenio.co.uk 4 Silver metal wall mounted buffalo skull £69.95 Melody Maison melodymaison.co.uk 5 Lacquer<br />
wedding cabinet in red lacquer £1,895 Shimu shimu.co.uk 6 Squishmeister chaise s<strong>of</strong>a in Roasted Peaches brushed<br />
cotton £3,205 Loaf loaf.com 7 Artificial potted Chinese fan palm tree £85 Click Style clickstyle.co.uk 8 Driftwood table<br />
stool £250 Argonauts and<strong>the</strong>argonauts.com 9 Sorrento 3053 Bronzo carpet £85/m 2 Riviera Home rivierahomeuk.co.uk<br />
43<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Family<br />
helping<br />
Family<br />
Property purchases can be a real challenge right now,<br />
especially for those trying to get on that elusive first<br />
rung <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ladder. For many, a little help from <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
families can work wonders but, in <strong>the</strong>se complicated<br />
areas, it’s well worth getting some expert advice<br />
How can I help my<br />
family financially?<br />
For advice on how to help family with finances we’ve spoken<br />
to Evelyn Partners’ Nicola MacAuley, Private Client Director,<br />
and Natasha E<strong>the</strong>rton, Director <strong>of</strong> Financial Planning<br />
There are several ways to help adult children on <strong>the</strong><br />
property ladder, <strong>the</strong> starting point is to check what<br />
you can afford. No one knows what <strong>the</strong> future might<br />
hold but cashflow modelling will help you understand how<br />
your needs might change and <strong>the</strong> effect <strong>of</strong> any gift or loan.<br />
One option is to make an outright gift towards <strong>the</strong> property.<br />
If you take this route, you should consider what would<br />
happen if your child is buying with a partner and <strong>the</strong>y<br />
subsequently separate. If <strong>the</strong>re’s a risk you might need funds<br />
back, you could make a loan with a loan agreement and a<br />
charge over <strong>the</strong> property or something more informal. The<br />
loan could be gifted later.<br />
Both options require consideration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> inheritance tax<br />
implications and, depending on how <strong>the</strong>y are funded, <strong>the</strong><br />
income and capital gains tax. If you have surplus income<br />
ra<strong>the</strong>r than capital, a joint mortgage might be an option or<br />
acting as guarantor, although you should be aware <strong>of</strong> your<br />
liabilities in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> default. For some, Lifetime ISAs<br />
<strong>of</strong>fering a 25% government bonus if purchasing a property,<br />
may be an option and potentially trusts may be appropriate.<br />
By taking advice you’ll be able to make an informed decision<br />
which is right for your family and Evelyn Partners are<br />
available to help discuss your options. Visit <strong>the</strong>m online at<br />
evelyn.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
44
Why <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong>?<br />
We’ve asked <strong>the</strong> experts at Canham <strong>Homes</strong> to<br />
explain why <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> is such a prime location<br />
in which to be looking to invest in property<br />
When choosing a suitable location for <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
developments, Canham <strong>Homes</strong> always<br />
have family and lifestyle in mind. This is<br />
very apparent at <strong>the</strong>ir <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> developments in<br />
Sissinghurst, Capel, Egerton, Frittenden and Matfield.<br />
Their homes complement <strong>the</strong> lifestyle that many new<br />
buyers want to achieve when choosing <strong>the</strong>ir next home.<br />
So why is <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> such a prime area for all this?<br />
The <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>of</strong> England, with its charming towns,<br />
picturesque countryside and vibrant communities, has<br />
long been an attractive destination for families and firsttime<br />
buyers. With its unique blend <strong>of</strong> natural beauty,<br />
rich history and modern amenities it is an idyllic setting<br />
that continues to draw newcomers in search <strong>of</strong> a better<br />
quality <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most compelling reasons to buy property<br />
in <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> is its proximity to London. The<br />
region <strong>of</strong>fers a perfect balance for those who work in<br />
<strong>the</strong> capital but prefer <strong>the</strong> tranquility and space <strong>of</strong> rural<br />
living. Excellent transport links, including frequent<br />
train services and well-maintained motorways, ensure<br />
that commuting to London is convenient and relatively<br />
stress-free. This accessibility means that residents<br />
can enjoy <strong>the</strong> economic opportunities and cultural<br />
attractions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> city without sacrificing <strong>the</strong> peace and<br />
comfort <strong>of</strong> rural life.<br />
Canham <strong>Homes</strong> Helping Hand Scheme, on specific<br />
homes, gives additional peace <strong>of</strong> mind, with a<br />
contribution towards o<strong>the</strong>r costs such as Stamp Duty,<br />
solicitors fees, mortgage contribution, or whatever you<br />
choose to spend it on. For more information about<br />
Helping Hand or any <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> available properties,<br />
currently in <strong>the</strong> Canham <strong>Homes</strong> portfolio in <strong>the</strong> heart<br />
<strong>of</strong> Kent, just email sales@canhamhomes.co.uk (terms &<br />
conditions apply) or visit canhamhomes.co.uk<br />
45<br />
priceless-magazines.com
What are <strong>the</strong> legal<br />
considerations <strong>of</strong><br />
gifting money?<br />
If you’re <strong>the</strong> Bank <strong>of</strong> Mum and Dad assisting an<br />
adult child with a house purchase, Victoria Seaman,<br />
Legal Executive at Berry & Lamberts Solicitors,<br />
is sharing some issues to think carefully about<br />
How will <strong>the</strong> gift affect your estate’s inheritance<br />
tax position? Everyone has an annual gift<br />
allowance <strong>of</strong> £3,000, but gifts over this amount<br />
need to be outlived by 7 years to fall outside<br />
<strong>of</strong> your estate for inheritance tax calculations,<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rwise <strong>the</strong>y will reduce <strong>the</strong> nil rate band<br />
allowance available on your death.<br />
Is your child purchasing with a partner or spouse?<br />
Cautious parents might want to safeguard <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
contribution in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> a relationship<br />
breakdown, especially if <strong>the</strong> contribution<br />
to <strong>the</strong> initial purchase price is unequal,<br />
which requires a Declaration <strong>of</strong> Trust.<br />
What about o<strong>the</strong>r children? If you have several<br />
children and have assisted one child more<br />
than ano<strong>the</strong>r, you might want to amend your<br />
Will to take account <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> inequality in<br />
lifetime gifting (<strong>of</strong>ten referred to as a hotchpot<br />
clause) to ensure that all children eventually<br />
receive an equal share <strong>of</strong> your assets.<br />
Is your child in receipt <strong>of</strong> state benefits? If so,<br />
gifting <strong>the</strong>m capital may abruptly bring<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir entitlement to receive those benefits to<br />
an end and cause significant hardship.<br />
For more advice visit berryandlamberts.co.uk<br />
Where to move to?<br />
With <strong>the</strong>ir fifty years <strong>of</strong> experience in<br />
property, Antler <strong>Homes</strong> are perfectly placed<br />
to explain where is best to move to<br />
What makes a location especially ideal for those on<br />
<strong>the</strong> early rungs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> property ladder? For many, a<br />
balance <strong>of</strong> green spaces, conveniences and access<br />
to larger towns or cities is ideal. For example,<br />
our Green Oak Park developmnet is set in <strong>the</strong><br />
beautiful semi-rural village <strong>of</strong> West Horsley, between<br />
Guildford and Lea<strong>the</strong>rhead. Its 21 private two-,<br />
three- and four-bedroom houses are surrounded<br />
by abundant green open space, sitting north <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> Hills and on <strong>the</strong> edge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> North Downs.<br />
The village provides essential amenities, including a<br />
newsagent, butcher, bakery, supermarket and wine<br />
shop, with additional shopping in nearby Guildford<br />
and Woking. Of course transport links are also<br />
very important, especially for young pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />
working in <strong>the</strong> city – West Horsley has easy access<br />
to <strong>the</strong> A3, M25 and M3, facilitating travel to<br />
London, Guildford, Kingston, Heathrow and<br />
coastal destinations. Meanwhile Horsley railway<br />
station <strong>of</strong>fers journeys to London Waterloo in<br />
just 52 minutes and Guildford in 13 minutes.<br />
Can you tell us more about this development? <strong>Homes</strong><br />
vary from 920 sqft to 2,434 sqft and are from<br />
£600,000 to £1,695,000. The small development<br />
is in a semi-rural setting, which means that whilst<br />
very well-connected, <strong>the</strong> site itself is quiet, away<br />
from busy main roads – perfect for young families!<br />
All <strong>the</strong> homes have been finished to an exceptional<br />
standard <strong>inside</strong> and out and <strong>the</strong> all-inclusive<br />
internal specification includes oak handrail and<br />
newel, contemporary fixtures and fittings and<br />
flooring throughout. Every home also has an allinclusive<br />
gold or platinum specification <strong>of</strong>fering<br />
flooring, tiling, integrated Siemens appliances<br />
and fitted wardrobes. Plus we include a 2 year<br />
Antler <strong>Homes</strong> Warranty and 10 year Premier<br />
Guarantee structural warranty for added security.<br />
Do you <strong>of</strong>fer any incentives to buy or help-to-buy<br />
schemes? Yes, in this case plot 16 – a two bed<br />
called Emerald House – is available with a £20,000<br />
deposit contribution, and plot 18 – Lime House, a<br />
3 bedroom home – is available with a single stamp<br />
duty contribution <strong>of</strong> £33,750. antlerhomes.co.uk<br />
istockphoto.com/ gorodenk<strong>of</strong>f<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
46
<strong>Homes</strong> ready to move into<br />
OCKHAM GU23 GU23 6FL 6PD<br />
STUNNING NEW SHOW HOME OPEN<br />
Clover House, our new show home, is an impressive 4 bedroom detached house with Tudor-style frontage<br />
and <strong>of</strong>fers an all-inclusive specification in a beautiful <strong>Surrey</strong> village location. All homes at Green Oak Park<br />
are built to an exceptional standard <strong>inside</strong> and out and includes:<br />
Underfloor heating to ground floor<br />
All floor coverings included<br />
Minoli wall and floor tiles<br />
Matt fitted wardrobes<br />
Turf to front and rear garden<br />
Indian sandstone paths and patio<br />
Images: Flaticon.com<br />
Bespoke shaker style kitchens Bifold / patio doors to rear<br />
Integrated Siemens appliances Landscaped front garden<br />
Prices from £600,000<br />
Two parking spaces and garage<br />
Electric car charging point<br />
MARKETING SUITE AND SHOW HOME OPEN DAILY, 10AM TO 5PM<br />
BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY, CALL 01483 921474
Midwinter<br />
wealdentimes-fair.co.uk<br />
Save<br />
£2.00<br />
USE CODE<br />
‘EARLY24’<br />
14-16 NOVEMBER<br />
THE HOP FARM, PADDOCK WOOD TN12 6PY<br />
Tickets on sale now at wealdentimes-fair.co.uk
Festive<br />
Shopping<br />
at its<br />
Finest<br />
Our famous<br />
food hall<br />
Join us at this year’s Midwinter Fair and visit our famous Food Hall, home to award-winning<br />
producers <strong>of</strong> artisan food and drink and <strong>the</strong> finest field-to-fork dairies, distilleries, smokeries,<br />
bakeries, wineries, curries, c<strong>of</strong>fees, chutneys and cheeses<br />
If you love traditional recipes handed down<br />
through generations and food and drink<br />
that is locally produced, ethically sourced,<br />
sustainable, organic, hand-made, small batch,<br />
unique, joyful, and always delicious, <strong>the</strong>n<br />
walk slowly through our Food Hall.<br />
It’s a great place to find thoughtful gifts for<br />
those that are <strong>the</strong> hardest to buy for. And with<br />
samples galore, a wonderful place to graze!<br />
PLUM DUFF & STUFF<br />
plumduffandstuff.co.uk<br />
SADDLE GOOSE<br />
saddlegoose.co.uk<br />
BLACK MOUNTAINS SMOKERY<br />
smoked-foods.co.uk<br />
SALCOMBE DAIRY<br />
salcombedairy.co.uk<br />
THE PANETTONE STORE<br />
<strong>the</strong>panettonestore.co.uk<br />
GOLDEN ROAD GIN<br />
goldenroadgin.co.uk<br />
230+<br />
independent<br />
retailers.
‘<br />
Happy<br />
Home<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
50
Words: Fiona Patrick<br />
Photographs: David Merewe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
Through pops <strong>of</strong> colour plus plenty <strong>of</strong><br />
pattern and texture, Vicky Kieldsen has<br />
applied everything she loves about interior<br />
design to her own Tunbirdge Wells home<br />
For <strong>the</strong> uninitiated among us,<br />
starting a house renovation<br />
project and deciding to maintain<br />
<strong>the</strong> white walls in <strong>the</strong> main living space<br />
might prove an impossible prospect.<br />
Open any interiors magazine, Pinterest<br />
board or Instagram house account and<br />
you are overwhelmed with pictures <strong>of</strong><br />
kitchen walls painted in every pink,<br />
blue, green and cream imaginable,<br />
but very rarely white. Who among us,<br />
when faced with unpacking boxes in a<br />
recently purchased home and planning<br />
a new kitchen, would be able to resist<br />
<strong>the</strong> desire to mark <strong>the</strong>ir territory with<br />
a colourful pot <strong>of</strong> paint? It takes a<br />
confident customer indeed to look at<br />
a space and decide that <strong>the</strong> existing<br />
white is in fact exactly what it needs.<br />
Enter Vicky Kieldsen, a Tunbridge<br />
Wells-based interior designer who has<br />
transformed her home – originally a<br />
stable block converted to a single-storey<br />
house in 2005 – from a stark, grey and<br />
white shell into a characterful space<br />
pulsing with pops <strong>of</strong> colour, pattern<br />
and texture. Thank goodness for Vicky’s<br />
personable nature. It is only thanks to<br />
this that I am able to concentrate at all<br />
while she tells me about her degree in<br />
interior architecture, as I am constantly<br />
peeking over her shoulder and making<br />
a mental note <strong>of</strong> sunshine-filled prints<br />
and bright, eye-catching plant pots.<br />
Following work in hotel design and<br />
a stint as Editorial Assistant at Living<br />
Etc. magazine, Vicky started Hello<br />
Geronimo, where her initial focus was<br />
making pieces <strong>of</strong> art that were stocked<br />
in hallowed interior institutions such as<br />
Heal’s and Graham & Greene. However<br />
in 2019, she realised her raison d’être<br />
lay elsewhere. “I decided to go back to<br />
interiors,” explains Vicky. “It makes me<br />
really happy, working on <strong>the</strong> residential<br />
side, helping clients and making<br />
people’s houses colourful.” She laughs<br />
when I point out <strong>the</strong> literal blank<br />
canvas on <strong>the</strong> walls behind her, but<br />
much like her approach with her clients,<br />
Vicky tackled her own rooms on a caseby-case<br />
basis, acknowledging that if she<br />
were to live somewhere else she would<br />
most likely do <strong>the</strong> kitchen very <br />
51<br />
priceless-magazines.com
HERNE BAY STORE - NOW OPEN<br />
BEXHILL - CANTERBURY - HERNE BAY - REIGATE<br />
SEVENOAKS - TENTERDEN - TUNBRIDGE WELLS<br />
COUNTY CLOTHES<br />
MENSWEAR<br />
Spring / Summer <strong>2024</strong> ranges<br />
now available in store<br />
WWW.COUNTYCLOTHESMENSWEAR.CO.UK<br />
EST. 1997<br />
BLIND AND CURTAIN<br />
SHOWROOM<br />
Our newly redesigned Luxaflex showroom, showcases<br />
<strong>the</strong> latest innovations in custom made blinds including<br />
automation, sustainability and smart home integration.<br />
Sitting seamlessly alongside our bespoke luxury curtain<br />
and Roman blind service containing an inspiring<br />
collection <strong>of</strong> designer fabrics and trimmings.<br />
With over 25 years experience in window styling we<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer a fully bespoke service with every aspect <strong>of</strong> your<br />
project overseen by our team <strong>of</strong> experts.<br />
CURTAINS & BLINDS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY<br />
Opening Hours:<br />
Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm<br />
52 Friars Stile Road,<br />
Richmond, <strong>Surrey</strong> TW10 6NQ<br />
020 8332 6250 • www.curtain-call.co.uk<br />
info@curtain-call.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
52
During lockdown, Vicky decided to enhance her focus on colour by conducting a wealth<br />
<strong>of</strong> research into colour psychology and <strong>the</strong> importance <strong>of</strong> using <strong>the</strong> right colours from <strong>the</strong><br />
perspective <strong>of</strong> promoting good sleep, and creating a calm, welcoming environment<br />
differently. “I thought a lot about this<br />
room and what colour I would paint<br />
it,” Vicky says, “but it’s got really<br />
high ceilings and it’s so bright that<br />
it really does suit <strong>the</strong> white walls.”<br />
In 2016, living in London<br />
with a growing family, Vicky and<br />
her husband decided to move to<br />
Tunbridge Wells in search <strong>of</strong> more<br />
greenery, and immediately fell in<br />
love with <strong>the</strong> house and its spacious,<br />
airy feel. Backing onto a large and<br />
attractive public park, <strong>the</strong> house<br />
retains many original features<br />
including vents for <strong>the</strong> horses and<br />
<br />
53<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Previous pages & this page: Vicky opted for a Magnet laminate kitchen in dark blue to <strong>of</strong>fset <strong>the</strong> bright pops <strong>of</strong> colour<br />
in <strong>the</strong> main living space. Vertical, striped tiling has been incorporated behind <strong>the</strong> range cooker, bringing interest, whilst<br />
whitewashed, engineered floorboards have been sanded back to neutral to warm up <strong>the</strong> room. An old dresser was repainted<br />
in green and updated with bobbin beading and new aluminium bi-fold doors let in an abundance <strong>of</strong> light<br />
porthole windows. “When we moved<br />
in,” Vicky says, “<strong>the</strong> décor was very<br />
‘Scandi’. The kitchen was white, <strong>the</strong><br />
worktop was glossy black, <strong>the</strong> cabinets<br />
were tired with cupboard doors falling<br />
<strong>of</strong>f, it was all a bit characterless.”<br />
Knowing that vivid artwork, furniture<br />
and accessories would be used to<br />
decorate <strong>the</strong> room, Vicky opted to<br />
install a Magnet laminate kitchen in<br />
dark blue to <strong>of</strong>fset <strong>the</strong> bright pops <strong>of</strong><br />
colour. Keen to make <strong>the</strong> most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
space available, she continues, “We<br />
opted to go for higher cabinets because<br />
we’ve got <strong>the</strong> space to maximise storage<br />
<strong>the</strong>re – it looks fresh and new, and it<br />
really suits <strong>the</strong> house now.” Vertical,<br />
striped tiling has been incorporated<br />
behind <strong>the</strong> range cooker, bringing<br />
interest to an <strong>of</strong>ten-overlooked area,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> whitewashed, engineered<br />
floorboards have been sanded back<br />
to neutral with <strong>the</strong> effect <strong>of</strong> warming<br />
up <strong>the</strong> room. Vicky also repainted<br />
a grey dresser in eye-catching green<br />
and added bobbin beading sourced<br />
from Decora Mouldings around <strong>the</strong><br />
doors and drawers, lending depth<br />
and personality to a functional area.<br />
Externally, a pair <strong>of</strong> rotting, wooden<br />
French doors have been replaced by<br />
new aluminium bi-fold doors, letting<br />
in an abundance <strong>of</strong> light and allowing<br />
<strong>the</strong> trees <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> adjacent park to feel<br />
like an additional colourful add-on!<br />
Vicky says, “It’s great when <strong>the</strong> doors<br />
are folded back, this space just opens<br />
out into <strong>the</strong> garden and it’s really good<br />
for entertaining.” It also allows for an<br />
open plan set-up that suits family life,<br />
where <strong>the</strong> grown-ups can be cooking<br />
and eating while still being able to see<br />
what <strong>the</strong> kids are doing – running in<br />
and out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> garden or watching TV.<br />
Elsewhere in <strong>the</strong> house <strong>the</strong>re are four<br />
bedrooms, with one currently being<br />
used as a snug. The dark blue walls and<br />
rich, burgundy red velvet s<strong>of</strong>a give this<br />
room a cosier atmosphere, a cocoon-like<br />
space to retreat to and “a separate space<br />
for when my husband and eldest son<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
54
This page: The snug’s<br />
dark blue walls and rich,<br />
burgundy red velvet<br />
s<strong>of</strong>a lend this room a<br />
suitably cosy atmosphere<br />
want to watch football!” It is a far cry<br />
from <strong>the</strong> room <strong>the</strong>y found when <strong>the</strong>y<br />
first moved in, with a floating platform<br />
bed hung from <strong>the</strong> ceiling, accessed<br />
by a stepladder. “It was quite cool and<br />
obviously made use <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> high ceilings,<br />
but just wasn’t very practical with young<br />
children!” The children’s bedrooms were<br />
styled by Vicky, who decided against<br />
using curtains in <strong>the</strong>se rooms. “The<br />
shutters really suit this house – it needs<br />
simple and contemporary,” and painting<br />
<strong>the</strong> graded green walls in her son’s<br />
bedroom was an initial experiment into<br />
<strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> colour in children’s rooms.<br />
“It was probably <strong>the</strong> first kid’s room I<br />
ever did, and I immediately started to<br />
gravitate towards playing with colour.”<br />
The focus was always keeping <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
bedrooms interesting, and Vicky<br />
spent considerable time researching<br />
independent brands for colourful<br />
accents to create intriguing corners<br />
<strong>of</strong> space. During lockdown, Vicky <br />
55<br />
priceless-magazines.com
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE<br />
WAYS TO TRANSFORM YOUR<br />
3HOME WITH SMART TECH<br />
1A HEALTHIER HOME<br />
A whole range <strong>of</strong><br />
clever products<br />
can help make your<br />
home healthier – with<br />
everything from<br />
optimised climate control<br />
to eliminate allergens<br />
and help you keep<br />
your cool, through to<br />
integrated smart sound<br />
and lighting to promote<br />
a relaxing environment<br />
that works with your<br />
natural circadian<br />
rhythm and mood.<br />
Symbiotic tip: “Everyone’s<br />
priorities will be different,<br />
so it’s important to get<br />
<strong>the</strong> balance and <strong>the</strong><br />
budget right to make<br />
sure you invest in <strong>the</strong><br />
things that will make<br />
<strong>the</strong> most difference to<br />
you and your family.”<br />
2A SAFER HOME<br />
Feeling insecure<br />
in your own home<br />
has been shown to have<br />
a negative impact on<br />
mental health. Integrated<br />
smart home technology<br />
can elevate your security<br />
systems to provide<br />
protection from both<br />
internal and external<br />
threats – from simple<br />
house alarms to intruder<br />
detection and CCTV<br />
that links to multiple<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r systems, including<br />
video and lighting.<br />
Symbiotic tip: “Smart<br />
home security can not<br />
only reduce stress and<br />
anxiety, but can also<br />
save you time, with<br />
many features available<br />
at <strong>the</strong> touch <strong>of</strong> a button<br />
– even remotely.”<br />
“OUR HOMES HAVE TO WORK HARDER THAN<br />
EVER. SMART TECHNOLOGY PROVIDES<br />
IMAGINATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR HOW<br />
WE LIVE TODAY – AND TOMORROW.”<br />
3A FLEXIBLE HOME<br />
With <strong>the</strong> rise <strong>of</strong> remote working, our homes have<br />
to be multifunctional spaces. Smart technology<br />
can help create optimal environments for different<br />
tasks, from using clever lighting to define different<br />
areas within one zone to a state-<strong>of</strong>-<strong>the</strong>-art cinema<br />
room for designated down-time with <strong>the</strong> family.<br />
Symbiotic tip: “Having well-defined spaces<br />
for work, rest and play within your home can<br />
make family dynamics far more enjoyable.”<br />
MAKING HOMES SMARTER<br />
Transform your<br />
home with smart<br />
technology and<br />
our expertise.<br />
SPECIALISTS IN:<br />
• Home automation systems<br />
• Multi-Room Audio<br />
• Home Entertainment Systems<br />
• CCTV and security<br />
• Networks and Wi-Fi<br />
REVOLUTIONISE YOUR<br />
HOME WITH SMART<br />
TECHNOLOGY TAILORED TO<br />
YOUR NEEDS<br />
SPECIAL SURREY HOMES READER OFFER<br />
Get a free home consultation to explore how<br />
smart technology could transform your home<br />
01892 257258 | www.symbioticsmarthomes.co.uk
This page: The couples’ sons’ rooms<br />
were designed to have a positive<br />
effect on sleep and wellbeing<br />
also decided to enhance her focus<br />
on colour by conducting a wealth<br />
<strong>of</strong> research into colour psychology<br />
and <strong>the</strong> importance <strong>of</strong> using <strong>the</strong><br />
right colours from <strong>the</strong> perspective <strong>of</strong><br />
promoting good sleep, and creating<br />
a calm, welcoming environment: “I<br />
think it’s really important to get this<br />
right, especially with kids’ rooms.<br />
The colours on <strong>the</strong> walls can have an<br />
impact on sleep, mood, everything.”<br />
Aside from one north facing<br />
bedroom, <strong>the</strong> rooms are all south facing,<br />
allowing plenty <strong>of</strong> light through <strong>the</strong><br />
large, single panes <strong>of</strong> glass, and nowhere<br />
more so than <strong>the</strong> main bedroom<br />
which benefits from full height sash<br />
windows. A mezzanine overlooking <strong>the</strong><br />
bed exploits <strong>the</strong> amazing potential <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> high ceilings, and carefully chosen<br />
artwork and furnishings contrast<br />
with <strong>the</strong> concrete-effect wallpaper,<br />
contributing to a more grown-up space<br />
and allowing <strong>the</strong> patterns and textures<br />
to speak for <strong>the</strong>mselves. At <strong>the</strong> opposite<br />
end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> spectrum, <strong>the</strong> modular<br />
bathroom in place when Vicky and<br />
family moved in had a false low ceiling<br />
and was painted black, creating a dark,<br />
unwelcoming space. “It was like being<br />
in a bad hotel in <strong>the</strong> ’80s!” remembers<br />
Vicky. They decided to rip <strong>the</strong> whole<br />
thing out and to open up <strong>the</strong> ceiling<br />
to <strong>the</strong> pitch. “It made <strong>the</strong> room feel so<br />
much brighter, lighter and bigger. We<br />
added Fired Earth tiling to <strong>the</strong> walls<br />
and floor and boxed out <strong>the</strong> bath to<br />
hide some pipes, which also makes a<br />
handy ledge to sit on while <strong>the</strong> kids<br />
are in <strong>the</strong> bath.” The shower has also<br />
been cleverly incorporated into <strong>the</strong><br />
room, with no shower tray or door,<br />
opening up <strong>the</strong> space even fur<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
Structurally, <strong>the</strong> house has not<br />
<br />
priceless-magazines.com
This page: The principal bedroom suite, complete with convenient mezzanine for storage, makes full use <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> former stables’ l<strong>of</strong>ty ceilings<br />
required any updating given its recent<br />
build date, and it has also benefitted<br />
from a series <strong>of</strong> experienced residents.<br />
Vicky explains, “The first buyer that<br />
lived here was an interior designer, and<br />
<strong>the</strong>n a fashion designer lived here after<br />
that, and now <strong>of</strong> course <strong>the</strong>re’s ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
interior designer, so <strong>the</strong> house has quite<br />
a good design history!” Vicky also<br />
credits her husband with transforming<br />
<strong>the</strong> garden. A rock garden and a vast<br />
bamboo bush taking up most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
space were painstakingly removed in<br />
favour <strong>of</strong> new trees, paving stones and<br />
an area <strong>of</strong> astro where <strong>the</strong> children<br />
enjoy playing football and cricket. Vicky<br />
adds, “He has completely changed<br />
everything out <strong>the</strong>re and it’s now a<br />
lovely area to be in.” With <strong>the</strong> addition<br />
<strong>of</strong> a Big Green Egg and a Gozney<br />
pizza oven it has become a sociable <br />
priceless-magazines.com 58
The finest range <strong>of</strong> premium beds, mattresses<br />
and bedding in <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong>-<strong>East</strong><br />
Cavendish House, Sydenham Road, Guildford, <strong>Surrey</strong> GU1 3RX | 01483 380111<br />
jonesandtomlin.co.uk
This page: Vicky’s husband has transformed<br />
<strong>the</strong> exterior from rock garden to family friendly<br />
– creating a great space for entertaining<br />
enclave that’s used all year round.<br />
Vicky has a number <strong>of</strong> go-to brands<br />
that fit with her contemporary style,<br />
including HK Living for lighting and<br />
ceramics, and Danish brand Hay for<br />
furniture and accessories: “Our dining<br />
table and chairs are from Hay, as are <strong>the</strong><br />
outside table and chairs – <strong>the</strong>y just do<br />
very well-made furniture,” she says. “I also<br />
love Loaf s<strong>of</strong>as; I think <strong>the</strong>y’re really great<br />
and <strong>the</strong>ir colour options are amazing.”<br />
When designing someone else’s home,<br />
Vicky’s focus is always on playing with<br />
lighting and trying to create little pockets<br />
<strong>of</strong> brightness as opposed to flooding an<br />
entire room. Alongside this, incorporating<br />
colour and pattern is key: “If a client<br />
doesn’t want it on <strong>the</strong> walls, <strong>the</strong>n I would<br />
always try to bring colour and pattern<br />
into upholstery and curtains and cushions<br />
and <strong>the</strong> floor.” Vicky is also a fervent<br />
supporter <strong>of</strong> utilising stripes, believing<br />
that <strong>the</strong>y provide interest and balance<br />
without being too ‘<strong>of</strong>-<strong>the</strong>-moment’. “I<br />
do like stripes. I think <strong>the</strong>y will always<br />
be around. They’re timeless. But I try<br />
to rein it in a bit because not everyone<br />
likes stripes as much as me! My main<br />
obsessions are colour, pattern and texture.<br />
And I just want people to walk into a<br />
room and literally fall in love with it.”<br />
Address Book:<br />
Through her company,<br />
Hello Geronimo, Vicky <strong>of</strong>fers full<br />
interior design, single room design,<br />
room styling and more, with most<br />
services available in-person or<br />
remote. See hellogeronimo.com<br />
Hay hay.dk<br />
HK Living hkliving.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com 60
Get <strong>the</strong><br />
LOOK<br />
1 Natural bamboo pendant light (medium) £180 Rose & Grey roseandgrey.co.uk 2 Eichholtz Solaris mirror £495<br />
Sweetpea & Willow sweetpeaandwillow.com 3 Large lemon vintage antique print £13.50 Ink & Drop inkanddrop.com<br />
4 Snacks from <strong>the</strong> Tree print from £9.57 Desenio desenio.co.uk 5 Black interior aluminium patio door POA SEH BAC<br />
sehbac.com 6 Spindle back chair in lily white £180 Garden Trading gardentrading.co.uk 7 Recycled Linen stripe cushion<br />
£75 Colours Of Arley colours<strong>of</strong>arley.com 8 Red cushion rectangle £37.50 Braided Rug Company braided-rug.co.uk 9<br />
Taylor s<strong>of</strong>a sleeper in Sand Bresso 6151 £4,104.65 BoConcept boconcept.com 10 Danito checkerboard rug from £84<br />
La Redoute laredoute.co.uk 11 Margonia dining chair in Ink Blue £139.99 MY Furniture my-furniture.com<br />
61<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Looking for healthy & wholesome summer recipe<br />
ideas to spice up your culinary repertoire?<br />
Kale<br />
& radish<br />
panzanella salad<br />
served with a honey<br />
& mustard vinaigrette<br />
by Lara Green<br />
from<strong>the</strong>greenkitchen.<br />
com<br />
Visit priceless-magazines.com for inspiration<br />
62
istockphoto.com/ Alarcon Studio
Make your dream<br />
space a reality<br />
We specialise in building Bespoke Outdoor<br />
Kitchens, Louvered Pergolas, and Patio<br />
areas servicing <strong>the</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong> area.<br />
Based in Weybridge, <strong>Surrey</strong>.<br />
07711 071505 | Sales@allaboutoutdoorliving.com<br />
www.allaboutoutdoorliving.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
64
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Wondering about wine<br />
It’s easy to get into a pattern <strong>of</strong> always choosing <strong>the</strong> same<br />
wine, wanting to discover new options but being unsure<br />
where to start. The best way to get in <strong>the</strong> know is<br />
through wine tasting and Kent Wine School’s fun,<br />
informal tastings and courses in Tunbridge Wells<br />
will introduce you to new grapes and wine styles<br />
in a relaxed social setting. They don’t sell wine:<br />
<strong>the</strong>y bring wine to life for you in an inspiring<br />
way. You can even get qualified with one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
best line ups <strong>of</strong> accredited wine courses in <strong>the</strong><br />
country. Tickets cost from £35 and gift vouchers<br />
are available. Book online at kentwineschool.com<br />
Food for<br />
Thought<br />
Learning about food and drink<br />
can enrich your diet, and<br />
is also great fun!<br />
Culinary Course<br />
Set in <strong>the</strong> rolling beauty <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong> Hills, The Abinger<br />
Cookery School <strong>of</strong>fers a range <strong>of</strong> cookery courses to make<br />
your summer sizzle. Expand your culinary horizons with<br />
a variety <strong>of</strong> courses: from mastering <strong>the</strong> art <strong>of</strong> grilling at<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir Weber Grill Academy to crafting delicious Asian<br />
dishes, delving deep into Fish and Seafood, or creating<br />
exquisite plates on <strong>the</strong> Chef’s Masterclass. The courses<br />
cater to all skill levels, <strong>of</strong>fering a personalised learning<br />
experience in small classes led by expert chefs. Don’t miss<br />
this opportunity to learn and entertain amidst stunning<br />
scenery. To explore your culinary adventure in <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong> Hills visit abingercookeryschool.com<br />
Guide to Gin<br />
The Aroma Experience at <strong>the</strong> Silent Pool<br />
Distillery is a fun, hands-on gin exploration for<br />
everyone from aficionados to groups <strong>of</strong> friends.<br />
Led by a distillery expert, this 90-minute session<br />
is a sensory dive into <strong>the</strong> world <strong>of</strong> aroma,<br />
botanicals and Silent Pool Gin, including guided<br />
tastings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> range and a G&T to enjoy. Then<br />
get creative as you select and blend carefully<br />
chosen botanical oils to make your own Aroma<br />
Garnish that will take your gin cocktails to <strong>the</strong><br />
next level. Find out more at<br />
silentpooldistillers.com/experiences<br />
65<br />
priceless-magazines.com
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Behind <strong>the</strong> Bottle<br />
Ever fans <strong>of</strong> a beautiful locally produced bottle, we’re<br />
touring Balfour Winery with <strong>the</strong>ir team to discover <strong>the</strong><br />
secrets behind <strong>the</strong>ir glorious grapes and wonderful wines<br />
How did Balfour Winery begin?<br />
Balfour Winery began with a<br />
simple remark. “Why don’t we<br />
plant some vines?” Leslie Balfour-<br />
Lynn asked Richard after <strong>the</strong>y<br />
acquired <strong>the</strong> land surrounding<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir family home. The<br />
wine <strong>the</strong>y made, based on<br />
Billecart-Salmon Rosé Brut<br />
Champagne, went on to<br />
become <strong>the</strong> first English<br />
wine to win a gold<br />
medal and <strong>the</strong> trophy<br />
at <strong>the</strong> International<br />
Wine Challenge.<br />
This year, <strong>the</strong><br />
winemakers<br />
will produce<br />
800,000<br />
bottles <strong>of</strong><br />
English wine.<br />
Not bad for an<br />
endeavour that<br />
began with <strong>the</strong> simple maxim: “If<br />
we can’t sell it, we’ll drink it.”<br />
Is it open to visitors?<br />
The winery and vineyard are open<br />
year-round. We <strong>of</strong>fer immersive<br />
tours and tastings as well as casual<br />
dining in our Cellar Door, where<br />
guests can choose locally sourced<br />
charcuterie boards or flatbreads.<br />
Our restaurant, The Winemakers’<br />
Kitchen, celebrates <strong>the</strong> notion<br />
that “what grows toge<strong>the</strong>r, goes<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r.” Seasonal local produce<br />
is served alongside <strong>the</strong> wines that<br />
inspired each dish. It’s a truly<br />
unique experience in a stunning<br />
setting overlooking <strong>the</strong> vines.<br />
Is Balfour Winery still<br />
a family business?<br />
The vineyard, winery, and cellar<br />
door are extensions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Balfour-<br />
Lynn family home. Family is<br />
fundamental to our philosophy.<br />
Our winemaking is led by <strong>the</strong><br />
fa<strong>the</strong>r and son team, Fergus and<br />
Owen Elias. Owen is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
founders <strong>of</strong> English wine, while<br />
his son Fergus is pioneering a<br />
new generation <strong>of</strong> award-winning<br />
English wines. Three generations<br />
“Every glass or bottle<br />
<strong>of</strong> Nannette’s sold<br />
contributes to rewilding<br />
projects in <strong>the</strong> local area”<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turner family have cared<br />
for <strong>the</strong> vineyard and estate. Cathy,<br />
Stef, and <strong>the</strong>ir son Billy possess<br />
a remarkable understanding <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> terroir and a commitment to<br />
sustainability. This generational<br />
knowledge and dedication to<br />
protecting <strong>the</strong> land for <strong>the</strong> future<br />
are integral to producing our<br />
inimitable wine.<br />
Your wines have won many awards<br />
and earned much critical acclaim.<br />
What makes <strong>the</strong>m so special?<br />
Since <strong>the</strong> very start, we have<br />
ventured to make wines we<br />
love. Our winemaking process is<br />
meticulous and innovative. We<br />
employ small-batch winemaking<br />
techniques with complete control<br />
over every stage, from grape<br />
receipt to bottling and disgorging.<br />
This approach allows for <strong>the</strong><br />
creation <strong>of</strong> wines that are clean,<br />
fresh and precise, showcasing <strong>the</strong><br />
unique terroir <strong>of</strong> each vineyard.<br />
This year, we saw a recordbreaking<br />
haul <strong>of</strong> awards. Our<br />
Nannette’s Rosé 2023 won gold<br />
at <strong>the</strong> Global Rosé Masters, and<br />
we received five awards from <strong>the</strong><br />
International Wine Challenge,<br />
including Gold for our Leslie’s<br />
Reserve Brut NV.<br />
What Balfour bottle would<br />
you recommend for a<br />
summer toast this year?<br />
This summer, we’re raising a toast<br />
to nature. Our Nannette’s 2023 is<br />
fresh, dry and dusky pink. It’s <strong>the</strong><br />
perfect summer sip; one might<br />
call it Kent’s answer to Côtes de<br />
Provence. We’ve partnered with<br />
<strong>the</strong> Kent Wildlife Trust to give<br />
back to <strong>the</strong> earth that helped<br />
produce our beautiful wine. Every<br />
glass or bottle <strong>of</strong> Nannette’s sold<br />
contributes to rewilding projects<br />
in <strong>the</strong> local area.<br />
Can you tell us about any<br />
upcoming projects or exciting<br />
news in <strong>the</strong> world <strong>of</strong> Balfour?<br />
Harvest, which tends to<br />
happen in October, is rapidly<br />
approaching. After a slower start<br />
to growth this year due<br />
to a wet spring, we<br />
are grateful for<br />
longer, sunnier<br />
days. The quality<br />
and quantity <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> harvest are<br />
marked by <strong>the</strong><br />
optimal balance <strong>of</strong><br />
sunshine and rainfall.<br />
We eagerly wait in<br />
anticipation to see what this<br />
vintage brings us.<br />
Find out more about Balfour<br />
Winery and <strong>the</strong>ir wonderful<br />
wines at balfourwinery.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
66
A Symphony <strong>of</strong> Flavours<br />
HANDCRAFTED IN THE HEART<br />
OF THE SURREY HILLS<br />
Follow us @silentpoolgin<br />
silentpooldistillers.com<br />
Please enjoy Silent Pool Gin responsibly<br />
1814_SPG_Wealden-Times-Ad-v1.indd 1 04/03/<strong>2024</strong> 14:42
We've got <strong>the</strong> perfect spot<br />
for everything...<br />
Lunch or dinner, a romantic getaway, a special celebration,<br />
or just some refreshement along <strong>the</strong> way...<br />
There's always a warm welcome at our beautiful historic inn.<br />
EAT|DRINK|STAY|EXPLORE<br />
www.<strong>the</strong>crownchiddingfold.com 01428 682255<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
68
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Best <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong><br />
We’re hunting down where to find classic flavours <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> region at <strong>the</strong>ir best<br />
Gin<br />
For a tipple with a<br />
classic <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> vibe,<br />
Whitstable Harbour Gin<br />
is currently making waves<br />
with two distinct flavours.<br />
Their first class London Dry<br />
combines <strong>the</strong> freshness <strong>of</strong><br />
sea buckthorn and samphire.<br />
Meanwhile <strong>the</strong>ir new Kentish<br />
Pink was crowned Kent Spirit<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Year at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> Kent<br />
Awards, and it pays homage<br />
to <strong>the</strong> cherry orchards <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Garden <strong>of</strong> England with an<br />
exquisite blend <strong>of</strong> botanicals<br />
and natural cherry juice. Not<br />
too sweet it is setting a new<br />
standard in <strong>the</strong> world <strong>of</strong> pink<br />
gins and is perfect for traditional<br />
and contemporary palates. Both<br />
cost £39.50 and are available at<br />
whitstableharbourgin.co.uk<br />
Cordials<br />
Elderflower is a UK classic we all<br />
know and love and Bush Barn<br />
Farm, just outside Robertsbridge<br />
<strong>East</strong> Sussex, has <strong>the</strong> secret to<br />
turning it into award wining<br />
cordials. At <strong>the</strong>ir family run<br />
farm, founders Nick and Maria<br />
grow organic elder trees and<br />
harvest beautiful elderflowers<br />
and elderberries from which <strong>the</strong>y<br />
make delicious cordials with only<br />
natural ingredients. Their fresh, floral<br />
Elderflower Cordial and Elderberry &<br />
Lemon Cordial have won <strong>the</strong> company<br />
plenty <strong>of</strong> awards in <strong>the</strong> past and this July<br />
<strong>the</strong>y also launched two new cordials –<br />
Elderflower & Quince and Elderflower<br />
& Rhubarb. 500ml bottles are £6.50 for<br />
Elderflower Cordial and £6.95 for any<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rs. Find at local farm shops in <strong>East</strong><br />
Sussex and online at bushbarnfarm.co.uk<br />
Wine<br />
Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best UK wines come<br />
out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong>. To celebrate<br />
our rich history, try <strong>the</strong> refined<br />
taste <strong>of</strong> this exceptional sparkling<br />
wine from Silverhand Estate. Their<br />
award-winning Silver Reign Rosé<br />
is an elegant Sparkling Wine <strong>of</strong><br />
England, crafted exclusively from<br />
Pinot Noir grapes. Its lively<br />
flavours <strong>of</strong> wild strawberries and<br />
ripe summer fruits are truly<br />
enchanting. Produced using<br />
<strong>the</strong> Charmat method, this<br />
bottle promises a refreshing<br />
and elegant experience<br />
with every sip. Available for<br />
£18, you can find it at <strong>the</strong><br />
Silverhand Estate Cellar Door<br />
in Luddesdown, Kent (DA13<br />
0XE) and online at The Wine<br />
Caverns website<br />
<strong>the</strong>winecaverns.co.uk<br />
Preserves<br />
The Wooden Spoon Preserving<br />
Company are experts in<br />
crafting preserves with tradition,<br />
quality and natural ingredients.<br />
Founded almost 50 years ago, <strong>the</strong>y<br />
embarked on a journey fuelled<br />
by <strong>the</strong> desire to create unique<br />
traditional and contemporary<br />
preserves made from <strong>the</strong> best<br />
ingredients. Nestled in Kent’s<br />
picturesque village <strong>of</strong> Wye, <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
artisanal production takes place in<br />
a converted Kentish Oast House.<br />
Their products include a diverse<br />
range <strong>of</strong> extra jams, marmalades,<br />
chutneys and more, and <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are all exclusively made on-site.<br />
They are available to buy in farm<br />
shops and delicatessens across<br />
Kent, as well as direct via <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
website, <strong>the</strong>woodenspoon.co.uk<br />
69<br />
priceless-magazines.com
25cm Stoneware<br />
Plate in Mist Blue,<br />
£35, 18cm Stoneware<br />
Plate in Sea Green (holding<br />
crisps), £25, and 8.5 cm<br />
Stoneware trinket dish<br />
in Chalk White, £12<br />
Instagram @katharine_<br />
gray_ceramics
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Exceptional<br />
<strong>Taste</strong><br />
Charlotte Butterworth, aka @<strong>the</strong>needy.greedy, celebrates all things produced in<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> as she chooses some <strong>of</strong> her favourite ingredients to create this<br />
month’s dishes. She’s teamed up with wine expert Alannah Wood from Balfour<br />
Winery for perfect wine pairings and local ceramicist Ka<strong>the</strong>rine Gray for beautiful<br />
stoneware to complement her tasty recipes Photographs: David Merewe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
Roast tomatoes & whipped feta served with Kent Crisps<br />
I’m making <strong>the</strong> most <strong>of</strong> tomato season with<br />
this sensational dip. Slow roasting <strong>the</strong> tomatoes<br />
sweetens and intensifies <strong>the</strong>ir flavour, perfectly<br />
complementing <strong>the</strong> cool whipped feta. I love<br />
serving Kent Crisps, <strong>the</strong>y are a real favourite<br />
with my family and have a wonderful range<br />
<strong>of</strong> flavours inspired by Kentish produce –<br />
<strong>the</strong>y’re also perfect to scoop. The packaging is<br />
beautiful too, with iconic photos <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> area.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> roasted tomatoes:<br />
• Approx. 20 cherry or baby plum tomatoes<br />
• 1 tsp dried or fresh thyme<br />
• olive oil<br />
Halve <strong>the</strong> tomatoes. Put in an oven<br />
pro<strong>of</strong> dish with a tbsp <strong>of</strong> olive oil, <strong>the</strong><br />
thyme, salt and pepper. Roast for approx<br />
30 mins at 150°C. Allow to cool.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> whipped feta:<br />
• 100g feta<br />
• 125g Greek yoghurt<br />
• 50g cream cheese<br />
Crumble <strong>the</strong> feta and put in a bowl with <strong>the</strong><br />
Greek yoghurt. Beat with an electric beater until<br />
smooth, <strong>the</strong>n beat in <strong>the</strong> cream cheese in.<br />
To serve:<br />
Spread <strong>the</strong> whipped feta on a plate, and top<br />
with <strong>the</strong> tomatoes. Sprinkle over some fresh<br />
thyme if you have it. Serve with crisps to dip.<br />
About Charlotte<br />
Charlotte Butterworth, aka <strong>the</strong>needy.greedy, is a caterer, cookery teacher<br />
and recipe creator who grew up in Faversham and now lives in Cranbrook<br />
and loves using local Kent produce. She creates fabulous food for everything from<br />
intimate dinners and family celebrations to drinks parties and corporate events.<br />
Charlotte also runs cookery workshops in her lovely home, helping people rediscover <strong>the</strong>ir culinary<br />
mojo with new ideas for delicious, healthy and easy meals for everyday and entertaining. Her next<br />
evening workshop is Wednesday 11th September. Find Charlotte on Instagram and Facebook sharing<br />
her delicious recipes as @<strong>the</strong>needy.greedy or contact her by emailing charlotte@butterworth.co.uk<br />
71<br />
priceless-magazines.com
The Fox dining rooms<br />
Looking for a destination for your next meal out, romantic<br />
date night, private dining experience or special occasion?<br />
Set within <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> Foxhills, a multi award-winning country club and hotel<br />
in <strong>Surrey</strong>, lies a real hidden gem. The Fox dining rooms is located in <strong>the</strong><br />
resort’s 19th-century Manor House and <strong>of</strong>fers exquisite two AA Rosette<br />
cooking in stunning surroundings.<br />
Open to visitors, as well as members and hotel guests, <strong>the</strong> restaurant’s grand<br />
interior, stylish décor and extravagent windows overlooking <strong>the</strong> 400-acre<br />
estate make it a picture-perfect place to dine.<br />
Three individually designed rooms <strong>of</strong>fer charm and character with exceptional<br />
service providing a relaxed setting to enjoy <strong>the</strong> culinary delights crafted by<br />
esteemed head chef, Dan DaCosta, and his expert brigade in <strong>the</strong> kitchen.<br />
Expect sophisticated British cuisine with a modern twist, full <strong>of</strong> high-quality<br />
fresh ingredients, locally sourced wherever possible, and presented elegantly<br />
and with flair.<br />
Open for dinner Monday to Sunday, 6pm - 10pm<br />
Named after <strong>the</strong> influential 18th-century politician, Charles James Fox,<br />
rekindle his spirit as a man who indulged in <strong>the</strong> finer things in life by<br />
experiencing <strong>the</strong>se delectable dishes in style and informal comfort, with a nod<br />
to Fox’s love <strong>of</strong> socialising.<br />
For menus & booking, visit:<br />
www.foxhills.co.uk/dine<br />
In <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong><br />
A little slice <strong>of</strong> Italy<br />
We are La Meridiana, a<br />
family owned au<strong>the</strong>ntic Italian<br />
restaurant in <strong>East</strong> Horsley.<br />
Exciting new summer<br />
menu created by our<br />
Head Chef Hercules.<br />
We look forward to welcoming<br />
you very soon! Ciao!<br />
Ockham Road <strong>South</strong>, <strong>East</strong> Horsley,<br />
Lea<strong>the</strong>rhead, KT24 6QU<br />
01483 284343 | www.lameridiana.co.uk<br />
Restaurant <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Year <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong><br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
72
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Sausage pasta ragu<br />
Serves 2, generously<br />
We are spoilt for choice for fantastic<br />
butchers here in <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong>. I<br />
love <strong>the</strong>se local sausages made into a<br />
wonderful ragu served with pappardelle<br />
pasta. Easy, nutritious, delicious,<br />
adored by all ages. Lighter and a lovely<br />
change to a traditional beef ragu.<br />
• 4 large, good quality sausages<br />
• 1 red onion, finely chopped<br />
• 2 sticks celery<br />
• 2-3 carrots<br />
• 2 cloves garlic<br />
• 1 tsp <strong>of</strong> fennel seeds, paprika, chilli<br />
flakes (omit if you don’t like it hot)<br />
• bay leaf and fresh rosemary<br />
(if you have it)<br />
• 1 tbsp tomato purée<br />
• 400g tin <strong>of</strong> tomatoes<br />
• splash <strong>of</strong> balsamic vinegar<br />
• 200g pappardelle<br />
1. Heat some olive oil in a heavy<br />
based pan. Add <strong>the</strong> finely chopped<br />
onion and allow to s<strong>of</strong>ten gently.<br />
2. Finely chop <strong>the</strong> carrots, celery<br />
and garlic. I put all mine in a food<br />
processor, until it looks like mince!<br />
Add to <strong>the</strong> onions and cook for<br />
5-10 mins. Then add <strong>the</strong> paprika,<br />
fennel and chilli flakes (if using).<br />
Cook for a couple more minutes.<br />
3. Add <strong>the</strong> sausage meat and<br />
brown, before stirring in <strong>the</strong> tomato<br />
purée, chopped tomatoes, chopped<br />
rosemary and bay leaf. Cook for at<br />
least 30 mins on a gentle simmer.<br />
Add <strong>the</strong> vinegar, season, stir, taste<br />
and tweak according to your taste.<br />
4. Cook <strong>the</strong> pasta according to<br />
<strong>the</strong> packet instructions, drain and<br />
add to <strong>the</strong> sauce and serve.<br />
25cm<br />
Stoneware Plate in<br />
Mist Blue, £35<br />
Instagram<br />
@katharine_gray_<br />
ceramics<br />
73<br />
priceless-magazines.com
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Chicken with chargrilled<br />
courgettes & tarragon<br />
& local honey dressing<br />
Serves 2<br />
Taking inspiration from <strong>the</strong> abundance<br />
<strong>of</strong> tarragon growing in my herb garden,<br />
I created this elegant summer dish. I<br />
am always being asked for courgette<br />
recipes, as <strong>the</strong> vegetable growers amongst<br />
us have a seemingly endless supply <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>m throughout <strong>the</strong> season, and <strong>the</strong>y<br />
desperately need picking before <strong>the</strong>y<br />
become marrow like! Chargrilling gives<br />
<strong>the</strong>m a delicious smokey flavour.<br />
• 2 chicken breasts<br />
• 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme<br />
• juice <strong>of</strong> half a lemon<br />
• olive oil<br />
• 3-4 courgettes, sliced<br />
lengthways into strips<br />
For <strong>the</strong> dressing:<br />
• 20g (approx) fresh tarragon<br />
• 20ml olive oil<br />
• 10-20ml apple cider vinegar<br />
• 1 tbsp each <strong>of</strong> local honey, Dijon<br />
mustard and s<strong>of</strong>t brown sugar<br />
For <strong>the</strong> courgettes:<br />
Heat a griddle pan on <strong>the</strong> hob. Brush<br />
<strong>the</strong> strips <strong>of</strong> courgette with olive oil using<br />
a pastry brush. Also lightly brush <strong>the</strong><br />
griddle pan. When <strong>the</strong> pan is hot, place<br />
<strong>the</strong> courgettes on leaving for 2-3 mins<br />
so <strong>the</strong>y get a beautiful charring pattern.<br />
Turn <strong>the</strong>m over and cook on <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
side. You will probably need to do it in<br />
a couple <strong>of</strong> batches. You can prep this<br />
as far ahead as you like, but keep in <strong>the</strong><br />
fridge if it is more than a few hours.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> chicken:<br />
Put a chicken breast between two pieces<br />
<strong>of</strong> cling film and bash with a rolling<br />
pin until flattened. Repeat for <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
breast. Mix a generous tbsp <strong>of</strong> olive<br />
oil with <strong>the</strong> lemon juice, thyme, salt<br />
and pepper. Marinate for as long as<br />
possible (up to 4 hours but at least 30<br />
mins). Heat a frying pan on <strong>the</strong> hob<br />
with olive oil and cook <strong>the</strong> chicken<br />
for approx 5-10 mins on each side<br />
until cooked through. Keep warm.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> dressing:<br />
Blitz all <strong>the</strong> ingredients toge<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
<strong>Taste</strong> and add more honey,<br />
vinegar etc if required.<br />
When ready to serve, slice <strong>the</strong> chicken<br />
and place with <strong>the</strong> courgettes on a<br />
plate. Drizzle over <strong>the</strong> tarragon sauce,<br />
with extra served on <strong>the</strong> side. Add<br />
a handful <strong>of</strong> dressed salad leaves.<br />
25cm<br />
Stoneware Plate<br />
in Chalk White, £35<br />
Instagram<br />
@katharine_gray_<br />
ceramics<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
74
TRY OUR BRAND NEW MENU TODAY<br />
Our exciting new menu has arrived,<br />
<strong>of</strong>fering a diverse array <strong>of</strong> culinary<br />
delights. Featuring a 4-week rotation<br />
<strong>of</strong> daily specials and more. Including<br />
savoury pies, succulent roasted meats,<br />
flavourful Asian-inspired cuisine,<br />
and au<strong>the</strong>ntic Greek souvlaki wraps<br />
to name just a few <strong>of</strong> our new creations.<br />
OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW<br />
We have also introduced a mouthwatering<br />
selection <strong>of</strong> desserts to<br />
satisfy every sweet tooth. The new<br />
cake line-up features an indulgent<br />
array <strong>of</strong> treats, including creamy baked<br />
cheesecakes and tangy blueberry tray<br />
bakes. For chocolate lovers, <strong>the</strong>re are<br />
rich triple chocolate cookies, while<br />
those with a nostalgic palate will<br />
delight in <strong>the</strong> oversized, playful take<br />
on jammy dodgers. Additionally, we<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer a variety <strong>of</strong> seasonal specials and<br />
innovative flavours, ensuring <strong>the</strong>re's<br />
always something new and exciting to<br />
try and bring a smile to your face.<br />
FIND US<br />
Chessington Garden Centre<br />
Lea<strong>the</strong>rhead Road<br />
Chessington<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong><br />
KT9 2NG<br />
CONTACT US<br />
01372 725638<br />
Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm<br />
Sunday 9:30am-4pm<br />
info@chessingtongardencentre.co.uk
The enchanted place<br />
on <strong>the</strong> hill in Devon<br />
Our five-star manor house hotel is like no o<strong>the</strong>r. It’s where Michelin Star<br />
dining, a relaxing wellness spa, and exquisite rooms and suites come toge<strong>the</strong>r to<br />
create a charming space for relaxing stays overlooking <strong>the</strong> Devon countryside.<br />
To book your stay, speak to our<br />
Reservations team via 01752 344455<br />
Or book online via boringdonhall.co.uk<br />
@boringdonhall | @gaiaboringdon | @acleafrestaurant
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Apple, cherry &<br />
hazelnut cake with<br />
honeycomb ice cream<br />
Here in <strong>the</strong> Garden <strong>of</strong> England, we are<br />
famous for our orchards. Apples and<br />
cherries work beautifully toge<strong>the</strong>r to<br />
create a stunning cake perfect for any<br />
occasion. It is utterly delicious paired<br />
with Simply Ice Cream’s Heavenly<br />
Honeycomb. This beautiful luxury ice<br />
cream is made in <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> Kent. I<br />
first tasted it at a local food festival a<br />
few years back and have been a huge<br />
fan ever since – <strong>the</strong>y’re also regulars<br />
at Wealden Times Midsummer Fair.<br />
• 125g butter, s<strong>of</strong>tened<br />
• 125g caster sugar<br />
• 3 large eggs, beaten<br />
• 2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
• 50g ground almonds<br />
• 100g self raising flour<br />
• 1 tsp cinnamon<br />
• 2 large eating apples, peeled,<br />
cored and cubed<br />
• 100g local fresh cherries, stoned<br />
(frozen cherries work well –<br />
defrosted, and <strong>the</strong> juice drained)<br />
For <strong>the</strong> topping:<br />
• 25g chopped blanched hazelnuts<br />
• 20g butter, cut into small cubes<br />
• 2 tbsp demerara sugar<br />
• 1 tsp cinnamon<br />
To serve:<br />
• Simply Ice Cream in your preferred<br />
flavour – Heavenly Honeycomb<br />
works perfectly with this cake<br />
1. Line <strong>the</strong> base <strong>of</strong> and grease<br />
a loose-bottomed cake tin and<br />
preheat <strong>the</strong> oven to 180°C.<br />
2. Beat <strong>the</strong> butter and sugar<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r – add <strong>the</strong> eggs gradually.<br />
If it curdles, add some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flour.<br />
When all <strong>the</strong> eggs are incorporated<br />
add <strong>the</strong> vanilla extract, flour, ground<br />
almonds and cinnamon. Mix in<br />
<strong>the</strong> cherries and two thirds <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
cubed apples. Pour into <strong>the</strong> prepared<br />
tin, scatter over <strong>the</strong> remaining<br />
apples and topping ingredients.<br />
3. Bake for 50 mins. Pop in a skewer,<br />
if it comes out clean <strong>the</strong>n it’s cooked.<br />
4. This cake will keep in a tin<br />
for a few days. Serve with a<br />
scoop <strong>of</strong> Simply Ice Cream.<br />
22cm Stoneware<br />
Plate in Chalk White,<br />
18cm Stoneware Plate in<br />
Pebble Grey, £30,<br />
Instagram @katharine_<br />
gray_ceramics<br />
77<br />
priceless-magazines.com
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Alannah’s perfect Balfour wine pairings<br />
Food and wine pairing needn’t require <strong>the</strong> expertise<br />
<strong>of</strong> a sommelier or <strong>the</strong> precision <strong>of</strong> a chemist in<br />
balancing a wine’s acids, tannins, or alcohol with<br />
a dish. While sommelier advice is always a welcome<br />
addition, <strong>the</strong>re’s a simpler, more accessible approach for <strong>the</strong><br />
everyday wine enthusiast. At Balfour Winery, we embrace<br />
<strong>the</strong> philosophy that “what grows toge<strong>the</strong>r goes toge<strong>the</strong>r”.<br />
This adage is more than just a quaint saying; it’s a practical<br />
and delightful method <strong>of</strong> pairing food and wine.<br />
These combinations aren’t just about flavours; <strong>the</strong>y are<br />
a celebration <strong>of</strong> locality and sustainability. By choosing<br />
English wines and local produce, we support our local<br />
community and reduce our carbon footprint. As English<br />
wines continue to gain international acclaim, <strong>the</strong>re has<br />
never been a better time to explore <strong>the</strong>se local gems.<br />
Here are some inspired pairings to get you started:<br />
For <strong>the</strong> roast tomatoes & whipped feta served with Kent Crisps<br />
Nannette’s Rosé 2023 is dry, light, and pale. While many<br />
Rosés have delicate aromas that can be overwhelmed by<br />
strong flavours, <strong>the</strong> structure and depth <strong>of</strong> Nannette’s make<br />
it a perfect companion to <strong>the</strong> creamy, tangy whipped feta.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> sausage pasta ragu<br />
The oak ageing <strong>of</strong> Springfield’s Chardonnay 2019 imparts<br />
a richer, creamier note with a gentle spice. This wine’s<br />
depth complements <strong>the</strong> strong herbaceous notes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
sausage ragu, creating a harmonious blend <strong>of</strong> flavours.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> chicken with chargrilled courgettes<br />
& tarragon & local honey dressing<br />
Skye’s Chardonnay 2022, unoaked and crafted<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Chablis style, is fresh and crisp with vibrant<br />
acidity. This pairs wonderfully with <strong>the</strong> chargrilled<br />
courgettes and <strong>the</strong> slight acidity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> herb-rich<br />
dressing, enhancing <strong>the</strong> dish’s fresh, green flavours.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> apple, cherry & hazelnut cake with honeycomb ice cream<br />
Leslie’s Reserve Gold NV boasts a dominant apple character<br />
with flavours <strong>of</strong> ripe black and red fruits. Its Extra Dry style<br />
means it is slightly sweeter than <strong>the</strong> more common Brut sparkling<br />
wine, making it <strong>the</strong> perfect pairing for this sweet, fruity pudding.<br />
In <strong>the</strong>se pairings, we find not just a celebration <strong>of</strong> flavours,<br />
but a tribute to our local produce and <strong>the</strong> burgeoning English<br />
wine industry. So next time you’re planning a meal, consider<br />
what’s grown and produced nearby. You might discover<br />
that <strong>the</strong> perfect pairing is right in your back garden.<br />
To find out more about Balfour Winery, browse<br />
<strong>the</strong> wines, book a tour or table in <strong>the</strong>ir restaurant<br />
or shop online, see balfourwinery.com<br />
This beautiful jamjar<br />
arrangement <strong>of</strong> locallygrown<br />
flowers was from<br />
Hellebores & Hedgerows in<br />
Marden, Kent. To find out more<br />
about <strong>the</strong> flower farm, and Ellie,<br />
<strong>the</strong> florist who runs it, see<br />
helleboresandhedgerows.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
78
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
A whole lot<br />
<strong>of</strong> History<br />
We’ve a wealth <strong>of</strong> pubs and restaurants with incredible heritage in <strong>the</strong> area. Fancy enjoying a meal<br />
where o<strong>the</strong>rs have dined dating back centuries, including <strong>the</strong> odd King or Queen? Read on<br />
Updown Farmhouse<br />
Betteshanger, Kent<br />
At Updown – a beautiful 17th century former<br />
farmstead just outside Deal – you’ll find a magical<br />
conservatory restaurant set amid <strong>the</strong> rambling<br />
grounds. The setting is delightful – heated, fully<br />
enclosed and open year round for you to dine<br />
under <strong>the</strong> grape vines, surrounded by beautiful 17th<br />
century brick. Meanwhile <strong>the</strong> chefs will be busy<br />
preparing your meals in <strong>the</strong> open kitchen, so you<br />
can watch <strong>the</strong>m tending to <strong>the</strong> wood fired grill and<br />
crafting small, hyper seasonal dishes that showcase<br />
<strong>the</strong> best <strong>of</strong> local and European produce. Everything<br />
is cooked over wood in <strong>the</strong> open kitchen. There are<br />
also exciting wine, local beers and seasonal cocktails.<br />
For something special you can try <strong>the</strong>ir Ultimate<br />
Roast Chicken on Thursday nights or Steak Nights<br />
on Wednesdays (both £30pp).<br />
updownfarmhouse.com<br />
The George Vaults<br />
Rochester, Kent<br />
Nestled in <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> historic<br />
Rochester, The George Vaults <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />
truly unique venue for history buffs.<br />
In <strong>the</strong>ir stunning grade II listed 14th<br />
century crypt you can host your<br />
next wedding, function or private<br />
dining event surrounded by decadent<br />
architecture and stained glass. As for<br />
<strong>the</strong> food, <strong>the</strong> brasserie chefs work<br />
closely with local suppliers to create<br />
mouth-watering menus, seasonal<br />
specials and exquisite dishes using<br />
locally sourced, high-quality produce<br />
and ingredients. georgevaults.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
80
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Falconhurst<br />
Edenbridge, Kent<br />
Falconhurst is a Wealden family estate founded in 1852<br />
inspired by a drive to preserve, nurture and celebrate<br />
our countryside. You’ll find produce available in <strong>the</strong><br />
farm shop including local, artisanal produce alongside<br />
seasonal fruit and vegetables, homemade goods, <strong>the</strong><br />
best c<strong>of</strong>fee around, and cakes made on site. Their Barn<br />
serves up supper clubs, pop ups and tasting events,<br />
welcoming chefs from near and far. For starters <strong>the</strong>y<br />
will have street food on 19th and 30th <strong>of</strong> <strong>August</strong>, <strong>the</strong>n<br />
Friday 13th September will see wine expert Tim French<br />
taking guests on a tour <strong>of</strong> French wines (£65). To find<br />
more events try falconhurst.co.uk<br />
The Chequers On<br />
The Green Pub<br />
High Halden, Kent<br />
Located in <strong>the</strong> picturesque Kent village <strong>of</strong> High Halden,<br />
just outside Tenterden, you will find this historic old inn.<br />
Dating back to <strong>the</strong> 14th century ‘The Chequers’, as it was<br />
formerly known, is recorded in <strong>the</strong> Domesday Book and<br />
is Grade II listed. The history books show <strong>the</strong>re has been<br />
an inn on <strong>the</strong> site since 1442. Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> old oak beams<br />
and floors upstairs are actually from <strong>the</strong> old galleons built<br />
in Small Hy<strong>the</strong> hundreds <strong>of</strong> years ago. Today <strong>the</strong> pub<br />
continues to thrive as a bustling foodie venue for locals<br />
and visitors from around <strong>the</strong> county. Andrew and Diane<br />
are experienced hosts <strong>of</strong> many years, and have steered <strong>the</strong><br />
pub through <strong>the</strong> last tough few years with <strong>the</strong> support <strong>of</strong> a<br />
cracking team. Great food, local wine and beer await you<br />
with welcoming hospitality at this charming, beautiful pub!<br />
chequerson<strong>the</strong>green.com<br />
The Crown Inn<br />
Chiddingfold, <strong>Surrey</strong><br />
The Crown Inn is arguably one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> oldest inns in<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> and one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most historically important.<br />
Originally said to date to as early as 1285, <strong>the</strong> inn<br />
served as a resting place for pilgrims en route from<br />
Winchester to Canterbury. This traditional timberframed<br />
Wealden hall house is now listed Grade II*.<br />
The Crown has many royal connections with Henry<br />
VI, Henry VIII, Elizabeth I and <strong>the</strong> young Edward<br />
VI all noted to have taken rest in Chiddingfold<br />
during <strong>the</strong>ir reigns. The Crown continues to<br />
celebrate and protect its strong historical connections<br />
and heritage.<br />
<strong>the</strong>crownchiddingfold.com<br />
81<br />
priceless-magazines.com
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Setting out to create not only a thriving farm shop but also a bistro next door, is no mean<br />
feat. Which is why we’d like to introduce <strong>the</strong> lady behind Ferma Farm Shop in Ripley<br />
Kate Franklin is <strong>the</strong> owner <strong>of</strong><br />
Ferma Farm Shop, and an expert<br />
at making farm fresh foods really<br />
shine. We hear all about her thriving<br />
business ventures and how she manages to<br />
achieve so much.<br />
How do you find and select your suppliers?<br />
Before we opened we spent time<br />
researching suppliers that produced fresh<br />
and ambient products in <strong>Surrey</strong> and <strong>the</strong>n<br />
looked fur<strong>the</strong>r afield to get a wide range<br />
<strong>of</strong> top quality products. Now that we are<br />
more established we have <strong>the</strong> pleasure <strong>of</strong><br />
suppliers and producers contacting us to<br />
share <strong>the</strong>ir artisan products to consider for<br />
our shelves!<br />
Can you recommend any particular products<br />
that we should try? We have a fantastic<br />
selection <strong>of</strong> BBQ-ready skewers and<br />
marinated cuts <strong>of</strong> meat – all prepared<br />
in-house by our farm shop team. We also<br />
make our own quiches with ingredients<br />
from our farm shop which are very popular<br />
in Ripley. We change <strong>the</strong> flavours regularly<br />
– at <strong>the</strong> moment we have Beetroot, Goat’s<br />
Cheese & Sun Blushed Tomato, and<br />
Cheddar, Bacon, Chicken & Leek.<br />
You also have a bistro next door, can you<br />
tell us a bit about that? Our bistro serves<br />
breakfast and lunch daily using fresh<br />
produce from <strong>the</strong> farm shop all in an effort<br />
to combat waste. It has proven a lovely<br />
relationship as guests can experience a<br />
lovely lunch whilst <strong>the</strong> chefs cook from our<br />
open kitchen, and <strong>the</strong>n take a look around<br />
<strong>the</strong> shop where <strong>the</strong>y will find ingredients<br />
that <strong>the</strong>y enjoyed for <strong>the</strong>ir lunch ready<br />
to buy and take home! Our lunch menu<br />
comprises <strong>of</strong> a selection <strong>of</strong> seasonal small<br />
plates – we recommend choosing a couple<br />
<strong>of</strong> things each to share with <strong>the</strong> table. The<br />
food is delivered as it is ready so you get<br />
lots <strong>of</strong> different snacks and plates all nicely<br />
paced. This style <strong>of</strong> service suits a quick<br />
(but delicious!) lunch to break up a work<br />
day, or a leisurely treat with friends.<br />
How do you use your produce in <strong>the</strong> menu?<br />
Our bistro lunch menu gets a weekly<br />
refresh to keep things exciting! The<br />
menu is designed with seasonality at <strong>the</strong><br />
forefront, using produce from our shop.<br />
Specials <strong>of</strong> whole BBQ Fish or Dry Aged<br />
Ribeye from our counter will also make<br />
appearances here and <strong>the</strong>re.<br />
What are your personal favourite dishes on <strong>the</strong><br />
menu? Our Watermelon Greek Salad is a<br />
lovely dish and has proven very popular as<br />
a light, refreshing lunch. Our dishes change<br />
daily, if not weekly, but some staples like<br />
this will stay on for longer. It comes topped<br />
with creamy Graceburn cheese and drizzled<br />
with home made gazpacho.<br />
How do <strong>the</strong> shop and <strong>the</strong> bistro support<br />
sustainable and eco friendly practises? We use<br />
mainly kraft/cardboard packing and if any<br />
plastic is necessary it is recycled/recyclable!<br />
We source from as local as possible – think<br />
milk from a dairy in Redhill, c<strong>of</strong>fee from<br />
Dorking, pork from West Sussex and<br />
honey from Ripley! As well as using surplus<br />
produce in <strong>the</strong> bistro, we also produce<br />
our own ready meals, soups, cold readyto-eat<br />
lunch boxes and daily salads for our<br />
antipasti fridge – all with an aim to make<br />
sure produce is used and enjoyed ra<strong>the</strong>r<br />
than wasted.<br />
Do you have any upcoming events to look<br />
forward to? We host two supper clubs<br />
a month to open <strong>the</strong> bookings up for<br />
dinner. We seat guests in our bistro and<br />
also in front <strong>of</strong> our lovely farm shop’s open<br />
kitchen. For updates on our monthly<br />
supper clubs customers can sign up to our<br />
newsletter or pick up a flyer in store. Our<br />
<strong>August</strong> Dinners are available to book – first<br />
a Greek Mediterranean Mezze Feast on<br />
Friday 21st and <strong>the</strong>n an expertly composed<br />
3-course seasonal late summer menu on<br />
Saturday 31st.<br />
Find out more about Ferma Farm Shop at<br />
fermafarmshop.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
82
SIMPLY<br />
NATURE'S<br />
FINEST<br />
Discover our family-run farm shop and bistro,<br />
<strong>of</strong>fering a wide range <strong>of</strong> locally sourced products.<br />
Enjoy fresh produce, meats, cheeses, artisan beers,<br />
wines, and healthy homemade ready meals. Try our<br />
dry-aged Scotch beef and fresh fish six days a week.<br />
Our bistro is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and<br />
drinks, with indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy<br />
Chimney Fire c<strong>of</strong>fee, small sharing plates, and<br />
locally produced Greyfriars wine at our <strong>the</strong>med<br />
dinner events. We look forward to seeing you!<br />
1 Teulon House, 128 High Street,<br />
Ripley, <strong>Surrey</strong>, GU23 6AY<br />
FERMAFARMSHOP.CO.UK
A warm welcome to…<br />
Stepping Stones<br />
Dorking<br />
Stepping Stones is <strong>the</strong> perfect location<br />
for walkers, cyclists, and runners. Family,<br />
dog, and muddy boot friendly.<br />
Give <strong>the</strong> Gift<br />
<strong>of</strong> Culinary Delight<br />
with The Abinger Cookery<br />
School Vouchers<br />
BUY NOW ON OUR WEBSITE<br />
abingercookeryschool.com<br />
Enjoy real ales, wines, and local gins. Our menu<br />
features fresh, seasonal produce, local cheeses, meats,<br />
and classic dishes. Join us, locals and visitors alike!<br />
Stepping Stones<br />
Westhumble Street, Westhumble, Dorking RH5 6BS<br />
01306 889932 steppingstonesdorking.co.uk<br />
guildford<br />
30 aug-1 sept<br />
MasterChef Champions · GBBO Stars · Michelin Chefs<br />
Fire Stage · Cook School · Hot Chilli Challenge<br />
Feasting Tent · Wine, Champagne & Beer Tastings<br />
KIDS<br />
GO FREE<br />
AGES 6<br />
& UNDER<br />
buy now foodiesfestival.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
84
Wealden Tea Box<br />
With <strong>the</strong>ir first wedding cake being made in<br />
1994, and <strong>the</strong> latest one just a few weeks ago,<br />
wedding cakes have always been a part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
family at Wealden Tea Box. It started with just<br />
Kate, but now her daughters Royan and Ciara<br />
have joined in too, it really is a family affair.<br />
They <strong>of</strong>fer bespoke cakes <strong>of</strong> all sizes – from<br />
small intimate weddings to mass ga<strong>the</strong>rings<br />
– any flavour, any size, nothing is too much<br />
trouble. Plus <strong>the</strong>y also cater events in <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
charming converted horse box which <strong>the</strong>y fill<br />
with all sorts <strong>of</strong> delicious food and traditional<br />
tea room delicacies. wealdenteabox.co.uk<br />
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
The<br />
Main<br />
Event<br />
For event catering <strong>the</strong>re’s a<br />
whole host <strong>of</strong> options right<br />
here in <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong><br />
A Little Bit<br />
Naughty<br />
Michelle discovered her passion for<br />
baking 20 years ago, whilst organising<br />
charity cake sales. The popularity <strong>of</strong> her<br />
cakes encouraged her to start a part-time<br />
business in 2013, which turned into a<br />
full-time career 5 years ago after leaving<br />
her IT job behind. Having battled breast<br />
cancer last year, Michelle says creating<br />
her bespoke celebration cakes helped<br />
her through chemo<strong>the</strong>rapy, giving her a<br />
reason to get up and keep going. Now<br />
cancer free and back to full health she’s<br />
looking forward to a busy year, making<br />
even more customers’ cake dreams come<br />
true. alittlebitnaughty.co.uk<br />
The Curious Events<br />
This one is a magical step out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> box that delivers<br />
carefully curated events and feasts that ignite <strong>the</strong><br />
senses and capture <strong>the</strong> magic <strong>of</strong> any occasion. Filled<br />
with life, colour, energy and years <strong>of</strong> experience, The<br />
Curious Events will take you beyond any expectations<br />
<strong>of</strong> what a celebration can be. They aim to transport<br />
guests through <strong>the</strong> looking glass to a magical world<br />
<strong>of</strong> truly unique dining experiences, while keeping<br />
community, sustainability and fantastic food at heart.<br />
<strong>the</strong>curiousevents.co.uk<br />
85<br />
priceless-magazines.com
The Priceless <strong>Taste</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>South</strong> <strong>East</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Bank Holiday<br />
Banquets<br />
<strong>August</strong>’s bank holiday is <strong>the</strong> perfect time to see<br />
out <strong>the</strong> summer with a feast <strong>of</strong> foodie festivals and<br />
fairs! The only question is, which will you choose?<br />
Kent Life Ice Cream Festival<br />
Sat 24 – Sun, 25 Aug 10am-5pm<br />
Brogdale Collections, Brogdale<br />
Farm, Faversham, Kent ME13 8XZ<br />
BROGDALE CIDER FESTIVAL<br />
Get a taste <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wonderful ciders<br />
<strong>of</strong> Kent, whilst grooving away to<br />
live music from popular local bands,<br />
indulging in some amazing food and<br />
drink and enjoying free family fun! A<br />
bouncy castle, facepainting, festival<br />
games, crafts, outdoor cooking and<br />
juice making workshops and even<br />
a miniature railway <strong>of</strong>fering rides<br />
around <strong>the</strong> orchards – you won’t be<br />
bored at this one! The soundtrack<br />
will come from no less than three<br />
music stages with popular local<br />
bands mixing all sorts <strong>of</strong> genres.<br />
As for <strong>the</strong> cider, <strong>the</strong>re will be over<br />
40 artisan and specialist varieties<br />
to taste, including some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best<br />
award-winning cider producers from<br />
in and around Kent like Biddenden<br />
Vineyard, Brogdale Cider, Kent<br />
Cider Company, Kentish Pip,<br />
Longtail, Turners Cider and Wise<br />
Owl Cider. You can also enjoy<br />
cocktails and o<strong>the</strong>r alcoholic and non<br />
alcoholic options.<br />
Price: Adults £15, Children £5 (3-15<br />
yrs), Under 3 free, Families £35 (2<br />
adults & 2 children)<br />
brogdalecollections.org<br />
Sat 24 – Mon 26 Aug<br />
Hampton Court Palace,<br />
Hampton Court Way, Molesey,<br />
<strong>East</strong> Molesey KT8 9AU<br />
HAMPTON COURT<br />
FOOD FESTIVAL<br />
The crowning event <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> summer<br />
season is back and artisanal food<br />
and drink producers are flocking to<br />
<strong>the</strong> grounds <strong>of</strong> Henry VIII’s former<br />
home with everything from posh<br />
pastries to Scandi sandwiches. The<br />
palace will be serving up mouthwatering<br />
street food from around<br />
<strong>the</strong> world, pop-up bars, lawn games,<br />
bandstand music, face painting<br />
for <strong>the</strong> little ones, wooden fête<br />
games and even carriage rides with<br />
shire horses – all set in <strong>the</strong> lovely<br />
lawns <strong>of</strong> Henry VIII’s magnificent<br />
residence. Step into a foodie paradise<br />
to try Crumpy’s Smoke Shack<br />
street food, artisan ice creams from<br />
Baboo Gelato, comforting treats by<br />
Flapjackery, and Aperol Spritz from<br />
The Little Orange Van, among many<br />
fabulous o<strong>the</strong>rs. You’ll even find a<br />
few Wealden Times Fair favourites<br />
<strong>the</strong>re like Thomas Cookie and<br />
O’Donnell Moonshine. Plus, you<br />
can explore <strong>the</strong> palace and grounds<br />
while you’re at it and get <strong>the</strong> chance<br />
to test drive <strong>the</strong> all-new Lexus LBX<br />
onsite as <strong>the</strong>y are sponsoring.<br />
Price: included with Hampton<br />
Court Palace admission, free to<br />
Historic Royal Palaces members<br />
hrpfestivals.com/hampton-court-palace<br />
Sat 24 – Mon 26 Aug 10am-5pm<br />
Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling,<br />
Maidstone, Kent ME14 3AU<br />
KENT LIFE ICE<br />
CREAM FESTIVAL<br />
The perfect treat for all ice-cream<br />
enthusiasts. Kent Life’s top field will<br />
be filled with live music and food<br />
stalls with a delectable selection<br />
<strong>of</strong> over 40 mouthwatering icecream<br />
flavours to try and buy! The<br />
toppings station will be brimming<br />
with delicious syrups, marshmallows<br />
and sprinkles, so you can have fun<br />
personalising your icy creations too.<br />
There will be dairy free and vegan<br />
options as well as o<strong>the</strong>r foods to<br />
Hampton Court Food Festival<br />
fill you up, including homemade<br />
wood-fired pizzas. For entertainment,<br />
you’ll find an abundance <strong>of</strong> music,<br />
dancing and three brilliant Big Top<br />
Shows per day, and <strong>of</strong> course Kent<br />
Life’s adorable animal friends!<br />
Price: Adults £11.36, Children (aged<br />
2-15) £11.36, Members Free<br />
kentlife.org.uk<br />
24, 25 & 26 Aug<br />
Hy<strong>the</strong> Green Portland Road,<br />
Hy<strong>the</strong>, Kent CT21 6JB<br />
WE LOVE HYTHE LIFE<br />
FOOD FESTIVAL<br />
Indulge in mouthwatering dishes<br />
served up by fabulous food<br />
connoisseurs showcasing cuisines<br />
from international flavours to local<br />
specialities. At <strong>the</strong> Local Artisanal<br />
Markets, you can explore local<br />
produce and tempting products<br />
from unique spices to handcrafted<br />
chutneys and cheeses. Meanwhile<br />
live music from hugely talented<br />
local singers and musicians will<br />
make for a brilliant buzzing Bank<br />
Holiday. Family-friendly activities<br />
will include fairground rides, Hy<strong>the</strong><br />
Fire and Rescue’s fire engine, and face<br />
painting. All pr<strong>of</strong>its are returned to<br />
<strong>the</strong> community.<br />
welovehy<strong>the</strong>life.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
86
87
JeremyHobbsS53.indd 1 15/0<br />
Opening Hours<br />
Mon - Sat 09.30 - 17.30<br />
3 Oakdene Parade,<br />
Cobham, <strong>Surrey</strong> KT11 2LR.<br />
Telephone: 01932 865700<br />
info@jeremyhobbs.co.uk<br />
@jeremyhobbsmenswear<br />
www.jeremyhobbs.co.uk<br />
BLUE VELVET SHOES<br />
Visit Blue Velvet Shoes at 174 Kings Road, SW3 4UP or buy online www.bluevelvetshoes.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
88
Marine bead<br />
hoop earrings<br />
£10 Hooples<br />
hooples.co.uk<br />
Embroiderd<br />
bamboo top<br />
handle bag £85<br />
Fable England<br />
fableengland.com<br />
Scallop heart pendant necklace £25<br />
Estella Bartlett estellabartlett.com<br />
Sunset T-Shirt<br />
£28 Rapanui<br />
rapanuiclothing.com<br />
Sunies green butterfly textured<br />
shoes £99 The Positive<br />
Company <strong>the</strong>positive.co<br />
Metallic jute beach<br />
bag £35 Accessorize<br />
accessorize.com<br />
The Revelation Of Your<br />
Existence earrings £280<br />
Kensho Heirlooms<br />
kenshoheirlooms.com<br />
Betsy denim blue<br />
espadrilles £169<br />
Calla callashoes.co.uk<br />
Mediterranean<br />
sun necklace £135<br />
Koukla London<br />
koukla-london.com<br />
Mules with pearls<br />
£225 Marc Cain<br />
marc-cain.com<br />
Constellation necklace<br />
£199 Audeo Brand<br />
audeobrand.com<br />
The Monogram Mediterranean Blue<br />
$425 Grace de Monaco gdmonaco.com<br />
Mediterranean<br />
Moments<br />
Nicola top<br />
£39.95<br />
Barbour<br />
barbour.com<br />
Aperol spritzes, azure seas, fresh fruits<br />
and sunny skies – we’re feeling inspired<br />
by <strong>the</strong> magic <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Med<br />
Woven bracelet<br />
with ornaments<br />
£26 Thomas Sabo<br />
thomassabo.com<br />
Kim slim sunglasses<br />
£160 Thomas Sabo<br />
thomassabo.com<br />
Galla gold cocktail ring £49<br />
Ottoman Hands ottomanhands.com<br />
Kaka Reef sunglasses £120<br />
Bird Eyewear findyourbirds.com<br />
istockphoto.com/ Igor Tichonow<br />
Friends Like These<br />
pink tile wrap dress<br />
£58 Next next.co.uk<br />
Orange blossom everyday<br />
pouch £25.60 Elizabeth<br />
Scarlett elizabethscarlett.com<br />
Goddess Demeter<br />
coin earrings £55<br />
Ottoman Hands<br />
ottomanhands.com<br />
The sun brooch<br />
£78 Hand and Lock<br />
handembroideryshop.com<br />
Temple Of Flora<br />
silk scarf £120<br />
Rory Hutton<br />
roryhutton.co.uk<br />
Gold Maíra bracelet<br />
£65 Audeo Brand<br />
audeobrand.com<br />
Celine silk chiffon dress £159<br />
Busby & Fox busbyandfox.com<br />
Bridal scallop clipframe bag<br />
£50 Accessorize<br />
accessorize.com<br />
Alpa espadrilles £109.99<br />
Blue Velvet bluevelvetshoes.com<br />
Palm maxi dress £120 Scamp<br />
& Dude scampanddude.com<br />
89<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Cool<br />
Beauty<br />
Josephine Fairley explains how to<br />
adapt your skincare and makeup<br />
regime to warmer wea<strong>the</strong>r<br />
I<br />
run hot. Don’t know about you, but I’ll<br />
always be <strong>the</strong> one fanning myself on a<br />
hot day, looking a bit wan in a shady<br />
corner. (Just to underline <strong>the</strong> point, I am<br />
even signed up to a Facebook group<br />
by <strong>the</strong> name <strong>of</strong> ‘I Like to Flip My<br />
Pillow Over to <strong>the</strong> Cool Side’ – because<br />
I do. And that pillow better be linen,<br />
which is naturally cooler on <strong>the</strong> skin.)<br />
Getting <strong>of</strong>f to a slow start, this clearly isn’t<br />
going to go down on record as <strong>the</strong> hottest summer<br />
in history, in <strong>the</strong> UK. But whenever a heatwave does<br />
break (or we travel to warmer climes), it still calls for a<br />
shift in skincare, make-up and bodycare, in rapid response.<br />
Lighten up your skincare<br />
Oily skins, in particular, suffer in <strong>the</strong> heat; a heavy moisturiser can<br />
leave skin feeling sticky, looking shiny and even lead to acne breakouts.<br />
But don’t make <strong>the</strong> mistake <strong>of</strong> skipping moisturiser altoge<strong>the</strong>r – all skins<br />
need moisture, and if skin is dehydrated, oil glands will simply work harder<br />
to produce yet more sebum. Great lighter weight moisturisers, in my<br />
book, <strong>of</strong>ten have gel or gel-crème textures, and include <strong>the</strong> incredibly<br />
reasonably-priced Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel,<br />
£14 for 50ml, Jones Road Beauty Oil Free Moisturiser, £36 for 52ml,<br />
and Vichy Minéral 89 72H Moisture Boosting Cream, £24 for<br />
50ml. (Do also see <strong>the</strong> section on suncare, below – because wearing<br />
a good SPF is basically <strong>the</strong> law, in summer. Or ought to be.)<br />
Whatever your skintype, though, opt for something lighter if you like to<br />
use a facial oil, at night. All facial oils are not created equal, but in <strong>the</strong> most<br />
recent Beauty Bible Awards, we identified two that performed particularly<br />
well on panels <strong>of</strong> 10 women prone to oiliness – which would also be an<br />
ideal switch for drier skins in humid or hot wea<strong>the</strong>r. From <strong>the</strong> CBDpowered<br />
brand, Poko Luxury Facial Oil, £27 for 30ml, harnesses baobab,<br />
crambe, pomegranate (an antioxidant powerhouse) and moringa oil, which<br />
supports healing from acne, calms redness and soo<strong>the</strong>s irritation. Nonpore-blocking<br />
Jane Scrivner Pore Purity, £46 for 30ml, meanwhile, works<br />
to nourish skin without triggering breakouts or congestion, via clarifying<br />
watermelon seed oil and sandalwood, which tackles oil over-production.<br />
istockphoto.com/ Deagreez<br />
90
Beauty<br />
Make sure you’re protected<br />
Heat = sunshine (generally). I’m already converted to <strong>the</strong> idea <strong>of</strong><br />
using a sunscreen year-round because <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> protection it <strong>of</strong>fers<br />
against blue light from devices, so I now religiously wear an<br />
SPF25 or SPF30 even during winter. But come summer, though,<br />
I never dip below an SPF50. Now, in reality, <strong>the</strong> way SPFs are<br />
calculated is fiendishly complicated and highly illogical – with<br />
an SPF50+, you’re not in reality getting twice <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong><br />
an SPF25, but in fact a small uptick in protection. Never<strong>the</strong>less,<br />
I’d still ra<strong>the</strong>r go higher, now that formulations have been<br />
vastly improved and chalkiness or ghostliness is a thing <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
past. Sharing some new favourites for summer <strong>2024</strong>, <strong>the</strong>se<br />
include are Trinny See The Light SPF50+ Moisturiser, £45<br />
for 50ml, and Aurelia Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50<br />
Moisturiser, £65 for 60ml – both completely stellar performers.<br />
Stop make-up melting<br />
Primers most definitely help your make-up from sliding <strong>of</strong>f your<br />
face – I swear by <strong>the</strong>m for longevity, year-round, but <strong>the</strong>y truly<br />
come into <strong>the</strong>ir own in summer. If you normally tend towards<br />
dryness, by all means layer a primer over your SPF – my two<br />
absolute favourites are Elemis Pro-Collagen Insta-Smooth<br />
Primer, £62 for 50ml (I’m on my fifth tube), and Delilah<br />
Underwear Future Resist Foundation Primer, £39 for 48ml.<br />
But if your complexion is on <strong>the</strong> oily side, my advice would be<br />
to choose a primer with a built-in SPF, like Charlotte Tilbury<br />
Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer, £40 for 30ml, or Hello<br />
Sunday The One That’s Got It All Invisible Sun Primer<br />
SPF50, £23 for 50ml, both <strong>of</strong> which do double-duty and cut<br />
down on <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong> products you’re applying to oily skin.<br />
Having never been a particular devotee <strong>of</strong> make-up setting sprays,<br />
which sometimes leave skin feeling ‘tight’ because <strong>the</strong>y add a layer <strong>of</strong><br />
polymers, I’ve totally revised my opinion after discovering By Terry<br />
Hyaluronic Glow Setting Mist, £46 for 100ml – non-greasy, easily<br />
absorbed, hydrating skin with no less than eight different weights<br />
<strong>of</strong> hyaluronic acid, and honestly extending <strong>the</strong> life <strong>of</strong> make-up;<br />
it promises up to 16 hours <strong>of</strong> make-up wear – I’m not sure that’s<br />
true in my case, but it certainly turbo-charges its endurance and<br />
also, magically, seems to smooth out <strong>the</strong> appearance <strong>of</strong> make-up.<br />
Spring Water Spray, £10 for 150ml, which soo<strong>the</strong> and hydrate<br />
beautifully with mineral-rich spring water. For something a little<br />
more actively re-moisturising though, reach for a product like<br />
PIXI Hydrating Milky Mist, £16 for 80ml, or Caudalie Beauty<br />
Elixir, £18 for 100ml, which is enriched with botanical extracts.<br />
Don’t forget <strong>the</strong> deodorant<br />
If you didn’t clip and save last June’s in-depth look at deodorants,<br />
on <strong>the</strong>se pages (what do you mean, you didn’t…?), my<br />
enduring favourites include <strong>the</strong> AKT range <strong>of</strong> fragrance-first<br />
cream deodorants, my favourite <strong>of</strong> which is SC.01 Orange<br />
Grove, £21 for 50ml (zesty with petitgrain, neroli and<br />
mandarin), and <strong>the</strong> ultra-classic Malin+Goetz Eucalyptus<br />
Deodorant, <strong>the</strong>ir #1 global bestseller for over 13 years (and<br />
understandably so). But whichever is your favourite, always<br />
make sure armpits are properly dry before applying, as swiping<br />
or spraying onto sweaty skin will diminish its effectiveness.<br />
Keep your feet happy<br />
Oh, <strong>the</strong> joy <strong>of</strong> being able to sit, sip and even dine outside… Of<br />
not needing a cardigan. Of simply allowing <strong>the</strong> sun to melt into<br />
your body, relaxing it. But if those are <strong>the</strong> upsides <strong>of</strong> hot wea<strong>the</strong>r,<br />
one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> major downsides is that even your favourite summer<br />
sandals can suddenly cause blisters. I’d read that Megababe<br />
Thigh Rescue Anti-Friction Stick, £12 for 60g, was also great<br />
for preventing blisters, and whenever <strong>the</strong> mercury’s risen. So, I<br />
began applying it to <strong>the</strong> parts <strong>of</strong> my feet where I know that strappy<br />
shoes or <strong>the</strong> backs <strong>of</strong> trainers rub. The result? Not a single blister<br />
in all <strong>of</strong> <strong>2024</strong> (and that’s despite walking 20,000 steps a day in<br />
Venice earlier this year, on an unusually boiling spring jaunt).<br />
I hope all <strong>of</strong> this helps you stay cooler – and look gorgeous<br />
– when summer shows its face. But one more thing…?<br />
Don’t forget to flip your pillow over, on those hot nights.<br />
Visit beautybible.<br />
com for more <strong>of</strong><br />
Jo’s makeup, skin<br />
and haircare tips.<br />
Chill your cosmetics<br />
Keeping your skincare and fragrance in <strong>the</strong> fridge will prolong<br />
its life and also, in hot wea<strong>the</strong>r, provide a welcome moment <strong>of</strong><br />
cooling calm when you apply a cream or spritz a scent that’s<br />
been pre-chilled. Trouble is… do you really want to potter to<br />
<strong>the</strong> fridge first thing in <strong>the</strong> morning or last thing at night, as part<br />
<strong>of</strong> your skincare regime…? Enter <strong>the</strong> Stylpro Fridge, £54.99, <strong>of</strong><br />
which 250,000 units have already been sold, worldwide – and<br />
I’m really not surprised, because this dinky chiller is one cute<br />
gadget. (Tip: it’s also good for overwintering suncare, whose<br />
protective powers can diminish if just left in a bathroom cabinet.)<br />
Cool down with a spritz<br />
Whe<strong>the</strong>r or not you keep it in <strong>the</strong> refrigerator, a facial mist can<br />
instantly give a very welcome sensation <strong>of</strong> cool – and also work<br />
to ‘refresh’ make-up, restoring its freshness and dewiness. (Just<br />
don’t touch skin afterwards, allow to dry naturally.) Some great<br />
choices: Lumene Nordic Hydra [Lähde] Pure Arctic Hydration<br />
Spring Water Mist, £7.50 for 50ml, and Avène Thermal<br />
91
LUXURY FITNESS, DANCE AND TENNIS RETREATS<br />
DISCOVER CHÂTEAU LOU CASTEOU<br />
Set in <strong>the</strong> beautiful French Cote d’Azur countryside, minutes from <strong>the</strong> sea. These Luxurious Retreats provides <strong>the</strong> perfect balance <strong>of</strong> gourmet<br />
meals, pampered luxury, energetic fitness classes, Latin dance sessions and outdoor activities including coastal treks, tennis, boxercise,<br />
aqua-gym, circuit training, yoga, sea kayaking and beach workouts, to help guests improve <strong>the</strong>ir fitness level or kick start a regime.<br />
Retreats include 5 days <strong>of</strong> luxury accommodation in <strong>the</strong> chateau in en‐suite bedrooms with sea or mountain views.<br />
Delicious, nutritious gourmet meals served with elegant 3 course dinners. Enjoy a quality open bar, excellent provencal wines, evening parties and entertainment.<br />
Please contact Morag.McLarenBaxter@yahoo.co.uk or 07990 573287 with questions and for reservations. www.loucasteou.com<br />
Natural Relief for Hay Fever<br />
Hay fever is <strong>the</strong> cause <strong>of</strong> seasonal misery to<br />
millions <strong>of</strong> people worldwide.<br />
Award winning Helios Hay Fever combines<br />
three homeopathic remedies Allium cepa,<br />
Euphrasia and Sabadilla and has a long history<br />
<strong>of</strong> traditional use to relieve typical hay fever<br />
symptoms such as irritated eyes and nose,<br />
itching, sneezing and a dry, tickly cough.<br />
Being natural, Helios Hay Fever is without any<br />
known side effects, does not cause drowsiness<br />
and is suitable for all <strong>the</strong> family.<br />
Alongside our remedies we have a wide range<br />
<strong>of</strong> herbal and o<strong>the</strong>r natural products to relieve<br />
your hay fever symptoms, backed by expert<br />
advice from our team <strong>of</strong> qualifi ed homeopaths<br />
and pharmacists.<br />
A warm welcome awaits you or for more<br />
information please see our website<br />
www.helios.co.uk<br />
Helios Homeopathy Ltd, 97 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2QR<br />
Open Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.30pm Sat 9.00am - 2.00pm<br />
01892 537254 www.helios.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
92<br />
HeliosPharmacyWT239.indd 1 22/03/2022 14:04
Health<br />
Take a break<br />
Sarah Maxwell gives her advice for exercising<br />
on holiday – if you choose to!<br />
Overworked, exhausted and<br />
needing a break? Bring on<br />
<strong>the</strong> holidays! Take a break<br />
from your usual exercise routine and<br />
return feeling relaxed, refreshed and<br />
fit. The lead-up to a holiday can<br />
bring a variety <strong>of</strong> stresses, and <strong>of</strong>ten,<br />
by <strong>the</strong> time you arrive (especially<br />
if you’ve had to organise <strong>the</strong><br />
family too), you can end up being<br />
more exhausted than when you<br />
originally booked <strong>the</strong> restful break.<br />
If you’re a regular exerciser, trying<br />
to fit exercise into your holiday can<br />
add stress. You won’t lose fitness by<br />
taking a week <strong>of</strong>f. Still, by doing<br />
something entirely different, you’ll<br />
stay motivated long-term and return<br />
feeling great. Remember, it’s okay<br />
to take time away from your regular<br />
exercise routine, and it’s a great way<br />
to try new things and get creative.<br />
Download some apps...<br />
If you prefer exercising indoors,<br />
use workout apps or online videos<br />
that guide you through different<br />
routines. You can easily do<br />
<strong>the</strong>se in your hotel room or any<br />
available space. Skipping ropes<br />
and resistance bands can be a good<br />
addition if you have space in your<br />
suitcase. I usually find space in my<br />
trainers if I haven’t over-packed<br />
<strong>the</strong>m and filled <strong>the</strong>m with socks.<br />
Use your own bodyweight...<br />
Incorporate bodyweight exercises<br />
throughout <strong>the</strong> day. You could<br />
do lunges or squats while walking<br />
from one landmark to ano<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
Throw down some planks on<br />
<strong>the</strong> beach, jump <strong>the</strong> waves and<br />
walk on <strong>the</strong> s<strong>of</strong>t sand (this<br />
doubles up as a great pedicure).<br />
a ball. The wonderful teacher<br />
was from an 80s aerobics class,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> atmosphere was electric.<br />
I held back on <strong>the</strong> mojito,<br />
joined in, couldn’t follow most<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> moves, but didn’t care. I<br />
returned every day <strong>of</strong> my holiday,<br />
made new friends, and had one<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best holidays ever!<br />
So get creative, have fun,<br />
and have a fantastic, restful,<br />
well-earned holiday!<br />
istockphoto.com/ champpixs<br />
Give it a go...<br />
Why not walk, jog or run to explore<br />
<strong>the</strong> area? You can plan a route past<br />
famous landmarks, scenic spots<br />
or exciting neighbourhoods. This<br />
way, you’ll get to see <strong>the</strong> sights<br />
while getting a cardio workout.<br />
You will <strong>of</strong>ten see and experience<br />
much more <strong>of</strong> your destination. If<br />
on a city break, take advantage <strong>of</strong><br />
city bike hire. Look for parks and<br />
nature trails, get out into nature,<br />
walk, climb, meditate and reap all<br />
<strong>the</strong> benefits <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> great outdoors.<br />
Check out classes nearby...<br />
Find a local yoga or pilates<br />
class and see if you can get a<br />
pass or temporary membership<br />
to a local gym. This can be a<br />
great way to try different gym<br />
equipment, find new exercises<br />
and engage with local people.<br />
Make time to relax...<br />
Don’t forget <strong>the</strong> relaxation.<br />
Use <strong>the</strong> spa, grab a massage,<br />
float in <strong>the</strong> pool and take<br />
time for yourself. Leave <strong>the</strong><br />
guilt at home and indulge.<br />
A few years ago, I was having a<br />
well-earned solo break but was<br />
struggling with motivating myself<br />
to do anything o<strong>the</strong>r than lie<br />
down most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day. Early<br />
one evening, I dragged myself<br />
<strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> beach bed and sat<br />
quietly in a local hostelry<br />
(about to order a mojito).<br />
Across <strong>the</strong> road, a large<br />
group <strong>of</strong> people <strong>of</strong> all<br />
ages, shapes and<br />
sizes had ga<strong>the</strong>red.<br />
In seconds, <strong>the</strong>y<br />
were all dancing<br />
wildly and having<br />
Sarah<br />
Maxwell is a multiaward<br />
winning Lifestyle<br />
Wellbeing and Fitness coach. You<br />
can find her at sarahmaxwell.com<br />
Get in touch via email at<br />
sarahmaxwell@mail.com<br />
and on social<br />
@sarahmaxlife<br />
93<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3PS<br />
SALE<br />
NOW ON<br />
Summer Sale Now On<br />
SHOP ONLINE AND INSTORE<br />
49 High St, Cranbrook, TN17 3EE<br />
www.odyl.co.uk | 01580 714907<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
94
istockphoto.com, miwa_in_oz , Magone, chokja, Elena Tsvetkova, Drazen Zigic, Agustin Vai /Lisovskaya<br />
Nourish to Flourish<br />
Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau<br />
explores <strong>the</strong> benefits <strong>of</strong> incorporating<br />
ano<strong>the</strong>r healthy ingredient into our<br />
diets. This month it’s beetroot<br />
Beetroot is a vibrant and versatile vegetable known<br />
for its earthy flavour and aroma. In addition to<br />
bringing a pop <strong>of</strong> colour to your plate, beetroot<br />
is highly nutritious and packed with essential vitamins,<br />
minerals and plant compounds. It is also rich in a group<br />
<strong>of</strong> substances called nitrates which have a beneficial<br />
influence on our cardiovascular system, lowering blood<br />
pressure. Beetroot’s intense purple colour is delivered<br />
by a compound called Betacyacin. This has been shown<br />
to support detoxification pathways in <strong>the</strong> liver by<br />
disarming harmful substances in <strong>the</strong> body, ready for<br />
removal. Beets are also high in fibre which promotes<br />
<strong>the</strong> growth <strong>of</strong> good bacteria in your gut and can help to<br />
improve digestion. What’s more, <strong>the</strong>y are delicious and<br />
easy to add to your diet in dishes like balsamic roasted<br />
beets, hummus, fries and even smoothies, as well as<br />
this dip recipe, which is perfect for alfresco dining.<br />
Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she <strong>of</strong>fers support and advice<br />
for weight management, controlling cravings, sleeplessness, stress<br />
and increasing energy levels. Find out more at plumenutrition.com<br />
Whipped feta with roasted beetroot<br />
and pistachios Serves 4<br />
• 1 large beetroot (around 450g)<br />
• 250g Greek yoghurt<br />
• 200g feta cheese<br />
• 1 tbsp avocado oil<br />
• juice <strong>of</strong> half a lemon<br />
• drizzle <strong>of</strong> honey<br />
• half a cup <strong>of</strong> chopped pistachio nuts<br />
1. Peel <strong>the</strong> beetroot and cut into wedges <strong>the</strong>n toss with oil<br />
and season with salt and pepper. Bake at 180°C for 20-25<br />
minutes, or until tender when pressed with a fork. Set aside.<br />
2. Add <strong>the</strong> feta cheese along with <strong>the</strong> Greek yoghurt<br />
and <strong>the</strong> juice <strong>of</strong> half a lemon to a large bowl, <strong>the</strong>n<br />
season with salt and pepper. Beat <strong>the</strong> mixture with<br />
a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and fluffy.<br />
3. Spread <strong>the</strong> feta yoghurt mixture onto a<br />
large plate, place <strong>the</strong> roasted beets onto<br />
half <strong>the</strong> plate. Top with crushed<br />
pistachios and a drizzle <strong>of</strong> honey.<br />
4. This is delicious served<br />
with warm pita or flat bread<br />
– break into pieces using your<br />
hands and enjoy!<br />
95<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Garden<br />
Summer Survivors<br />
Jo Arnell explains that no water isn’t necessarily an issue for members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> succulent family<br />
istockphoto.com/Mariia Skovpen / Hein Nouwens / quangpraha/ franswillemblok<br />
Alien looking, self-sufficient,<br />
popular with students and<br />
those <strong>of</strong> us that forget to water<br />
– succulents are a fascinating group<br />
<strong>of</strong> plants and can be very satisfying to<br />
grow. They are virtually indestructible<br />
and seem unbo<strong>the</strong>red by most pests and<br />
diseases. That is unless you overwater<br />
<strong>the</strong>m – and <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong>y behave like<br />
<strong>the</strong> Wicked Witch <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>East</strong> and<br />
melt away (but sadly to sludge ra<strong>the</strong>r<br />
than in a puff <strong>of</strong> green smoke).<br />
This is a big group <strong>of</strong> plants; across<br />
many botanical families throughout<br />
<strong>the</strong> world some plants have found<br />
<strong>the</strong>mselves in difficult terrain and have<br />
gradually adapted to <strong>the</strong>ir circumstances,<br />
developing ways to survive and conserve<br />
water. We might imagine <strong>the</strong>y are all<br />
from warmer climates and deserts,<br />
but <strong>the</strong>re are succulents found in<br />
mountainous regions too. It can get<br />
very cold at night in <strong>the</strong> desert and <strong>the</strong><br />
winter in <strong>the</strong> mountains, but it tends to<br />
be dry in <strong>the</strong>se places – until <strong>the</strong>re’s a<br />
flash flood, or spring ice melt – and this<br />
is when <strong>the</strong> plants will rush into flower<br />
and suck up as much water as <strong>the</strong>y can<br />
to last <strong>the</strong>m until <strong>the</strong> next time. They<br />
will store water in <strong>the</strong>ir fleshy stems<br />
and leaves and manage to eke it out,<br />
sometimes for years, until it rains again.<br />
This gives us a clue as to <strong>the</strong> sort <strong>of</strong><br />
care <strong>the</strong>y need and, although we don’t<br />
live in an arid desert (yet), we can try<br />
to mimic <strong>the</strong> situation. For a start<br />
we should choose <strong>the</strong> sunniest, driest<br />
part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> garden to grow <strong>the</strong>m in.<br />
A rockery is ideal, as <strong>the</strong>y are usually<br />
raised (and potentially full <strong>of</strong> useful<br />
rocks and crevices). This mimics<br />
<strong>the</strong> scree slopes and mountainous<br />
places and looks more natural.<br />
These fleshy leaved survivors are<br />
adapted to harsh dry conditions, and<br />
will grow in <strong>the</strong> unlikeliest <strong>of</strong> places –<br />
cracks in paving, dry stone walls – and<br />
in <strong>the</strong> past were even used to plug<br />
holes in thatched ro<strong>of</strong>s, earning <strong>the</strong><br />
name ‘houseleeks’. The Latin name,<br />
Sempervivum, is interesting too, meaning<br />
ever-living, hinting at <strong>the</strong>ir tendency to<br />
keep going and not die back. Providing<br />
<strong>the</strong>re’s good drainage and <strong>the</strong> right<br />
varieties have been chosen, <strong>the</strong>y’ll<br />
manage outside through <strong>the</strong> winter too.<br />
Plant <strong>the</strong>m in <strong>the</strong> sunniest parts <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> garden if <strong>the</strong>y are going to live up<br />
to this ever-living habit – <strong>the</strong>y will be<br />
‘ever-dying’ if positioned in a damp, dark<br />
corner. The exception to this is Sedum<br />
spectabile – <strong>the</strong> ice plant, which seems<br />
to manage in most garden situations. <br />
priceless-magazines.com 96
This is a wonderfully useful,<br />
low growing perennial that<br />
comes into its own at <strong>the</strong> end<br />
<strong>of</strong> summer when its nectarrich<br />
flowers are smo<strong>the</strong>red<br />
in butterflies and bees.<br />
Succulents make for very<br />
successful living ro<strong>of</strong>s too. You<br />
can buy <strong>the</strong>m ei<strong>the</strong>r on a roll,<br />
or in shallow trays that can be<br />
laid like tiles. Providing <strong>the</strong>re’s<br />
good drainage, <strong>the</strong>y will need<br />
very little maintenance and will<br />
instantly beautify a bin store or<br />
shed ro<strong>of</strong> – and attract wildlife.<br />
Containers<br />
Succulents make striking pot<br />
plants; you can design <strong>the</strong><br />
display to bring interesting<br />
contrasts in form and colour<br />
that will rival a bedding display.<br />
A container <strong>of</strong> succulents<br />
will have one big advantage.<br />
While traditional summer<br />
pots and hanging baskets will<br />
need watering regularly – once<br />
or even twice a day in hot<br />
wea<strong>the</strong>r – you can happily<br />
leave succulents unwatered for<br />
long periods, ideal if you are<br />
away during <strong>the</strong> summer.<br />
Choose a shallow container<br />
(troughs and low bowls work<br />
really well) and make sure<br />
that <strong>the</strong> growing medium<br />
is very gritty – add at least<br />
50% horticultural grit to any<br />
multipurpose compost, or buy<br />
a specially formulated mix.<br />
Good drainage is <strong>the</strong> key to<br />
success – it’s important that<br />
any container has adequate<br />
drainage holes. If you are<br />
leaving <strong>the</strong>m outside all<br />
year, <strong>the</strong>y will need to be<br />
kept out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> worst <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
wea<strong>the</strong>r and moved into a<br />
porch or sheltered place to<br />
keep <strong>the</strong>m out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rain.<br />
Seasonal Care<br />
Winter Watch... It gets cold<br />
in <strong>the</strong> desert at night, which<br />
means that many cacti and<br />
succulents are surprisingly<br />
hardy at low temperatures,<br />
thanks to a sort <strong>of</strong> plant antifreeze<br />
in <strong>the</strong> sap. The big<br />
problem is <strong>the</strong> damp. <br />
• Automation and installation<br />
• Entry phones and access control<br />
• Hardwood, aluminium and metal<br />
gates made to order for automation<br />
and non-automation purposes<br />
• Supply-and-fit service for fully<br />
automated electric garage doors<br />
• Brick piers<br />
• Brick walls<br />
• Driveway alterations<br />
FREE SURVEYS &<br />
QUOTES PROVIDED<br />
TEL: 01483 379954<br />
info@harriergates.co.uk<br />
www.harriergates.co.uk<br />
97<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Garden<br />
Cold, damp winters get <strong>the</strong> better <strong>of</strong> many<br />
<strong>of</strong> us, but if <strong>the</strong> fleshy leaves <strong>of</strong> a non-hardy<br />
succulent freeze, <strong>the</strong> cell walls will burst and <strong>the</strong>n thaw<br />
into mush. Check labels on plants carefully when you<br />
buy <strong>the</strong>m to see how hardy <strong>the</strong>y are at low temperatures.<br />
Frost resistant or not, none <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m will like to sit outside in <strong>the</strong><br />
rain for long, in fact it is more likely to be winter wet that does for <strong>the</strong>m,<br />
ra<strong>the</strong>r than just <strong>the</strong> cold. Bring succulents in containers under cover if you<br />
can – into a cold greenhouse, porch or <strong>the</strong> shelter <strong>of</strong> an overhanging ro<strong>of</strong>.<br />
Springing Forth... The only time your succulents would appreciate a good<br />
watering is in <strong>the</strong> spring. This is <strong>the</strong> ideal time to give <strong>the</strong>m a bit <strong>of</strong> tic in <strong>the</strong> form<br />
<strong>of</strong> feeding or repotting. You may find that <strong>the</strong>y have produced <strong>of</strong>fspring, which<br />
are endearingly called ‘pups’. These can be separated from <strong>the</strong> parent and potted up<br />
individually, or left in situ, where <strong>the</strong>y will eventually take over from <strong>the</strong> main plant,<br />
especially if it is a monocarpic variety, which will flower once (<strong>of</strong>ten spectacularly,<br />
with <strong>the</strong>ir weird, tall flowers that look like something from Star Trek) and <strong>the</strong>n die.<br />
Summer Loving... The hot, dry summers we are beginning to experience here –<br />
though perhaps not this year(!) – while potentially treacherous, are ideal for succulents.<br />
In fact it’s more a case <strong>of</strong> ‘No rain? No problem!’ The rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> plants may be brown<br />
and shrivelled, but <strong>the</strong>se guys will keep going and thrive where o<strong>the</strong>rs fear to grow.<br />
This is why <strong>the</strong>y’re so good on living ro<strong>of</strong>s – it’s unnecessary, and anyway mostly<br />
impractical to water, and so <strong>the</strong> weeds tend to frazzle and leave <strong>the</strong> succulents to it.<br />
Houseplants<br />
Tender succulents make perfect houseplants, but not in <strong>the</strong> kitchen or bathroom, where it<br />
could be too steamy for <strong>the</strong>m. A hot sunny windowsill or bright and warm conservatory<br />
will suit <strong>the</strong>m down to <strong>the</strong> ground. Like most o<strong>the</strong>r houseplants <strong>the</strong>y are great air<br />
purifiers – and some are even medicinal. Aloe vera sap is skin soothing and contains<br />
a natural pain reliever – just cut <strong>of</strong>f a little section and apply directly on <strong>the</strong> skin.<br />
More is More<br />
These addictive little plants are so ready to reproduce <strong>the</strong>mselves that, aside<br />
from separating and growing <strong>the</strong> pups, you can even just pull <strong>of</strong>f a leaf or<br />
chop a piece <strong>of</strong> stem, poke into <strong>the</strong> soil and before too long a miniature<br />
plant will emerge from <strong>the</strong> parent piece. Just make sure you leave <strong>the</strong><br />
cut piece to callous over for a couple <strong>of</strong> days to prevent it rotting and<br />
that you insert it into a gritty compost mix. Within a few months<br />
you could end up with quite a collection <strong>of</strong> new plants…<br />
Jo’s new gardening courses are now booking.<br />
Call 07923 969634 or see<br />
hornbrookmanor.co.uk.<br />
priceless-magazines.com 98
Fibreglass ‘Faux Corten’ planter<br />
Contemporary styles<br />
from tree planters to<br />
window boxes<br />
The Planter Specialist<br />
iotagarden.com<br />
Plant <strong>the</strong>m in <strong>the</strong><br />
sunniest parts <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> garden if <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are going to live up<br />
to this ever-living<br />
habit – <strong>the</strong>y will<br />
be ‘ever-dying’ if<br />
positioned in a<br />
damp, dark corner.<br />
Bespoke design & build treehouses, playhouses<br />
Bespoke design<br />
and elevated build treehouses,<br />
platforms.<br />
playhouses<br />
Commercial &<br />
and<br />
International<br />
elevated platforms.<br />
commissions welcomed<br />
Commercial International commissions welcomed<br />
TEL: 01403 262219<br />
www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.co.uk<br />
www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
99 CheekyMonkeyWT249.indd 1 24/01/2023 17:06
Education<br />
Happy<br />
Holidays<br />
Mike Piercy, education consultant and former Head <strong>of</strong> The New Beacon,<br />
reflects on <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> school year<br />
‘<br />
The past is a foreign country; <strong>the</strong>y do things<br />
differently <strong>the</strong>re.’ LP Hartley, The Go-Between.<br />
What a captivating, beguiling opening to a book.<br />
Considerably more clichéd are <strong>the</strong> words <strong>of</strong> William<br />
Blake, ‘Hindsight is a wonderful thing…’ though his<br />
ensuing words are quoted less <strong>of</strong>ten: ‘…but foresight<br />
is better.’ I would suggest hindsight informs foresight<br />
ra<strong>the</strong>r than unimaginatively using hindsight to beat<br />
yourself about <strong>the</strong> head. Reflect critically, yes, but also<br />
constructively, with honesty, <strong>the</strong> past enabling <strong>the</strong> future.<br />
We have reached <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> academic year. All change.<br />
Many thousands <strong>of</strong> children and young people are moving<br />
on. The youngest are leaving behind much-loved class<br />
teachers (that hopefully, generally, being <strong>the</strong> case). Year<br />
6 children leave <strong>the</strong>ir primaries; Year 8s leave <strong>the</strong>ir preps<br />
– a rite <strong>of</strong> passage. They all face being minnows <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
new seas in September, seemingly eons away from July.<br />
Sixteen and eighteen year-olds have slaved over <strong>the</strong> hot<br />
stoves <strong>of</strong> revision and exams. They now await results day. I<br />
was talking recently to someone who achieved a first class<br />
degree in architecture, <strong>the</strong> culmination <strong>of</strong> five hard years<br />
<strong>of</strong> study. She and her contemporaries now face <strong>the</strong> world<br />
<strong>of</strong> work. She is ready for it and to leave student life. For<br />
all, July brings emotion and sentiment for <strong>the</strong> past year.<br />
At every phase <strong>of</strong> education <strong>the</strong>re will be many who<br />
have outgrown that particular stage <strong>of</strong> life. As a Head I<br />
would sometimes have to tame a few recalcitrant Year 8s<br />
who felt <strong>the</strong>y had outgrown <strong>the</strong> school. I would remind<br />
<strong>the</strong>m <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> school had given <strong>the</strong>m – not least <strong>the</strong><br />
confidence which prepares <strong>the</strong>m for whatever comes<br />
next. It is right and proper for pupils and students to<br />
feel <strong>the</strong>y have outgrown <strong>the</strong>ir environment; it means<br />
<strong>the</strong> teachers and lecturers have done <strong>the</strong>ir job.<br />
So now <strong>the</strong> summer holidays beckon. Eighteen-yearolds<br />
embark on summer jobs or gap years; prepare for<br />
university or start on <strong>the</strong> career path. The much longed-for<br />
independence will surely bring many challenges. Pupils<br />
<strong>of</strong> all ages will have left some security, some familiarity,<br />
teachers, classes or schools. The educational world is full<br />
<strong>of</strong> ups and downs. July brings <strong>the</strong> promise <strong>of</strong> a hiatus,<br />
a rest, along with high emotion as people move on.<br />
Children, pupils and students might on occasion pause<br />
over <strong>the</strong> summer to reflect on what has passed over <strong>the</strong><br />
last year: what could or should I have done differently? As<br />
September approaches end <strong>of</strong> year reports should be read<br />
and re-read, critically and with honesty, as <strong>the</strong> new year<br />
approaches (‘…but Mr. Bloggs didn’t like me!’ may contain<br />
a glimmer <strong>of</strong> truth; however, reflect honestly on <strong>the</strong> part you<br />
may have played in that scenario). For <strong>the</strong> youngest: read,<br />
read and read some more; play number games in <strong>the</strong> car.<br />
I wish everyone a lovely summer break. Especially<br />
teachers. If you haven’t experienced it you will not<br />
know how exhausting teaching can be, for inherent in<br />
good teaching is ‘giving’ – emotional generosity. Those<br />
who have now completed national exams I wish you<br />
every success on results day (though <strong>the</strong>re is little you<br />
can now do). As to <strong>the</strong> youngest children: be helpful<br />
at home; be kind to your siblings – and parents.<br />
Mike’s book, ‘Careering’ – a journey through his life, which<br />
also <strong>of</strong>fers advice to parents – will be published by Troubador<br />
on 28 <strong>August</strong> and can be pre-ordered. mikepiercy@hotmail.com<br />
istockphoto.com/BrianAJackson<br />
priceless-magazines.com 100
GUILDFORD<br />
Where girls thrive<br />
OPEN MORNINGS<br />
Book your place:<br />
Don’t miss our next<br />
Education <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Find it in <strong>the</strong><br />
September <strong>2024</strong> issue<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong> <strong>Homes</strong><br />
For advertising opportunities,<br />
call Andrew Boughton on<br />
01580 231810 or email<br />
andrew.boughton@wealdentimes.co.uk<br />
101<br />
priceless-magazines.com
OPEN<br />
Day<br />
Right now is<br />
<strong>the</strong> perfect<br />
time to be<br />
scouting local<br />
schools as<br />
<strong>the</strong>y open<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir doors<br />
for open<br />
days!<br />
Tuesday 17 September<br />
9.00am-11.00am<br />
VISITORS’ MORNINGS<br />
You are warmly invited to our<br />
monthly Visitors’ Mornings, perfect<br />
for those who prefer group visits.<br />
You can also experience Ripley Court<br />
School through personalised tours.<br />
See our website for more details.<br />
visit.ripleycourt.co.uk<br />
Saturday 21 September<br />
9.00am-12.00pm<br />
ADVENTURE MORNING<br />
Guildford’s hidden gem, a co-ed<br />
independent school nestled in<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Surrey</strong> Hills for children age<br />
2-11. Join us at our Adventure<br />
Morning to discover <strong>the</strong> magic <strong>of</strong><br />
Longacre School where ‘A Happy<br />
Heart Goes All The Way’.<br />
longacre.surrey.sch.uk<br />
Saturday 21 September<br />
9.00am-12.30pm<br />
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN DAY<br />
Come and hear a few words from<br />
our Head, Ben McCarey, listen<br />
to a student panel and take a tour<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> school to hear about life<br />
at Frensham and our refreshingly<br />
different approach to education.<br />
frensham.org<br />
Thursday 26 September<br />
9.15am or 10.00am<br />
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN<br />
MORNING<br />
Showcasing <strong>the</strong> school on a normal<br />
working morning – discover how we<br />
develop children’s learning superpowers<br />
through a modern education that<br />
prepares <strong>the</strong>m for a bright future.<br />
bansteadprep.com/visit<br />
Friday 27 September 2.00pm<br />
SUPERHERO TRAINING<br />
FOR CHILDREN JOINING<br />
RECEPTION IN 2025<br />
Meet our teachers, see our school,<br />
have fun with our Superhero<br />
training activities and find out how<br />
children at Banstead Prep develop<br />
learning super powers everyday.<br />
bansteadprep.com/visit<br />
Saturday 28 September<br />
9.30am-12.30pm<br />
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN DAY<br />
Looking for an international school?<br />
Explore our stunning 46-acre campus,<br />
meet dedicated teachers, and speak<br />
with students and parents. We warmly<br />
welcome families to join us and<br />
experience TASIS England!!<br />
tasisengland.org<br />
Saturday 28 September<br />
9.00am-11.30am<br />
REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL<br />
ANNUAL OPEN MORNING<br />
Join our Annual Open Morning<br />
to hear from <strong>the</strong> Headmaster,<br />
meet teachers and students, enjoy<br />
interactive sessions, and tour <strong>the</strong><br />
school. Discover why we are <strong>Surrey</strong>’s<br />
top co-educational day school.<br />
Book your place at rgs.to/open<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
102
Saturday 28 September<br />
9.00am-12.00pm<br />
OPEN MORNING<br />
Our Saturday Open Morning event is<br />
a wonderful opportunity to explore our<br />
school and facilities, meet our senior<br />
leadership and admissions teams, staff and<br />
pupils and learn more about <strong>the</strong> awardwinning<br />
Caterham family <strong>of</strong> schools.<br />
copthorneprep.co.uk<br />
Friday 4 October<br />
9.30am-11.30am<br />
WHOLE SCHOOL<br />
OPEN MORNING<br />
An inclusive, co-educational day &<br />
boarding school (10-18 years) in<br />
Haslemere. Our “Future Ready” ethos<br />
empowers pupils to become adaptable,<br />
resilient, and caring individuals.<br />
royal-school.org<br />
Saturday 12 October<br />
9.00am-11.00am<br />
EARLY YEARS OPEN HOUSE<br />
Visit Early Years as a family. Our<br />
staff will be on hand to show<br />
you around and answer your<br />
questions whilst children can play<br />
and join in classroom activities.<br />
bansteadprep.com/visit<br />
Saturday 8 March 2025<br />
9.30am-12.30pm<br />
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN DAY<br />
Looking for an international school?<br />
Explore our stunning 46-acre campus,<br />
meet dedicated teachers, and speak<br />
with students and parents. We warmly<br />
welcome families to join us and<br />
experience TASIS England!!<br />
tasisengland.org<br />
GUILDFORD<br />
OPEN MORNINGS<br />
Book your place:<br />
Where girls thrive<br />
103<br />
priceless-magazines.com
MAY-SEPTEMBER<br />
at HEVER CASTLE<br />
NEW IN <strong>2024</strong><br />
THE HISTORY FESTIVAL AT HEVER CASTLE<br />
« FAMILY « THEATRE « MUSIC « SPEAKERS «<br />
« COMEDY « OPERA « JAZZ « BALLET «<br />
07379 488477<br />
HEVERFESTIVAL.CO.UK<br />
BOOK NOW<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
104
PLANT HUNTERS WEEKEND AT LULLINGSTONE CASTLE<br />
CONTEMPORARY<br />
CRAFT SHOW<br />
RYE ARTS<br />
FESTIVAL<br />
What’s On<br />
this Season<br />
talent. Classical, folk, blues and even<br />
celtic dub will be served up. Look<br />
out for a special screening <strong>of</strong> Godzilla<br />
and best-selling author Robert Harris<br />
launching his new novel Precipice.<br />
ryeartsfestival.org.uk<br />
GARDENS<br />
at <strong>the</strong> front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> main house).<br />
See website for details <strong>of</strong> Zoolab<br />
on 24th and 25th, an opportunity<br />
to meet a selection <strong>of</strong> animal<br />
friends from around <strong>the</strong> globe.<br />
Entry: Adults £12.50,<br />
children under 16 Free<br />
lullingstonecastle.co.uk<br />
istockphoto.com/ gpointstudio & Furtseff & Maryviolet<br />
FESTIVALS & SHOWS<br />
Sat 17 Aug<br />
Locations around Cranbrook<br />
CRANBROOK &<br />
SISSINGHURST MAYOR’S DAY<br />
Mayor Raj Bisram’s extravaganza<br />
for <strong>the</strong> residents <strong>of</strong> Sissinghurst<br />
and Cranbrook with highlights<br />
including a Children’s Show at <strong>the</strong><br />
Vestry Hall at 11am, a Senior’s<br />
Afternoon Tea at 3pm, giveaways<br />
all day in <strong>the</strong> High Street and Stone<br />
Street and a fabulous Town Raffle<br />
at 7pm in <strong>the</strong> George Hotel. Prizes<br />
include tickets for Ascot, artwork<br />
by Mr Doodle, a 5 star hotel<br />
afternoon tea, a dinner and stay plus<br />
cases <strong>of</strong> wine and plenty more.<br />
Sat 24 – Mon 26 Aug<br />
Pashley Manor, Pashley Road,<br />
Ticehurst, Wadhurst TN5 7HE<br />
PASHLEY MANOR GARDENS<br />
CONTEMPORARY<br />
CRAFT SHOW<br />
The Sussex Guild exhibits once<br />
again at one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> finest gardens<br />
in England. Chat with makers<br />
<strong>of</strong> beautiful handmade ceramics,<br />
furniture, textiles, jewellery, glass<br />
and so much more. And don’t miss<br />
<strong>the</strong> excellent Garden Room Cafe.<br />
<strong>the</strong>sussexguild.co.uk<br />
Sun 1 Sept 10am-5pm<br />
Brooklands Museum,<br />
Brooklands Drive, Weybridge,<br />
<strong>Surrey</strong> KT13 0SL<br />
AMERICAN DAY AT<br />
BROOKLANDS<br />
A day devoted to stars and stripes as<br />
Brooklands welcomes a whole host<br />
<strong>of</strong> American cars and motorbikes.<br />
Expect a feast <strong>of</strong> chrome and<br />
colour with some gleaming Dodge,<br />
Chryslers, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile<br />
Fords, Hot Rods and much more<br />
around <strong>the</strong> Paddock, Motoring<br />
Village and Finishing Straight. And<br />
it’s not just cars and bikes that will be<br />
filling up <strong>the</strong> site, <strong>the</strong> Paddock will<br />
be alive with <strong>the</strong>med entertainment,<br />
food and memorabilia.<br />
brooklandsmuseum.com<br />
Fri 13 – Sun 29 Sept<br />
Various venues around Rye<br />
RYE ARTS FESTIVAL<br />
The 53rd Rye Arts Festival proudly<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers a broad menu <strong>of</strong> artistic<br />
events, with world class performers<br />
from around <strong>the</strong> globe, including <strong>the</strong><br />
best <strong>of</strong> Britain and <strong>the</strong> cream <strong>of</strong> local<br />
Mon 19 & Mon 26 Aug<br />
Polesden Lacy, Great Bookham,<br />
near Dorking, <strong>Surrey</strong> RH5 6BD<br />
THE SECRET<br />
LANGUAGE OF TREES<br />
Unlocking some <strong>of</strong> Polesden Lacey’s<br />
natural treasures, this fascinating tour<br />
focuses on <strong>the</strong> trees and woodlands.<br />
Discover amazing facts about <strong>the</strong>se<br />
majestic plants as you brea<strong>the</strong> in <strong>the</strong><br />
peace and tranquillity <strong>of</strong> a landscape<br />
that has changed little since Medieval<br />
times. Learn what goes into<br />
conserving <strong>the</strong> woodland to ensure<br />
it can be enjoyed by generations<br />
to come. If <strong>the</strong>re are spaces on<br />
<strong>the</strong> day, you are welcome to join<br />
<strong>the</strong> tour but booking is advised.<br />
Entry: The tour is free but normal<br />
property admission rates apply<br />
nationaltrust.org.uk<br />
Fri 24 – Sun 26 Aug 11am-5pm<br />
Lullingstone Castle,<br />
Eynsford, Kent DA4 0JA<br />
PLANT HUNTERS<br />
WEEKEND<br />
Celebrating <strong>the</strong> lives <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong><br />
Britain’s most intrepid plant hunters,<br />
Tom Hart Dyke and friends mark<br />
this special Bank Holiday weekend<br />
in au<strong>the</strong>ntic dress, with Tom taking<br />
visitors on a tour <strong>of</strong> The World<br />
Garden starting at 1:30pm (meet<br />
THEATRE<br />
Sun 18 Aug 4pm<br />
Belmont House and<br />
Gardens, Belmont Park,<br />
Throwley Rd, Throwley,<br />
Faversham ME13 0HH<br />
OPEN AIR THEATRE:<br />
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST<br />
Chapterhouse Theatre Company<br />
comes to Belmont House for a<br />
retelling <strong>of</strong> this classic fairy tale.<br />
BYO seating and picnics and enjoy!<br />
Entry: Adults £20, Children<br />
5-16/NUS Student £12, Child<br />
under 5 Free, Families (2<br />
Adults & 2 Children) £55<br />
belmont-house.org<br />
Listings are correct at time <strong>of</strong> going to press<br />
but may be subject to change. Readers are<br />
advised to check with venues before making<br />
arrangements. We can list your event in<br />
<strong>the</strong> next issue <strong>of</strong> Wealden Times for only<br />
£75+VAT. Please supply up to 200 words<br />
that should include date, time, venue,<br />
contact for enquiries and any entry price to<br />
whatson@priceless-group.com or send with<br />
payment (cheques payable to Priceless Media<br />
Ltd.) to What’s On, Priceless Media, Kettle<br />
Chambers, 21 Stone Street, Cranbrook,<br />
Kent TN17 3HF. Priceless Media reserves<br />
<strong>the</strong> right to edit text to fit space allocated.<br />
Deadline for <strong>the</strong> next issue is 8th <strong>August</strong>.<br />
105<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Jane Howard gets down to<br />
<strong>the</strong> business <strong>of</strong> choosing <strong>the</strong><br />
best <strong>of</strong> this year's lambs for<br />
<strong>the</strong> breeding season ahead<br />
The sheep have now been shorn and<br />
thoughts turn to how <strong>the</strong> flock might<br />
shape up in <strong>the</strong> season ahead.<br />
The ewes all lambed in February and March and<br />
<strong>the</strong> lambs are now getting quite large and have most<br />
definitely lost <strong>the</strong>ir ahhh factor. The four that were<br />
bottle fed are especially irksome as <strong>the</strong>y can skilfully<br />
negotiate any barricade in <strong>the</strong>ir daily quest to leave <strong>the</strong><br />
field, travel across <strong>the</strong> back garden snacking on roses<br />
and cosmos en route to <strong>the</strong> backdoor step. Once <strong>the</strong>re,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y defiantly line up and bleat until one <strong>of</strong> us succumbs<br />
and makes up <strong>the</strong> bottles, promising<br />
each time will be <strong>the</strong> last time as <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are so big and strong and annoying.<br />
I think some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ewes feel <strong>the</strong><br />
same way, but <strong>the</strong>y won’t have to wait<br />
too long now as any day <strong>the</strong> lambs will<br />
be weaned and <strong>the</strong> mums get a blissful<br />
three months <strong>of</strong>f before, without fail, <strong>the</strong><br />
pesky rams turn up again in November.<br />
Back to <strong>the</strong> lambs. Once weaned <strong>the</strong><br />
first thing we do is split <strong>the</strong>m into two groups, boys<br />
(not young rams as <strong>the</strong>y were all rung at birth) and girls.<br />
Most farms tend to operate 'closed flocks' meaning <strong>the</strong><br />
females are all home bred and <strong>the</strong>y only buy in rams.<br />
Having had about 120 lambs, Mo<strong>the</strong>r Nature will pretty<br />
much ensure <strong>the</strong>y are evenly split between boys and girls<br />
and out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sixty female ewe lambs we will be looking<br />
for about 10 replacements to breed from in Spring<br />
2026. The rest will join <strong>the</strong> boys and go <strong>of</strong>f to market.<br />
So, with a one in five chance <strong>of</strong> making <strong>the</strong> grade,<br />
how do we go about deciding? Just by looking at <strong>the</strong>m<br />
it’s easy to pick <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> bigger, shapely girls, say <strong>the</strong> top<br />
twenty but <strong>the</strong>n it all gets a bit more scientific. When<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are born, any female lambs that have a twin have<br />
The lambs are<br />
now getting quite<br />
large and have<br />
most definitely lost<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir ahhh factor<br />
a notch clipped out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir left ear (only cartilage, not<br />
painful) which means <strong>the</strong>y carry <strong>the</strong> desirable twin gene.<br />
So a bit like musical chairs anyone without a clipped<br />
ear is out. Then we look at <strong>the</strong>ir mo<strong>the</strong>rs and how<br />
<strong>the</strong>y score to get a likely outcome for <strong>the</strong>ir daughters.<br />
I’ve talked about this before, but when a ewe lambs<br />
we will score her on four traits. For each she can score<br />
a maximum one and a minimum <strong>of</strong> minus one, so top<br />
score would be four, bottom would<br />
be minus four – and generally anyone<br />
scoring less than two doesn’t get ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
'turn round <strong>the</strong> block'. It goes like<br />
this, one point for an easy birth, zero<br />
for a slight pull and minus one for a<br />
right heave ho. A similar point system<br />
applies for having twins, strong lambs<br />
and lots <strong>of</strong> milk. So if your mum scored<br />
four you’ll get shortlisted, and so we<br />
end up with our ten or so replacement ewe lambs.<br />
These <strong>the</strong>n get turned away to grow and develop<br />
until <strong>the</strong>y join <strong>the</strong> flock next autumn to meet <strong>the</strong> boys.<br />
In January, <strong>the</strong> year after <strong>the</strong>y were born, <strong>the</strong>y become<br />
known as tegs, female sheep that haven’t yet had a lamb<br />
and remain so until <strong>the</strong>y lamb <strong>the</strong> following spring.<br />
A bit like <strong>the</strong> famous Blue Peter “and here’s one<br />
I made earlier” it’s also time to look at <strong>the</strong> tegs we<br />
selected last year, to make sure <strong>the</strong>y have grown well<br />
and become <strong>the</strong> sheep we hoped for. Funnily enough<br />
'in <strong>the</strong> wool' <strong>the</strong>y all look good, but shearing <strong>the</strong>m<br />
is a bit like stripping <strong>of</strong>f, nowhere to hide <strong>the</strong> less<br />
positive parts, but pleased to say this year’s pick are all<br />
looking good and ready to roll. Bring in <strong>the</strong> rams.<br />
priceless-magazines.com 106
THAMES<br />
DESIGN & BUILD<br />
Call us on<br />
020 8398 9252<br />
ARE YOU CONSIDERING AN EXTENSION, LOFT<br />
CONVERSION, OUTBUILDING, OR ANY OTHER<br />
ALTERATION OR ADDITION TO YOUR PROPERTY?<br />
Thames Design and Build provides architectural design<br />
and/or construction services to clients across <strong>Surrey</strong>, with<br />
over with 80% over <strong>of</strong> 80% our <strong>of</strong> projects our projects being being Elmbridge <strong>Surrey</strong> based.<br />
We <strong>of</strong>fer:<br />
• A A free consultation to discuss your ideas and advise<br />
you advise on <strong>the</strong> you possibilities on <strong>the</strong> possibilities and permissions<br />
and permissions<br />
• A A fixed quote for all stages <strong>of</strong> architectural work<br />
• A A fixed quote for your build – we are equally happy to to<br />
provide a build quote in respect <strong>of</strong> your existing designs<br />
We have a large portfolio <strong>of</strong> clients within <strong>Surrey</strong> Elmbridge, and its so<br />
whatever surrounding your areas plans so are, whatever we should your be plans able are, to we show should you<br />
a be comparable able to show completed you a comparable project. completed project.<br />
Please email us at info@thamesdesignandbuild.com<br />
or visit <strong>the</strong> website www.thamesdesignandbuild.com<br />
Ditton Garages, <strong>South</strong>ville Road, Thames Ditton, KT7 0UL