Surrey Homes | SH118 | November 2024 | Gift Supplement inside

PRICELESS 

NOVEMBER 2024 

118 

NOVEMBER 2024 

GIFT SUPPLEMENT inside 

Inspirational Interiors • Fabulous Fashion • Delicious Dishes

This diamond necklace combines bright white cushion cut 

and round brilliant cut diamonds which subtly graduate around 

the neck. It features a total of 39.27 carats of individually GIA 

certificated diamonds, each hand-chosen by our diamond and 

gemstone buyer and carefully set in platinum. 

19-20-029, £442,150

HANDMADE 

BY PRESTONS 

Under the guidance of our Workshop Manager, Lorne Mehlstaubler, 

our goldsmiths and gemsetters work with both traditional and 

modern techniques to create beautiful, timeless jewellery for 

each of our in-house collections. 

AT OUR LONDON WORKSHOP, 8 ELY PLACE 

www.prestonsdiamonds.co.uk 

WILMSLOW | NORWICH | GUILDFORD | LONDON

BESPOKE KITCHEN DESIGN 

DESIGN • SUPPLY • MANAGE • INSTALL

Come and visit our showroom: 

Bancroft Road, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 7RP 

01293 826620 

www.rdokitchenstudio.co.uk 

rdokitchenstudio

A PLACE TO CHILL | A PLACE TO GRILL | A PLACE TO ENTERTAIN 

Featuring opening and closing waterproof louvered roofs, windproof side panels and ambient LED lighting 

and infra-red heating, our award-winning all-weather aluminium pergolas branded Outdoor Living Pods TM 

allow you to make the most of your outdoor space 365 days a year. 

Bespoke made to order and installed by your local Suffolk manufacturer in 2 weeks. 

SD Latest.indd 3

SAVE UPTO 

£2,500 

SALE 

NOW 

ON 

OUTDOOR LIVING POD TM | IT HAS YOU COVERED 

VISIT OUR DREAM GARDENS SHOWSITE 

(pictured above) 

0344 800 1947 t 

info@cbsolarshading.co.uk e 

cbsolarshading.co.uk w 

Woodhall Business Park, Sudbury. CO10 1WH 

30/09/2024 13:04:05

Surrey’s Premier Builder 

Upfold Construction has been established since 2009 

and is a domestic builder providing services throughout 

Surrey, Sussex & Hampshire. 

Located in Cranleigh we are perfectly placed to offer a 

total building service to those clients seeking a local, 

professional and reliable builder. We carry out all aspects 

of building from extensions, renovations to a complete 

home refurbishment allowing us to provide a package of 

design, planning, building & finishing. 

We are members of The Chartered Institute of Building 

which guarantees our committment to quality of product, 

services and integrity of conduct. 

For more information, please contact us on: 01483 600335 

Email: info@upfoldconstruction.co.uk or www.upfoldconstruction.co.uk

ILLUMINATE YOUR ART & PORTRAITS 

SEE OUR FULL COLLECTION IN-STORE 

Showroom opening hours: 9am - 5pm: Monday - Friday. 9am - 1pm: Saturday 

Tel: 01420 590510 | Elstead House, Mill Lane, Alton, Hampshire GU34 2QJ 

www.distinctivelightinguk.com 

Surrey Homes - FP- Nov 24.indd 1 25/09/2024 15:05:45

Contents 

November 2024 

34 

80 

52 

16 

27 

31 

34 

51 

52 

59 

HOUSE OF THE MONTH 

Dream homes on the market 

NOTEBOOK 

Upcoming events for your diary 

THE MUST LIST 

Keep up-to-date with the latest 

must-see and must-have goodies 

BRAND NEW CHAPTER 

An awe-inspiring monastery 

packed with antiques and art 

GET THE LOOK 

Invest in key pieces to emulate 

Alex’s incredible style 

LITTLE HOUSE NEXT DOOR 

Alex MacArthur’s gorgeous 

cottage renovation 

GET THE LOOK 

Perfect pieces for chic 

cottage living 

60 

78 

85 

87 

91 

92 

WISH YOU WERE HERE 

Simply Luxury Escapes share 

their ultimate travel picks 

WINTER WARMERS 

Flavourful seasonal recipes 

SNOW QUEEN 

Rebecca Cuffe chooses cosy 

winter clothes and accessories 

THE AFFORDABLE 

PRESENT HUNTER 

Josephine Fairley edits her 

selection of purse-friendly 

Christmas beauty gifts 

LESSEN THE IMPACT 

Sarah Maxwell explains how to 

choose the perfect sports bra 

NOURISH TO FLOURISH 

Charlotte Lau analyses the 

benefits of eating pomegranate 

Published by Priceless Media Ltd. Kettle Chambers, 21 Stone Street, 

Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF | Call 01580 714705 | Email info@priceless-group.com 

Visit priceless-group.com Copyright © 2024 Priceless Media Ltd. The views of the 

advertisers & contributors are not necessarily those of Priceless Media Ltd. 

93 

97 

99 

101 

106 

HOW DOES YOUR 

GARDEN GROW 

Jo Arnell helps to uncover 

your gardening style 

BEST IN CLASS 

Education news 

WHEN TO STEP IN 

Mike Piercy’s tips for raising 

concerns with your child’s school 

WHAT’S ON: FESTIVE SPECIAL 

Fun-filled dates for your diary... 

FABLES FROM THE FARM 

Jane Howard’s latest instalment 

from Coopers Farm 

GIFT 

SUPPLEMENT 

Shop our pick 

of the finest 

Christmas presents. 

After page 62 

istockphoto.com/ Ekaterina_Jurkova 

GIFTS 

11 

priceless-magazines.com

Handcrafted Lighting and Furniture 

Made in Cornwall, England. 

Showrooms in Falmouth and Chelsea Harbour 

www.tomraffield.com sales@tomraffield.com 01326 722725 

Untitled-1 1 18/10/2024 09:36:19

From the 

Editor 

I 

like many have admired Alex MacArthur’s incredible 

renovation of a 14th century monastery in Rye 

from afar, via Instagram and snippets from various 

world-famous interiors magazines over the years. So I 

was absolutely beaming when we were invited to shoot 

the place for ourselves. Exploring not only the incredible 

events space that Alex has created within the monastery 

building itself, but the attached cottage he has painstakingly 

renovated, we have split our visit over two interiors features 

this issue. Positively bursting with artworks, antiques 

and curios, this very special building acts as the ideal 

backdrop for Alex’s collections, most of which are for sale. 

Working for a magazine, here in the office we’ve 

naturally learned to prep for Christmas months a little 

earlier than the norm, and embrace a sprinkling of festive 

magic whilst curating our Midwinter Fair. We’re really 

looking forward to welcoming exhibitors and visitors 

alike to The Hop Farm from 14-16 November. Find all 

the info you need to know at wealdentimes-fair.co.uk 

If Christmas shopping is well and truly on your radar, 

you’ll love this month’s Gift Guide, carefully compiled 

by Rebecca Cuffe. Find perfect presents 

for family and friends, conveniently 

categorised for ease of browsing. 

Elsewhere, Jo Fairley takes a look 

at affordable festive beauty buys and 

Louise Pickford shares cosy recipes 

to enjoy on chilly winter nights. 

Enjoy your Priceless magazine 

Priceless Team 

EditorLucy Fleming 

Supplements & Features EditorRebecca Cuffe 

Sub Editor & Features Writer Emily Pavey 

Design & Production DirectorAnthony Boxall 

Sales Manager, Surrey HomesLisa Gordon-Hughes 

lisa.gordon-hughes@surrey-homes.co.uk 

Sales Manager, Wealden Times Maria Hurley 

maria.hurley@wealdentimes.co.uk 

Senior Account ManagerSarah Norwood 

Andrew Boughton 

Wealden Times Show Director Flo Simpson 

Events Manager Liz Miles 

Events Sales Director Jude Brown 

Financial ControllerStephen Hunt 

Accounts Sarah Davies 

Nicola O’Leary 

Social Media ManagerCharlotte Lau 

Managing DirectorVivien Cotterill-Lee 

Executive Chairman Julie Simpson 

Contact number for Wealden Times01580 714705 

Contact number for Surrey Homes 01580 236072 

13 


Hand-crafted beds 

for the perfect night’s sleep 

Cavendish House, Sydenham Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 3RX | 01483 380111 

jonesandtomlin.co.uk

istockphoto.com/ Maria Voronovich 

Find us here! 

Call 01580 714705 to find your nearest distributor of 

Surrey Homes or to get free copies delivered for £30 a year. 

12,000 copies of Surrey Homes are printed 

every month. We are available in 

the following outlets and are the 

only local magazine available at key 

commuter stations. If you have any 

questions about our distribution please 

contact Vivien Cotterill-Lee 

vivien.cotterill-lee@priceless-group.com 

Ashtead 

• Patrick Gardner 

Bagshott 

• Cubbitt Antiques 

• Howlands 

Estate Agents 

• Longacres Nursery 

Betchworth 

• Buckland Deli 

• The Community 

Shop 

Bookham 


Buckland 

• Buckland Nurseries 

Garden Centre 

Camberley 

• Romans 

Caterham 

• Shard Solutions 

Cheam 

• Cook 

Chelsham 

• Knights Garden 

Centre 

Chobham 

• Melita 

• Pasha 

Claygate 

• Trew Art 

Cobham 

• Cobham Furniture 

• Oh So Coco 

Cranleigh 

• Curchods Prime 

• Notcutts 

• Roger Coupe 

Dorking 

• Dorking Travel 


• Princess Alice Hospice 

• Sainsbury’s 

Epsom 

• Mayfield Lavender 

Nursery & Shop 


Esher 

• Sandown Park 

Racecourse 

Farnham 

• Cook 

• ME Estate Agents 


• Waterstones 

Felbridge 

• Doves Barn 

Nursery 

Godalming 

• Cook 


• Sarah Louise Dix 


Godstone 

• Knights Garden 

Centre 

Guildford 

• BoConcept 

• Elm Nursery 

Farm Shop 

• High Clandon 

Estate Vineyard 

• Neptune 

Haslemere 

• Lythe Hill 

Hotel & Spa 

• Tesco Superstore 

Knaphill 


Leatherhead 


• Robert Leech 

& Partners 

Lingfield 


Lyne 

• The Farm 

Shop Lyne 

Milford 

• Secretts 

Old Oxted 

• Fish Plaice & Grill 

Oxted 

• Cook 

• Jackson-Stops 

& Staff 

• Limpsfield Stores 

• Morrisons 


Oxshott 

• The Bear 

Redhill 

• Priory Farm 

Reigate 

• Buckland Nurseries 

Garden Centre 

• County Clothes 


• RDO Kitchens 

Ripley 

• Ripley Nurseries 

Farm Shop 

• The Talbot 

Surbiton 


Walton on 

Thames 



Warlingham 

• Botley Hill 

Farmhouse 

• Rayners Estate 

Agents 

West Byfleet 

• Roman Tiles 

Weybridge 

• Tesco Extra 

Woldingham 

• Fine & Country 

TRAIN 

STATIONS 

• Dorking 

• East Grinstead 

• Epsom 

• Esher 

• Guildford 

• Haslemere 

• Kingston 

• Redhill 

• Richmond 

• Surbiton 

• Weybridge 

• Wimbledon 

• Woking 

15 

WIMBLEDON INTERNATIONAL 

MUSIC FESTIVAL 

2 - 24 November 

We know it has to be really special to tempt 

you from Surrey to Wimbledon 

… Pavel Haas Quartet, Ronnie Scott Jazz Ens, Michael Collins, Academy 

Choir, Armonico, Regents Opera, Steven Osborne, Brodsky Quartet, 

Philharmonia Orchestra, Lawrence Power, Christoph Prégardien, Prokofiev 

Concert Drama, Don Giovanni, Fairy Queen…so much more to discover! 

BOX OFFICE OPEN: 

wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk 

“at the heart of London’s Autumn offering - and it gets better and 

better” Evening Standard 

ART 

11 The Parade, Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0PD • WWW.TREWART.COM • PH 44 (0)1372 470997 

priceless-magazines.com 

Picture

House 

Month 

of the 

£1,875,000 

Esher 

This month Gordon Lee focuses in on 

5-bedroom houses that can host the 

whole family over the festive season 

The dream: Striking, modern 

family home, cocooned within 

a mature, private garden. 

Where: Esher 

Setting: Approached along a leafy 

street this house fuses traditional 

forms and modern materials – 

charcoal-painted render, natural 

cedar weatherboarding, steel 

finishes – to create a refined 

and welcoming series of living 

areas, flooded with light. 

Beds: 5 Baths: 4 

Special features: The main bedroom 

has a calming, picture window seat 

that overlooks the garden. A bright 

studio sits above the living room 

and could serve as a sixth bedroom. 

Pleasing details: A long serving 

hatch above the kitchen worktop 

peeks through to the adjacent utility 

room. In the living room, bespoke 

cabinetry frames the log burner, 

creating an inviting seat beside 

the fire whilst, oak-framed bifold 

doors connect to the garden. 

Outside: Out front, a gated 

gravel driveway has space for 

four cars. At the rear, tropical 

bamboo, eucalyptus and palms 

sit happily alongside established 

rhododendron and cherry trees. 

Time to town: 5-minute walk 

to Esher Station, with trains 

connecting to London Waterloo 

in under 25 minutes. 

Agents: The Modern House 

0203 7955920 themodernhouse.com 

priceless-magazines.com 16

Reigate 

£2,000,000 

The dream: A spacious and stylish family 

home, full of character and colour. 

Where: Reigate 

Setting: Warm and welcoming, on one of 

Reigate’s most sought-after private roads. 


Special features: The funky, yet more formal 

drawing and dining rooms contrast with the 

fabulous garden room with its tall, vaulted cedar 

ceiling. The stunning handpainted kitchen has 

honed granite work surfaces and Neff integrated 

ovens. The downstairs studio/bedroom with 

en suite is perfect for an elderly guest. 

Pleasing details: Period features include the 

1940s style staircase, stripped pine floors and an 

exquisite, large leaded coloured glass window. 

Outside: Exuberant gardens envelop 

the house. To the front is an ‘in and 

out’ drive and a detached garage. 

Time to town: It’s a short walk to 

both the vibrant town centre and train 

station that connects to London Bridge 

and Victoria in under 40 minutes. 

Agents: Hamptons 

01737 886134 hamptons.co.uk 

Fetcham 

£1,495,000 

The dream: Spacious, modern, 

sustainably heated family home. 

Where: Fetcham, near Leatherhead. 

Setting: Brand new boutique development of just 

4 houses, within this charming Surrey village. 


Special features: The clever, split-level design, 

creates very different living spaces that feel truly 

private. From the hallway, you step down into the 

stunning open plan kitchen/diner/living room, 

with quartz stone worktops and bi-fold doors 

to the garden. There’s also modern underfloor 

heating throughout via an air source heat pump. 

Pleasing details: The exciting thing about this 

house is that it is full of pleasing details: USB/C 

power sockets; TV outlet points in every room; fibre 

broadband, CAT 6 cabling and wifi boosters on 

each floor; connected ATMOS TV sound system 

and satellite; alarm system and wiring for CCTV. 

Outside: Landscaped garden with turfed 

lawn and raised beds, with a large garage 

with EV charging to the front. 

Time to town: 5 minutes to Leatherhead, 

then 45 minutes by train to London Waterloo. 

Agents: Patrick Gardner 01372 360832 

patrickgardner.com 

17 


It’s more than 

just your home, 

it’s a way of life 

Luxury retirement living in the heart of Surrey 

Not everyone wants the same out of retirement. Some would like 

peaceful surroundings with help at hand when needed, others 

want a lively social life with activities and friends as neighbours. 

At Homewood Grove, you can have the best of both worlds. This 

age-exclusive village has a stunning collection of 1, 2 and 3 

bedroom apartments that offers a lifestyle to suit you. With a 

luxury restaurant and bar, state-of-the-art leisure and wellbeing 

facilities, shop and on-site support, it’s your village to live the 

way you want. 

SEE FOR YOURSELF! 

Call us on 01932 645092 or visit 

www.rangefordvillages.co.uk 

Marketing Suite, Ottershaw, Chertsey, 

Surrey KT16 0AU 

Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm 

Prices from £399,950 † 

HOMEWOOD GROVE 

CHERTSEY 

† Other charges apply. Please ask our sales 

advisors or see website for details. 

23356 RV_HWG_Surrey Homes_Full Page Ad_A4.indd 1 09/10/2024 16:47

BEACHFRONT LIVING 

Ready to move in now. 55 minutes to London. On the edge of the ocean. 

Sea view apartments from £395,000. Beach houses from £1,250,000. 

BOOK YOUR VIEWING 01303 760 940 doug.acton@folkestoneharbour.com 

shorelinefolkestone.co.uk

Reap the rewards of renting 

your Pegasus Home 

Joyful later living 

for the New Age 

Many of our happy customers living in a Pegasus Homes 

community wouldn’t have considered renting either. 

But whether they wanted to release equity, save money, 

enjoy the flexibility of renting or simply wanted to meet new 

friends; they are enjoying life to the full in a beautiful new 

Pegasus Homes community. Speak to our team today and 

discover if renting a one, two or three bedroom home at 

Cobham Bowers could be the move you never knew you 

needed. Exclusively for those enjoying life over sixty. 

Rent from £2,900 pcm 

Leave the maintenance to 

us and reduce some of the 

burdens of traditional homeowning. 

Save thousands of pounds 

on stamp duty taxes. 

Free up equity to invest or 

enjoy the things you love, 

with the people you cherish. 

Enjoy the flexibility to chose a 

home that suits your lifestyle. 

Create peace of mind 

within safe and secure 

surroundings. 

If you love to travel, ‘lock up 

and leave’ your apartment 

and enjoy your trip, safe in 

the knowledge your home 

will be secure. 

“Investing in a property didn’t feel like 

the right option with all the additional 

costs. Renting appealed to us precisely 

for its flexibility, allowing us to adapt 

to changing circumstances and needs.” 

Pegasus Homes Resident 

Discover joyful later living at a new home 

in one of England’s most inspiring locations 

01932 321 033 | cobhambowers@pegasushomes.co.uk 

www.pegasushomes.co.uk/cobham-bowers 

Cobham Bowers, 74 Portsmouth Road, Cobham, KT11 1FG.Image shown is for indicative purposes only. Quote used is taken from a Pegasus Homes resident 

at a recent customer research session. Rental amounts shown are a starting price. Prices are correct at time of publication and may be subject to change. 

Unless otherwise stated, rental values are inclusive of service charge. Service charge is reviewed annually. For full terms visit pegasushomes.co.uk/ 

company/legal/terms-and-conditions/

We transform houses to create incredible living spaces 

with a spectacular relationship to the garden. 

For more information contact us 

gregoryphillips.com 

@gregoryphillipsarchitects 

+44 20 7724 3040

No Stamp Duty. 

It’s on us. 

Make your move to a stylish one, two or three 

apartment nestled within the tranquil grounds 

of Highfields by 31st March and we will pay your 

Stamp Duty! 

We understand moving can be stressful and costly. 

Our pledge to you is to make the process as easy 

as possible by offering a range of services, so you 

can enjoy the best parts of life. Join a welcoming 

and established community surrounded by beautiful 

landscaped gardens, wild flower gardens and allotments. 

Stamp Duty paid. 

£2,000 legal fees contribution. 

Expert downsizing and moving 

service from Aprico. 

A handyman service when you 

move in. 

No costly exit fees to pay. 

Prices from £495,000 

Discover joyful later living at a new home 

in one of England’s most inspiring locations 

01932 483 127 | highfields@pegasushomes.co.uk 

Highfields, 61 Hobbs Close, West Byfleet KT14 6LT. Image shown is photography at Highfields. Prices shown are correct at time of publication and may be subject to 

change. Prices shown are exclusive of service charge, which is payable monthly and is reviewed annually. To qualify for this promotion, customers must complete on 

their purchase by 31st March 2025. The value of tier 1 only Stamp Duty will be discounted from the purchase price. For full terms visit pegasushomes.co.uk/stampduty

Capital at Risk. 

INVEST IN A LOCALLY 

GROWN GLOBAL FUND 

Explore the Nutshell Growth Fund - an award-winning, actively 

managed fund guided by local experts. Focused on long-term 

quality growth, it invests in approximately 30 handpicked, 

exceptional companies that demonstrate strong value, high 

quality, and robust growth potential. Available for ISA, SIPP and 

investment accounts directly or through leading platforms such 

as AJBell, Hargreaves, Interactive Investor and Fidelity. 

Learn more at nutshellam.com 

23 


Assisted living apartments 

for the independently minded 

Feel right at home, 

right away! 

It’s hard to leave a home filled with memories 

but is your current home really the best fit? 

Have your priorities or living needs changed? 

Is it still right for you? 

Perhaps you’ve thought about downsizing, 

moving closer to family, or simply want a 

more manageable living space so you can 

focus on what truly matters. 

Our thoughtfully designed homes bring together 

comfort, community, and peace of mind, with 

exceptional facilities, 24-hour concierge, and 

vibrant social opportunities right on your doorstep. 

Leave the burdens of homeownership behind 

and join the many who are finding a safer, more 

enjoyable future at Birchgrove. 

Leading 

the way 

in retirement 

rental living 

Maybe it’s time to explore Birchgrove... 

www.birchgrove.life / 020 3929 5599 

Locations in Surrey, Kent & London: 

Banstead | Chiswick | Ewell | Godalming | Hampton 

Leatherhead | Mill Hill | Sidcup | Woking

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE 

Quality rentals in later life 

Historically, 

homeownership has 

been seen as the ultimate 

goal for many, offering 

financial stability, a sense of security, 

and financial freedom. However, as we 

age, our needs and perspectives change. 

More and more retirees in the UK are 

opting to rent rather than own their 

homes. They find that renting offers 

distinct advantages that can enhance 

their quality of life and reduce the 

burden of homeownership later in life. 

In recent years, there has been a 

marked increase in demand for rental 

accommodation among retirees. 

According to industry reports, over-65s 

living in private rented accommodation 

in the UK have doubled over the 

past decade. A key factor driving this 

shift is the emergence of properties 

specifically designed for long-term 

rental that offer a range of benefits, 

including greater security of tenure. 

Birchgrove, the award-winning 

specialist developer of contemporary 

retirement properties, is one such 

developer. Its high-quality selfcontained 

apartments are designed for 

people in later life. Each apartment 

is individually designed to maximise 

space and light and has the Birchgrove 

trademark of high-quality finishes, 

so that the apartments are distinctly 

elegant—with details such as wide 

doors and corridors for freedom of 

movement and access, integrated 

appliances at waist height for ease 

of use in the fully fitted kitchens, 

and step-free en-suite showers. 

Residents at Birchgrove have access 

to exclusive on-site amenities such as 

a restaurant, licensed bar, club room, 

wellness suite, landscaped gardens, 

and communal terrace. Regular events 

and activities also contribute to the 

friendly community lifestyle – from 

hobby groups to shared activities with 

like-minded people. And for added 

peace of mind, there is a concierge 

and 24-hour staff presence. 

Underlying Birchgrove’s business model 

is the belief that the current housing 

options for people over 65 exclude a large 

section of those who don’t want to manage 

another house purchase; therefore, renting 

in retirement is the missing piece in the 

housing puzzle. The appeal may not be 

immediately obvious to those accustomed 

to home ownership, but for a variety of 

people and reasons, it can uplift your 

whole quality of life and be liberating. 

Another reason rental is popular with 

older adults is many have already built 

their wealth. They see a lot of money 

going into the maintenance and repair of 

their family home and think that money 

could be put to a better purpose. Perhaps 

into retirement funds that benefit the 

family or use it to enjoy a better quality 

of life. So, whilst some argue that paying 

rent is throwing money down the drain, 

the truth is this more applies when you are 

building your wealth. Late renters have a 

different perspective; they are working out 

the best way to disperse their accumulated 

funds and planning and preparing 

how best to enjoy their future years. 

If you would like to find out more 

about living at a Birchgrove retirement 

community, contact the team. They 

will happily discuss the options 

and answer your questions. 

Birchgrove is rapidly growing its portfolio 

of high-quality retirement communities. 

There are communities in various 

locations in London, Kent, and Surrey. 

Call 020 3929 5599 

or visit www.birchgrove.life

LondonTheatre1 

Daliy Mail 

London Living Large 

The Stage 

Principal Sponsor 

Adaptor & Director ABIGAIL PICKARD PRICE | Set & Costumes NEIL IRISH & ANETT BLACK | Lighting MARK DYMOCK | Sound MATT EATON 

13 FEB-01 MARCH 2025 | HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, GUILDFORD HIGH ST 

01483 304384 | guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk 

GSC Buildings supported by 

Hotel Partner: 

Fri 27 – Sun 29 Dec 

Eves 7.30pm, Sat & Sun mats 2.30pm 

Tickets from £25 

Book now: GLive.co.uk | 0343 310 0055 


26

Notebook 

Take note! We’ve rounded up the best 

of what to see and do near you 

Clare Halifax 

Valeska Hykel 

Iliana Ortega-Alcazar 

World Class 

“The closer you get to London the 

harder it is,” Anthony Wilkinson 

was warned when he founded the 

Wimbledon International Music 

Festival sixteen years ago. His response 

was to offer great music performed 

by artists of international excellence. 

This year the festival – running from 

2nd to 24th November – offers 

the Czech Pavel Haas Quartet, 

US Grammy-winner cellist Zuill 

Bailey, Australian pianist Piers Lane, 

German tenor Christoph Prégardien, 

Iranian-US harpsichordist Mahan 

Esfahani – all among the world’s 

finest – and the Philhamonia 

performing Beethoven 7th, Armonica 

in Purcell’s opera ‘Fairy Queen’, the 

Ronnie Scott story… Find out more 

at wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk 

Background image: istockphoto.com/AKO / fumiko Inoue 

Lindsey Moran 

With the aim of disrupting the elitist nature of art fairs and 

pushing the boundaries of print, Woolwich Contemporary Print 

Fair runs from 21st to 24th November. Delivering innovative 

programming and social impact through progressive outreach 

initiatives, WCPF nurtures early stage collectors and provides 

significant opportunities for artists worldwide. You’ll find 50% 

specialist galleries alongside 50% independent artists, from newcomers 

to familiar favourites. With over 1,000 artists on show 

plus a programme of talks, workshops and live demonstrations 

this promises to be an inspiring event. So make space on your wall 

and in your diary and book your tickets. woolwichprintfair.com 

Images: Lucy J Toms 

Sarah Lorrimer-Riley 

27 

THE HOLLY 

AND... 

We’re excited to hear 

that The Ivy Canterbury Brasserie 

opens on 29th October, just in time 

for festive meals out! Located a mere 

‘scone’s throw’ from the worldfamous 

Cathedral, on the corner 

of The Parade and Rose Lane, it 

makes for the perfect punctuation 

during a visit to the thriving city. 

Open from breakfast to dinner 

seven days a week with excellent 

vegetarian and vegan options it 

offers a truly upscale setting. 

ivycollection.com

Making Good 

The wonderful Ceramic 

Studio are hosting their annual 

Christmas Makers’ Market on Sunday 

1st December, where they’ll be celebrating 

all things local and festive. The market will 

feature over 30 stalls from talented local small 

businesses showcasing ceramics, jewellery, art, 

homeware, cards and more! Pop along anytime 

between 10am and 4pm to pick up a gift 

or two. There will be live music along 

with mulled wine and festive treats. 

Register for free at 

theceramicstudio.co.uk 

It’s Golden... 

Celebrating 10 years of Silent Pool Gin! 

It’s ten years since the first bottle of 

Silent Pool Gin was handcrafted and 

distilled at the Silent Pool Distillery in 

Albury. Capturing the essence of 

the Surrey Hills, this luxury English 

gin was an immediate hit locally 

thanks to its blend of 24 aromatic 

botanicals and iconic teal bottle. 

Word soon spread, and Silent Pool 

Gin is now enjoyed around the 

world including the United States, 

Australia and Japan. Silent Pool Gin 

is still produced in Albury and the 

distillers are celebrating its success 

with the launch of Silent Pool Tenth 

Anniversary Celebration Edition 

Gin – a delicious limited edition 

new blend in a stunning one litre 

bottle. Available online and at local 

retailers. silentpooldistillers.com 

An appearance from 

Father Christmas and his Elves 

would usually top the bill, but at Silcocks 

Farm they will be sharing the spotlight with 

special guest shepherds watching over their reindeer 

sheep and carol singers, bringing the spirit of Christmas 

to this special late night opening event on 29th November 

(5-9pm). Nestled in the courtyard and barns at this 

organic farm, just minutes from Tenterden town centre, 

stalls will include art, craft, brocante and vintage treasures. 

Shoppers can keep warm with hot festive food, mulled 

wine and hot chocolate while snapping up extraspecial 

gifts. There’s parking on-site too. Grange 

Road, St.Michaels, Tenterden, TN30 6TL 

@silcocksfarmshop 

silcocksfarm-organics.co.uk 

Watch the Flocks 

Deck the.... 

For all those in search 

of thoughtful Christmas 

gifts for all tastes, styles and 

interests, head to one of the longest 

established, friendly and highly 

regarded fairs. This month’s Dorking 

Halls Antiques & Decorative Arts Fair takes 

place on 24th November (and will be held at the next 

door Sports Centre while work is in progress at the Halls). 

Explore exciting treasures in glass, ceramic, 

bronze and silver, beautiful jewellery and 

perfect pieces to complete your home interior, 

including pictures, furniture and lighting 

and so much more... we warn you it’s very 

hard to leave empty handed! There’s free 

parking, refreshments and wifi too. 

dovehousefineantiquesfairs.com 

Looking ahead 

Something to look forward to early next year... 

Following its acclaimed London run, the “sparkling” (West 

End Best Friend) production of Pride & Prejudice returns 

to Guildford in February. Abigail Pickard Price’s “fresh and 

genuinely romantic” adaptation features three actors 

portraying 17 of Austen’s beloved characters. 

“No doubt Austen herself would have been delighted” 

– Muddy Stilettos. Watch as the iconic love story 

between Lizzie Bennet and Mr. Darcy unfolds in this 

vibrant romantic comedy. Find out more at... 

guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk/prideprejudice25/ 

istockphoto.com/ AKO and Steimle

TEMPORARILY IN SPORTS CENTRE WHILE BUILDING WORK IN PROGRESS 

C 

C C 

M 

M M 

C 

Y 

Y Y 

M 

CM 

CM CM 

Y 

MY 

MY MY 

TickeT HoTline 

01428 684494 

The Tithe Barn & 

Special Pavilions, 

Compton, 

Guildford, GU3 1HS 

14 - 17 November 

Opening Times: 9:00 - 5:00 Sunday 9:00 - 4:00 

Step into a creative world & rediscover the art of enjoyable 

Christmas shopping. An opportunity to meet Britain’s most talented 

makers and purchase inspirational gifts and festive foods. 

Supporting Shooting Star Children’s Hospice. 

CM 

CY 

CY CY 

MY 

CMY 

CMY CMY 

CY 

K 

K K 

CMY 

K 

24 November 2024 

Up to 120 stands 

Open (9:30am Trade) 10:30 - 4:00pm. Entry tickets available on the door. 

TEMPORARILY RELOCATION for 2024 

DORKING SPORT CENTRE 

Reigate Rd (A25), Dorking RH4 1SN 

In Advance: Adults: £5.00 Seniors: £4.50 

At the Event: Adults £6.50 Seniors: £6.00 

(telephone & on-line bookings are subject to a 80p handling fee 

- this is per order not per ticket) 

Rural Crafts Association, Station Lane, Brook Road, Wormley, 

Surrey, GU8 5UA rca@ruralcraftsassociation.co.uk 

www.ruralcraftsassociation.co.uk Follow us on Instagram @ruralcrafts 

SPARKLE 

FESTIVE 

FAIR 

15-17 NOVEMBER 2024 

OVER 75 STANDS 

FESTIVE WORKSHOPS 

PLUS MAGICAL 

SANTA EXPERIENCE 

Fri 15 Nov 4pm-8.30pm, 

Sat 16 and Sun 17 Nov 10am-5pm 

Admission: £5, Concessions £4, U16s & LAC Friends FREE 

landmarkartscentre.org/christmas 

Ferry Road, Teddington, TW11 9NN 020 8977 7558 

Images by: Tabitha Macbeth Registered Charity No: 1047080 

29 


christmas fair 

Wed 20 & Thu 21 November 

A bustling marketplace full of festive cheer! Find unique 

gifts from a variety of local artisans & small businesses. 

£3 (under 18s free) 

farnhammaltings.com 

Bridge Square, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7QR 

Coming to Painshill this festive season 

Days of 

Christmas 

Find out more 

& book at 

Painshill.co.uk 

Trail 

Set within a stunning landscape 

30 November - 5 January 

Cobham, Surrey 

Registered charity 284944 


30

For those looking to give a 

gift that will bring serenity 

and festive cheer, Temple 

of Incense has vegan and 

cruelty-free, temple-grade, luxury 

incense sticks. From £12 for a 

pack of 20 at templeofincense.com 

Orders are now open for Kent Turkeys’ free range 

KellyBronze turkeys. Slow growing they’re raised 

on the family farm near Biddenden in their natural 

season, reaching full maturity to develop a deep, 

rich flavour. Their unique taste is easy and quick 

to achieve and they come with a complimentary 

thermometer so you can cook to perfection. They 

are available at collection points across Kent and you 

can place your order at kentturkeys.co.uk 

If you’re on the hunt for a gift that’s a real 

crowd pleaser, Macknade’s hampers are each a 

tasty treasure trove. They’re made with a mix of 

premium products from local artisans and independent 

Kentish producers, along with premium suppliers across 

the continent, to really cherry pick the best of the best. 

There are 18 hampers to choose from for all budgets and 

tastes. For delivery across the UK order at macknade.com 

must 

The 

From must-sees to must-buys and 

must-dos, don’t miss this month’s 

round up of what to buy, see, do, 

and generally get excited about! 

’Tis the season for 

spectacular shopping and 

top of our must-visit list 

is The Gate Boutique’s 

new location on 

Guildford High Street. 

The new store has three 

floors of fabulous fashion 

from international brands including Farm 

Rio, American Vintage and Paige. They 

also have lots of events planned and an 

exclusive styling room for one-to-one 

shopping experiences. thegateboutique.co.uk 

With the festive season fast 

approaching it’s time to get prepping 

in the kitchen (and we don’t just mean 

the food!). For an extra special dining 

set up we have our eyes on the Classic 

Stacking Set from Our Place. With 

gorgeous colours and classic designs 

they look fab but even better they are 

super practical! We’re talking platey 

bowls, plates with lips to contain 

sauces (more Crimbo gravy anyone?) 

and ultimate bonus: a smart-stacking 

design that makes them perfect for 

storing the inevitable and much-loved 

Christmas leftovers. They are on sale 

now at £235 for a 20 piece set at 

fromourplace.co.uk 

One of our favourite things 

about this time of year is 

snuggling up for a night in, lit 

and scented by a good candle. 

This Woodland Glow soy wax 

one is inspired by the way 

the leaves change colour with 

a warm chocolatey woodsy 

scent that we love. £22.95 at 

thefloralab.com or find The 

Floral Lab at our Midwinter 

Fair from 14th-16th November 

wealdentimes-fair.co.uk 

Paddington in Peru is 

finally out this month 

and to celebrate we’ll 

be munching on 

marmalade sandwiches 

and spritzing Jo 

Malone’s Orange 

Marmalade Cologne 

for extra measure. 

The joyful zesty 

orange scent is a must! 

From £58 (30ml) 

at jomalone.co.uk 

As we are diving into our 

2024 gift guide this month 

we’re naturally thinking 

of where all those gifts 

may go. And we think 

the perfect place may be 

one of Elizabeth Scarlett’s stunning 

stockings. Made with all the joyful style 

and colour we love from their bags 

and accessories, they are a must-have! 

This is the personalisable Celestial 

Dry Rose Velvet Stocking £50 at 

elizabethscarlett.com 

31

Midwinter 

14 -16 November 

To be part of something 

wonderful and 

bring joy to others 

Lucy, our editor, asked me why I love working at the 

Midwinter Fair and why I thought customers, exhibitors, 

and the team who build this amazing pop-up shopping 

event love it too. I’m Gordon, husband of Vivien 

(WT’s MD) and I’m also ‘Chief Pinkie’ at the Fair. 

Here’s why I find it such a joyous thing to be a part of. 

Book your 

tickets NOW 

QUOTE CODE 

‘NOV24’ 

for your 

discount 

Firstly, our lovely exhibitors. It 

takes a lot of courage to start 

your own business, and then 

to design, make, and source all the 

fabulous things they sell. I’m full of 

admiration for what they do. For 

some this will be their first fair. For 

others who’ve been coming for a 

while, it’s so satisfying seeing their 

business grow from their newbie 

days. Nothing makes us happier 

than seeing them succeed. It’s 

the reason the Fair was created 

– to give independent retailers 

a place to sell their products, 

in person. By bringing together 

the coolest, most creative and stylish 

independent retailers under one roof, 

the Midwinter Fair has become a 

rather wonderful shopping event. 

Not only will you discover unique 

products that you won’t see on the 

High Street, as well as something 

for everyone on your Christmas 

list, but when you buy directly 

from the designer, creator or maker, 

you’re making a real difference to 

a small, independent business. It 

makes buying Christmas presents 

at the Fair even more enjoyable. 

Our exhibitors love the Midwinter 

Fair because our customers are 

SHOP INDOORS IN FESTIVE HEATED MARQUEES

TICKETS 

available on 

the door or buy 

in advance 

online 

wealdentimes-fair.co.uk 

“I do hope we’ll see you at this year’s Fair, so 

that you can be part of something wonderful. 

Your presence will bring joy to others.” 

always so nice. And they love to 

shop too! It’s funny to think of 

customers contributing to the joy 

of the event, but they really do. 

Being enthusiastic, curious and 

chatty makes everyone’s day and the 

exhibitors always love reconnecting 

with our many loyal visitors. 

Being a steward – one of the 

‘pinkies’ you’ll see cleaning tables, 

emptying bins, and carrying shopping 

to people’s cars – we’re here to 

make everyone’s day as enjoyable as 

possible. Last year a customer lost a 

diamond earring. The next day we 

retraced her steps inside and outside 

the marquees, before remarkably 

finding it in the car park. That was 

such a happy moment. And I’d like 

to think, all part of our service ethos. 

Like everyone on the Wealden 

Times team, we love seeing best 

friends and generations of families 

enjoying a day out together. And 

we’re always interested to know what 

they’ve enjoyed and what they’ve 

bought. My top tips are firstly to 

walk slowly around our famous 

Food Hall and sample everything 

– but do leave space for lunch and 

a delicious chicken shawarma from 

Emilio’s. Secondly, pause, have a 

nice cup of coffee and listen to 

the school choirs singing festive 

songs. Performing live is a big thing 

for anyone, so take a moment to 

admire their bravery, encourage their 

efforts, and enjoy their delightful 

voices. It’s another moment of joy, 

in a day packed full of them. 

Over 

240+ 

independent 

retailers 

FREE 

PARKING 

14-16 NOVEMBER 

THE HOP FARM, PADDOCK WOOD TN12 6PY 

9AM - 5PM ADULTS £18 

Buy an advanced ticket to save £1 at wealdentimes-fair.co.uk 

2

Brand new 

Chapter 

Scale and impact abounds in Alex MacArthur’s captivating monastery in Rye. 

Undertaking the huge challenge of restoring this 14th century building singlehandedly, 

antiques and interiors specialist Alex has succeeded in not only 

creating a breathtaking space in which to showcase his constantly evolving 

collection of furniture, lighting and art, but also a truly unique event space 


34

Words: Antonia Deeson 

Photographs: David Merewether 

The Negroni Bar, complete with 

a stunning 20th century yellow 

velvet spiral love seat (the Tatlin 

model by Mario Cananzi and 

Roberto Semprini for Edra, Italy), 

a pair of 19th century marble 

church fonts from Italy and a 

rare carved giltwood mirror with 

original plate glass (c. 1670, 

Florence). The upholstered brass 

banquette is 1970s Spanish 


Simply Luxurious 

TILES & BATHROOMS 

Visit our new and improved 

Weybridge Showroom 

Now Open! 

GET AN EXTRA 15% OFF 

TILES & BATHROOMS 

Use code: 

SHM15 

For showroom information 

Scan 

T: 01932 840601 

Me 

Terms and conditions apply. Selected brands only. Extra 15% Offer not to be used in 

conjunction with other offers. Limited time only. E & OE. 

Beautiful Traditional Timber 

Windows and Doors 

Energy efficient timber windows and external doors, 

designed to complement your home. 

- Bespoke, high quality craftsmanship, made in the UK. 

- 50 year anti-rot guarantee. 

- Sustainably sourced timber. 

- Conservation Area specialists. 

01344 868 668 www.sashwindow.com 


36

This page: An 18th 

century Italian 

marble torso of Venus 

surveys the first 

floor event space 

Sometimes you walk into a building that is so 

much more than the sum of its parts. There are 

bricks, walls and a roof, signifiers of normality, 

but just now and again there is also an unidentifiable 

sensation, an atmosphere of otherness, a feeling within 

those stones and beams that simply takes your breath 

away and transports you into another dimension. The 

Monastery in Rye is just one of those very special places. 

Now for the first time it is being made available by 

owner Alex MacArthur, as a truly unique event space. 

Antiques and interior specialist MacArthur felt something 

of this ‘otherness’ when he first stumbled across the building 

in 2015, hidden away on a cobbled side street in Rye. 

The Cinque Port coastal town, known for its picturesque 

chocolate box style cottages, the monastery, with its high 

walls and soaring roofline, offered something completely 

and utterly different. The fact that it was also in a total 

state of crumbling disrepair was just part of the magic 

37 


This page: Exciting lighting abounds, either suspended from the ceiling, 

nestled between sofas or mounted on the walls. A stunning brass palm tree 

floor light by Maison Jansen and a brass palm floor light from Italy stand 

either side of a cream sofa below striking glass chandelier and wall lights 

that Alex felt he had stumbled across. Tracing the steps of the 

14th century Austin Friar monks who had once called the 

building home, Alex knew that a new chapter was waiting for 

him. “I had a list of requirements when I began looking to 

move from Brighton: I wanted a church or an ecclesiastical 

building, in East Sussex/Kent, I wanted industrial scale, for 

it to be of architectural interest, a lateral space with a walled 

garden for my dogs and several points of access. Imagine…” 

Just like the transformation of the building, Alex has also 

been on a physical and emotional journey. Relocating Alex 

MacArthur Interiors, an established business selling art and 

antiques from the 17th century right up to the contemporary, 

from a smart Regency townhouse in Brighton, the move 


38

LAST CHANCE TO BUY! 

After 14 years of successful trading, our Chelsea 

gallery will be closing on 21st December 2024. 

Choose from over 100 limited edition poster designs. All 

priced at £420 each, measuring 97 x 65cms. Private 

commissions are also welcome. 

@pullmaneditionsposters 

Pullman Editions 

94 Pimlico Road 

Chelsea 

London SW1W 8PL 

+44 (0)20 7730 0547 

info@pullmaneditions.com 

Our central London gallery 

Continue to view and buy online at www.pullmaneditions.com

Time for your 

dream bathroom 

We’ve been designing and 

installing dream bathrooms for 

over 20 years. Whether it’s 

modern, contemporary, classic 

or traditional, it’s our passion 

to make your dream bathroom 

come alive. We pride ourselves 

in designing and installing unique 

bathrooms tailored to your needs. 

We are looking forward to working 

alongside you on your new dream 

bathroom. Let’s get started today. 

www.jeremycolson.co.uk 

Your Dream, Our Vision 

Photo Credit: Louisa Grace Interiors 

Specialists in the supply & installation of contemporary bespoke aluminium glazing systems. Our showroom & offices are based in 

a historical boatyard overlooking the River Thames in Hampton. Specified by Architects, recommended by Contractors, referred by Clients. 

Urban & Grey Ltd 

Constable’s Boatyard 

5-9 Thames Street 

Hampton 

TW12 2EW 

Telephone: 020 8979 6367 

info@urbanandgrey.co.uk 

www.urbanandgrey.co.uk 

Sliding Doors • Bifold Doors • Flush Casement Windows 

Steel Replacement Doors, Screens & Windows 

Frameless Glazing • Frameless Fixed Rooflights 

Venting, Lantern & Walk-on Rooflights 

Front Doors, Pivot Doors, Glazed Garden Rooms & Verandas 


40

This page: Artworks and sculpture – both contemporary and antique – are important to Alex, who exhibits works by Michel Koven, 

Eve Shepherd, Mark Charlton and Christina Grant throughout the building. Down a few steps and you’re into a chic dusky pink 

powder room complete with a long run of elegant marble basins, designed by Alex, and rose artworks by Matthew Pagett 

to Rye and the following decade of 

blood, sweat and (undoubtedly) tears, 

has not only provided Alex with a 

new life, but also opened up unknown 

levels of self-belief and faith in ‘the 

process.’ Alex, who had been working 

in furniture restoration and then 

antiques for several decades, first in 

London and then in Brighton, had 

been looking for a change. Having 

studied Psychosynthesis, Alex was keen 

to unlock his own potential, identity 

and self-realisation. The Monastery 

appeared at just the right time. 

“I have always had a weird fascination 

with religion and religious iconography – 

something to do with going to school in 

a convent, maybe. This building is part 

of my obsession with both buildings and 

with religion, and with transformation. 

It has also pushed me, it has challenged 

me to my maximum potential and I 

just felt that I needed to express myself 

and this building is like a calling for me. 

It was certainly a high-risk decision to 

buy this place, financially, but I did it 

simply based on intuition, synchronicity 

and serendipity and a huge leap of faith. 

This whole journey has been a practice 

of faith over fear, but I do feel like I 

belong here in my soul and that this 

place will look after me. It’s very special.” 

Despite pigeon infestations, water, 

rot, planning issues related to a Grade II 

building and piles and piles of decades 

of debris, The Monastery was waiting. 

What was once a retreat for monks 

and then latterly a pottery warehouse, 

has, under Alex’s unwavering focus 

and unbelievably hard work and trust, 

transformed into his very own escapist 

cocoon. “I feel like I have dug up 

41 


This page: Alex has styled a beautiful suite – an area where the host or hostess, bride or groom, can get ready for their big day. An antique 

marble free-standing bath sits under a gold 18th century Italian icon, whilst, through a door, Carrara mona marble completes the shower area. 

Brass taps and huge rainwater showerheads were bespoke from Thomas Crapper and Aesop beauty products complete the experience for guests 

the past of this building, I have released 

the trauma and let in the light again. I 

opened up the space and created a place 

that really is a fantasy of my personal 

and aesthetic expression.” The Monastery 

defies a single vision or explanation, and 

just like Alex, is a mille-feuille of ideas, 

feelings and experiences all constantly 

adapting, changing and evolving. “This 

place is like an external canvas for me, it 

gives my work meaning and purpose, it 

feels like a representation of who I am. 

I hope people who come here want to 

experience that, to celebrate the beauty, 

the love and the optimism of this space.” 

The sense of other worldliness at The 

Monastery is instant, as though you have 

walked into another dimension. Alex 

takes me up the dramatically lit stairs, 

the smell of deep smoky incense hits 

you, as the music of Erik Satie dances 

around the building. A Caravaggio style 

oil painting sits atop a series of antlers 

and skulls, dark grey wood panelling, 

the original riveted steel beams (part 

of the 1907 interventions when the 

monastery became a factory) and rough 

plastered walls envelop you as you climb 

upwards. There are pops of gilding 

in the framed mirrors and a splash of 

pale grey that bounces light from an 

industrial fitting overhead. Corical lime 

paint which contains marble dust gives 

off a light reflecting, almost internal, 

glow to the walls. The ecclesiasticalmeets-industrial 

juxtaposition of the 


42

carlton 

alto 

roma 

astonian original 

astonian original brassware geo wall hung wc shape bath 

aged brass 

kast concrete

44

This spread: Downstairs the ‘monastery chapter’ gives 

way to the more recent ‘industrial chapter’ of the building, 

when it was turned into a pottery warehouse (and before 

that a barracks) a utilitarian space in 1907. Used by Alex as 

a ground floor showroom, this area is transformed into an 

event space for cocktails, dining or dancing for events 

building’s history is immediately apparent as the darkness of the 

stairway opens up to the majestic light-filled first floor gallery. 

“It’s so romantic,” says Alex. “And spiritual, if I was getting 

married then I think this place would be ideal…or maybe 

Venice!” he laughs. With the need for a more modern approach 

to the tradition of marriage, The Monastery, with its 

unique history, rooted in ecclesiastical tradition yet 

now transformed into an entirely contemporary space, 

would seem to be the perfect answer. With Alex’s 

incredible eye, the flowers, the food and the styling 

would be guaranteed perfection. It feels cinematic. It feels 

monumental. It also feels very romantic and intimate. 

Wooden floorboards and the same pale grey marble 

dusted paint of the gallery floor have been used across 

all the roughly hewn, original exterior walls and lets the 

drama of the space and Alex’s unique interior design, play 

out. A soaring wooden pitched roof and supporting beams 

(which Alex has painstakingly re-coloured to oak with many 

coats of lye & oil) crisscross above your head. A panelled 

facade wall and balustrade, in the same dark grey as the 

stairs, offers a theatrical division of the space. Conservation 

skylights sit above the bricked up original 14th century 

tracery windows on one side of the space, added to allow 

the south light back in to the space. Warehouse windows 

from the factory era of the building run down the other side 

of the space. Again, the interplay and juxtaposition of 

45 


This page: An early 18th century Chinoiserie bureau stands in a room off the main event space. Murano glass sconces 

are mounted either side of a bronze of Mercury. A cloakroom, with vintage bullet mirror and marble sink 

the building’s complex past, from a place 

of sanctuary to a place of enterprise, 

has been fully embraced by Alex. 

The soaring 8.7m high gallery is 

the perfect venue for Alex’s new events 

venture. Offering a select group of guests 

access to The Monastery for exclusive 

weddings, parties and launches, for 

anyone looking for a truly special, totally 

glamorous and entirely unique venue, 

there can really be none better. As an art 

and antique dealer, Alex has been able 

to create a space that perfectly shows 

off his eclectic collection of upholstery, 

lighting, tables, rugs, art and objets that 

bounce from style to style, period to 

period. A vintage French Maison Jansen 

circa 1970 Italian gold palm leaf floor 

lamp sits next to a 17th century classical 

nude marble sculpture, a 1950s French 

chair paired with a 19th century gilt 

sofa, an 18th century pair of Rococo 

gilt mirrors close by. This aesthetic 

could only have been created by Alex, 

with an eye and a sense of drama that 

is embodied everywhere you look. 

Behind a small door, hidden away 

amidst the drama of the main gallery, 

Alex has not forgotten to add an equally 

glamorous bathroom – or should I 

say powder room, as this is really how 

it feels. Soft chalky pink walls, round 

silk rugs, brass detailing in legs and 

mirrors and taps, gilt edged, bevel 

edged and rounded mirrors that bounce 

light and a pair of the most stunning 

Art Deco style Carrara mona marble 

sinks, designed by Alex, make this a 

most spectacular space to wash your 

hands! Luckily there are 18th century 

boudoir chairs in which to sit and 

relax and take in your surroundings. 

Up some stairs, down some more stairs 

and Alex takes me to see the suite – an 

area where the host or hostess, bride 

or groom, can get ready for their big 

day. Decorated in similar soft dusty 

pinks and greys as the powder room 

on the opposite side of the building, a 

vast antique marble free-standing bath 

sits under a gold 18th century Italian 

icon in a stunning 17th century carved 

gilt frame , brass handrails and 18th 

century lanterns from Florence create 

a vignette of luxuriating fabulousness. 

Through a door, the same Carrara mona 

marble is repeated in the shower area. 

A heavy pink fabric curtain and brass 

taps and huge 18inch wide rainwater 

showerheads (have all been made 

bespoke) and are old school glamour by 

Thomas Crapper. Aesop beauty products 

complete the experience for guests. 

Downstairs the ‘monastery chapter’ 

gives way to the more recent ‘industrial 

chapter’ of the building, when it was 

turned into a pottery warehouse (and 

before that a barracks) a utilitarian space 

in 1907. Used by Alex as a ground floor 

showroom, this area is transformed 

into an event space for cocktails, dining 

or dancing for events. With a colour 

palette of soft aquamarine and taupe, 

the feel is very different and yet Alex’s 

taste for the eclectic is everywhere: 


46


As seen on TV! 

Posh Pawn is just a stone’s throw away. 

As part of the esteemed Prestige 

Pawnbrokers family serving Surrey, 

London and the home counties, 

and made increasingly popular by 

the hit TV Show ‘Posh Pawn’; Posh Pawn has 

established itself as the ultimate destination 

for individuals seeking to sell, loan against, 

exchange or purchase preloved luxury items. 

SO WHERE ARE YOUR 

NEAREST STORES? 

In Surrey and the surrounding areas 

Posh Pawn is situated in Weybridge, 

Guildford and Richmond. 

The Weybridge store is the place it all 

began. Being the first branch and situated 

in a very affluent part of Surrey, as you’d 

expect, the team see some high value goods 

and collections including art and cars as well 

as amazing branded jewellery pieces such as 

Cartier and Bvlgari. Luxury brands like Rolex, 

Patek, Chanel and Hermes are appraised daily 

due to the clientele and current cash needs. 

“It’s certainly been busy in recent months 

with record numbers coming in to sell or 

borrow against luxury goods.” 

Owner, James Contantinou. 

After the success of Weybridge a 

second location opened up for Posh 

Pawn in Richmond, pawnbroking in the 

highly influential borough of London for 

over 10 years, with a new retail premises 

opening in the past 2 years to fill the gap 

of luxury retail in the area. Richmond 

is a beautiful appraisal and retail store, 

the attention to detail in respect of the 

finishes gives a true feeling of opulence. 

“Classic style and old money aesthetics are 

key factors for Richmond clientele. Chanel, 

Hermes and Cartier are brands that 

perform extremely well in our retail sector, 

even bringing in a few celebrities through 

the doors.” 

Store Manager, AnnaGrace Johnson 

More recently is the Posh Pawn 

Guildford branch. Purchased and fitted 

during the pandemic presented the 

team with unique challenges, which 

were overcome, nevertheless. 

“Guildford really is a showcase of what we 

have achieved, giving a great insight into 

the variety of assets that we deal with. The 

large open space gives us an opportunity to 

display the larger assets among the array of 

glorious luxury goods displayed on the walls 

and cabinets.” 

Owner, James Constantinou 

Loan Against or Sell or Buy Luxury 

With years of experience in the industry, 

Posh Pawn has become synonymous 

with trust, reliability, and exceptional 

customer service. This legacy of excellence 

is reflected in every aspect of Posh Pawn’s 

operations including their Weybridge, 

Richmond and Guildford stores. 

Posh Pawn are proud to offer a flexible 

pawnbroking service, allowing you to leverage 

your luxury assets to secure a short-term loan, 

providing you with the immediate funds 

you need while retaining ownership of your 

prized possessions. Or if you are looking to 

part with your possessions for good, Posh 

Pawn offers a seamless and confidential 

selling experience. Their team of experts 

possesses an in-depth understanding of 

the luxury market, enabling them to assess 

and appraise your items with precision. 

Also at Posh Pawn you’ll find luxury items 

at a fraction of their original retail prices! 

Each item undergoes rigorous authentication 

and quality checks, ensuring that you get 

genuine luxury without compromise – unable 

to visit in store? No problem! You can shop 

online at www.shopprestige.com. Whether 

you’re looking for an investment piece to 

add to your collection or statement accessory 

to elevate your style, Posh Pawn has it all. 

So why not take a trip to Posh Pawn 

today! 8 UK locations including: 

GUILDFORD - 01483 964019 

164-166 High Street, Guildford GU1 3HW 

guildford@prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk 

WEYBRIDGE - 01932 859880 

109 Queens Rd, Weybridge KT13 9UJ 

weybridge@prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk 

RICHMOND - 0208 948 4867 

2-2a George Street, Richmond TW9 1JY 

richmond@prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk 

www.prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk 

www.shopprestige.com

This page: Outside, the palazzo-style garden is hidden away from the surroundings 

of Rye by a high brick wall, a series of Cypress trees and ancient olive trees 

the pairing of a vast (1960s) bespoke 

Italian capiz chandelier with a vast 

19th century distressed public clock 

face, a 1970s leather Italian corner 

sofa and a series of contemporary 

abstract paintings, donated to the 

monastery by Brighton based artist 

Mark Charlton, that would not look 

out of place in a New York penthouse. 

The huge industrial windows offer 

glimpses of the palazzo-style garden 

outside that Alex has created, hidden 

away from the surroundings of 

Rye, by a high brick wall, a series of 

Cypress trees and ancient olive trees. 

Transported to a Medici courtyard in 

the heart of Tuscany, the scale of the 

outside space is yet another treasure 

for a town that is traditionally built 

cheek-by-jowl, houses jostling with 

each other for space on the edge of 

what was the ancient Kent coastline. 

Another magical element to this 

completely other worldly space. 

We are lucky that people like Alex 

MacArthur are here to pour their 

love, their sweat and their hard work into 

saving buildings like the Monastery, bringing 

them back to life, allowing them to have 

their next chapter. We are also lucky that 

The Monastery is now available for us to 

celebrate our own life goals. The Monastery 

is the manifestation of a unique vision, a 

love letter to Rye and an essay in the selfrealisation 

of the life of Alex MacArthur. 

Address Book: 

For more details on events and 

Alex MacArthur Interiors 

visit themonasteryinrye.com 

and alexmacarthur.co.uk 

or call 07931 765488 


48

Traditionally Made Architectural Porches, Verandas and Door Canopies 

You can contact us by email info@zac.ltd or visit our website www.zac.ltd 

or call one of our helpful design team 020 3957 6150

CHRISTMAS GUIDE 

RUG 

RUG 

STORE 

STORE 

…specialises in a wide selection of new, old and antique 

…specialises in wide selection of new, old and antique 

Persian, Turkish Caucasian and Afghan carpets, runners and 

Persian, Turkish Caucasian and Afghan carpets, runners and 

rugs. Various antique, old and new Kilims, Kilim furntiure and 

rugs. Various antique, old and new Kilims, Kilim furntiure and 

Kilim footstools are available. We also offer a professional hand 

Kilim footstools are available. We also offer professional hand 

cleaning and restoration service. We buy old and antique carpets 

cleaning and restoration service. We buy old and antique carpets 

– even damaged rugs. Part exchange and evaluations. 

even damaged rugs. Part exchange and evaluations. 

Stay cosy 

this Christmas 

We also 

We also 

offer a 

offer professional hand 

professional hand 

cleaning and 

cleaning and 

restoration 

restoration 

service 

service 

Order now for 

delivery before 

Christmas 

No more draughty, rotten, 

inefficient sash windows 

We also offer a professional 

hand cleaning and restoration service 

n 312 Upper Richmond Road West, London. SW14 7JN. 

312 Upper Richmond Road West, London. SW14 7JN. 

n 020 8876 0070 n info@rugstoreonline.co.uk 

020 8876 0070 info@rugstoreonline.co.uk 

n rugstoreonline.co.uk 

rugstoreonline.co.uk 

ELIOT 

ELIOT 

SIEGEL 

SIEGEL / 

THE 

THE 

BRITISH 

BRITISH 

ART 

ART 

GALLERY 

GALLERY 

Eliot Siegel has created exquisite, luxury greeting cards using 

Eliot Siegel has created exquisite, luxury greeting cards using 

his fine art photography. Eliot is a well-published author, 

his fine art photography. Eliot is well-published author, 

fashion magazine and portrait photographer and founder of 

fashion magazine and portrait photographer and founder of 

The British Art Gallery, and his work can be found on the Etsy 

The Using British revolutionary Art Gallery, 10mm and his thick work can be found on the Etsy 

Artist online marketplace. 

double glazed units Artist we online can retro marketplace. 

Eliot 

Eliot fit sash has 

has windows, been a fine 

been fine retaining art imagemaker 

art imagemaker the for more than 30 years, 

for more than 30 years, 

original with eight 

with eight appearance solo exhibitions. 

solo exhibitions. but with Based in Teddington, he has 

Based in Teddington, he has 

created 

created the benefits six brand-new 

six brand-new of double collections 

collections glazing. of striking greeting cards, 

of striking greeting cards, 

printed on sublime 300gsm Mohawk paper by the foremost 

printed on sublime 300gsm Mohawk paper by the foremost 

printer 

Improve 

in the 

insulation 

UK, and elegantly presented in delightful dark 

printer in the UK, and elegantly presented in delightful dark 

grey Save boxes, money silver on embossed heating bills with the Eliot Siegel signature 

grey boxes, silver embossed with the Eliot Siegel signature 

Call 01892 and logo of The British Art Gallery. 

and 532273 logo of for The a British Art Gallery. 

FREE n Find these little treasures at etsy.com/uk/shop/TheBritishArtGallery 

Find site these survey little treasures & quote at etsy.com/uk/shop/TheBritishArtGallery 

sashwindowheritage.co.uk 

or call 07768 816749 and speak to Eliot directly 

or call 07768 816749 and speak to Eliot directly 

SashWindowHeritageWT187.indd 1 15/08/2017 15:18 

REAL 

REAL 

ALE 

ALE 

If you are looking for festive cheer, 

If you are looking for festive cheer, 

look no further than Real Ale; your 

look no further than Real Ale; your 

local independent liquid delicatessen, 

local independent liquid delicatessen, 

specialising in craft beers, natural 

specialising in craft beers, natural 

wines and spirits from small producers 

wines and spirits from small producers 

around the world. 

around the world. 

The Natural Wines of Christmas case 

The Natural Wines of Christmas case 

contains a selection of naturally made 

contains selection of naturally made 

wines showcasing amazing flavours, 

wines showcasing amazing flavours, 

made with perfectly ripe grapes and 

made with perfectly ripe grapes and 

meticulous attention to detail. 

meticulous attention to detail. 

All the wines are hugely expressive 

All the wines are hugely expressive 

in their own way and represent 

in their own way and represent 

fantastic value when bought together 

fantastic value when bought together 

as a mixed case. 

as mixed case. 

Or if you prefer white burgundy, fizz 

Or if you prefer white burgundy, fizz 

or full-bodied reds, the Six Wines 

or full-bodied reds, the Six Wines 

of Christmas ticks the box! 

of Christmas ticks the box! 

Both cases come with tasting notes 

Both cases come with tasting notes 

and free UK delivery. 

and free UK delivery. 

For beer lovers, why not try the everpopular 

12 Beers of Christmas, taken 

For beer lovers, why not try the everpopular 

12 Beers of Christmas, taken 

from a selection of over 300 beers. 

from selection of over 300 beers. 

From dark and delicious stouts to 

From dark and delicious stouts to 

hoppy table beers and crisp lagers, 

hoppy table beers and crisp lagers, 

each case comes with a tasting note 

each case comes with tasting note 

and food pairing in a stamped gift box. 

and food pairing in stamped gift box. 

n Pre order online now at realale.com 

Pre order online now at realale.com 

or pop into the shop at 371 Richmond Road, 

or pop into the shop at 371 Richmond Road, 

Twickenham TW1 2EF 

Twickenham TW1 2EF 

n 020 8892 3710 

020 8892 3710 

n TW@realale.com 

TW@realale.com 

EST. 1997 

BLIND AND CURTAIN 

SHOWROOM 

Each case 

Each case 

comes with a 

comes with tasting note and 

tasting note and 

food pairing 

food pairing Our newly redesigned Luxaflex showroom, showcases 

in a stamped 

in stamped 

gift box the latest innovations in custom made blinds including 

gift box automation, sustainability and smart home integration. 

Sitting seamlessly alongside our bespoke luxury curtain 

and Roman blind service containing an inspiring 

collection of designer fabrics and trimmings. 

With over 25 years experience in window styling we 

offer a fully bespoke service with every aspect of your 

project overseen by our team of experts. 

CURTAINS & BLINDS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY 

Opening Hours: 

Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm 

52 Friars Stile Road, 

Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 

020 8332 6250 • www.curtain-call.co.uk 

info@curtain-call.co.uk 


50 

48 December essentialsurrey.co.uk 

48 December essentialsurrey.co.uk

Get the 

LOOK 

1 Three tier conchita chandelier £500 Pooky pooky.com 2 Golden ginko leaf canvas £150 Cox & Cox 

coxandcox.co.uk 3 Cloud of Dharma (Triptych III) by Daniel Acuña limited edition print from £100 Studio 

Parga studioparga.com 4 MDF Wall panelling strips £2.94 Wall Panels World wallpanelsworld.co.uk 5 Florentine 

mirror £12,000 La Maison London lamaisonlondon.com 6 Love Story velvet armchair £465 French Bedroom 

frenchbedroom.co.uk 7 Buckingham 3 seater sofa £2,899 Bridgman bridgman.co.uk 8 Vita female torso £69 

Nicnac Home nicnachome.com 9 Zenith coffee table with round glass top, black mango base and metal 

frame £210 Where Saints Go wheresaintsgo.co.uk 10 Piper statue £775 Haddonstone haddonstone.com 

51 


Little house 

Next Door 

Words: Antonia Deeson 

Photographs: David Merewether 


52

Opposite: From the kitchen, the through brick 

fireplace allows the light from the north-west facing 

snug to connect and flow with the back of the 

building This page: For the snug, Alex has chosen 

a pair of pink and grey upholstered mid-century 

armchairs, a 1950s Sputnik centre piece light and a 

19th century Ormolu writing cabinet from France 

Alex MacArthur’s Georgian cottage, attached to his remarkable 

14th century monastery in Rye, is another example of his 

genius ability to imbue interiors with dramatic impact 

 

53 


“I love brass,” says Alex. 

“It’s very traditional, with 

a sense of industrial, but 

also has a distinct touch 

of golden glamour to it.” 

A 

small inconspicuous doorway 

leads from The Monastery, 

the magnificent scale-defying 

business end of Alex MacArthur’s 

fantastical world, in Rye. It’s as though 

you open a gateway to another realm, 

albeit one that is Lilliputian in scale 

compared to the vastness of next door. 

Where one building is all about full 

throttle dramatic impact, the other, a 

tiny two-up-two-down Georgian cottage, 

is all about quiet pleasures and hidden 

gems. If ever there was an antithesis 

to the industrial, the ecclesiastical 

and the monumental, this is it. 

Although compact in size, the cottage 

still offers a vision that could only have 

come from the singular imagination of 

interior and antiques expert, Alex. The 

architectural substance of the building 

has, just like The Monastery, been 

stripped back to its true self, divested 

of decades of decay and abandonment. 

Brick walls, open beams, a ceiling taken 

up to the eaves – all these features make 

the building, unquestionably smaller 

in scale in every way than its imposing 

neighbour, still retain many of the same 

visual details. There is an honesty to 

the original architectural integrity of 

the house which has been combined 

with bespoke metal work artfully 

employed (combining both practicality 

and glamour), delicious vintage finds 

from European flea markets and 

antique dealers, hints of exotic travels 

and the same love of soft tones and 

tactile fabrics, like linen and velvet, that 

MacArthur has used next door. They 

are two very different chapters, but 

both from the same book and author. 

From the kitchen, the through brick 

fireplace allows the light from the 

north-west facing snug to connect and 

flow with the back of the building. 

Juxtaposed with the exposed brickwork 

is the original pencil-beaded tongueand-groove 

panelling painted in aqua. 

Brass features have been made or 

sourced especially for the space – a sink 

was handmade in Florence and Alex’s 

metalworker has created open brass, 

vintage luggage style shelving, that 

allows the French copper pans to sing 

against the creamy brickwork. “I love 

brass,” says Alex. “It’s very traditional, 

with a sense of industrial, but also has 

a distinct touch of golden glamour to 

it.” In the centre of the kitchen sits a 

vintage French café style brass-topped 

table and bentwood chairs. A stunning 

larder cabinet was found at a flea market 

in Paris. “I won’t tell you how much it 

cost to ship it all over, but it was worth 

it!” he laughs. A 17th century painting 

of St Anthony nods to Alex’s ‘other’ life 

next door. A heavily patterned pink and 

aqua Moroccan encaustic tiling scheme 

underfoot adds a dose of geometric 

pattern, tying together the floor, the 

brick work and the walls, painted in 

the same Corical lime covering from 

Belgium, as in The Monastery. 

The snug, painted in soft pink, 


Left: An 18th century painting on glass of 

the Madonna and child from Spain features 

on one wall of the snug. A heavily patterned 

throw from Morocco drapes over the sofa 

Below: The bedroom has roughly hewn 

dusky pink walls, painted with Corical 

paint, packed with marble minerals that 

bounce light back into the room. Another 

Spanish piece on glass, this time 19th 

century and depicting St Michael defeating 

the Devil, hangs next to the window 

with deep fuchsia and burnt orange 

velvet curtains, is a continuation of 

the colour palette that Alex has used 

in the bedroom suite next door, which 

he offers to hosts as an escape boudoir, 

a place of elegant sanctuary as they 

prepare for their big event. Back in 

the snug, a pair of pink and grey 

upholstered mid-century armchairs, a 

1950s Sputnik centre piece light and a 

19th century Ormolu writing cabinet 

from France sit next to gold framed 

Spanish icons on the walls. A heavily 

patterned rug and throw, both from 

Morocco, bring the room’s stylish 

colour scheme effortlessly together. 

Coming from London via a Regency 

townhouse in Brighton, the ‘cottage 

aesthetic’ was not something that came 

naturally to Alex. So, as with everything 

he approaches, he has created his own 

interior language, one that takes the 

core elements of The Monastery, but 

scaled down into miniature. “I tried to 

keep things more minimal here, whereas 

next door, I could really do whatever 

my imagination allowed, here it has to 

be more considered, more controlled, 

in a way.” The cottage had originally 

been decorated in darker colours, 

which Alex calls his ‘Abigail Ahern’ 

period. However, as with next door 

in The Monastery, Alex has reclaimed 

colours such as pinks and oranges and 

has cleverly moved them away from 

the cute end of the colour spectrum 

and transformed them into elegant 

and slightly more masculine tones. 

Winding your way up the dolls’ 

 

55 


One Destination 

-Two Extraordinary Venues - 

Superb Bespoke Interiors, Bathrooms, Kitchens & Bedrooms 

A unique one-stop shopping experience for all your interior & exterior 

design & decoration requirements. 

The most atmospheric sculpture park in Britain. 

More than 300 internationally renowned artists exhibiting sculptures 

for sale within ten acres of arboretum & wildlife inhabited water gardens. 

Miscellanea 

Crossways, Churt, Surrey 

GU10 2JA 

01428 714 014 

www.miscellanea.co.uk 

www.thesculpturepark.com 

Curator: 07831 500 506 

The Sculpture Park 

Jumps Road, Churt, Surrey 

GU10 2LH 

01428 605 453 

The Sculpture park, ATM Mar 2019 advert TSP Misc, 210 x 148 +3mm.indd 1 27/03/2019 14:43 

Untitled-2 1 04/03/2019 13:32

Above: Alex was allowed to open up the ceilings of the cottage 

to the roof, allowing the architecture to soar up to its apex 

Right: The bathroom is a room that defies its own scale. 

A stunning vintage marble washstand on brass legs, 

made bespoke by Alex, is topped with a 1940s French 

folding mirror and bespoke brass splashback 

house size staircase, there is a double bedroom and bathroom. 

Alex has maximised the space of the bathroom by opening 

up the ceilings to the roof, creating a room that defies its own 

scale – a large copper free-standing bath and huge rain head 

shower and romantic linen shower curtain, worthy of the 

roomiest five-star hotel suite, takes precedence. A stunning 

vintage marble washstand on brass legs, made bespoke by Alex, 

is topped with a 1940s French folding mirror and bespoke 

brass splashback. Just like next door, Alex really knows how 

to add drama to a bathroom and by maximising the size of 

the room, through painted floorboards and a soaring roof 

overhead (complete with a large antique French lantern light) 

you lose any sense that you are still in a tiny cottage in Rye. 

Next door, the bedroom with roughly hewn dusky 

pink walls (again painted with Corical paint, packed with 

marble minerals that bounce light back into the room) 

has soft grey velvet and pink velvet curtains. Painted 

floorboards bounce all available light back into the room 

from the double aspect windows. As with the bathroom, 

Alex has played with the scale, due to the unexpectedly 

high ceilings. The cottage, deserted since the 1950s, had a 

pigeon infestation and so Alex was allowed to open up the 

ceilings to the roof, exposing the chimney breast, allowing 

the architecture of the cottage to soar up to its very apex. 

“It really has been my sanctuary,” he says with a sense of 

real fondness for this tiny house, that must have given him a 

huge amount of succour when the enormity of the renovation 

project he had taken on was in danger of overwhelming 

57 


Top: The glowing yellow walls of the bedroom are punctuated by items that Cherry and Jonathan have brought back from their travels. 

This page: A large copper free 

standing bath and huge rain head 

shower, with a romantic linen 

shower curtain, take centre stage 

him. “This building, both the cottage 

and next door, have both taught me to 

practise faith over fear. Every part of 

this project has been a huge challenge, 

but now it’s complete, I feel at peace 

with it all. Now I feel I have blown 

away a lot of the past, and now it’s 

ready to become a place of happiness 

and sanctuary.” As with next door, 

Alex is also now offering the cottage 

for rent for couples or individuals 

who are celebrating big events at The 

Monastery. “Here they can come and 

escape, to the tiny cottage next door. 

Somewhere that still has the romance 

of The Monastery but with a sense of 

intimacy that I hope will truly cement 

their celebrations and become a very 

fond memory for the rest of their lives.” 

Address Book: 

For further details on renting the 

cottage visit themonasteryinrye.com 


58

Get the 

LOOK 

1 Gold sunburst pendant ceiling light with 12 lights £400 Audenza audenza.com 2 The Wilton Diptych 

£155 (framed) King & McGaw kingandmcgaw.com 3 Piranesi Pink wall paint £55.95/2.5l Annie Sloan 

anniesloan.com 4 Roddy wall light £142 Pooky pooky.com 5 Charleston single washstand in Arabescato 

marble with brushed brass metalwork £8,250 Catchpole & Rye catchpoleandrye.com 6 Rattan kindling 

basket £20 Marquis & Dawe marquisanddawe.co.uk 7 Timeless Glamour Emporium gold chair 

Boca do Lobo bocadolobo.com 8 Tubby Tub bath £2,025 The Albion Bath Co albionbathco.com 

59 


Wish you were here 

The experts at Simply Luxury Escapes pick their ultimate destinations from their extensive 

collection of tailored itineraries that deliver the ultimate luxury travel experiences 

Japan 

Tailor Made Itinerary 

“Voted Conde Nast’s Best Country 

in the World for 2024, Japan offers 

an extraordinary journey where 

ancient traditions coexist with 

cutting-edge modernity. Tokyo 

dazzles with its neon-lit streets, but 

moments of tranquillity await in 

serene spots like the Hamarikyu 

Gardens. The city’s energy sets the 

stage for a magical adventure. 

A hands-on sushi-making class at 

Tsukiji’s outer market is a must for 

food lovers, while watching a sumo 

match provides a deep dive into Japan’s 

storied culture. A day trip to Hakone 

rewards you with stunning views of 

Mount Fuji, and Kyoto’s UNESCOlisted 

temples and bamboo groves 

transport you to a bygone era. 

I concluded my trip in Osaka, 

Japan’s culinary capital, where 

street food and vibrant districts 

delivered the perfect foodie fix. 

Japan is a captivating blend of 

history, culture, and innovation – a 

must-visit for any traveller in 2025.” 

– Natasha, Managing Director 


60

Travel 

Seychelles 

with 

Emerald Cruises 

South Africa 

Safari followed 

by Mauritius 

Stay at 

One&Only 

“The Seychelles, an archipelago 

of more than 100 islands in the 

Indian Ocean, boasts powder-white 

beaches and crystal-clear waters 

teeming with vibrant marine life. 

One of the best ways to see this 

amazing part of the world is with 

Emerald Cruises. They offer an 

unparalleled experience of this unspoilt 

paradise abroad a small, yacht-style 

cruise. With just 100 guests, it’s 

intimate and exclusive, offering 

access to secluded ports larger ships 

simply can’t reach. The relaxed yet 

sophisticated atmosphere on board 

complements the stunning 360-degree 

views of the Indian Ocean. 

Each destination reveals a new paradise 

– Cousin Island’s untouched wildlife, 

La Digue’s vibrant landscapes, the 

coral atolls of Aldabra, postcardperfect 

Praslin, and the hidden 

gem of the Farquhar Islands. The 

combination of these secluded, aweinspiring 

destinations makes this 

journey an unforgettable luxury 

escape.” – Fiona, Product Director 

illustrations: istockphoto.com/ addillum / gagarych 

/ Hanna Plonsak / oleksii arseniuk 

“South Africa is the world’s ultimate safari destination, offering 

unforgettable adventures. Madikwe and the Waterberg 

Biosphere shine with their breathtaking landscapes and diverse 

wildlife. Dawn and dusk game drives provide thrilling sightings 

of the Big Five, while knowledgeable guides make each journey 

both exciting and educational. For a more intimate experience, 

a walking safari is a must, revealing the beauty of the flora and 

smaller fauna. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and serenity. 

The best way to end a trip of adventure is with relaxation 

and where better than the One&Only Le Saint Géran in 

Mauritius. Just a four-hour flight from Johannesburg and 

you’ll land in Mauritius for some sun, relaxation and to 

see some of the most spellbinding beaches in the world. 

Blessed with stunning natural beauty and exuberant culture, 

guests here will receive impeccable hospitality and tantalising 

Mauritian cuisine.” – Nicola, Luxury Travel Consultant 

For more information on booking a holiday with Simply Luxury Escapes, visit their new store at 

7 London Road, Tunbridge Wells, head to simplyluxuryescapes.co.uk or call 01892 576777 

61 


RHS Glow. 

It’s the brightest 

night of the year. 

TICKETS FROM 

£17.95 

Book now for RHS Glow, 

Fri 22 Nov – Sun 5 Jan. 

rhs.org.uk/wisleyglow

istockphoto.com/ Ekaterina_Jurkova 

GIFTS

Jewellery Design, Diamond Sourcing 

and Sustainable Luxury Pieces 

Luminary offers a range of high-end services for the jewellery industry. 

From a more tailored bespoke design approach, to sourcing pre-loved designer pieces. From remodelling your family heirlooms, 

to sourcing exquisite diamonds and gemstones. 

Visit our website to join the Luminary Community and receive 10% off of your first order. 

www.luminaryfinejewellery.com • www.instagram.com/luminaryfj 

Email: simon.davis@luminaryfinejewellery.com • Call: +44 (0)7896252680

Personalised pearl 

drop necklace £103.20 

Merci Maman 

mercimamanboutique.com 

OE Amulet Square Onyx 

Necklace £105 Coeur de Lion 

coeur-de-lion.org 

Rock crystal pebble huggie 

hoops £140 Dower & Hall 

dowerandhall.com 

Handmade 18ct 

gold pendant with 

blue zircon and 

diamonds £3,675 

Eaton & Jones 

eatonandjones.co.uk 

Celestial Dream ring £159 

Good Daze gooddazeahead.com 

Luna necklace £370 

Feathers & Wings 

feathersandwings.co.uk 

Tiffany white gold diamond petal 

key pendant £6,950 Luminary Fine 

Jewellery luminaryfinejewellery.com 

Polished heart 

pendant £95 

Loel loel.co.uk 

Men’s engravable St. 

Christopher necklace 

£125 Dower & Hall 

dowerandhall.com 

Dotty gold and teal sapphire ring £650 

BOO jewellery boojewellery.co.uk 

Queen of Hearts 

charm ring £65 

Fools Gold Jewellery 

foolsgoldjewellery.co.uk 

Enchanted vine moonstone 

ring £45.99 (100% of 

profits help exploited 

women) Starfish Project 

starfishproject.org.uk 

Treasured emerald 

drop earrings £36 

One & Eight 

oneandeight.co.uk 

To Sparkle & Shine 

Christmas is a great occasion to buy that special 

someone something they can enjoy wearing throughout 

the festive season and treasure for years to come 

Watch Domenica 

in Burgundy with 

white zirconia £255 

Sif Jakobs Jewellery 

sifjakobs.uk 

Cartier rose gold 

diamond love ring £1,870 

Luminary Fine Jewellery 

luminaryfinejewellery.com 

Men’s Personalised 

Open Bangle 95.20 

Merci Maman 

mercimamanboutique.com 

Knot and pearl 

drop earrings £49 

Estella Bartlett 

estellabartlett.com 

Unisex Sunray Midnight 

watch £175 Coeur de Lion 


Baby cockle shell earrings 

£40 Iris & Lolli Jewellery 

irisandlolli.co.uk 

Double hoop 

cuff bracelet 

£325 

Toolally 

toolally.com 

Sun rock and star 

Murano dangle 

earrings £63 Lezzeri 

lezzeri.com 

Luna moon & 

star huggie hoop 

earrings £89 

Amelia Scott 

amelia-scott.com 

Organic drop silver earrings 

£160 Thomas Sabo 

thomassabo.com 

Auria black onyx gold hoop 

earrings £85 Flutterby 

flutterbyonline.co.uk 

Amethyst & blue topaz candy 

cocktail ring £110 Fools Gold 

Jewellery foolsgoldjewellery.co.uk 

Lucky clover ring 

£139 Good Daze 

gooddazeahead.com 

Budded gold twig and diamond 

ring £2,229 Lucy Sylvester 

lucysylvester.co.uk 

23mm Grove Forest bracelet 

watch £159 Olivia Burton 

oliviaburton.com 

Clare Maiden 18ct gold 

plated Storm Bangle 

£700 Greenfinch 

greenfinchshop.co.uk 

65 


Games 

For family fun everyone 

can join in with grab a 

good board game to enjoy 

on the big day together! 

Disney Princess Chronicles 

of Light Board Game £34.99 

Amazon amazon.co.uk 

The Shakespeare Game £25 

Laurence King Publishing 

laurenceking.com 

Ridley’s Games Kazoo 

that Festive Tune £12 

Amazon amazon.co.uk 

Cut and Stick 

jumper £90 Talou 

wearetalou.com 

Gingerbread Tree 

£12 Treat Kitchen 

treatkitchen.co.uk 

Toyllectible Pufflums Niffler 

£18 The Noble Collection 

noblecollection.co.uk 

Mmmm Marmalade 

Paddington Bear Day 

Pack £55 Guest’s Shoes 

guestsshoes.co.uk 

The Kew Gardens Children’s 

Cookbook £14.99 Royal 

Botanic Gardens Kew Shop 

shop.kew.org 

Moomins 

House Playset 

£25 Play Press 

playpresstoys.com 

Stickertopium: Enchanted Christmas 

£12.99 Waterstones waterstones.com 

Tree cape costume £112 

Meri Meri merimeri.co.uk 

Musical jewellery box £22.95 

Rex London rexlondon.com 

Farmyard animal 

tumbling tower 

£12 National Trust 

nationaltrust.org.uk 

Craft box 

subscription 

gift voucher 

£26.95/month 

Craftiosity 

craftiosity.co.uk 

Organic Seeds: Basil 

Greek £4 Planet Good 

Earth planetgoodearth.com 

Liberty 4 Pro Earbuds 

£129.99 Soundcore 

soundcore.com 

Kaloo doll rabbit 

£20.99 Binky 

binkyshop.co.uk 

Disney Store official 

Moana classic doll 

£17.99 Amazon 

amazon.co.uk 

Taco Cat 

Goat Cheese 

Pizza £11.99 

Asmodee 

asmodee.co.uk 

For the Young Ones 

Christmas is all about the young – from babies and toddlers to teens and young adults there 

is no joy like seeing them open their gifts – so be sure to get them something special! 


66

01306 877994 

www.thefigtreedorking.co.uk 

4-5, Old King's Head Court, 

Dorking, RH4 1AR 

TheFigTreeS51.indd 1 04/12/2018 11:14 

Experience the magic of 

Christmas in Kingston with 

a Nutcracker Trail, sparkly 

lights, late night shopping, 

live music, and more. 

Discover more 

kingstonuponthames.info/ 

christmas2024 

@inkingstonuk 

67 


HANSONS 

A U C T I O N E E R S 

K E N T & S U S S E X 

Arts & 

Artisan 

CHRISTMAS FAIR 

AUCTION 

27TH NOVEMBER 2024 

JEWELLERY, WATCHES, SILVER, 

FINE ART & ANTIQUES 

HANSONS KENT & SUSSEX 

OLD POST OFFICE, LEICESTER SQUARE, 

PENSHURST TN11 8BJ 

Friday 22 - 

Sunday 24 

November 

Entry: £10 

Consignment deadline: 5th November 

westhorsleyplace.org 

Enquiries, please contact the Penshurst Saleroom 

01892 642146 

penshurst@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk 

HansonsKentSussex 

www.hansonsauctioneers.co.uk 

HansonsKentSussex 

HansonsKent 


68

Bows embroidered sweatshirt £42 

Limpet limpetstore.com 

For their Wardrobe 

Help your loved ones feel their best with something wonderful to wear! 

Frilly butterfly tulle tiered dress 

£48 Monsoon monsoon.co.uk 

Sherpa faux sheepskin 

hat £59 Helen Moore 

helenmoore.com 

Barbour tartan 

scarf £39.95 

The Golden Boot 

thegoldenboot.co.uk 

Frosted fairisle jumper £65 

Charity Farm Country Store 

charityfarmcountrystore.co.uk 

Safari cosy waterproof jacket 

from £45.50 JoJo Maman 

Bébé jojomamanbebe.co.uk 

Organza bow hair clip £14 

Accessorize accessorize.com 

Maya Grande Dolomite handbag £1,075 

Lalage Beaumont lalagebeaumont.com 

Helen Moore wrist warmers 

in black double sided faux 

fur £49 The Gate Boutique 

thegateboutique.co.uk 

Brown belt £18 M&S 

marksandspencer.com 

Love Is All Around T-shirt 

£25 Style for Stroke 

styleforstrokefashion.com 

Recycled chunky knit 

gloves £15 National Trust 

shop.nationaltrust.org.uk 

Roses square scarf 

£50 Fable England 

fableengland.com 

Gant red and 

navy scarf £125 

Jeremy Hobbs 

jeremyhobbs.co.uk 

Kimoto scandi 

sheepskin slippers 

£51.75 Moshulu 

moshulu.co.uk 

Feather yarn & faux 

fur sweater coat £299 

Odyl odyldesign.com 

Pure merino hat 

£28 By Chand 

bychand.com 

For Him 

When all else fails and 

you’re struggling to find 

something special for the 

man who has everything 

you can always go for 

some cosy winter warmers 

Liddel sweater £250 Genevieve 

Sweeney genevievesweeney.com 

Gant wool beanie £65 Jeremy 

Hobbs jeremyhobbs.co.uk 

Green stripe cotton socks £28 

Sims Wear simswear.com 

69 


Do You See Me? by Dione 

McKenna painting 

£475 Greenfinch 

greenfinchshop.co.uk 

Folklore Aromatherapy 

Candle Kit £39 Yougi 

yougibotanicals.com 

Amore picture £45 Vintage Playing 

Cards vintageplayingcards.co.uk 

Silk road enamel tray small 

£38 Rosie Dalia rosiedalia.com 

Purple Heather British wool travel rug 

£79.95 Glencroft glencroftcountrywear.co.uk 

Starry Starry Night 

dip dye dinner 

candle trio £18.25 

The Colour Emporium 

thecolouremporium.com 

Ruth Wilde 

Starter Set £50 

Constant Candle 

constantcandle.co.uk 

Candy Cane cake 

stand £30 John 

Lewis johnlewis.com 

Monte Carlo 

portable, cordless 

lamp £149 Lutris 

lutris.com 

Solo Stove Mesa 

tabletop fire pit with 

stand £104.99 Amazon 

amazon.co.uk 

Silicone 

record coasters 

£7.95 Rex 

London 

rexlondon.com 

Hever Castle print by 

C.J. Crews from £35 

Catherine Jane Designs 

catherinejanedesigns.co.uk 

The Fox And The Lost 

Soldier cushion £35 Quinn 

The Fox quinnthefox.com 

Turnbull&Hooch Large Tray 

£65 turnbullandhooch.co.uk 

Light up ceramic 

house £15 M&S 


Everything 

Will Be OK 

print from £17 

Burnt Peach 

burntpeach.co.uk 

London: A Puzzle 

for Curious 

Wanderers £16 

WHSmith 

whsmith.co.uk 

Christmas 

reed diffuser 

£26 Floral Lab 

thefloralab.com 

Silver Disco Mushroom 

£10 John Lewis & Partners 

johnlewis.com 

For Homes & Households 

A gift for the home and everyone in it can be a great 

way to treat a whole family or household in one go 


70


Wool beanie 

£65 Gant 

Scarves 

£49 Swole panda 

Single hanging sock box 


2-pk socks cracker 


Single socks 

£12 Gant 

3-pk trunk 

£49 Gant 

Red/navy scarf 

£125 Gant 

Stocking Fillers 

For those tricky gifts for him, Jeremy Hobbs has 

everything you need so go fill your stockings! 

Belt 

£35 Swole Panda 

Single socks 

£10 Swole panda 2-pk trunk 


3 Oakdene Parade, Cobham, Surrey KT11 2LR | 01932 865700 | www.jeremyhobbs.co.uk

LIMITED EDITION 

Silent Pool 

10 TH ANNIVERSARY 

CELEBRATION EDITION GIN 

Follow us @silentpoolgin 

silentpooldistillers.com 

Please enjoy Silent Pool Gin responsibly 

1987_SPG_A4-10-year-ad-v2a-AW.indd 1 07/10/2024 12:04

Vouchers 

Vouchers are super easy to 

sort last minute and a great 

way to gift an experience or 

the opportunity to choose 

a much-wanted gift 

For Foodies & Chefs 

Whether for those who love to be in the kitchen or simply 

adore a good bit of food and drink – we’ve tracked down 

these treats and goodies to please taste buds and tums! 

Fairy Jelly - 

Cranberry with 

Silver £4.10 

Ouse Valley 

ousevalleyfoods.com 

Gordon Ramsay Academy Gift 

Vouchers offer a fun experience that will 

also help your giftee become a more 

confident cook, plus they can be emailed 

straight to your inbox or you can get 

a beautiful presentation wallet posted 

either to your recipient, or yourself! 

gordonramsayacademy.com 

Festive Favourites 

15 piece fudge 

gift box £18 

Fudge Kitchen 

fudgekitchen.co.uk 

Smooth 

Peanut Butter 

£6 ButterNut 

of London 

butter-nut.com 

Orange Ortega full bodied wine £34 

Tillingham Wine tillingham.com 

Cocktail Classics print from £17.50 

Alf & Bet Prints alfandbetprints.com 

Sourhouse Goldie 

sourdough 

keeper £129.99 

with £21.99 

Quart Starter Jar 

souschef.co.uk 

Silent Pool Gin Magnum £90 

Silent Pool silentpooldistillers.com 

Simply sweet 

stocking £7.99 

Popcorn Kitchen 

popcornkitchen.co.uk 

Choose a value of £5, £10, £25 or 

£50 for Weald Smokery’s vouchers, 

which will allow recipients to shop 

themselves for fish, meat, cheese and a 

whole cornucopia of other local foodie 

treats. wealdsmokery.co.uk 

Crème Brulee baking 

pouch £4.50 Treat 

Kitchen treatkitchen.co.uk 

White chocolate 

Jolly Penguin 

£9.95 Hotel 

Chocolat 

hotelchocolat.com 

Buttery Croissant 

glass candle £30 Wick 

Guru wickguru.com 

Christmas tree decorations luxe tin 

£49.95 Biscuiteers biscuiteers.com 

Balfour Winery’s vouchers include wine 

club memberships (£300 or £600), 

online wine shop vouchers (£50-£2,000) 

or a Balfour Winery Gift Voucher (£10- 

£10,000) which will fund experiences 

like tours, tastings, dining and 

masterclasses! balfourwinery.com 

8-in-1 stovetop-to-oven Perfect Pot 

£140 Our Place fromourplace.co.uk 

Live, Love, Bake by Melissa 

Forti £27.50 Waterstones 

waterstones.com 

Pastry Pecking Pigeon side plate 

£22.50 Jimbobart jimbobart.com 

73

Gold acorn 

pendant £5,760 

Lucy Sylvester 

lucysylvester.co.uk 

Daisy Necklace £70 

Iris Lolli Jewellery 

irisandlolli.co.uk 

Woodland by David Mayne (28x22x7cm, 

oxidised steel and wood) £240 West End 

House Gallery westendhousegallery.co.uk 

Finches Friend’s Cleaner Feeder 1 is 

a hanging bird feeder that keeps food 

dry to avoid disease. It will feed song 

birds and it has a removable base for 

easy washing. £44.95 finchesfriend.com 

The Volunteers by 

Carol Donaldson 

£10.99 Blackwell’s 

blackwells.co.uk 

Grow Your Own Blossom Kit £16.99 

Rosy Posy Petals rosyposypetals.co.uk 

Barbour Wilton Chelsea Boot 

£54.95 The Golden Boot 


Woodland 

Wildflowers 

Seedbom £6 

Natural History 

Museum 

nhmshop.co.uk 

Greenhouse wooden pin 

badge £6.75 Storigraphic 

storigraphic.com 

This bug hotel from A Place for 

Everything will assist vital insects 

such as bees and ladybirds £9.50 

at aplaceforeverything.co.uk 

Burwell Self-watering 

potted herb keepers £40 

Cole & Mason 

coleandmason.com 

Japanese Mini- 

Secateurs with 

leather leggings 

£79 Niwaki 

niwaki.com 

Minibeasts plastic-free sticker 

activity book £6.99 RSPB 

shopping.rspb.org.uk 

Petite Hint of 

Sunshine handcrafted 

wooden 

bouquet £40 

Poppily 

poppily.co.uk 

Waterlily earrings £35 

Royal Botanic Gardens 

Kew Shop shop.kew.org 

Set of three copper 

plant labels £20 

Copper & Green 

copperandgreen.com 

Pink plant 

mister £14.99 

Norfolk Hygge 

norfolkhygge.co.uk 

To help the bees opt for a 

bee house. This wooden one 

is £16.99 and you can buy 

from Tenovus Cancer Care 

for 100% of the net profits 

to go to care and support 

for those affected by cancer. 

shop.tenovuscancercare.org.uk 

For Wild 

Things 

While gifting for gardeners 

you can also do something 

for local wildlife 

Butterfly plant 

hugger decoration 

£10.99 Habulous 

habulous.co.uk 

Asano Mokkousho 

gardening trowel £65 

NiMi Projects nimiltd.com 

Lomi kitchen countertop 

food recycler and fertiliser 

maker £399 eu.lomi.com 

For Green Fingers 

Plant parents, gardeners, and all those who love plant life 

and all things green will enjoy these horticultural items! 


74

Bespoke design & build treehouses, playhouses 

Bespoke design 

and elevated build treehouses, 

platforms. 

playhouses 

Commercial & 

and 

International 

elevated platforms. 

commissions welcomed 

Commercial International commissions welcomed 

Flight Experiences 

and Introductory Lessons 

At White Waltham Airfield 

Buy a unique and exciting present for 

a special person - from £118 

. 

Tiger Moth 

Piper Cub 

Open cockpit 

Piper Warrior 

Happy Christmas 

Chipmunk 

TEL: 01403 262219 

www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.co.uk 

www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.co.uk 

Learn to fly 

Wartime Experience 

Beautiful wartime airfield-30 miles from 

London. CAA qualified Instructors. Friendly 

bar and restaurant with wonderful views and 

plenty of vintage aircraft to see 

West London Aero Club, 

White Waltham Airfield, Maidenhead 

SL6 3NJ 01628823272 wlac.co.uk 

CheekyMonkeyWT249.indd 1 24/01/2023 17:06 

GIVE THE GIFT 

OF ADVENTURE 

Clay Pigeon Shooting Voucher 

Looking for a unique Christmas gift? Treat your 

friends or loved ones to an exhilarating clay pigeon 

shooting experience at Headley Clay Pigeon, set 

in the stunning Surrey Hills. Our family-run club, 

with over 30 years of expertise, offers a friendly 

atmosphere in a beautiful 11-acre forest. 

Participants will receive expert coaching, making it 

perfect for both beginners and seasoned shooters. 

Make this Christmas one to remember — visit our 

website and purchase your gift voucher today! 

www.headleyclaypigeon.com 

75 


EPSOM, A FAMOUS SPA TOWN, 

DOES HEALTH, BEAUTY AND 

WELLBEING LIKE NOWHERE ELSE. 

TREAT A LOVED ONE TO AN INDULGENT 

EXPERIENCE FOR CHRISTMAS.

Didier geranium 

bath pearls £21.85 

Helios Homeopathy 

helios.co.uk 

Bedsure satin pillowcase for hair and 

skin £5.59 Amazon amazon.co.uk 

Renewal bio-active moisturiser 

cream £85 Cornish Seaweed Bath 

cornishseaweedbath.co.uk 

Oh so dreamy hypoallergenic ethically 

soured 90% Alpaca wool bed socks £18 

Alpaca Annie alpacaannie.com 

Orange Bitters cologne 

(100ml) £124 Jo Malone 

jomalone.co.uk 

Christmas Dog 

& Wreath Print 

pyjama set £45 

Chelsea Peers 

chelseapeers.com 

To Pamper & Spoil 

For health and beauty fans, or just those who you want 

to gift a well-deserved treat – shop hair and makeup, 

sumptuous soft things and at home spa vibes 

Pomegranate silk eye mask 

£43 Pink House Mustique 

pinkhousemustique.com 

Serum Duo with Anti- 

Aging and Hydrating 

Serums £18 Barber Pro 

barberpro.com 

Boho Mysticism everyday 

pouch £32 Elizabeth Scarlett 

elizabethscarlett.com 

Ten Lords a Leaping soap £8 

Victoria Eggs victoriaeggs.com 

Bleu de Chanel 

from £75 

Chanel 

chanel.com 

Heatless Curl gift set £12 

M&S marksandspencer.com 

Morris & Co Soft 

Sage Honeysuckle 

linen scrunchie 

£10 Piglet in Bed 

pigletinbed.com 

Frankincense & 

Myrrh candle £45 

Czech and Speake 

czechandspeake.com 

Ortigia Fico D’India 

eau de perfum (30ml) 

£49.50 Rising Star 

insta @ risingstarkent 

Cocoa Bean & Juniper 

Berry diffuser (200ml) £88 

Chandrika Thomas London 

chandrikathomas.co.uk 

Pamper Days 

For those who could do 

with a good pamper, a 

gift experience will give 

them flexibility to choose 

what they want and a 

day to really remember 

Knowle Grange health spa in 

Tunbridge Wells offers gift 

vouchers from £30 to £400. 

knowlegrange.co.uk 

Gatehouse Health’s vouchers for 

Chiropractic treatments are £60 

and Sports Massages are £30-£60. 

gatehousehealth.co.uk 

The Gallivant’s gift cards are from 

£10 or gift experiences are from 

£85 with options for couples or 

groups. thegallivant.co.uk 

77 


78

Winter 

warmers 

Chilly winter days call for some seriously cosy cooking. Here, in an 

extract from her latest book A Cookbook for Winter Louise Pickford shares 

nurturing and comforting recipes to nourish the body and spirit 

Photographs: Ian Wallace & Alex Luck 

Ginger & crab fondue 

Serves 8 as an appetiser 

This is such a simple yet delicious appetiser. 

If you can’t find green ginger wine, use 

sherry instead and increase the quantity 

of fresh ginger to 1 tablespoon. You 

could also serve this as a dip at parties 

– just make sure the burner and pot are 

safely fixed on the serving platter. 

• 25g toasted flaked almonds 

or 50g Brazil nuts 

• 250g cream cheese 

• 4 tablespoons green ginger wine 

• 4 spring onions, finely sliced 

• 2 tsps grated fresh ginger 

• 175g cooked crab meat 

• crackers, breadsticks, grissini or toast 

cut into strips or triangles, to serve 

You will need: a fondue pot 

and tabletop burner 

1. If using Brazil nuts, use a mandoline 

or vegetable peeler to finely slice 

them into shavings. Set aside. 

2. Put the cream cheese and ginger wine 

into a fondue pot and stir until smooth. 

Add the spring onions and grated ginger and 

heat gently on the stovetop until bubbling. 

Stir in the crab meat, then scatter over the 

toasted almonds or Brazil nut shavings. 

3. Transfer the pot to its tabletop burner to 

keep warm and serve with crackers, breadsticks, 

grissini or toast alongside for dipping. 

Kingston negroni 

Serves 1 

This is a rum-based version of a Negroni that marries the 

herbal complexity of the cocktail with the warm, intense 

and gently sweet character of rum. The drink works with 

a variety of rums, but the best results come from using 

a Jamaican pot-still rum such as Smith & Cross, which 

is packed full of complex spicy notes, and helps to make 

the perfect warming drink for the colder months. 

• 25ml Smith & Cross Jamaican Rum 

• 25ml red vermouth 

• 25ml Campari 

• a flamed orange zest, to garnish 

Add the ingredients to an ice-filled mixing glass and 

stir. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass. Finish and 

garnish with a flamed orange twist and serve at once. 

Variation: For a less 

intense drink, mix 

30ml Cachaça (a 

Brazilian cane spirit) or 

white rum with 30ml 

bianco vermouth, 

15ml Campari and 

15ml lime juice. Shake 

in an ice-filled cocktail 

shaker and pour 

(without straining) 

the entire contents 

of the shaker into 

a rocks glass. Add 

more ice and garnish 

with a lime wedge. 

Serve at once. 

79 


Your fresh 

Walters Turkey 

will be oven 

ready on 

collection 

...An award-winning Christmas 

We’re proud to present our succulent Walters Turkeys 

alongside produce from the very best farmers and producers 

– nothing but the best for your perfect Christmas. 

Don’t fancy a turkey? We also do ducks and geese as well as a 

variety of traditional hand-raised pies and honey-glazed hams. 

Let our experienced butchers help you choose what to purchase 

and explain how to cook everything to perfection. We utilise all 

the old techniques and are one of the only local butchers left 

who cut straight from the carcass. Pop into the store and have a 

chat with Adrian or the Pauls – plus, don’t forget to pick up some 

of the tastiest pigs in blankets in town whilst you’re here. 

S n 

ME e w s 

UK Enterprise 

Awards 2023 

Winner! 

The Surrey Butchers 

Best Traditional Butcher's Shop 2023 - Surrey 

39 High Street, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 1AU 

| 01483 425733 | www.thesurreybutchers.co.uk

Slow-braised duck with 

spices, soy sauce & pears 

Serves 4 

East meets West in duck heaven in 

this delicious slow-braising recipe. The 

duck is braised in spices, herbs and 

aromatics until tender, then left to 

cool before it is crisped in a hot oven. 

• 1 onion, roughly chopped 

• 2 leeks, trimmed and thickly sliced 

• 4 garlic cloves, bashed 

• 2cm piece of root ginger, 

sliced and bashed 

• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, bashed 

• 6 star anise, lightly bashed 

• 2 cinnamon sticks, lightly bashed 

• 1.5 kg whole duck 

• 1 tsp Chinese 5 spice powder 

• ¼ teaspoon Sichuan 

peppercorns, lightly bashed 

• 1 tsp each sea salt and freshly 

ground black pepper 

• approx 250ml chicken stock 

• 150g cup soft brown sugar 

• 100ml fish sauce 

• 3 tbsps dark soy sauce 

• 2 tbsps rice wine vinegar 

• 3 firm pears, peeled, 

cored and quartered 

• sliced spring onions and 

coriander leaves, to garnish 

• jasmine rice, to serve 

You will need: a 6L Dutch 

oven and a baking sheet lined 

with parchment paper 

1. Preheat the oven to 210°C fan. 

2. Place the onions, leeks, garlic, 

ginger, thyme and whole spices in 

the Dutch oven. Pierce the duck skin 

all over (especially the breast) with a 

metal skewer. Combine the Chinese 

5 spice powder, Sichuan pepper and 

salt and rub all over the duck skin. 

3. Place the duck on top of the 

vegetables and add 50ml tablespoons 

water. Transfer the pan to the preheated 

oven and cook for 15 minutes, 

uncovered, rendering the fat. Then 

reduce the oven temperature to 120°C 

fan, cover the pan with the lid and bake 

for 1½-2 hours or until the meat is very 

tender. Transfer the duck to a board and 

set aside to cool for 30 minutes. Increase 

the oven temperature to 180°C fan. 

4. Strain the remaining duck pan 

juices through a sieve/strainer, pressing 

down lightly to extract as much juice 

as you can. Discard the vegetables. 

Remove as much fat as possible from 

the drained liquid. Measure the juices 

and make up to 300ml with the 

chicken stock, if necessary. Set aside. 

5. Using poultry shears or a sharp 

knife, cut the cooled duck in half 

down the breastbone and backbone. 

Transfer the halves, skin side up, to 

the prepared baking sheet, spoon 

some of the reserved stock over the 

duck halves (about 3 tablespoons will 

be enough), and transfer to the oven. 

Roast for 15 minutes, basting every 5 

minutes until the duck skin is crisp and 

golden and the flesh heated through. 

6. Place the remaining stock and 

the sugar in a saucepan and bring 

to a gentle simmer, stirring to 

dissolve the sugar. Stir in the fish 

sauce, soy sauce, and vinegar. Place 

the pears in the pan and simmer, 

stirring from time to time, for 10-15 

minutes until the pears are tender. 

7. Cut the duck halves into portions, 

place on a serving dish, add the pears 

and the pan juices. Scatter over some 

sliced spring onions and coriander 

leaves and serve with jasmine rice. 

81 


A Cookbook for Winter by 

Louise Pickford is published 

by Ryland Peters & Small 

rylandpeters.com 

Croûte chocolat 

Serves 6 

Bread and chocolate are an ever popular 

combination in Switzerland, and this 

sweet spin on the classic croûte fromage 

(melted cheese on bread) makes a 

great finale for any meal. Serve it with 

lashings of vanilla custard on the side. 

• 1 tbsp butter, for greasing 

• 400g panettone, brioche or raisin 

bread (approx. 12 slices, about 

10cm square and 1.5 cm thick) 

• 2 bananas, sliced 

• 250g strawberries, hulled and halved 

• 60ml Amaretto 

• 150g dark chocolate, grated 

• vanilla custard, to serve 

You will need: a 2L baking dish, greased 

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C fan. 

2. Arrange the slices of panettone, 

brioche or raisin bread in overlapping 

rows in the prepared baking dish. 

3. Insert the slices of banana and 

strawberry halves between the 

slices of panettone. Sprinkle with 

amaretto and then add a layer 

of grated chocolate on top. 

4. Transfer to the preheated oven and 

bake for 25 minutes until puffed up 

and the chocolate has melted. Serve 

with plenty of vanilla custard. 


82

ELEVATE YOUR SPIRITS 

Discover the epitome of elegance and taste with 

our handcrafted premium gin collection 

30 years established 

Traditional Fishmonger 

in Surrey 

From Boat To Table In 24 Hours... 

We’re proud to provide you with a fantastic range 

of ethically sourced fresh fish and shellfish. 

Join us on a voyage of taste and discovery 

as we redefine the art of gin-making 

www.copperpotgin.co.uk 

01372 469 018 

williamsandbunkell.com 

17a The Parade, Claygate, Esher, Surrey KT10 0PD 

WilliamsBunkellWT234.indd 1 15/10/2021 13:48 

The Mill at Elstead is the perfect location for any type of event, from intimate family get togethers, 

through to large company parties. Two of our three private events spaces are also ideal for weddings, 

with seating for up to 120 guests. 

Quote: ‘Surrey Homes’ for a complimentary Prosecco reception for your Christmas party. 

T&C’s apply. 

themill.elstead 

book now at millelstead.co.uk 

Farnham Rd, Elstead, Godalming GU8 6LE 

T 01252 703333 


23/10/2024 11:27 

Mill Elstead Christmas Ad v3.indd 1 83 

23/10/2024 11:27

Autumn / Winter 2024 ranges 

now available in store 

AN AWARD-WINNING 

FASHION BOUTIQUE 

LOCATED IN GUILDFORD 

BRANDS INCLUDE: 

Abro 

American Vintage 

By Malina 

Dante 6 

Day Birger Et Mikkelson 

Frame 

Hofmann 

Maevy 

Marella 

Maxmara Weekend 

Not Shy 

Paige 

Samsoe 

Urbancode 

72 - 74 HIGH STREET, GUILDFORD, SURREY, GU1 3HE 

www.thegateboutique.co.uk 

County Clothes Menswear 

A long-established menswear specialist in Kent and East Sussex 

BEXHILL - CANTERBURY - HERNE BAY - REIGATE 

SEVENOAKS - TENTERDEN - TUNBRIDGE WELLS 

WWW.COUNTYCLOTHESMENSWEAR.CO.UK 

BLUE VELVET SHOES 

Visit Blue Velvet Shoes at 174 Kings Road, SW3 4UP or buy online www.bluevelvetshoes.com 


84

istockphoto.com/ Patrick Daxenbichler 

North star necklace 

£27 Estella Bartlett 

estellabartlett.com 

Cable knit scarf 

£29.50 M&S 


Cloud-yarn 

knitted crew neck 

waistcoat £25 M&S 


Mother of pearl 

charm pendant £28 

Loel loel.co.uk 

Rainbow moonstone 

necklace £79 

Vianne Jewellery 

viannejewellery.com 

Ice Burst bracelet 

watch £199 

Olivia Burton 

oliviaburton.com 

Pearl & blue topax studs £78 

Flutterby flutterbyonline.co.uk 

ANYDAY Hennriette Point Toe Mary 

Jane Sachetto Ballerina Pumps £49 

John Lewis & Partners johnlewis.com 

Maud lambswool cashmere 

sweater in light grey 

£220 Genevieve Sweeney 

genevievesweeney.com 

Velvet bow hair clip in white with 

jewels £35 QueenMee queenmee.com 

Caroline Svedbom Mini Dione 

earrings £119 Odyl odyldesign.com 

Faux fur pillbox hat in ermine white 

£49 Helen Moore helenmoore.com 

Snow Queen 

Holland Cooper slim 

logo belt white leather 

£89 Golden Boot 


Diana pearl choker £195 

Toolally toolally.com 

Baby it’s cold outside and we are piling on sumptuous 

layers of luxe heavy fabrics in cool pale tones for a look 

that feels royally ready for fabulous frosty festivities 

Freya coat in vegan feather faux fur 

neutral £249 Issy London issylondon.co.uk 

Dancing Crystals earrings in 

gold aqua £69 Coeur de Lion 


Radiant Shine platinum 

zircon bracelet £54.99 

Starfish Project 

starfishproject.org.uk 

Silver ring with 

white stones £160 

Thomas Sabo 

thomassabo.com 

Gaia Vacchetta paper tote bag £132 

UASHMAMA uashmamauk.com 

Shooting star leather 

boots £75 Joe Browns 

joebrowns.co.uk 

Shine On Duo 

silver earrings £45 

Lezzeri lezzeri.com 

Irregular faux pearl 

bracelet £16 John 

Lewis & Partners 

johnlewis.com 

Paul Green-5321 

sneakers £109 

Blue Velvet 

bluevelvetshoes.com 

Carrie shawl coat 

ivory Monsoon 

monsoon.co.uk 

Winter Wonderland David 

Attenborough festive sweatshirt 

£42 Limpet limpetstore.com 

Bling clutch £150 

Dune London 

dunelondon.com 

85 


AVERY HEALTHCARE - SURREY 

Enjoy a Life of Possibilities 

Avery Healthcare is renowned for its vibrant and welcoming community. 

Their dedicated well-being teams produce an exciting and varied programme 

of activities and events every day. Residents are supported in pursuing personal interests 

beyond the regular activity calendar, while memory, physical, and sensory-based 

activities are carefully designed with therapeutic benefits in mind. 

Day trips • Creative writing classes • Art classes • Gardening club 

Live entertainment • Exercise classes 

Start your care journey by 31 December 2024 

and receive your 12 th week for free * 

averyhealthcare.co.uk/surrey 

*T&Cs apply. Please visit averyhealthcare.co.uk/ouroffers for more details

Beauty 

The affordable 

present hunter 

Josephine Fairley tracks down beauty gifts that won’t break the bank 

My simple question to you, this Christmas, 

is: when it comes to buying beauty gifts, 

why pay more? Because – contrary to what 

the glossy fashion mags and Sunday supplements 

might have us believe – for most of us, it’s not 

actually normal (never mind achievable) to lavish 

£375 on a fragrance for your sister, or £1,300 on a 

lipstick coffret for your goddaughter, or even £75 

on a bath oil for your beloved mum, frankly. 

Sure, there are many who can afford it – but truth 

is there are many more of us who can’t. And so, my 

mission, for Christmas 2024, has been to come up with 

some fabulous beauty gifting suggestions that are actually 

affordable by normal human beings – not least because 

it feels like we’re now expected to give presents to way 

more people than we used to (teachers, colleagues, our 

accountant, etc.) The good news? This year, the beauty 

world has really read the room when it comes to those 

four dreaded words, ‘cost of living crisis’ – and as a result, 

there are great gifts out there at non-bank-breaking prices. 

As ever, meanwhile, please rest assured that 

I have only listed those that – hand on heart 

– I’d very, very happily receive myself. 

Heathcote & Ivory Merry and Wild Hand Cream 

in Tin Gift Set, £9 for 100ml. If you’re looking for 

affordable beauty, heathcote-ivory.com is a truly great place 

to start. This all-British brand is especially good at two 

things: fabulous hand-care, and great keepsake tins. (I’ve 

repurposed them for everything from sewing essentials to 

stamps.) They have some seriously pretty ones designed 

by French illustrator Nathalie Lété, but I have fallen 

for this year’s Merry and Wild ‘puffin’ tin, opening to 

reveal a beautifully hand-softening tube of shea butterrich 

cream, scented with fresh green leaves of eucalyptus 

and lavender, with lily of the valley and sandalwood. 

For a little more (£14) you might want to check out 

the Merry and Wild Velvety Soft Handbag Essentials 

pouch (containing two hand creams), while at a 

seriously Secret Santa price, you can find more simplypackaged 

hand cream trios from just six quid. H&I have 

absolutely nailed the formula of their handcare, which 

is rich, but sinks in brilliantly, whatever the fragrance. 

Sanctuary Spa Signature Starter Kit Gift Set, £8 

(containing 75ml Body Wash and Body Lotion, 

50ml Body Scrub). My perfume-writing 

 

87 


colleagues and I adore Sanctuary Spa’s signature scent, 

which warms jasmine and grapefruit by enfolding them in 

nuzzleable vanilla, offered here as three bath delights. Another 

surprise, for anyone who’s been unjustly snooty about this 

line: it features up to 95% natural origin ingredients. 

Weleda Skin Food Pocket Pack, £10. When I want to 

make a foolproof skincare recommendation, whether for 

those who are wannabe-natural beauties or have a touchy 

complexion, Weleda’s Skin Food is the range I send them off 

to try. In a splash round tub, this offers a dinky introduction 

to the biodynamic brand’s multi-award-winning original 

Skin Food moisturiser, along with Skin Food Lip Balm. 

Nails Inc. 8 Days of Nails 8-Piece Nail Polish Gift Set, £25. 

A slightly higher price tag, for a stunning line-up of eight, yes 

EIGHT long-wear polishes, ranging from pearly shimmer 

shade Snowglobe Sparkles through to a classic cherry red, and a 

multi-coloured glitter to go over the top, in generous ‘minis’ – 

though in truth, they’re not that dinky, and who ever got to the 

end of a full size of polish, anyway? Hours of fun promised. 

This Works Sleep Retreat Trio Gift Set, £18. Deep Sleep Pillow 

Spray is one of my desert island must-haves (in every sense of 

the word, since when I was on ‘Desert Island Discs’, my actual 

pillow was my luxury item). Its blend of vetiver, chamomile and 

lavender has stilled my racing brain and enabled me to nod off 

on many a night of tossing and turning. The perfect gift for a 

stressed or anxious friend, then, this set also features a 100ml 

Deep Sleep Shower Gel and luscious 50ml Deep Sleep Body 

Cocoon. Laudably, there are LOADS of affordable This Works 

gift sets for Christmas 2024 – but this is my foolproof pick. 

NEOM Mini Candle Scent Discovery Set, £20. A quartet of 

minis featuring aromatherapy brand NEOM’s four fragrances – 

Perfect Night’s Sleep, Real Luxury, Happiness and Feel Refreshed 

– so they can find their perfect candle ‘match’. The darling little 

tins are travel-friendly (provided you’re careful not to set off the 

hotel’s smoke alarms, or ignite the curtains!), all created from 

100% natural wax and blended with 100% natural fragrances. 

By Terry Starlight Glow Baume de Rose Lip 

Care, £17. The seriously glam one, in this 

‘affordable gifts’ line-up: a limited edition 

of one of the best lip treats on the 

planet, from make-up guru 

Terry de Gunzburg’s 

range – she’s the woman we have to thank for YSL’s Touche 

Éclat – and as the name suggests, this liquid balm is 

infused with rose flower wax, and a heavenly rosy scent. 

Arkive Fragrances, £30 for 30ml. Honest truth, I’ve 

recently received info about a range of (albeit spiffilypackaged) 

fragrances that cost £6,000 a bottle. Even 

Frédéric Malle launched something that’s nudging 

£800! What is the perfume world coming to? 

Well, the antidote has just been launched by hair guru 

and scent fanatic Adam Reed, who’s Arkive fragrances are 

designed for hair and skin, and smell just fab. Decorated 

Woods is my favourite, a ‘unisex’ scent that evokes a lush 

English woodland, with amber, cedarwood, frankincense, 

patchouli, moss and vetiver in its grounding base. If you’re 

unsure about which Arkive fragrance someone might like, 

there’s a cute Discovery Set in the collection for £25 for 4 x 

10ml sizes – and if you were feeling generous, you could always 

promise to enhance the gift with the full size of their choice. 

Neal’s Yard Bee Lovely Nourishing Trio, £17.50 for 30ml Hand 

Cream, 50ml Body Lotion, 15g tin of Beautiful Lips balm. This 

certified organic range never fails to delight. 3% of sales goes to 

charities that protect bees, upping its feel-good factor – but the 

silkifying textures and the soft orange-y scent are equally pleasing. 

Gaia Spa Bath Oil Cracker, £12 for 30ml. I’m a huge fan of 

Gaia, born out of Plymouth’s Boringdon Hall Spa, where I’ve 

enjoyed some of my best-ever spa treatments, and I’m a longstanding 

fan of their Awakening aromatherapy blend (tangerine, 

grapefruit, peppermint) which is infused into this lovely soak. 

It’s packaged in a stocking-worthy cracker; at a similar price, 

there’s a Lip Balm Cracker and a Body Wash Cracker, and 

there are plenty of other Gaia options priced £30 and under, 

as well as up and up, if budget allows. A brand that deserves 

to be as famous as Aromatherapy Associates, in my book! 

These are more than ‘it’s the thought that counts’ gifts; they’re 

honestly little treasures. And I 

really mean it when I say: 

why pay more…? 

Visit beautybible.com for 

more of Jo’s fragrance, 

makeup, skin and 

haircare tips. 

istockphoto.com/ Daria Hurst 


Start the New Year as you mean 

to go on with help from our 

Good Living Supplement. 

Find it in the 

January issue of 

Surrey Homes 

♥ 


Outstanding care within an independent Home 

Maintaining the highest 

professional standards within 

a quiet, comfortable ‘Home 

from Home’ environment 

Ou 

an 

Mai 

stan 

‘Hom 

• 24 hour expert Nursing Care 

by qualifi ed nurses 

• Long stay or respite care for seniors 

• Excellent home cooked menu 

• Varied range of activities 

• Comfortable and friendly atmosphere 

• Personal service with family-run values 

For further information call today on 01737 240563 

or 242647 or visit www.wray-common.co.uk 

Wray Common Road I Reigate I Surrey I RH2 0ND 

24 h 

Long 

Exce 

Varie 

Com 

Pers 

For further information call today on 

01737 240563 or 242647 or visit 

www.wray-common.co.uk 

Wray Common Road I Reigate 

Surrey I RH2 0ND 

89 


WrayCommonS64A.indd 1 28/01/2020 12:25

Gifts in Wills fund a third of 

our work, like the clinical 

trial Alfred took part in. 

Thanks to research, he can be by 

her side again. 

Find out more at cruk.org/giftsinwills 

Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England 

and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of 

Man (1103) and Jersey (247). Registered address: 

2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ. 


90

Health 

Lessen the 

impact 

Sarah Maxwell takes control of rollercoaster boobs 

istockphoto.com/ Drazen Zigic 

Never underestimate the 

power of a good sports 

bra; the benefits are huge, 

and they look great, too! Gone 

are the days of buying a smaller 

bra in the hope of fastening your 

girls down or even using tape to 

contain their activity while still 

suffering pain and discomfort 

playing sports or working out. 

Thankfully, over the last few 

years, scientific developments and 

the range of sports bra styles and 

colours have rocketed. We are 

now spoilt for choice – so why do 

you need a sports bra, and how 

do you choose the right one? 

A good sports bra provides 

support and stability by minimising 

the movement of your breasts 

(especially when doing high-impact 

exercise). It can help minimise 

potential injuries in your back, 

neck and shoulders. A well-fitted 

exercise bra provides the necessary 

support to reduce movement, 

helping to prevent discomfort and 

potential damage to breast tissue. 

What to look for when 

choosing your perfect bra 

Fitting 

Make sure the bra fits snugly but 

isn’t too tight. The band should 

sit level on your body and not 

ride up. The straps should be 

adjustable and comfortable on 

your shoulders. You should be 

able to fit two fingers between 

the straps and your shoulders. 

The sports bra should be snug 

but not dig in or pinch the skin. 

Be comfortable 

Look for a breathable fabric that 

will keep you dry; seamless or 

flat seams can minimise the risk 

of painful chafing. Choosing a 

bra with wider straps will give 

you the proper support without 

digging into your skin. 

Support 

Determine the level of support you 

need based on your activity and 

breast size. The type of exercise 

you do significantly impacts the 

level of support you will need. 

For high impact exercise and 

contact sports (e.g. running, 

rugby, martial arts, HIIT, 

high impact aerobics) go for 

high/max support bras. 

For medium impact exercise 

(e.g. cycling, dancing) go for 

medium support bras. 

For low impact exercise 

(e.g. walking, yoga, pilates) 

go for low impact bras. 

Sizing 

Your bra size will change several 

times over your lifetime. Weight 

loss or gain, pregnancy and 

hormones will affect it. It’s well 

worth re-checking your current 

size and do consider having it 

measured professionally. 

Sports bras can lose elasticity 

over time, so be careful 

when washing and replace 

them as soon as you feel 

you lack the support 

you need. Having 

spent a large 

amount of time e-searching for 

THE perfect sports bra, 

I recommend checking 

out the links below. 

Happy sweating! Sarah x 

• boobydoo.co.uk 

• sweatybetty.com 

• fabletics.co.uk 

• underarmour.co.uk 

• bravissimo.com do a great 

range of sports bras for 

D cups and up. 

Sarah 

Maxwell is a multiaward 

winning Lifestyle 

Wellbeing and Fitness coach. You 

can find her at sarahmaxwell.com 

Get in touch via email at 

sarahmaxwell@mail.com 

and on social 

@sarahmaxlife 

91 


istockphoto.com, miwa_in_oz , Magone, chokja, Elena Tsvetkova, Drazen Zigic, Agustin Vai /Olga Mazyarkina / Roman Samokhin / Fattyplace /xamtiw 

Nourish to Flourish 

Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau 

explores the benefits of incorporating 

another healthy ingredient into our diets. 

This month it’s pomegranate 

Pomegranates are round, red fruits which feature 

a white inner flesh that’s packed with jewellike 

seeds, called arils. They may be best known 

for the vibrantly coloured juice, but enjoyed in their 

natural form, these tasty fruits have a lot more to 

offer as they are packed with fibre, vitamins and 

minerals. Pomegranates are particularly rich in an 

array of antioxidants that help protect your cells from 

free radical damage and inflammation, which can 

contribute to heart disease, type-2 diabetes and cancer. 

Delicious sprinkled over salads, on cereal or in yoghurts, 

eating pomegranates may also help support the health of 

your gut microbiome, increasing levels of beneficial gut 

bacteria, suggesting that they may have prebiotic effects. 

Prebiotics serve as fuel for the beneficial bacteria in your 

gut and support a healthier gut microbiome. Pomegranate 

arils are also rich in fibre (11.3g in one average sized 

pomegranate) which is essential for digestive health. 

Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she offers support and advice 

for weight management, controlling cravings, sleeplessness, stress 

and increasing energy levels. Find out more at plumenutrition.com 

Warming roast vegetable rice bowl 

topped with pomegranate jewels 

Serves 4 

• 1 sweet potato, cut 

into wedges 

• 1 small aubergine, cut 

into half moons 

• a handful of broccoli florets 

• 250g pouch of precooked 

brown rice 

• small bunch of spring 

onions, finely sliced 

• 1 pomegranate 

• handful of sesame seeds 

• olive oil 

• salt and pepper 

• 2 cloves of garlic 

• ⅓ cup tahini 

• 1 teaspoon grated 

lime zest, plus 3 

tablespoons fresh juice 

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C. On a baking tray, toss the 

sweet potato, aubergine and broccoli with 3 tablespoons 

of oil. Season with salt and pepper and spread in a 

single layer. Roast, stirring halfway through, until 

tender and golden in places, for about 30 minutes. 

2. In a large frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over 

medium-high. Add the pre-cooked rice, spring onions and 

garlic and season. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is 

warmed through and has a nutty aroma – 4 to 5 minutes. 

3. Whisk together the tahini, lime zest and juice, 2 

tablespoons oil and 3 to 4 tablespoons water to reach 

the desired consistency. Season with a little salt. 

4. Serve the roasted vegetables over the rice mixture, drizzle 

with tahini dressing, and top with pomegranate arils. 


How does your garden 

grow? 

Jo Arnell gives her 

advice for identifying 

your gardening style 

A formal garden style 

If you’ve ever taken a personality 

test, you’ll be familiar with the 

questions that try to fit your 

characteristics into a type – or none 

of the above, if you prefer to throw 

said questions to the floor... some of 

us won’t be pigeonholed! When it 

comes to gardens, left to their own 

devices, or planted with no particular 

style in mind, they will exhibit their 

own traits too. Fortunately it’s easier 

to change a garden than a personality, 

but remember that its underlying 

nature will be trying to escape, and as 

we all appreciate nature now, despite 

its wayward character, we do need to 

be kind as we mould it into shape. 

Which shape will depend on many 

things – and often budget turns 

out to be the deciding factor. It is 

worth thinking about a style for your 

garden though, even if it is as simple 

as choosing between formal and 

informal. This will help you to choose 

and organise the layout, any features 

you want to install, and how to pick 

the right plants for the borders. 

Architecture 

The period and external design of your 

house – and the surrounding area – may 

give you an indication of the sort of 

garden that will work. If you live in a 

pleasingly symmetrical Georgian town 

house, then a reflection of its classical 

proportions and a neat layout would 

be the obvious way to go, whereas a 

more asymmetrical or quirky vernacular 

building may suit a relaxed approach. In 

general, modern (and older mid-century 

modern) houses cope well with strongly 

architectural plants that have sculptural 

and contrasting effects, while an old 

cottage will happily nestle down amongst 

clouds of roses, swathes of perennials and 

opportunistic self-seeders like foxgloves 

and poppies. Plants can soften hard lines, 

but they can also be used to reflect and 

reinforce a layout, especially if they are 

clipped, or of a naturally neat shape. 

Formal gardens 

Neat hedges, paths, a restricted, 

harmonising colour palette and symmetry 

define the formal garden. Traditionally 

box hedging was used to create formal 

shapes, either as low hedging to give 

a neat crisp edge to beds and borders, 

or as topiary to provide focal points 

and sculptural effects. The pesky box 

moth caterpillar has all but put paid to 

that, and although there are treatments 

for it now, it may not be wise to plant 

box hedges for the foreseeable future. 

Fortunately the plant breeders have 

been busy suggesting – and making 

improvements to some alternative 

small-leaved evergreens that almost do 

the same job as a neat box hedge. Ilex 

crenata ‘Jenny’ is the current favourite for 

both topiary and hedging, small-leaved 

Euonymus ‘Jean Hugues’ is another good 

choice and will grow in sun or shade. 

Clipped evergreens do look the part, 

especially when they are dark green – 

there’s not much to beat a well pruned 

yew hedge as a backdrop to a planting 

scheme, or a topiary shape as a focal point 

to lead the eye. The only problem with 

the well groomed, formal looking garden 

style is that, just like those of us with neat 

hair, it will need clipping regularly. 

93 


Cottage garden style 

The earliest cottage gardens were mainly vegetable 

and herb plots that gradually became populated 

by flowers – often semi-wild varieties. Even 

today much of the appeal of this classic style 

lies in the self-sown, easy-going nature of 

the plants. A traditional cottage garden is a 

relaxed affair, with a combination of roses, tall 

spires, friendly hummocks and a few sprawling 

wanderers in the mix. It should look informal, 

charming and ever so slightly wayward. 

If you want a more updated look to your 

cottage garden, try using a few architectural 

plants and grasses amongst the perennials. Adding 

structure will help to stop the more floaty, meadowy 

perennials looking too messy and will also provide 

interest once the first flush of June flowers is over. 

Geographically themed spaces 

Many Japanese gardens have a calm, Zen atmosphere, 

a controlled look that is achieved as much by the space 

between the plants and features in the garden as by the objects 

themselves. Here it is often the natural shape of a stone, tree 

or shrub that informs the rest of the garden. A multi-stemmed 

acer, quince or cherry tree becomes a living sculpture, (nonspreading) 

bamboo whispers in the breeze, architectural ferns 

and low growing grasses like the iconic Hakonechloa provide 

texture and movement, so that a quiet walk around the garden 

A contemporary style 

becomes a sensory experience and a place for contemplation. 

Japanese themed gardens have become popular in urban 

situations or zones within big gardens, because many of the 

plants are shade tolerant, edge of woodland plants. 

Another gardening idea that has gained popularity in recent 

 

• Automation and installation 

• Entry phones and access control 

• Hardwood, aluminium and metal 

gates made to order for automation 

and non-automation purposes 

• Supply-and-fit service for fully 

automated electric garage doors 

• Brick piers 

• Brick walls 

• Driveway alterations 

FREE SURVEYS & 

QUOTES PROVIDED 

TEL: 01483 379954 

info@harriergates.co.uk 

www.harriergates.co.uk 


94

A cottage garden – RHS Rosemoor 

A Japanese garden 

A faux meadow at Wakehurst Place 

istockphoto.com/ Yuliya Derbisheva 

years is the jungle, which also works 

in a smaller space. The plants in this 

group thrive in shade too, but tropical 

looking, large-leaved plants need 

humidity and the shelter that garden 

boundaries and warm house walls 

provide. Many of the jungle plants 

are tender and will need protection in 

winter, but a surprising number are 

beginning to manage our milder winters 

now, especially in the warmer microclimates 

of towns and cities. Bananas 

and avocados are occasionally bearing 

properly edible fruit, and it’s now 

common to see ripe figs hanging from 

the trees. I live in a rural location in a 

frost pocket, but am trying to cultivate 

a jungly look in a small sheltered area 

of the garden. I have to rely more on 

plants that look tropical, like the good 

old stalwart Fatsia japonica – often 

grown as a houseplant, but just as 

suitable in a shady part of the garden. I 

grow dahlias too and leave them outside 

– under a blanket of mulch once 

winter arrives, but the baby banana I 

have in a pot will be dragged into the 

polytunnel along with the non-hardy 

salvias and cannas. When it’s too big 

to lift I will have to wrap it up in straw 

and hessian and hope for the best. 

Mediterranean gardens were the go-to 

a few years ago, when we had a series 

of droughts and cold, dry winters. The 

climate is changing, not just warming 

though, which makes for periods of 

wind and wet as well as dry. Lavender, 

rosemary and many other silver leaved 

shrubs with blue flowers look beautiful 

in the right situation, but it is quite 

painful to witness them struggling 

about in damp clay soil, especially when 

they have to sit in puddles through 

the winter. If you are determined to 

grow sun-loving plants in less than 

parched conditions, try to make sure 

that the soil is free draining, either by 

incorporating drainage, or by growing 

the plants on mounds or in raised beds, 

where the soil will naturally be drier. 

Many wildflowers used to be 

called weeds, so for a natural 

looking garden that doesn’t 

get overtaken by enthusiastic 

wild plants, choosing tamer 

meadow plants from other 

climates – that flower for longer, 

or at different times of the 

year – might be the way to go 

Meadows and prairies 

Wilder, more natural styles suit larger 

spaces, but well managed meadows 

can look surprisingly good in smaller 

spaces too. The key to success is in the 

management. There are different types 

of meadows for a start – perennial and 

annual – for spring or summer flowers, 

pictorial, or faux meadows, which allow 

for non-natives like cosmos. It can all 

get quite confusing. Just letting the 

grass grow long – and perhaps mowing 

paths around or through it so that it 

looks deliberate, rather than neglected, 

will create a meadow of sorts, especially 

if you plant some yellow rattle within it to 

weaken the grass and allow the wildflowers 

that are native to your area to establish. 

Many wildflowers used to be called 

weeds, so for a natural looking garden that 

doesn’t get overtaken by enthusiastic wild 

plants, choosing tamer meadow plants 

from other climates – that flower for 

longer, or at different times of the year – 

might be the way to go. The prairie style 

of garden, or New Perennial Movement, 

features swathes of ornamental grasses and 

clump forming perennials, that also look 

good as seed heads once the flowers have 

finished. Meadow type plants are good for 

pollinators and, later, seed eaters – and 

if left to die down naturally also provide 

snug overwintering places in amongst 

the dead stems. Maintenance involves 

just a once a year cut – depending on the 

type of plants and when they flower. 

If you’re still unsure about which style 

of garden to adopt, don’t worry. There are 

no strict rules – if you are lucky enough 

to own a garden, then it is your own 

private paradise where you can create a 

space to suit your own style and grow a 

garden with its own unique personality. 

Jo’s new gardening course is now 

booking. See hornbrookmanor.co.uk 

or call 07923 969634 

95 


Thursday 21 November 

9.30am - 11.30am 

Scan to book a visit 

Independent Coeducational Day School | Aged 2 -13 

Horsham, Sussex 

admissions@pennthorpe.com 

01403 822391 

www.pennthorpe.com 

START YOUR 

JOURNEY AT 

LITTLE ED’S 

COME 

& VISIT 

Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6BH • 01428 604 808 

Contact the Registrar at: registrar@saintedmunds.co.uk 

TO REGISTER 

SCAN HERE 

OPEN 

MORNING 

Saturday 

8th February 2025 

10am to 12pm 


96

Best in Class 

The latest in education from inside and outside the classroom 

We hear from Tuition Extra – who provide 

flexible education opportunities 

The Tuition Extra Group, led by celebrated CEO, Ruth 

Minhall, is an outstanding Kent-based education service 

offering aspirational learning programmes for children 

and young people aged 4 to 25 years. Many students have 

EHCPs and may have struggled to access mainstream 

schooling due to SEND or complex needs. The holistic 

approach understands the individual behind the presentation 

of behaviour - and the results speak for themselves! 

Committed to creative teaching and removing barriers 

to learning, we believe that every child, has the potential to 

improve life chances and become a more successful learner. 

The Group has three branches: Tuition Extra’s Kent 

wide tutoring service, Maypole Farm animal therapy 

and vocational site, and Haven Nook independent 

special school. These services work cohesively to 

support students, staff and associated families. Young 

people can access their education on-site, at home or 

online, depending on preference or requirement. 

As a child-centric organisation, Tuition Extra Group 

harnesses a triangular approach to student development 

focusing on a foundation of therapeutic intervention 

alongside targeted emotional development, using the 

celebrated Thrive Approach. These elements naturally 

enable academic progress and life changing outcomes. 

Tuition Extra is a trusted and preferred supplier to Local 

Authorities, schools, parents and carers. The organisation’s 

approach removes barriers to learning to achieve meaningful 

outcomes for its young people. By building trusted 

relationships and engaging students with their individual 

interests, the team facilitates outstanding academic results, 

even with youngsters who have historically struggled to 

engage, or experienced exclusion or previous failure. 

The organisation focuses on enabling students to achieve 

personal growth, wellbeing and academic success. With an 

outstanding GCSE pass rate of 74% (Levels 9 – 4), Tuition 

Extra’s results demonstrate life-changing and aspirational 

achievement for the amazing students in their care! 

Find out more at tuition-extra.co.uk. To join 

our incredible tutoring team, email your CV to 

info@tuition-extra.co.uk 

The Granville School’s Early Years team 

explain The Power of Pre-School 

At this time of year, the media is awash with ‘Tips 

for Starting School’ and ‘Preparing Your Child 

for Reception’. But how about the vital and formative 

years before that or – The Power of Pre-School. 

Although Reception is the start of compulsory formal 

schooling, here at The Granville, the Power of Pre- 

School is strong. Our 3 and 4 year-olds are superheroes 

in their classrooms, and their superpowers stem from our 

highly qualified Pre-School teachers who have detailed 

knowledge of child development and early years learning. 

A fine balance is struck between structured learning of 

early phonics and maths, alongside learning through play 

both inside and outside of the classroom. Key tenets of 

independence, active learning, responsibility, teamwork and 

confidence are nurtured through carefully planned activities. 

Communication with parents and families is a cornerstone 

of effective pre-school education. A parent consultation reveals 

that one 3-year-old wants to be a teacher – the next day, the 

role play corner has been transformed with a pretend register 

and teacher ID card. A Tapestry post (the online platform we 

use for home-school communication and assessment) shows a 

boy playing with dinosaurs and the next day, a tuff tray is full 

of mud and tools ready to excavate and develop motor skills. 

All of these activities centre around the Characteristics 

of Effective Learning. By linking to children’s individual 

needs, they are able to become active learners, immersing 

themselves in an area of passion. Our Forest School 

and Woodland Playground allow the children to play 

and explore, to take risks and to build resilience as 

well as having lots of muddy fun and physical activity. 

Children are encouraged to lead their own learning and 

continuous provision allows them access to whatever 

they might need to create, explore, share and learn. 

The Power of Pre-School in the end is not just academic 

preparedness for Reception, but so much more. Our 

pre-schoolers are inquisitive, confident and independent 

learners. They are collaborative, kind and inclusive. They are 

ready physically, socially and academically for the transition 

into Reception, which is just in the classroom next door 

(and might have been sneakily visited a few 

times in the run-up to September). 

The Power of Pre-School cannot 

be underestimated – with 

our combination of superlearners 

and super-teachers, 

we’re ready to take on the 

world! granvilleschool.org 

97

Dare to 

IMAGINE 

Discover Hazelwood, an exceptional 

prep school for children aged 9 months 

to 13 years, nestled in 25 acres of Surrey 

woodlands, offering one-of-a-kind 

learning opportunities, state-of-the-art 

facilities, and boundless possibilities. 

Open Morning: 

Friday 22 nd November 

Outstanding Prep School 

in all areas 

Private Tours available to book today. 

admissions@hazelwoodschool.com 

Oxted, Surrey | hazelwoodschool.co.uk 

240924_Hazelwood_A4 portrait_Library_Wealden_210mm x 297mm_AW.indd 1 02/10/2024 13:22

Education 

When to 

Step In 

istockphoto.com/ Cheryl Ramalho 

A Head for 25 years, Mike Piercy is now an educational 

consultant and governor at two schools. Here, he 

looks at assessing when parents should intervene 

istockphoto.com/ Cheryl Ramalho 

‘ 

How was your day, darling?’ the routine 

words on collecting from school as 

he clambers into the car. The daily, 

customary, ‘Good,’ doesn’t follow. There 

is a pause, a catching of breath, a sniff, then, 

‘My teacher called me a disgusting elephant!’ 

rapidly followed by racking sobs. 

‘Well, that’s absolutely disgraceful!’ 

Little Johnny doesn’t have the capacity, the voice to 

respond. The sobs subside on the way home, supper 

is served, homework done without complaint, a 

favourite bedtime story and he’s out for the count. 

The parent, now armed with a second very large glass 

of white wine (not noticing it’s corked in haste to get to 

the computer) starts typing a ferocious email. Stopping 

just short of the expletive the email is, nonetheless, 

explosive. ‘How dare anyone speak to my son like that?’ 

The school’s reply comes the next morning. The truth is 

the teacher had called Johnny a ‘disruptive element’. He’d 

been sitting next to his best friend at assembly. They’d 

been poking and prodding the younger ones in front, 

spotted by Mr. Jones – aptly nicknamed ‘The Eagle’. 

In years gone by if a child came home having been in 

trouble he would be in double trouble at home. To question 

the school was out of the question. We are all protective of 

our children, umbilically connected, so it is understandable for 

us to have difficulty separating the emotion from the data. It 

is the data and context which needs to be critically examined. 

There will always be bumps in the road. Our 

children are not perfect. They will make mistakes, 

they will be spontaneous, they will come under the 

influence of the less scrupulous. An alternative, better 

course of action for this parent would have been 

to write asking what had happened that day. 

So, when our children return from school telling a troubled 

story, what should we do? Teachers and schools don’t always 

get things right (the best schools will acknowledge this) but 

we sometimes do have to ask questions when our children 

come home with a worry. Dr. John Rae, a former Head 

of Westminster, used a great line when welcoming new 

parents to the school: ‘If you believe only half of the stories 

which come home from school; we in turn will believe only 

half of the stories which come to school from home.’ 

It is somewhat tongue in cheek but bears great wisdom 

and advice. Much has been written about the helicopter 

parent syndrome, the debate revolving around when and how 

much to intervene in school matters. In my view the key is 

knowing your children and being open to the idea they may 

not always get things right. Ask the school rather than tell. 

Many years ago I remember the craze for Baby-G 

watches – a not inexpensive fashion item as much as a 

timepiece. A pupil ‘lost’ hers. We searched and searched 

but to no avail. She returned to school the following 

Monday with a new one. That, in turn, was lost. A week 

later she came to school with a third Baby-G. Where 

was the learning? Part of growing up is the baton of 

responsibility passing from parent to child, gradually 

removing safety nets as they learn to manage their own lives. 

Mike’s book, Careering is available now with troubador.co.uk. 

You can contact Mike at mikepiercy@hotmail.com 

with your education-related queries. 

99 


What’s On 

this Festive Season 

Throughout Nov & Dec 

Guildford Cathedral 

Virtual Advent Calendar 

Everyone is welcome to experience 

a festive wonderland at Guildford 

Cathedral this November and 

December with art, music and 

excellent shopping experiences. 

From Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to John 

Rutter and The Snowman, their 

events cater to all tastes and ages. 

Join the Advent services starting 

December 1, with the Advent Carol 

Service at 6pm. Explore the Virtual 

Advent Calendar featuring daily 

choir performances. Make it your 

destination for shopping, food, and 

cultural delights this season. 

guildford-cathedral.org 

Sat 2 Nov 10am-3.30pm 

Penshurst Village Hall TN11 8BP 

Penshurst Vintage 

Christmas Fair 

Showcasing a festive mix of vintage, 

antique and one-off homewares, 

French finds, decorative interior 

pieces, clothing, decorations, 

jewellery, furniture, beautiful 

wrapping, cards, seasonal floristry 

and gifts, all with a little Christmas 

sparkle! Make it a Vintage 

Christmas and shop from 25+ 

fabulous vintage traders from 

throughout Kent and Sussex. 

Entry: £2.50 

Contact Estelle 07904 614824 

Instagram @penshurstvintagefair 

Sun 10 Nov, Denbies Wine Estate 

Fri 22 Nov & Sat 23 

Nov, Syon Park, 

Tues 3 Dec, Denbies Wine Estate 

Curated by Dapper & Suave 

Christmas Pop Up Events 

Three events with an ethos of 

friendly, creative and unique. More 

than just a shopping destination 

they bring together the community 

with events that offer something 

for everyone. Festive celebrations 

of community, tradition, and the 

magic of seasonal joy. Don’t miss 

out on this exciting chance to 

shop and support small businesses. 

Free entry and parking. 

dapperandsuave.uk/curated-by 

Thurs 14 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 

Kingston upon Thames 

Kingston this Christmas 

Experience the magic of 

Christmas in Kingston. Follow 

the enchanting Nutcracker Trail 

and have the opportunity to win 

a Christmas hamper! Capture 

moments at the brand new 

light-up ‘KINGSTON’ sign, 

explore the walk-through present 

installation, and marvel at the 

giant twinkling reindeer. Discover 

unique shopping experiences, 

indulge in seasonal food and drink, 

and be merry with the popular 

Christmas Market, festive bar, 

and live music. There’s no place 

like Kingston this Christmas! 

Kingstonuponthames.info 

Background: stockphoto.com/lavendertime 

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Nov 

Rare Breeds Centre TN26 3RJ 

Christmas Market 

Looking for gift ideas? Visit the 

Rare Breeds Centre Christmas 

Market. Explore locally crafted 

items, gifts, toys, sweets, and 

delicious edible treats in the festive 

Benson Barn. Enjoy free entry 

and parking while browsing for 

the perfect gifts. Be sure to try 

the pumpkin spice or gingerbread 

lattes, perfectly paired with a 

sweet treat from the Granary 

Restaurant. Don’t miss this 

festive shopping experience! 

rarebreeds.org.uk 

Sat 16 Nov – Tue 24 Dec 

Chessington Garden Centre 

Santa’s Wonderland 

Treat the kids to a visit to the 

magical Santa’s Wonderland 

(SEND visits available). Enjoy 

a Christmas tale reading, 

decorate gingerbread with Mrs 

Claus, travel through magical 

scenes and meet the great man 

himself. Then choose a gift 

from the elves’ toy workshop! 

chessingtongardencentre.co.uk 

Mon 18 – Thur 21 Nov 

Rural Crafts at The Loseley House 

The Loseley House 

Christmas Fair 

Taking place over four days in the 

stylish setting of Loseley Park. Special 

pavilions and the Tithe Barn host this 

exciting event with over 65 talented 

makers and designers bringing a 

range of craft and design-led products 

offering a perfect opportunity to find 

special presents for special people, the 

ideal place to enjoyably solve your 

Christmas list. Indulge your family 

and friends with stunning fashions 

and accessories, leather belts, dazzling 

jewellery and luxurious soaps and 

skincare. Celebrate the festive season 

and entertain in style this Christmas, 

decorate your home with beautiful 

glass decorations alongside candles, 

platters and bowls and tasty treats. 

ruralcraftsassociation.co.uk 

Wed 20 & Thur 21 Nov 

Farnham Maltings 

Christmas at Farnham Maltings 

Find the perfect gift for everyone on 

your list at the Maltings’ Christmas 

Fair. Support local artisans and small 

businesses by shopping directly from 

the creators. This is a wonderful 

opportunity to hear the stories 

behind their crafts and pick up 

truly unique pieces that you won’t 

find anywhere else. Advance tickets 

available online. 

farnhammaltings.com 

101 


Lorem ipsum 

16th November - 24th December 

tickets available online now 

Santa's 

Christmas Wonderland 

2 

0 

2 

4 

SANTAS WORKSHOP 

GINGERBREAD HOUSE 

WOODLAND WALK 

Chessington 

Garden Centre 

for more info visit www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

10am-4pm Fri 22, Sat 

23 & Sun 24 Nov 

West Horsley Place 

West Horsley Arts & 

Artisan Christmas Fair 

The very best artists and 

artisans in Surrey bring you 

a high quality, beautiful 

Christmas shopping experience. 

Soak up the atmosphere in 

the historic Manor House 

at West Horsley Place while 

shopping for stunning gifts. 

Book in advance online 

Entry: £10, all artists 

keep their profits. 

westhorsleyplace.org 

1, 7, 8, 15, 22 & 23 Dec 

Chiddingstone Castle 

Father Christmas Afternoon 

Tea or Breakfast 

Get ready for an enchanting new 

Christmas experience this winter! 

Storytime and Afternoon Tea 

with Father Christmas inside the 

beautiful Chiddingstone Castle. 

Arrive at the castle and step into 

the magical White Rose Room for 

a special storytime then move into 

The Great Hall for a scrumptious 

breakfast or afternoon tea. During 

your dining experience Father 

Christmas will drop by each 

table individually and hand out 

goody bags to all the children. 

After you have eaten follow the 

Festive Trail to discover more 

of the castle and get creative in 

the Christmas craft marquee. 

chiddingstonecastle.org.uk 

23 Nov – 5 Jan 

Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks 

Tudor Christmas 

Celebrate the festive season 

in style! Enjoy a roaring fire, 

traditional carols, and festive 

crafting workshops for the 

whole family. Immerse yourself 

in the rich history of this 

700-year-old moated manor 

house, and see if you can spot 

all the hidden mice in the Mice 

at the Mote Christmas Trail! 

and don’t miss the Christmas 

shopping opportunities 

and local choirs performing 

throughout the festive season. 

nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote 

Weekends from 30 Nov & 24 Dec 

Kent and East Sussex Railway 

Santa Specials 

Meet Santa on a magical steam 

train! Celebrating 50 years of 

making lasting Christmas memories, 

the award-winning K&ESR Santa 

Specials are bigger and better than 

ever, offering even more treats and 

fun this year. Bronze, Silver and 

Gold packages available. Including a 

special Quiet Train for a less intense 

experience at 11.15am on 30 

November. Early booking essential. 

kesr.org.uk 

Sat 30 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 

Painshill, Cobham 

KT11 1AG 

A Touch of Nostalgia 

Inspired by the festive song, 

The 12 Days of Christmas 

Trail at Painshill for 2024 

will see visitors searching 

out each of the gifts 

mentioned; from two turtle 

doves through to twelve 

drummers drumming and 

of course, a partridge in 

a pear tree! With a touch 

of nostalgia, figures will 

be made from traditional 

wooden materials and each 

one will be individually 

hand-painted. 

painshill.co.uk 

Sat 30 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre 

Robin Hood 

Yvonne Arnaud Panto is back 

and full of slapstick, slosh and 

silliness. Starring EastEnders 

and Detectorists favourite Lucy 

Benjamin who continues her 

villainous panto streak as The 

Sheriff of Nottingham. Peter 

Gordon returns for his 19th year, 

this time as Nanny Fanny Annie, 

alongside Guildford Shakespeare 

Company’s Matt Pinches! 

yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 

Fri 6 Dec 

Rochester Cathedral 

KSS Kent Surrey Sussex 

Air Ambulance Charity 

Join KSS for a festive evening 

of delicious mince pies, mulled 

wine, and carol singing alongside 

a live Christmas choir. Hear 

about their life-saving work 

and shine candles bright for the 

crews working on the night. 

The money raised by the carol 

concert will make sure they can 

always be there when someone 

needs them – day or night, 

throughout the Christmas 

season and beyond, helping 

them to keep more families 

together this Christmas. 

aakss.org.uk 

10am-4pm Sat 7 

& Sun 8 Dec 

Godinton House TN23 3BP 

Swinford Studio’s 

At these six stunning studios 

a warm welcome, log fires 

and mulled wine awaits you 

all within the delightful 

setting of Godinton House 

and Gardens Estate. ‘We 

are a thriving community 

of artists and makers, 

come and celebrate unique 

handmade gifts, ceramics, 

art, jewellery, woodenwares, 

furniture, soft furnishings, 

gorgeous felted animals, 

cards and Christmas tree 

decorations within our own 

individual courtyard studios.’ 

godintonhouse.co.uk 

103 


CRANLEIGH 

Saturday 9th November 10am-4pm 

Cranleigh Prep School, GU6 8QH 

Over 80 independent boutiques with fabulous Christmas 

gifts for every member of the family 

£3 

ENTRY 

~~~~~~~~~~ 

Accompanied 

under 15s free 

Come and join us for this 

popular event with fabulous stalls 

to get those unique presents 

for family and friends. 

10am-4pm 22 and 23 NOVEMBER 

CHRISTMAS Fair 

01483 547 870 • www.guildford-cathedral.org 

Carol Concert 

Guildford Cathedral, Surrey 

Wednesday 11 December 2024, 7.30pm 

Join us for a festive evening 

of beautiful carols and music 

including a performance from 

Guildford School of Acting. Your 

support helps raise vital funds for 

your local air ambulance charity. 

Without you, we can’t save lives. 

Your support will help us be ready 

to save lives this Christmas. 

Tickets 

from 

£15 

Buy your tickets now 

aakss.org.uk/carolsguildford 

Registered Charity No. 1021367 

Scan me 


104

Sat 7 Dec – Sun 5 Jan 

Richmond Theatre 

Beauty & the Beast 

Dame Maureen Lipman 

returns to Richmond 

to star as Mrs Potty 

in this enchanting 

pantomime adventure, 

alongside comedy 

magician Pete Firman 

as Silly Billy. One of the 

most romantic pantos 

of all time, Beauty 

and the Beast will be a 

spectacular production 

for all the family. 

atgtickets.com 

Sat 14 Dec to Sat 4 Jan 

Epsom Playhouse 

Cinderella 

Don’t be a pumpkin; grab 

your glass slippers and get 

ready for this classic tale of 

Cinderella, a kind-hearted 

girl mistreated by her wicked 

stepmother and stepsisters. 

With a little help from her 

fairy godmother’s magic 

she transforms for the royal 

ball, where she catches 

the attention of Prince 

Charming. But when the 

clock strikes midnight, the 

illusion fades, leaving only a 

single glass slipper behind. 

epsomplayhouse.co.uk 

Fri 13 Dec –Sun 5 Jan 

The Hawth Theatre Crawley 

Jack & the Beanstalk 

Don’t miss this year’s fun-filled 

pantomime starring TV legend 

Steve McFadden (EastEnders) as 

the boo-able baddie Fleshcreep! 

He will be joined by Crawley’s 

favourite dame Michael J 

Batchelor. With stunning 

sets, hilarious comedy, and 

breathtaking special effects, Jack 

and the Beanstalk is a fun-filled 

extravaganza sure to delight the 

whole family. Join in the Fe-Fi- 

Fo-Fun. Book now online. 

hawth.co.uk 

Wed 11 Dec 

Guildford Cathedral 

KSS Kent Surrey Sussex Air 

Ambulance Charity Concert 

Join KSS for a festive evening 

of delicious mince pies, mulled 

wine, and carol singing alongside 

a live Christmas choir. Hear 

about their life-saving work 

and shine candles bright for the 

crews working on the night. The 

money raised by the carol concert 

will make sure they can always be 

there when someone needs them 

– day or night, throughout the 

Christmas season and beyond, 

helping them to keep more 

families together this Christmas. 

aakss.org.uk 

Listings are correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change. Readers are advised to check with venues before making arrangements. We can list your 

event in the next issue of Surrey Homes for only £150+VAT. Please supply up to 100 words that should include date, time, venue, contact for enquiries and any 

entry price to whatson@priceless-group.com or send with payment (cheques payable to Priceless Media Ltd.) to What’s On, Priceless Media, Kettle Chambers, 

21 Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF. Priceless Media reserves the right to edit text to fit space allocated. Deadline for the next issue is 8th November. 

13 DECEMBER - 5 JANUARY 

HAWTH.CO.UK 

105 


Jane Howard readies the 

Coopers Farm cows and bees 

for the onset of winter 

November is the time for tidying up the 

farm, fixing the problems and sorting 

the stock. And that includes the bees. 

At the heart of the summer there are up to 50,000 

bees in a colony, almost all are female worker bees, 

one queen and a few dozen males called drones. This 

is max population, created to take advantage of all the 

flowers, collect nectar and make the honey which is 

then stored in the hive to see them through the winter. 

A busy summer bee will live for about six weeks, 

so the queen is in full production mode laying up to 

2,000 eggs a day, but as autumn approaches she slows 

right down and the number of bees 

in the colony drops to about 10,000. 

These will live all winter eating the 

honey and, most importantly, feeding 

the queen so she can start to lay again in 

the New Year and build those numbers 

up. However, that means the boys, 

the drones, are redundant and rather 

unceremoniously the girls just turf them 

out to meet an uncertain (not very!) end. 

Apart from what the bees are doing, 

to prep them for the cold months 

ahead, there are a few things I need 

to do. I took about twenty jars of 

honey from each hive in the spring and again in the 

summer so I need to make sure they have at least 30 

pounds left for themselves. This should be plenty if 

the winter is cold, but if we get a warm winter then 

rather than being tucked up at home the bees will be 

out and about and will need more food – so I will 

check them again around Christmas. Your average 

mouse considering his winter lodgings might also want 

to hunker down in a nice warm hive full of honey 

so I have to put metal mouseguards with bee-size 

I took about twenty 

jars of honey from 

each hive in the spring 

and again in the 

summer so I need to 

make sure they have 

at least 30 pounds 

left for themselves 

holes across the entrance to stop them. And finally 

I cut up plastic feed sacks to make flappy fringes 

that I pin round the outside to deter woodpeckers 

who have the same intentions as the mice! 

As far as the cattle are concerned this is also the time 

of year for a sort out. The cattle, born in '23 have 

spent the summer grazing and growing, so now is the 

time to decide what to do with them. Last autumn 

we picked out the best male calves and 

they will get their own living quarters 

(adolescent males being only interested 

in one thing) where they will get fed 

and primed ready for the Sussex Society 

spring sale next March. By then they 

will be two and ready to go to 'work' on 

another farm. The best females, known 

as maiden heifers at this stage in their 

lives, will overwinter on more meagre 

rations and then 'see the bull' next 

spring to have their first calf at three. 

That leaves the steers and the heifers 

who aren’t good enough to breed from. 

These are 'store cattle', i.e. well-grown but not fat, 

and will be sold at Hailsham in a store market where 

'finishers' will buy them to fatten for the butcher. 

Interestingly many store cattle bred on livestock farms 

in the South East get bought by big arable farmers in 

East Anglia. They have plenty of straw and barley to 

keep and fatten the cattle but what they really want is a 

barn full of manure at the end of the winter to spread 

on their arable fields. It’s true, where there’s muck 

there’s brass and it’s not called Black Gold for nothing. 

istockphoto.com/ William Jones-Warner 


THAMES 

DESIGN & BUILD 

Call us on 

020 8398 9252 

ARE YOU CONSIDERING AN EXTENSION, LOFT 

CONVERSION, OUTBUILDING, OR ANY OTHER 

ALTERATION OR ADDITION TO YOUR PROPERTY? 

Thames Design and Build provides architectural design 

and/or construction services to clients across Surrey, with 

over with 80% over of 80% our of projects our projects being being Elmbridge Surrey based. 

We offer: 

• A A free consultation to discuss your ideas and advise 

you advise on the you possibilities on the possibilities and permissions 

and permissions 

• A A fixed quote for all stages of architectural work 

• A A fixed quote for your build – we are equally happy to to 

provide a build quote in respect of your existing designs 

We have a large portfolio of clients within Surrey Elmbridge, and its so 

whatever surrounding your areas plans so are, whatever we should your be plans able are, to we show should you 

a be comparable able to show completed you a comparable project. completed project. 

Please email us at info@thamesdesignandbuild.com 

or visit the website www.thamesdesignandbuild.com 

Ditton Garages, Southville Road, Thames Ditton, KT7 0UL

Surrey Homes | SH118 | November 2024 | Gift Supplement inside

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template ?