Surrey Homes | SH125 | June 2025

PRICELESS

JUNE 2025

125

JUNE 2025

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT inside

Inspirational Interiors • Fabulous Fashion • Delicious Dishes

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

Contents

June 2025

26

40

12

21

25

26

39

40

50

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

SUNNY SIDE UP

A charmingly wonky

escape in Rochester

GET THE LOOK

A mid-century mix

A GUEST WING WITH SOUL

An interior designer’s

personal home project

GET THE LOOK

Let texture and pattern abound

80

53 SHOW TIME!

91

The fantastic offering

from Surrey theatres

79

80

87

90

MEDITERRANEAN

GARDEN

Rebecca Cuffe’s dreaming of

fashion for warmer climes

SPICED TO PERFECTION

Charlotte Butterworth

demonstrates how to take

inspiration from Asian cuisines

PRETTY POLISHED

Josephine Fairley explains

why she loves to take

inspiration from nail trends

WORK IT!

Sarah Maxwell enters the

world of wearable fitness tech

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 © 2025 Priceless Media Ltd. The views of the

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

93

97

98

NOURISH TO FLOURISH

Charlotte Lau explores the

health benefits of asparagus

PEBBLE FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

Jo Arnell uncovers the charm

(and ease) of gravel gardens

WHAT’S ON

A fairs and festivals special...

FARM FABLES

Jane Howard’s latest instalment

from Coopers Farm

EDUCATION

SUPPLEMENT

All the latest news

and info from

schools across

the South East.

After page 56.

sponsored by

EDUCATION

Contemporary, reliable

and expertly crafted

swimming pools

POOL CONSTRUCTION | MAINTENANCE | SPA | LANDSCAPING

Simplicity and expert finishings have been our unbeatable combination for

over 40 years. Based in Surrey, we are a family run business that is committed

to providing a premier service on both private and commercial projects.

www.lagoonpoolsltd.co.uk 01932 569 569 info@lagoonpoolsltd.co.uk

LagoonPools-FullPage-SurreyHomes-April.indd 1 12/04/2023 16:59

LagoonPoolsWT252.indd 1 18/04/2023 10:50

From the

Editor

Sally Oasis Paintings

bright joyful art

If you haven’t already seen the banners up across the

South East, it’s time for Wealden Times Midsummer

Fair! We return to the stunning Hole Park in

Rolvenden, Kent, from 5-7 June for three days of summer

shopping, food & drink and the perfect opportunity to

have a catch up with friends. There’s still time to pre-book

your tickets to beat the queues – see wealdentimes-fair.

co.uk for all the info you need. And remember, included

in the ticket price is entry to the magnificent Hole Park

Gardens (worth £12). We hope to see you there!

Now back to the magazine! I loved looking round the

truly individual houses that we’ve photographed this

month. We took a trip to wonderfully historic Rochester

to check out a new addition to the Bloom Stays holiday

collection, a fabulously wonky building with the most

amazing views over the cathedral and castle. Find out about

booking your own stay at the end of the piece. Secondly,

we had so much fun exploring a capacious home in St.

Leonards, we’ve had to split the feature into two (there’s an

apartment and a house which make up this one!). Read the

first instalment after our Rochester write-up, and be

sure to explore the second in the next issue.

We’ve combined tasty Asian flavours with

a little summer styling frivolity at recipe

developer and cookery teacher Charlotte

Butterworth’s house for our food feature.

Let’s hope we get many sunny days to

enjoy some quality time with friends and

family over a good meal this summer.

Enjoy your Priceless magazine

Originals

Prints Cards

commissions taken

buy online or at the studio/gallery

book your visit today

free spacious parking

07547 384148 theoasispaintings@gmail.com

Home Farm, Gravetye Manor Estate, West Hoathly RH19 4LH

@sallyoasispaintings

Escape the everyday.

Closer than you think.

More enchanting than you imagined.

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

Education, Legal & Property Sales ManagerAndrew 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

9

A hidden family retreat in the heart of Kent.

No flights. No stress. Just time, space and tractors.

www.woodsmeadow.co.uk

priceless-magazines.com

THE FINEST LIGHTING COLLECTION IN THE UK

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LOOK OUT FOR GREAT SPECIAL OFFERS IN-STORE

Showroom opening hours

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Tel: 01420 590510

Elstead House, Mill Lane, Alton,

Hampshire GU34 2QJ

Surrey Homes FP_June 2025.indd 1 13/05/2025 13:55:33

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

istockphoto.com/ Maria Voronovich

Ashtead

• Patrick Gardner

Bagshott

• Cubbitt Antiques

• Howlands

Estate Agents

• Longacres Nursery

Betchworth

• Buckland Deli

• The Community

Shop

Bookham

• Patrick Gardner

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

• Patrick Gardner

• Princess Alice

Hospice

• Sainsbury’s

Epsom

• Mayfield Lavender

Nursery & Shop

Esher

• Sandown Park

Racecourse

Farnham

• Cook

• ME Estate Agents

• Sainsbury’s

• Waterstones

Felbridge

• Doves Barn

Nursery

Godalming

• Cook

• Sainsbury’s

• Sarah Louise Dix

• Waterstones

Godstone

• Knights Garden

Centre

Guildford

• BoConcept

• Elm Nursery

Farm Shop

• High Clandon

Estate Vineyard

• Neptune

Haslemere

• Lythe Hill

Hotel & Spa

• Tesco Superstore

Knaphill

• Sainsbury’s

Leatherhead

• Patrick Gardner

• Robert Leech

& Partners

• Tesco

Lingfield

• Robert Leech

Lyne

• The Farm

Shop Lyne

Milford

• Secretts

Old Oxted

• Fish Plaice & Grill

Oxted

• Cook

• Jackson-Stops

& Staff

• Limpsfield Stores

• Morrisons

• Robert Leech

Oxshott

• The Bear

Redhill

• Priory Farm

Reigate

• Buckland Nurseries

Garden Centre

• County Clothes

• Robert Leech

• RDO Kitchens

Ripley

• Ripley Nurseries

Farm Shop

• The Talbot

Surbiton

• Sainsbury’s

Walton on

Thames

• Waterstones

• Sainsbury’s

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

• Richmond

• Surbiton

• Weybridge

• Wimbledon

• Woking

11

Cranleigh

Tiles & Bathrooms

Range of Tiles, Bathrooms and Showers

from Thomas Crapper Bathrooms,

Heritage Bathrooms

and Burlington Bathrooms.

Suppliers of Contemporary Ranges including

Laufen, Roca, Vitra and Roper Rhodes

15% off when you

mention this Ad

Open 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday

9.00am to 12.00 midday Saturday closed Sundays

To get our undivided attention we kindly ask

for you to ring to make an appointment.

Cranleigh Tiles and Bathrooms

Telephone 01483 272727

craig@cranleighbathroomstudios.co.uk

www.cranleighbathroomstudios.co.uk


House

Month

of the

£13,500,000

This month Gordon Lee marvels at homes

you might buy if you won the lottery!

Shamley Green

The dream: A spectacular, new

private country estate with river

frontage and sweeping views.

Where: Between Shamley Green

and Cranleigh, in the Surrey Hills.

Setting: 12 acres of elevated

parkland with woodland, open

skies and total privacy.

Beds: 6 Baths: 8

Special features: Completed

in 2025, this grand new-build

estate is designed for luxurious

rural living and entertaining on

a spectacular scale. Highlights

include a vaulted reception hall,

five guest suites, a self-contained

staff annexe, and a principal suite

with twin bathrooms, dressing

rooms and glorious views.

Pleasing details: Interiors

are finished to an exceptional

standard with soaring ceilings, a

galleried landing, and bespoke

joinery throughout. The

leisure wing includes a heated

indoor pool, gym, sauna and

changing area – perfect for

wellness or weekend guests.

Outside: A sweeping gravel drive

winds through private parkland to

formal lawns, a five-car garage and

long river frontage. The setting is

peaceful, secluded and beautifully

connected to nature.

Time to town: Guildford is

around 7 miles away, with

mainline trains to London in

under 40 minutes.

Agents: House Partnership 01483

266700 housepartnership.co.uk

priceless-magazines.com 12

£7,950,000

Oxshott

The dream: A show-stopping modern

estate with every luxury imaginable.

Where: Oxshott’s prestigious Crown Estate.

Setting: A quiet, leafy enclave just 20

miles from central London.

Beds: 6 Baths: 7

Special features: This ambassadorial home offers

over 11,000 square feet of living space, including

a vaulted drawing room, cinema, snug with

bespoke bar and a state-of-the-art indoor pool

complex with gym, steam room and jacuzzi. The

principal suite has twin dressing rooms, two en

suites and a lounge with garden-view balconies.

Pleasing details: The kitchen is fitted with

Gaggenau appliances, a marble island, and a

prep kitchen. Underfloor heating, air-con and

smart tech throughout ensure total comfort.

Cast-iron radiators, bespoke cabinetry and a

vaulted reception hall add timeless grandeur.

Outside: Magnificent mature trees provide privacy

and a sense of seclusion, while landscaped gardens

wrap around the house with a sun terrace perfect for

al fresco entertaining. To the front, there’s parking

for several cars and access to the triple garage.

Time to town: Oxshott High Street is a mile away;

trains to London Waterloo take around 35 minutes.

Agents: Savills 01932 586200 savills.co.uk

St George’s Hill

£11,995,000

The dream: A classically inspired new-build with

grand proportions and first-class amenities.

Where: St George’s Hill private estate.

Setting: A secluded, south-west facing plot

of 1.34 acres with landscaped gardens.

Beds: 5 Baths: 5

Special features: A vaulted atrium hallway

leads to grand reception rooms, a formal dining

space and a vast kitchen/family room opening

onto a Mediterranean-style courtyard. The

principal suite features a Juliet balcony, doubleaspect

dressing room, and a lavish en suite.

Pleasing details: Coffered ceilings, bespoke

joinery and rich herringbone wood floors feature

throughout. There’s also a Control4 system,

underfloor heating, air conditioning and a onebedroom

staff apartment with separate access.

Outside: Electric gates open to a sweeping

drive and cobbled parking area, leading to

a concealed triple garage. The beautifully

landscaped gardens enjoy a south-westerly

aspect, with a loggia overlooking the pool.

Time to town: Weybridge station offers fast trains

to London Waterloo in around 30 minutes.

Agents: Savills 01932 838000 savills.co.uk

13


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24079 RV_HWG_Surrey Homes_Full Page Ad_297x210mm_NP.indd 1 13/05/2025 17:14

HOMEWOOD GROVE

CHERTSEY

At Rangeford Villages, our owners say it best. More

than just a place to live, it is a way of life - one filled

with connection, purpose, and a genuine sense of

belonging. Our thoughtfully designed homes and

state-of-the-art facilities create the perfect setting,

but it is the vibrant community that makes life here

truly special. Just ask those who call it home.

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF

Call 01932 645572

www.rangefordvillages.co.uk

Marketing Suite, Homewood Grove, Ottershaw,

Chertsey, Surrey KT16 0AU.

Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm

1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available from £399,950 †

† Other charges apply. Please ask our sales advisors or see website for details.

JUST NINE STUNNING TWO BEDROOM

APARTMENTS, ALL WITH LIFT SERVICE & UNIQUE,

INDIVIDUAL FEATURES. RESERVE BEFORE

16th JUNE AND BESPOKE YOUR NEW HOME.

The Residence is an exclusive development of

luxury apartments nestled amongst mature

surroundings, just 400 metres from the

mainline station, in the idyllic town of

Weybridge, Surrey with its bustling high street

and picturesque tow-paths along the river

Thames.

Each stunning apartment is a blank canvas for

you to make your own mark or simply allow us

to create a unique home for you.

CGI for illustrative purposes only

ALL ENQUIRIES 01483 479050

www.theresidenceweybridge.com

Does your

Perfectly

placed

for joyful later living

A stylish collection of one, two and three bedroom apartments within the heart of

idyllic Cobham village, with highlights that include communal lounge, yoga studio

and beautiful landscaped garden. Exclusively for those enjoying life over 60.

Buy from £520,000

The benefits of a

Pegasus Home

Perfectly placed in England’s finest locations

Beautifully landscaped for outdoor living

Elegantly designed with thoughtful interiors

Connected by community for social wellbeing

Discover joyful later living across the country

01932 321 028 | cobhambowers@pegasushomes.co.uk

www.pegasushomes.co.uk/cobham-bowers

74 Portsmouth Road, Cobham, KT11 1FG. Images shown are indicative only. For full terms visit pegasushomes.co.uk/company/legal/terms-and-conditions/

Hurry… only 2 remaining

Buy off plan now and choose

your own finishes

Working with the award winning Lusso

team and their appointed interior

designers at the Rebecca Winters Studio,

early buyers can enjoy choosing kitchens,

bathrooms, flooring and other final finishes.

Just three bespoke 3 bedroom detached

homes in the heart of the Surrey Hills.

Under construction right now and these

beautiful homes will be ready to move into

before Christmas.

Visit our website for more details www.lussonewhomes.com

• 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

19


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

Notebook

Take note! We’ve rounded up the best

of what to see and do near you

Loose Vibes

Loose village near Maidstone is

known as an idyllic setting with its

spring-fed stream running along the

valley creating natural beauty and

biodiversity. From 7th to 14th June

six local painters, photographers,

printmakers and sculptors will be

celebrating this very special area,

showing their work in ‘A Sense

of Place’ at The Chapel, Church

Street, Loose – as part of South

East Open Studios. For more info

including opening times please see

loose-collective.org and seos-art.org

istockphoto.com/ Inna Dodor

Birthday

Party!

Raise a glass – Silent Pool Gin are celebrating their 10th birthday

with a party on Saturday 21st June from 1-8pm at their Distillery.

There will be all sorts to enjoy – discover the new Silent Pool 10

Year Celebration Edition Gin, drop in to a Martini Masterclass,

explore the distillery on a mini tour or join a Silent Pool Black

Juniper Gin tasting session led by the distillers who created it.

The Terrace Bar overlooking the Silent Pool will be serving

cocktails and the fabulous Jazz Dynamos will be playing jazz,

bossa, samba and contemporary pop into the evening.

silentpooldistillers.com

You’ll also find Silent Pool Gin at our Midsummer Fair at

Hole Park on 5th – 7th June with tastings and exclusive

event offers on their range of handcrafted gin.

21

PAPER

TRAIL

Join Landmark Arts for

their biannual Paper Ink Print

Festival on Friday 13th to Sunday 15th

June. There will be talks, workshops and

special exhibits plus over 50 stands of artists

selling their work. Classes include LEGO

Printmaking: Greetings Cards (all ages

welcome) with Nicole Honeycomb

and an Introduction to Cyanotype

with Louise Anderson. For a full

list of exhibitors, more details of the

Festival programme and to book

tickets, please see Landmark Arts

website landmarkartscentre.org

priceless-magazines.

Fantastic Folk

Celebrate 60 years of Broadstairs Folk Week from 8-15 August

2025 in the heart of this charming Kent seaside town. One of the

UK’s most respected folk festivals, you’ll find over 400 curated events

in more than 20 atmospheric venues. Enjoy headline performances

from legends including Lindisfarne, Martin Carthy, Eddi Reader and

Flook, alongside intimate concerts, expert-led workshops, traditional

dance and a refined craft and music fair. From exclusive concerts and

curated workshops to artisan markets and elegant dance displays,

this is folk tradition elevated. Discover refined, vibrant artistry in a

historic coastal setting. Full week and individual concert tickets are

available now at broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk.

Bottle Battle

‘The Battle of

Waterloo Taste-off’ takes

place at High Clandon on 14 June to

mark High Clandon’s forthcoming Art &

Sculptures in the Vineyard, English Wine Week

with Vineyards of the Surrey Hills. A light-hearted

and delicious event is promised to those who prebook

to be part of this tasting – a unique occasion to

taste the finest sparkling wines from the Surrey Hills

vs French Champagnes and you decide who wins

this battle! The event will be led by the renowned

raconteur, polymath and wine aficionado, Joe

Wadsack, ‘The whirlwind of wine’. If you want

to be ahead of the game and battle-ready,

pre-book your tickets at

highclandon.co.uk/visit

For an extra-special way

to celebrate midsummer, how about

The Festival Theatre’s Glow Festival at the

stunning Penshurst Place and Gardens on 28th

June. The immersive event will blend performance,

dining and natural beauty for an exclusive evening

that promises to be unforgettable. As the sun goes down

the audience will be led by guides from one mesmerising

performance to the next, wandering through the beautiful

gardens. Later guests will return to the heart of the event and

be treated to the vibrant sounds of summer tunes, delicious

street food and cocktails. Don’t hesitate to book your

tickets for this festival where nature, history, artistry

and feasting combine to create an evening of

enchantment. heverfestival.co.uk/

index.php/glow-fest

Get up and Glow

Slow the Pace

This midsummer just outside Tenterden,

those seeking the taste of a slow life for a

weekend may just be in luck with the return

of the Wealden Festival for 2025 (formerly

the Wealden Literary Festival). Over the

weekend of the 21st/22nd June 2025 this

celebration at Boldshaves (a family house

and garden with plenty of room) will bring

together readers, writers and wanderers who

share a love of wild places and storytelling.

Whilst books and stories are at the centre,

it’s a place of discovery and curiosity whether

you’re three or 93. There will be children’s

pottery, yoga and mindfulness, communal

cooking and eating (via Faversham’s award

winning Wasted Kitchen) and even sleeping

out under the stars in the festival’s own

bell tents. Among the many literary names

hosted Philip Hoare, Jay Griffths, Charlotte

Molesworth and Petr Horacek are just a few.

Find out more at wealdenliteraryfestival.co.uk

istockphoto.com/ Surachet99 and Paul Hayward


The Fox dining rooms

Looking for a destination for your next meal out, romantic

date night, private dining experience or special occasion?

Set within the heart of Foxhills, a multi award-winning country club and hotel

in Surrey, lies a real hidden gem. The Fox dining rooms is located in the

resort’s 19th-century manor house and offers exquisite two AA Rosette

cooking in stunning surroundings.

Open to visitors, as well as members and hotel guests, the restaurant’s grand

interior, stylish décor and extravagent windows overlooking the 400-acre

estate make it a picture-perfect place to dine.

Three individually designed rooms offer charm and character with exceptional

service providing a relaxed setting to enjoy the culinary delights crafted by

esteemed head chef, Achal Aggarwal, and his expert brigade in the kitchen.

Expect sophisticated modern British cuisine with an Asian twist, full of

high-quality fresh ingredients, locally sourced wherever possible, and

presented elegantly and with flair.

Open for dinner Monday to Sunday, 6pm - 10pm

Named after the influential 18th-century politician, Charles James Fox,

rekindle his spirit as a man who indulged in the finer things in life by

experiencing these delectable dishes in style and informal comfort, with a nod

to Fox’s love of socialising.

For menus & booking, visit:

www.foxhills.co.uk/dine

Art & Sculpture

in the

Vineyard

29 June –13 July 2025

11am - 4pm

Set in the glorious Surrey Hills

Area of Outstanding Natural

Beauty

DISCOVER OUR GORGEOUS

VINTAGE CERULEAN CUVÉE.

Experience 100’s of inspirational artworks, stroll through

our Wildflower Meadows, Vineyard, Rose Arch Walk

and tranquil Japanese Garden.

Entrance £7pp donation to Cherry Trees Charity.

Open also for their celebrated Tour, Talk, Tasting outside of

the Sculpture Summer Event. Pre-book please.

High Clandon Estate Vineyard High Clandon, Surrey GU4 7RP

www.highclandon.co.uk | T: 01483 225660 | @highclandon

23


Relocation Clearance

OUR OXSHOTT SHOWROOM IS RELOCATING SUMMER 2025

Massive savings, everything must go!

01372 841 730 | 1 High Street, Oxshott, Surrey, KT22 0JN |

Le Creuset are celebrating their centenary this

year, having spent 100 glorious years bringing

colour and practical magic to our kitchens.

To mark the occasion, their limited edition

Flamme Dorée collection has put a sparkly spin

on their classic Volcanic colour. lecreuset.co.uk

Jo Malone’s latest

collection is crafted for

the modern man, with

scents of black cedarwood

and juniper, cumin and

chilli. There is a shaving

cream, aftershave

moisturiser, and

even a travel kit

for the man on the

go. Plus, you may

have heard through

the grapevine that

the Cypress &

Grapevine collection

is expanding to

include all over

body spray and

a candle. Find

both collections

at jomalone.co.uk

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!

Pride month

is a joyful

time to

celebrate

LGBTQ+

culture in abundant

and joyful colour with

rainbows galore! If you’re

looking to find some

everyday fashions to

show your support, try

Sugarhill Brighton.

They have plenty of

fun and flattering

pieces in Brighton

bright shades to get

you ready for Pride,

like this Minerva

Midi which is £74 at

sugarhillbrighton.com

We love that the sun is finally out

and has its hat on! But our skin

does need a little helping hand

to enjoy it. A good moisturiser with SPF

like this Mineral SPF Moisturiser from

GAIA will see you right. Bringing you the

luxurious feel of one of GAIA’s spas or

hotels, it is SPF 25+ to protect from UVA

and UVB rays and is pure goodness in all

ways – vegan, cruelty-free, eco-friendly,

sustainable, natural ingredients, and free

from parabens, sulphates and synthetic

fragrances. £38 at gaiaskincare.com

Planning a day at the

races? If you’re going for

best dressed, a statementmaking

hat is sure to get

you some attention. Mizi

Atelier delivers quirky

headwear in spades and they are made

with sustainability at heart. Existing

hat or fascinator bases are sourced and

upcycled with vintage, preowned, or

repurposed materials to make truly

unique creations in 90% biodegradable

materials. This Hashi hat for example

was a charity shop find, upcycled for a

new lease of life. £295 at miziatelier.com

Shopping, holidaying,

summer-outing-ing, there

is so much to do! And you

need a good bag to get you

through. Different Kind’s

totes embody their ethical

ethos with bold slogans

to wear proudly, and they

are made from cotton

grown without pesticides,

so they don’t just talk

the talk! They’re £20 at

thedifferentkind.com

Mediterranean vibes are

a must at the moment.

And this new candle

from Lords will take

you on holiday with

aromas of limoncello,

basil, and ripe tomatoes

on the vine. It is all

wrapped up in a hand

drawn glass vessel

and is £45.50 at

lordsfragrancehouse.com

With Father’s Day on the horizon, many

of us are looking towards lovely Dads

and thinking they deserve so much but

alas, are so very difficult to buy for. But

one thing the vast majority will love is

good food, and The British Hamper

Company’s hampers come stocked full

of it. This family business has hampers

of all sizes and prices, each holding lovely

goodies from Britain’s best artisans, and

they have a special selection made for

fathers on their website, britishhamper.com

25


Sunny side

up

Words: Jo Arnell

Photographs: David Merewether

In the centre of Rochester, a charmingly wonky house with the most

enviable views out over the cathedral and castle has been expertly renovated

by a local couple with a keen interest in the building’s heritage


26

27


Previous pages: The warm yellow kitchen blends 16th century structure with mid-century accessories. Chrome chairs are upholstered

in Piccadilly Line fabric by Kirkby Design This page: Mid-century modern meets Georgian splendour in the opulent sitting room. An

inviting deep orange L-shaped sofa anchors the room, and contrasts perfectly with the blue walls – in Farrow & Ball Oval Room Blue

Of all the Medway towns,

Rochester wears the crown

– actually it can choose to

parade about in several – boasting a

whole Norman castle, a truly ancient

cathedral and a connection to one of

our great novelists. In fact, references to

this writer’s name and works feature so

heavily as you walk along the high street

that you’d be forgiven for wondering

what the Dickens was going on. This

is a town steeped in history, with a

mix of architecture that goes all the

way back to its Roman foundations.

The Wonky House is situated right in

the heart of the town, a mere medieval

stone’s throw away from both the castle

and cathedral. The building is easily

spotted as you approach, because, as

you might have already guessed – it’s

wonky. In fact, viewed from the outside,

the building lurches at a precariously

disturbing angle. It is the leaning drunk

of the high street – a fitting home

for the latest ground floor occupant,

that happens to be a microbrewery.

Kit and Victoria, the couple behind

the transformation of this 16th century

building, have managed to turn a

forlorn and fusty relic into a beautifully

curated holiday home. And, once inside,

the impression is definitely not one of

wonkiness, but of its masterful colour

scheme and decorative flair – all set off

perfectly by the light that streams in

through large Georgian windows. Paint

has been cleverly applied to the walls

and to the ceilings, so that each room is

drenched in a different Farrow & Ball

colour – and the result is confident and

effective. Period charm is infused with

contemporary elegance here – the living

spaces are a bold mix of classical outlines

with mid-century infill, blending

beautifully into a harmonious whole.

Kit has known this building for a long

time. “I was brought up in the area and

have walked past it so many times. I saw

that there was a For Sale sign outside

one day and thought it was just for the

flat above the bar, but it was for the

whole building. It was up for auction.”

In the end they were able to buy

the place post auction via the estate

agent – and then the hard work began.

The Wonky House is, unsurprisingly,

Grade ll listed, but luckily applications

to make changes were limited, because

they were restoring the building, not

making significant alterations. The


This page: The furnishings in the sitting room are eclectic.

artefacts and scraps of ephemera and information abound in

here – all things that visitors to this historic neighbourhood and

its surroundings will find interesting – both ancient and modern

outside had to be painted, but by keeping to the previous

colour, it was a repaint, not a change to the outside.

“Twenty five years ago the previous owner had done

a fair amount of structural updating,” explains Kit,

but some of the work, although fairly competent,

was definitely in need of modernisation. The Wonky

House had hit hard times and needed a total revamp.

“It was very cold and damp when we first got the

place,” says Victoria, “and painted cream everywhere.”

They had to remove 5 tonnes of rubbish from the

building before work could start – including a strange

marble floor that was made from marble chips and

off cuts. “It looked like a crazy paved marble floor,”

says Kit. “The floor in the living room bowed by

18 inches,” he adds, “you felt like you were walking

uphill. It’s still bowing now, but only by 6 inches.”

They are fortunate to have a trusted and talented

builder Stewart Hart on board, who was excited to have

the privilege of working on this iconic old building,

understanding how to sympathetically restore and

renovate, and to preserve as many of the original features

as possible. “We get on really well, he’s worked with me

on some of my other projects,” explains Kit. “He knows

me well enough to anticipate what decisions I would make

and can just get on with the work, which is great.”

29


This page: The kitchen has been painted in Farrow & Ball’s

Sudbury Yellow. Simple, off the shelf cabinets from Howdens

have been made to look bespoke with a skirting board and some

clever cabinet surrounds, the worktops have also been elevated

All the services – electrics, plumbing, heating – went in

smoothly – the different trades all worked in a cohesive

team, and the project was completed without a hitch.

They installed restored cast iron radiators throughout, which

provide beauty as well as the much needed warmth. Lighting

has been a key focus too. “Much of the recessed lighting was

already here, but we added more,” explains Victoria. “Lighting

is so important, you want to feel cosy when you are inside

in the evening. We use layered lighting – a combination of

down lights and side lamps. It’s important to think about

how each space is going to be used and make the lighting

appropriate, I’m not such a fan of overhead lighting.”

The rooms at the top of the house have been well insulated

– both the ceiling and floor. The old floorboards had to be

replaced up here, but fortunately any intact wood was put to

good use patching up those on the floors beneath. The top

floor rooms were carpeted, making these lofts extra cosy.

The couple were at first doubtful about how two sets of single

beds would work in the spaces under the eaves, “but it has


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This page: From the blue room there is a wonderful

view of Rochester Castle. This bedroom also features

a fabulous fireplace with an original wooden surround

that Kit was at pains to maintain just as he found

it – “with the patina of the years stamped into it.”

turned out really well!” says Kit. “The

rooms are long and the gap between

the beds is not as narrow as we had

anticipated. It works. There’s lots of

space up here and fabulous views of

the castle – and Rochester Cathedral

too.” These two rooms are very similar

in layout, twinned in more ways than

one, but one is painted blue – Dix

Blue – and the other is Preference

Red, both by Farrow & Ball.

Victoria explains that they managed to

secure the service of a talented interior

design consultant, Karina Moore, to

help them with the decoration.

33


“She was worth every penny,” she says,

explaining how the bold and vibrant

colour schemes came about. “Karina

chose colours that I might never have

picked out – and they’ve worked out

really well.” The pair meshed their skills

seamlessly together – Karina sourced

materials and fabrics, and Victoria made

all the headboards for the beds and many

of the soft furnishings throughout.

“We would go on expeditions to

auction hoses and junk shops sourcing

furniture and fittings – the radiators

are all reclaimed and refurbished so

that they work perfectly with modern

plumbing. Kit confesses to being a

collector of heritage paraphernalia and

all around the house there are fabulous

enamel signs, framed prints, objects

and accessories – the couple have even

uncovered some of the original

wallpapers from the house and

“Kit and Victoria have

managed to turn a forlorn and

fusty relic into a beautifully

curated holiday home”

This page: Due to the narrow winding

staircase, wardrobes in the bedrooms were

impractical, but this has worked to their

advantage, creating uncluttered, tranquil spaces


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This page: The two rooms right at the top of the house are very similar in layout, one painted in Farrow & Ball Dix Blue, and the

other in Preference Red

framed them to hang in one of the main bedrooms. “They

are like time capsules,” says Victoria, an authentic and

tangible link to the origins of this iconic building.

Descending down a floor, we find two generous

bedrooms, each with a distinct yet complementary feel.

One is painted in Sulking Room Pink, a dusky rose that

exudes warmth and serenity, while the other is bathed in

Light Blue, a soft and airy hue. Due to the narrow winding

staircase, wardrobes were impractical, but this has worked

to their advantage, creating uncluttered, tranquil spaces.

From the blue room there is another mesmerising

view – you could almost step out of the window into the

grounds of the castle from here. This bedroom also features

a fabulous fireplace with an original wooden surround that

Kit was at pains to maintain just as he found it – “with the

patina of the years stamped into it.” The amazing staircase

has also been left as it was, a sculptural wooden centrepiece

winding up through the interior. The aged patina of the

stairs resonates with the wonderful old beams that have

been stripped back and waxed. With its venerable old bones

on show the building exudes an extra layer of warmth and

authenticity – just the sort of thing that will appeal to visitors

wanting to stay in the ancient town and its environs.

Rochester’s Norman castle was built as a strategic stronghold

to defend and control the river Medway, one of the main

access routes into London. The cathedral was established

long before the castle – it was built in 604, and is the second

oldest cathedral in England after Canterbury. The area has

a rich maritime history too – and the Wonky House is the

perfect place from which to explore the neighbourhood.

Both these main bedrooms have matching en suite

bathrooms, simply, but stylishly laid out. There is also a family

bathroom, centrally situated to serve the upstairs rooms.

Winding down the stairs we enter an opulent sitting room,

where a warm welcome awaits us. Mid-century modern meets

Georgian splendour in here for the ultimate in stylish comfort.

A sumptuous and inviting deep orange L-shaped sofa anchors

the room, and contrasts perfectly with the blue walls – this time

Oval Room Blue. “It is a warm blue,” explains Victoria, “so

there is not the cold feeling that there was at first in this space.”

The furnishings in this room are eclectic, a huge arc

lamp swings out to make a stylish statement in the middle

37


Up a flight of stairs that

leads into the house from

the courtyard below, the

hallway is painted a dusky

pink and is filled with

lots of items with local

interest that Kit sourced

specially for this project

of the room. Artefacts and scraps of

ephemera and information abound

in here – all things that visitors to

this historic neighbourhood and its

surroundings will find interesting –

both ancient and modern. There are

many tales to hear and sights to see.

Yellow is a splendid colour to paint

a kitchen – like inviting Doris Day to

breakfast, and Sudbury Yellow is possibly

the perfect yellow to choose – it’s not too

bright, but not pale; welcoming, cheerful

and warm and an excellent partner

for the dusky blue wall units. There

are some brilliant hacks to be learned

in here – one of the most useful and

cost-saving are the kitchen cupboards.

These are simple, off the shelf cabinets

from Howdens, but they’ve been made

to look bespoke with a skirting board

and some clever cabinet surrounds, the

worktops have also been elevated. There

are no wall cupboards in here either,

so again this room feels spacious and

uncluttered. Coffee making happens

within the recess of an old fireplace,

ingeniously freeing up the counter

for food preparation and cooking.

Instead of the ubiquitous kitchen

island, there is a comfortable and cosy,

but distinctly separate, dining area. “The

house sleeps eight,” says Victoria, “so I

needed to make sure that the table would

comfortably seat eight too.” And due

to the sensible combination of chairs –

covered in the recognisable, but hard to

place, London Underground Piccadilly

Line fabric – and a comfy looking

banquette seat it easily accommodates

all guests without a problem.

Thanks to Victoria and Kit’s creative

and colourful reimagining, this once

bleak house has been restored to not

merely its former glory, but a new level

of finish. Anyone lucky enough to stay

here will find that it offers more than just

a base from which to explore this historic

part of Kent. A whole new chapter has

opened for the characterful and now

very comfortable Wonky House.

Address Book:

You can book a stay at The Wonky

House through Bloom Stays at

bloomstays.com/property/the-wonky-house

Karina Moore Design

karinamooredesign.com

Stewart Hart stewarthart@mail.com


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1 Witham Blue Paint £45/2.5l Sophie Allport sophieallport.com 2 Kuta floor lamp £439 BoConcept

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Poster Print by Joanne Short of The British Museum London at Christmas £35 The John Dyer Gallery

johndyergallery.com 5 Blend 12 weathered brick slips £70/m 2 The Brick Tile Company bricktilecompany.com

6 Folk Sideboard £634 Atkin and Thyme atkinandthyme.co.uk 7 Oscar 3 seater sofa bed in Deep Amber

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9 York Tawny Oak solid wood flooring £95/m 2 Woodpecker Flooring woodpeckerflooring.co.uk

39


A guest wing

with soul

Words: Antonia Deeson



40

The recently completed renovation of Scarlett

Gowing and her husband Josh’s Victorian

home to include a guest wing has resulted in a

unique three-bedroom escape that showcases

Scarlett’s enviable skills in both interior

design and sourcing unusual vintage pieces

41


“Colour is really

important to me,”

Scarlett says. “But

I like it to feel

nuanced – tonal

washes that sit back

and let texture

take the lead.”

Previous page & this page: The

L-shaped sitting, dining and kitchen

area. The dining table, surrounded

by characterful vintage seating, is by

Portuguese furniture makers HMD

Tucked away on the edge of

St. Leonards, just a short

stroll from the beach, interior

designer Scarlett Gowing and her

husband Josh have lovingly restored

and expanded their Victorian home

to include a guest wing. Originally

conceived as a private family extension,

the couple soon recognised the potential

of the self-contained space, flooded

with light, rich in personality, and

brimming with Scarlett’s signature

design sensibility – and are now

welcoming short-stay visitors seeking a

refined, design-led escape by the sea.

But this is no ordinary holiday let.

What Scarlett has created is a guest

experience unlike any other: a warm,

ever-evolving space that tells a story

of texture, tone and treasured finds. A

place where almost every object you


This page: In the kitchen timber cabinetry is topped with a

tactile marble-effect stone, while tongue-and-groove has been

used on the walls to add warmth and texture mimicking the

woodwork of the traditional English dresser

see, from the embroidered cushions to

the bespoke headboards and vintage

lighting, is available to buy via Scarlett’s

carefully curated online shop. “I loved

the idea of creating a space that’s

beautiful, layered and personal – but

also shoppable,” she explains. “When

you stay somewhere and fall in love

with a particular piece – a lamp, a

cushion, a wallpaper – you can take a

piece of that memory home with you!”

From the moment you step inside, the

space feels enveloping, thoughtful and

calm. The living area – light-drenched

and quietly glamorous – is anchored by

a soft, lime green tone of the embossed

raw silk wallpaper designed by Scarlett

herself. “It’s subtle, but the texture and

the way it catches the light, is really

special,” she says. “It gives the room that

quiet lift, especially with the sunshine

coming through.” A sculptural vintage

buffet, sourced locally in Hastings,

adds character, while chinoiserie

silk screens and vintage mirrors add

a sense of history and charm. All

of it, artfully placed, impeccably

sourced and available to purchase.

In keeping with Scarlett’s love for

texture and natural materials, oversized

cushions and mohair throws add

softness and tactility to the sofa, whilst

underfoot a bold graphic design rug

in the sitting area flows towards a rich

terrazzo-style stone floor, in soft taupes

and greys, in the open-plan dining area

and kitchen beyond. The dining space

features a fabulous table designed by

Portuguese furniture makers HMD,

surrounded by characterful vintage

seating. “There’s something quite

grounding about the mix of heavy linens

and natural wool with more refined

vintage pieces,” Scarlett notes. “I like the

idea that things don’t match perfectly.

That’s what gives a room its soul.”

The kitchen, cleverly designed to

accommodate both cosy dinners

and larger gatherings, has a distinct,

elevated simplicity. Timber cabinetry

is topped with a tactile marble-effect

stone, while tongue-and-groove

has been used on the walls to add

warmth and texture mimicking the

woodwork of the traditional English

dresser and injecting subtle heritage

flair. “It’s a space that works just

43


“I didn’t want

it to feel like a

show home. It

had to feel like

an elegant family

home. Like a space

that’s been lived

in, and layered

over time rather

than an empty

soulless space.”

as well for holiday breakfasts as it does for events,” Scarlett

adds. “Eventually we’ll be opening up the garden and

creating a decked area with a BBQ – something special for

guests who book out the whole space for celebrations.”

Each of the three bedrooms continue the narrative of

thoughtful detail and tactile comfort. The main suite features

Scarlett’s own hand-embroidered wall panels and an oversized

upholstered headboard, complete with built-in side tables.

“It was a bit of a design experiment,” admits Scarlett. “I

wanted something that felt textural and sculptural, but


44

This page: A bespoke embroidered silk wall covering, designed by Scarlett, features in one of the bedrooms.

The heavyweight linen bed cover is available to buy from Scarlett Gowing Interiors

also deeply personal. The embroidery draws on a mix of

influences – there’s a touch of Aboriginal art, some Japanese

motifs and nods to my own Australian heritage.” The result

is a restful and poetic room, with a rich palette of muted

silks, deep-toned velvets, much of which can be bought

via Scarlett’s website. A heavyweight flax linen bedspread

adds to the sense of cocooning, while deep-set window

seats invite slow mornings with a book and coffee.

In the adjacent bedrooms, the layering of soft heritage

tones continues. A powdery plaster-pink room features

contemporary interpretations of traditional stained glass,

while duck-egg blue and natural rattan appear in another

space, where a gently undulating vintage French bedstead

has been upholstered in velvet. “Colour is really important

to me,” Scarlett says. “But I like it to feel nuanced – tonal

washes that sit back and let texture take the lead.”

Even the bathrooms are considered with care. Downstairs,

Italian handmade tiles – subtly veined and luminous –

bring depth and elegance to a compact space. Upstairs, the

same style of tiles reappear, linking the two rooms through

continuity. There’s also a sculptural pedestal sink in carved

stone, and a collection of Murano vintage shell wall lights – a

gentle nod to the home’s coastal setting. What’s remarkable

about Scarlett’s guest wing is how effortless it all feels. While

the design is undoubtedly elevated and refined, there’s a real

sense of comfort and hospitality at its core. Every corner feels


This page, left: Duck-egg blue has been used on the walls in a bedroom, where a gently undulating vintage French bedstead has

been upholstered in velvet Above right: Italian handmade tiles bring depth and elegance to a compact downstairs bathroom

As Scarlett sources new vintage finds and creates textiles, wallpapers and bespoke furniture,

pieces will rotate, change and will be constantly replaced. “You could stay one summer,

come back the next, and it’ll feel different again. It’s a living, breathing space.”

personal, considered, and above all, loved. “I didn’t want it

to feel like a show home,” she says. “It had to feel like an

elegant family home. Like a space that’s been lived in, and

layered over time rather than an empty soulless space.”

The evolving nature of the interiors adds another layer

of intrigue. As Scarlett sources new vintage finds and

creates textiles, wallpapers and bespoke furniture, pieces

will rotate, change and will be constantly replaced. “You

could stay one summer, come back the next, and it’ll feel

different again,” she says. “It’s a living, breathing space.”

This sense of flow and reinvention is echoed in the

way Scarlett approaches her work more broadly. With

a background in fashion and a deep understanding of

materiality, her design language is rooted in emotion,

memory and tactility. “I’ve always been texture-driven,”

she explains. “I love fabrics, the weight of wool, the

47


sheen of silk, the grain of wood. For me, the feeling

of a space is more important than anything.”

For guests, that feeling is what lingers long after they leave

their seaside cocoon. The warmth of the lighting, the softness

of the bed linen, the gentle layering of colour and natural

materials – it’s a kind of quiet luxury, the kind that soothes

the senses and settles the soul. And for those who want to

take a piece of that feeling home? It’s all just a click away.

This page: A third bedroom has been washed in powder

pink from floor to ceiling, the bed layered with tactile

textiles, creating an invitingly cosy atmosphere

Address Book:

For further information on holiday lets and

Scarlett Gowing Interiors, see scarlettgowing.com


Quiet luxury

athink.co.uk

01372 502261

info@athink.co.uk

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Oak Herringbone flooring £133.56/m 2 Chaunceys Timber Flooring chauncey.co.uk


50

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51


Show Time

Surrey’s theatre scene is thriving, so we are putting the

spotlight on a few fantastic local theatres

Richmond Theatre

For out first act, we speak to Richmond Theatre to hear all about what’s on offer at

this historical haven for theatre and entertainment

The theatre is such a beautiful building,

can you tell us a bit about the building

itself and its history? Richmond Theatre

celebrated 125 years last year! It first

opened as a theatre in 1899 having

been designed by renowned architect

Frank Matcham. Matcham designed

a variety of iconic theatres across the

UK, including The London Palladium,

Hackney Empire and Bristol Hippodrome.

At 125, Richmond is one of the oldest

surviving examples of his work. We

have three levels to choose from, with

plush red seats, and our auditorium

includes beautiful designs around the

proscenium, plus four Shakespeare scenes

on the ceiling around the chandelier!

What do you offer for families and kids?

We have a wide range of family shows

on offer here at Richmond. Coming

up we have Tom Gates (17 Aug),

the magical multisensory Slava’s

Snowshow (5-9 November) and,

of course, our spectacular annual

pantomime, which this year

is Cinderella. We also have a

thriving Creative Learning

programme which includes

regular activities for under

5s, summer schools and

workshops for teens, and

even a weekly adult choir!

What are the seats like and where do you

recommend are the best in the house?

All of our seats are fantastic – we have no

restricted views or pillars, and seats have

plenty of leg room. The Stalls and Dress

Circle are our best seats for plays and

musicals, while our Upper Circle still offers

a great view for a more affordable price.

What food and drink can we

enjoy on our theatre trip?

We offer a variety of drinks and snacks

at the venue, from wines, Champagne

and cocktails for adults, to soft drinks for

children. We have a range of sweets, crisps,

and nuts if you’re feeling peckish, and in

the summer we recommend heading to our

Dress Circle Bar Balcony in the interval to

soak up the sunshine with a cold beverage!

What are some of your highlights from

your time working at the theatre?

We’re so lucky here at Richmond because

we attract some of the finest actors

and performers from across the world.

In 2023, we were lucky to host two

fantastic shows for a week before they

headed to the West End: A Little Life,

starring James Norton, and Vanya, which

starred Andrew Scott. We are proud to

continually be chosen as the place where

award-winning productions start their

journey before heading to bigger houses

– so book to see a show at Richmond

and you could be seeing it first!

Do you have a favourite time

of year for the theatre?

Christmas is such a magical time in

Richmond, and our panto season is

always a fun time of year, especially

because we have so many different

people making up our audiences.

From school groups and the

local Scouts on their end of year

trips, to families who make it

their annual tradition to visit

the panto, and even little ones

experiencing their first time

at the theatre with us!

To find out more and book your tickets, find them online at atgtickets.com/richmond-theatre

53



G Live

Christina Horsepool, Venue Director at G Live

talks city secrets and exciting entertainment

What can we look forward to at G Live in 2025?

2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year! We’re

welcoming back major names like Jimmy Carr,

Josh Widdicombe, and Miriam Margolyes,

alongside a packed programme of live music –

from classical concerts to top tribute acts and the

Vitamin String Quartet’s take on The Music of

Taylor Swift, Bridgerton and Beyond. Families can

enjoy shows like In The Night Garden, and our

‘Evenings With’ series features inspiring guests like

Tim Peake and Jon Ronson. We’re also thrilled

to host the UK Tour of Fawlty Towers The Play in

the run-up to Christmas. Beyond the stage, our

Creative Learning programme offers something

for all ages – from half term workshops and family

fun days to Baby Friendly Cinema Club, Memory

Cinema, and our Summer Youth Project.

What are the best bits on offer for food and drink

while we enjoy our show?

Our Café is open daily for light bites, coffee catchups,

or a change of scene from working at home.

Before the show, enjoy a drink from our bar, or

try our globally inspired grab-and-go street food.

(I personally am a big fan of our BBQ Chicken

Burger with wedge!) We’re also refurbishing our

front of house area this summer to add a new

lounge space with luxury food and drink packages

for an extra-special night out.

What shows or events stand out in your memory in

the time you’ve worked at G Live?

I only started as Venue Director in January but

I’ve already seen such a variety of shows and it’s

that variety that really stands out. I’ve watched a

classical concert, a stand-up comedian, a rock gig,

a family show, and seen our events team in action

for large dining and conference events.

You have a great location just off the high street,

can you recommend any Guildford hot spots?

You can make a whole day of it and start off with

a bit of shopping, some favourites are M&S,

Anthropologie, The White Company and Next.

Then after all that walking around you can come

to The Café at G Live for a delicious lunch break!

There’s also plenty of activities around us for all

ages including, Guildford Spectrum just a few

miles down the road, Paradox Parlours escape

rooms and Sixes Cricket Club both off the high

street. When the curtain comes down on a show

at G Live, the night doesn’t have to stop there!

You can grab a drink right on our doorstop at the

Long Bar or have a small wander down to Tudor

Antiques, the hidden cocktail bar.

What are the best places to stay nearby for those

visiting Guildford?

We highly recommend the Harbour Hotel next

door. It offers a luxury experience with beautiful

rooms, a fantastic spa, and excellent dining –

perfect to unwind before or after a show. With

its stylish atmosphere and unbeatable location,

it’s an ideal base for your visit to Guildford. G

Live partners with the Harbour Hotel Guildford

to offer patrons 20% off room bookings, simply

head to G Live’s website for more information

about your visit.

If you›d like to book your tickets and find out

more, you can find GLive online at

trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford

Yvonne Arnaud

Ellie Harman, Marketing Manager tells us all about child-friendly

provisions, city attractions and Yvonne Arnaud’s past and future

istockphoto.com/ Nosyrevy & YULIYA SHAVYRA & Misha Shutkevych

What shows are you most excited about at the

moment?

We have a jam-packed summer programme this

year, but a highlight has to be our collaboration

with Guildford Shakespeare Company. We’re

producing two plays, running from 10-26

July: The Comedy of Errors and A Company of

Rascals, which will be performed simultaneously

on the main stage and in promenade around the

theatre, with the same cast moving between both!

Is there any way kids can get involved?

Every half-term and school holiday we offer

a workshop programme. This year, we have

everything from drama camps to creative makeup

sessions, and musical theatre to magic.

Throughout the year there are also shows and

events for children of all ages, including stage

adaptations of popular picture books like Spot’s

Birthday Party (13-15 Jun), Julia Donaldson’s The

Singing Mermaid (20-24 Aug) and Stick Man (16-

19 Oct). Plus, we can’t forget panto! This year

it’s Beauty and the Beast (29 Nov – 4 Jan) and it’s

perfect for all ages.

You’re located a stone’s throw from Guildford

High Street, other than the theatre, what are your

favourite things about the town?

I love walking around the Castle grounds or

along the river in my lunch breaks in the summer.

Although we are in a busy town we also have lots

of peaceful spots.

Can you recommend anywhere for dinner or

drinks while we’re in the area?

Our Riverbank Kitchen is open Tuesdays to

Saturdays. It’s perfect for lunch, afternoon tea or a

light bite during the day (especially in the summer

when our terrace is open), and offers a great preshow

dining option. Everything is homemade,

including the cakes, and we are dog friendly too.

The theatre is a Grade II listed building, can you

tell us a bit about its history?

We opened our doors in 1965 as a proud

memorial to the much-loved French actress who

had made her home in Effingham Common.

Actor Sir Michael Redgrave led the campaign to

raise funds and build the theatre with support

from many other leading actors of the day,

including Dirk Bogarde and Vanessa Redgrave.

We turn 60 this year, and are now coming to

the end of a year-long refurbishment project to

radically improve the building’s accessibility and

sustainability and remodel our public spaces, with

thanks to the generous support of Your Fund

Surrey, trusts, foundations and individual donors.

Find out more about the Yvonne Arnaud theatre

at yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

55


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56

EDUCATION

63% of Churcher’s Year 6 pupils

achieved the ‘Higher Standard’

in maths, reading and spelling.

National average: 8%

Source: 2024 summative standardised test scores

Visit us to discover more

ChurchersCollege.com

FREE TO

BE ME

I am smart, funny, brave, kind, curious, unique, creative,

energetic, honest, caring, silly, determined, inventive, fearless,

musical, sporty, supportive, thoughtful and a loyal friend.

And that’s just today.

I’m free to be wonderfully

and wholeheartedly me.

Join us for our Whole School Open Morning

on Thursday, 5 June 2025.

Visit www.bansteadprep.com to book your place.

instagram.com/bansteadprep

facebook.com/bansteadprep


58

The Priceless Education Supplement

The

NEWS

The latest

information from

schools across

the South East

Winning moves

What makes you stand out from the crowd? Have you ever

sat in a Paralympian’s wheelchair while he coached you on

how to shoot? Have you bowed to an Olympic Judoka as

she demonstrated title winning moves? Have you held an

Olympic medal, whilst listening to the painful truths about

setbacks and the integral part they play in the life as an

Olympian? The New Beacon were immensely privileged to

welcome Jemima Yeats-Brown and Ade Adepitan this term.

Inspiring, thought-provoking, humbling…welcome to life

at The New Beacon.

Find out more at newbeacon.org.uk

An exciting new chapter

Long recognised as one of the world’s finest boarding

schools, The King’s School Canterbury is increasing

its versatility and accessibility this autumn with the

introduction of flexi-boarding, the expansion of

day provision, and the launch of a new school bus

network. Whilst adapting to meet the changing needs

of pupils and their families, King’s remains committed

to providing an exceptional education in a nurturing

environment; the ideal choice for families looking

for a balanced, world-class and forward-thinking

education in unmatched and inspiring surroundings.

Learn more at kings-school.co.uk

istockphoto.com/ Eakarat Buanoi & master1305

59



Game on!

Loan a lamb

Thousands of primary school children across Sussex

and Surrey have had the rare chance to care for lambs

at school, thanks to the Loan a Lamb scheme, run by

the South of England Agricultural Society’s Education

Committee. They saw over 3,500 pupils from 10 primary

schools experience hands-on farming by looking after a

ewe and her lambs for a week. With increasing concerns

about children being disconnected from where their food

comes from, the Loan a Lamb scheme was designed to

tackle the issue head-on. By bringing real farm animals

into schools, children gain first-hand experience in animal

care, food production and the realities of farming life.

The initiative – which is run in partnership with local

farmers, LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) and

financially supported by the East Sussex Proficiency Test

Committee – saw each participating school host a ewe

and her lambs in a specially provided hutch for a week.

Schools received all necessary equipment, guidance and

support to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare

and learning. For more info visit seas.org.uk

ACS International Schools, an international school group

based in Surrey, has become the first UK secondary school

affiliate of Williams Esports, boosting its esports and

digital offering. Six full-sized gaming rigs are now available

to ACS and partner school students, building on ACS’

commitment to integrate technology into education, and

reinforcing its reputation as an innovative institution that

prepares students for careers in digital media, game design

and technology-driven industries. The introduction of the

Williams Esports gaming rigs adds to an already impressive

collection of opportunities that aid technological literacy

and offer insight into new career paths for students. These

include ACS Egham’s Digital Design course, which uses

esports to aid technical, creative and project management

skills, ACS Hillingdon’s esports club, which enables

students to compete against each other and players all over

the world, new state-of-the-art multi-use science labs and a

circular computer suite. For more information about ACS

International Schools, find them at acs-schools.com

Best of both Worlds

Boarding at Marymount International School London is

a home away from home! Nestled in seven acres of lush

greenery, the boarding house is a vibrant, welcoming space

where girls from around the world live, learn, and laugh

together. With a full calendar of fun activities, there’s always

something exciting happening (and don’t forget supervised

study). The close-knit community means everyone is

supported to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Boarders enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful

surroundings and easy access to culture and buzz. With staff

on hand 24/7, delicious meals, and contemporary rooms,

Marymount boarding is where lifelong friendships are made

and confidence is built. marymountlondon.com


60

“We would have signed up for boarding in an instant!”

-Good Schools Guide

www.marymountlondon.com

Clmt sports park_wealden HP ad_may 2025_no price_PR.pdf 1 13/05/2025 17:51

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

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61


Onthe

Ball

We are finding out

what makes top

sporting schools so

successful

The Numbers

30 sports are available to all

students at recreational level through

to competing on the national and

international stages

Over 200 members of the

sports staff make it all happen

14 full-time Heads of Sport are all

experts in their field

90% of the sports staff hold the

highest qualification in their sport

Millfield

First up to bat, Millfield is known for sport and

has been named the UK’s Best Sports School

for the 11th time in 12 years, so how do they

do it? Find out more at millfieldschool.com

Since 1956 Old Millfieldians

have been at every Olympic games

18 th is where Millfield would have

placed on the medal table at the 2024

Paris Olympics if it were a country

Making Time

Training programmes fit

into timetables, bespoke

for each student, with early

morning sessions, longer

lunch times and after

school sessions on offer

Alumni

Inspiration isn’t hard to come by. Just

a few examples of alumni include

• Formula One driver

Lando Norris

• Olympic gold medallist

swimmer James Guy

• England Rugby players Chris

Robshaw and Sir Gareth Edwards

• Rio 2016 Olympic

medallist Helen Glover

Girls in Sport

The unique Girls in Sport

programme empowers girls and

educates boys. Students and staff

have attended talks on nutrition

and the menstrual cycle, awareness

around female specific injury

prevention for women in sports

and amendments have been

made to female kit colours and

shapes. The passionate student-led

committee have hosted takeover

weeks on the school’s social media

channels, raising awareness through

podcasts, blogs and videos.

Focus on whole person development

Competition

Consistency

Health

Matched Ability

Facilities

Variability

Outstanding facilities support sports

at Millfield and set the school apart

• An Olympic-sized swimming pool

• Indoor golf and cricket centres

• An equestrian centre

• Tennis Bubble

• Sports viewing pavilion

• Championship standard

rugby and football pitches

• Dojo

• Fencing salle

• Pitch side cameras



Outreach

The school’s sporting impact extends beyond its students. Outreach

initiatives bring local primary school children onto site, led by student

leaders, and select local young athletes are invited to join the school’s

performance pathways. Local clubs also benefit from use of the facilities.

istockphoto.com/ Viktoria Nevzorova & lhfgraphics

Bar-raising

Facilities

Beyond structured sessions, the

school’s exceptional facilities immerse

students in a strong sporting culture

and this enthusiasm fuels both

individual and team success

State-of-the-art gym (‘Duke Box’)

Olympic-standard athletics track

Full-size floodlit hockey pitch

Sports hall with 4 badminton courts

Dance studio with a Harlequin floor

6 lane indoor swimming pool

6 lawn and 2 hard tennis courts

6 rugby pitches

3 cricket squares

Full-size and 5-a-side football pitch

Outdoor climbing wall and

indoor bouldering wall

Cross-country course and

outdoor fitness trail

Indoor and outdoor shooting ranges

Floodlit Multi-Use Games Area

Sports pavilion

4 floodlit all-weather

netball/tennis courts

The Duke of

York’s Royal

Military School

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School is thriving, with outstanding

results across multiple disciplines, we asked them to share their winning

formula. For more information visit doyrms.com

This Year

Over the past year

alone, the school

has seen...

5 students selected

for county hockey

10 students

playing for Ealing

Trailfinders U18

4 students

earning regional

rugby selection

Director of Sport Justin

Loveridge attributes this success

to a broad foundation supporting

elite performance and says

“Every student participates in two games

afternoons weekly, with over half the student

body involved in Saturday fixtures. Years 7-9

receive weekly PE lessons, while an extensive

co-curricular programme offers both highperformance

training and recreational

clubs. Sixth formers even enjoy

one-on-one coaching.”

Affordability

Fees start at £4,000 per term,

delivering outstanding value and

keeping the school affordable despite its

elite sports programme. The school also

offers sports scholarships which reduce

fees or assist with the cost of sports

kit, equipment, or travel.

2 students

representing Kent

in athletics, with

one reaching the

national stage

470 students

aged 11 to 18 call

this co-educational

boarding school

home



Flying

Colours

We’re asking the experts to

find all the best advice to get

you through exam season

3 Steps

to success

Benenden School’s Exams department

share their 3 steps to effective revision

Step 1

Notes. Students need

something to learn from.

Notes can be made from the

material given in lessons, supplemented by wider

reading of textbooks or revision guides. They need to

be a summary of the information given rather than

verbatim from the lesson or any written material.

Research suggests notes should be approx. 10-20% of

the material reviewed, focusing on the main points

made, and can take many forms – bullet point lists,

tables, mindmaps, flow diagrams, posters etc.

Step 2

Learning. Possessing notes

isn’t enough for information

retention, students need

to learn the material. Popular learning techniques

include mnemonics, rhymes, flash cards and blurting.

Blurting is a revision technique where students write

down everything they can remember about a topic

from memory before checking their notes, helping

to strengthen recall and identify gaps in knowledge.

This is repeated until the student can confidently

write down all the information accurately.

Step 3

Practice. A test or exam

should never be the first time

students apply the knowledge

they have learned from their revision. Success in

assessments is as much about exam technique as it is

about subject knowledge. Students can find a wide

range of practice questions on the internet or create

their own using AI (see below).

istockphoto.com/ Yuliya Derbisheva & Nguyen Dinh Minh Quan

How to use AI

Artificial intelligence can be really useful for revision

if used well. Some possible uses of AI include:

• Helping to create a schedule

• Knowledge test

• Summarising notes and articles

• Finding mistakes in your work

Find out more about Benenden School at benenden.school


istockphoto.com/ Yuliya Derbisheva & Nguyen Dinh Minh Quan

Top Tips

Sir William Perkins’s School Deputy Head, Pastoral, Heather O’Connor, offers

tips to help ease worries and boost confidence during exam season

Active Memorisation Use active memorisation techniques in short

bursts. Engaging with the material actively can make a big difference. Create quizzes

and test yourself regularly. Record voice notes listing key facts and play them back while

getting ready in the morning. You might benefit from creating knowledge organisers on

posters or post-it notes for around your bedroom or learning space.

Sleep well Sleep is your friend: Quality sleep is crucial for memory and

cognitive function. Ensure all devices are left in another room to charge at night to avoid

distractions and promote better sleep.

Plan treats Rewarding yourself for revising tricky topics or completing exams

can keep you motivated. Simple treats like a hot chocolate can provide something to look

forward to and make the study process more enjoyable.

Lean on others Involving others in your study process can be incredibly

effective. Ask friends or family to quiz you on topics you’ve learned. This not only

reinforces your knowledge but also makes studying more interactive and less isolating.

Practice papers As many as you can – practice makes perfect. Completing

practice papers and using the mark scheme to check your answers helps you understand

the exam format and identify areas for improvement.

Be kind Maintaining a positive mindset is essential. Being kind to yourself and

avoiding negative self-talk can reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing. Remind

yourself that you will get through the exams and that summer is just around the corner.

By incorporating these tips into your study routine, you can approach exam season with

greater confidence and less anxiety. Good luck!

Find out more about Sir William Perkins’s School at swps.org.uk


DISCOVER

BRILLIANCE

millfieldschool.com/open-days

Open Day

4 October

•

Y E A R

T H E

C O - E D U C AT

O F

I O N A L

S C H O O L

I N D E P E N D E N T

AGES 2-18, BOYS AND GIRLS

BOARDING AND DAY

Millfield_SurreyHomes_A4_Apr25_Amelia_Jaden_2.indd 1 28/03/2025 16:26


Adapt, Adopt,

Improve

We’re looking into how schools are introducing and expanding provision

in certain areas of study to keep ahead in a changing world

AI

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate tell

us how they are harnessing AI

STEM

The Granville School is proud to offer girls a

rich and engaging STEM education

istockphoto.com/ Atichart Amatyakul

rtificial Intelligence is here to stay. Schools cannot afford to

ignore it and, indeed, are doing students a disservice if they do

not properly discuss and agree their fundamental approach

to its use. Academic Director at Queen Ethelburga’s

Collegiate, Kevin Oldershaw, believes it’s vital for schools to have a clear

approach to the use of AI.

“At QE, our approach has been to see AI as a tool to enhance and

support learners and teachers. Why wouldn’t we? It is already so

embedded in daily life, and in use in a range of careers, we feel obligated

to increase student exposure to its potential. They will be entering a very

different employment landscape from even 10 years ago, and we owe it

to them to prepare them as best we can for their futures.

“Our new AI policy outlines to staff not only how AI can be used by

teachers, leaders and support staff, but also how this must be done in

a responsible way, considering ethics, data privacy and bias. The same

message has been repeated to students in a series of age-appropriate

assemblies. For younger students, the approach has been to work with

teachers using AI as a class; for older ones, the focus is on encouraging

experimentation with how AI can help them, in a controlled and

managed environment.”

Appreciating the importance of the need to keep up to date with this

rapidly developing area and to ensure that AI is seen as a tool for people

to use, not to fear, we created and recruited to a new role of Head of

Cognitive Science. As an experienced teacher within Creative

Media and enthusiastic user of technology, Jason Sharma-

Pay has supported us in further developing our digital

strategy to better understand how human creativity,

empathy, emotional intelligence and capacity for

critical thought can ensure artificial intelligence

works in collaboration with human decision-making

to enhance, rather than replace, the importance of

the person.

To find out more about studying at QE or to book

a visit to see for yourself email admissions@

qe.org, book the next Open Day on

Saturday 7 June or visit qe.org

Statistics from the latest labour market data shows that more than 1

million more STEM jobs were created over the last 7 years. However,

the representation of women remains low, with women in the UK

being only 29% of the UK STEM workforce.

Schools play a crucial role in closing this gap. Research shows that girls

attending all-girls’ schools are 40% more likely to apply for engineering

degrees and 50% have worked in STEM fields, compared to just 8% of

women in the wider STEM workforce. At The Granville School, a girls-only

environment from Reception, we champion STEM through a forwardthinking

curriculum, expert teaching, and rich hands-on experiences.

Engineering now takes a more prominent place in our science curriculum,

taught by specialists with degrees in microbiology and engineering.

STEM starts early. In Pre-School, children explore engineering principles

using large wooden blocks to build walkways and structures. Problem-solving

continues into Key Stage 2, where a refurbished lab supports project-based

learning. Pupils design and test their own inventions, gaining independence,

resilience and teamwork skills. In Year 6, girls competed in the F1 in

Schools regional finals winning awards for their design portfolio, pit display

and team identity.

Computing is also embedded from Pre-School. By Year 1, girls create digital

art, code robots, and explore 3D modelling. From Year 3, they take

part in the BEBRAS Challenge – this

year, 11 girls achieved Gold, placing

them in the top 10% nationally. They

build webpages using HTML and CSS

by Year 4, develop interactive apps

with JavaScript in Year 5, and

use Python in Year 6 to generate

digital art, explore AI and Machine

Learning, and complete the iDEA

Awards. In addition, Year 6 girls

extend their Maths learning

through a dedicated business

and finance module. STEM

workshops take place regularly

and their recent careers fair

had female speakers from

STEM industries.

67

Find out more at

granvilleschool.org



Bridging

Tradition &

Technology

Burgess Hill Girls has a new learning

approach to the digital world

urgess Hill Girls are undergoing

a digital transformation that

promises to revolutionise the

way students learn, engage,

and prepare for their future

academic and professional journeys.

The school’s new digital strategy

represents a bold step forward in

educational technology. Each student will

be equipped with a tablet device, designed

to enhance learning across all subjects.

Burgess Hill Girls Science Scholar

Ciara O’Boyle says, “The introduction

of tablets means that work can be widely

accessed across the school,” Ciara explains.

“Instead of looking through multiple books

and textbooks, I can quickly find what I

need with a simple search or by pulling

up specifications.” Ciara, sees immense

potential in digital tools. “I’ll use a device

for lab write-ups and calculations,” she

shares. “Digital practicals are incredibly

helpful – they serve as excellent reminders

and can be accessed online, reducing the

need for repetitive demonstrations.”

Headteacher Heather Cavanagh

emphasises the importance of a balanced

approach: “We’re modernising how our

students work. While taking a significant

technological step, we’re not abandoning

traditional methods. Books and physical

writing remain crucial. Our goal is to

prepare students for a predominantly

digital future.” Ciara sees this initiative

as a critical stepping stone: “With my

university aspirations for September 2026,

this technological integration is perfectly

timed. The universities I’ve visited are

almost entirely digital – from lectures

to essay submissions. These devices will

help me become more prepared for that

environment.”

The school’s digital strategy integrates

cutting-edge digital tools with traditional

educational resources. Students will enjoy

unprecedented flexibility in approaching

and presenting assignments, with work

becoming instantly accessible and

customisable. By embracing this digital

strategy, Burgess Hill Girls is actively

shaping a forward-thinking educational

experience by equipping students with

essential skills needed to thrive in an

increasingly digital world.

Discover more about their digital

education strategy and the school itself via

burgesshillgirls.com

istockphoto.com/ pressureUA & Tanya Syrytsyna


CREATIVITY.

CURIOSITY.

CONFIDENCE.

The independent school committed

to personal achievement, moving to

co-education in 2026.

At Sir William Perkins’s School in Chertsey, we help every student

embrace their curiosity, pursue their ambitions and realise their

potential, ready to make their mark on the world.

And with a range of school transport options serving Richmond,

Weybridge, Cobham and Woking, we couldn’t be better connected.

Begin your journey at swps.org.uk

SWPS Co-Ed Advert Surrey Homes 297x210 V1.indd 1 05/02/2025 17:34

Outside

Now more than ever we appreciate the importance of spending time in the great

outdoors and look to our schools to get young people venturing out into the fresh

air. Here we ask a couple of them how it’s done!

down to the woods

Sutton Valence Prep tells us all about their thriving

Forest School and its benefits for pupils

t Sutton Valence Prep, pupils are

actively encouraged to engage

with the outdoors through our

Forest School programme,

which is a central part of the curriculum.

Originally a small woodland area, the

Forest School has expanded significantly

with the addition of more land in

2023. Pupils from Nursery to Year 6

take part in a wide range of outdoor

activities designed to promote creativity,

independence and environmental

awareness. These include cooking on an

open fire, building shelters with natural

materials, foraging for seasonal produce

and learning about ecology by planting

wildflowers and creating wildlife habitats.

Our initiative goes beyond simply

offering outdoor lessons; pupils are

actively involved in

maintaining and developing the Forest

School environment. Recent projects

have included planting trees, building

Whether climbing

trees, running across

the field, or building

structures, these

experiences encourage

strength and agility

while reducing stress

woodchip pathways and constructing

play areas with wooden equipment. This

hands-on involvement helps pupils feel

a sense of ownership over their learning

space and teaches them valuable lessons

about sustainability and teamwork.

The Bushcraft after-school club offers

opportunities for pupils to learn fire

building, cook over open flames and use

flint to create fire – activities that foster

both practical and life skills.

The physical benefits of our outdoor

initiatives are significant. Pupils spend

time engaging in activities that develop

their physical fitness, coordination and

motor skills. Whether climbing trees,

running across the field, or building

structures, these experiences encourage

strength and agility while reducing stress.

Forest School also promotes emotional

growth by providing a space where pupils

can gain confidence, resilience and selfesteem

as they face challenges and work

together.

The programme fosters important social

skills such as communication, empathy

and conflict resolution. Pupils also

develop independent thinking as they

take ownership of tasks, make decisions

and solve problems. Ultimately, our

Forest School programme supports the

growth of well-rounded, responsible

pupils with a lasting connection to

nature.

If you’d like to learn more about Sutton

Valence and their forest school, visit

them online at svs.org.uk

istockphoto.com/ Zenina & Deztinie


70

Chance

Growing Minds

Ashford Prep School discusses the many advantages of

outdoor education for young learners


istockphoto.com/ Zenina & Deztinie

“ ’m on a bit of a mission to

take advantage of our fabulous,

leafy location and make us

more of a country school,”

says Philippa Archer, Headteacher

at Ashford Prep School. “Outdoor

Learning goes beyond the obvious,

practical opportunities associated

with problem solving and creativity

presented by being outside. It boosts

both physical and mental health in

children. It allows us to create deeper

connections with nature, enhance

cognitive function, whilst providing a

calming and grounding experience for

young learners”.

Outdoor education removes the walls

of traditional classrooms, inviting

children into a wider environment

where they can get close to nature.

The aim is to foster curiosity and

nurture a lifelong enthusiasm for

learning by connecting pupils with

the natural world. Outdoor learning

aims to make education a physical

adventure just as much as a mental

one. A woodland clearing becomes a

science lab or a performance space,

a footpath becomes a history lesson,

a leaf inspires a maths problem to be

solved, and a field of wheat transforms

into an art studio. Immersive

education encourages students to ask

questions, explore their inner and

outer selves, and connects them with

their environment in ways textbooks

and digital screens cannot.

The potential benefits of outdoor

education have important implications

for young minds still recovering

from Covid lockdowns. Tom Vafidis,

assistant Head of Teaching and

Learning at Ashford Senior School

says, “Physically active learning

obviously improves gross motor skills

while collaborative tasks like building

To see a World in a

Grain of Sand

And a Heaven in a

Wild Flower,

Hold Infinity in the

palm of your hand

And Eternity in an

hour.

– William Blake

Auguries of Innocence, 1803

shelters or mapping an ecosystem can

help develop teamwork and critical

thinking. These are central to the six

learning habits that get carried across

from Prep School, into Senior School

and ultimately to university and adult

life. The key is to focus on active

learning, which means students being

actively challenged, actively questioned

and immersed in subject content with

a strong preference for adventurous

learning over passivity. Going outside

to learn is a great way to get this habit

started at a young age.”

Integrating outdoor and classroom

lessons requires intentional curriculum

design and planning (“has everyone

got their wellies?”) but is perfectly

feasible. Teachers can align outdoor

activities with curriculum goals,

ensuring they complement what

children learn in the classroom. For

example, a math lesson on geometry

can involve measuring angles in

natural structures, while a literature

class might include writing poetry

inspired by a forest walk. Schools

can start small with regular outdoor

sessions, like weekly nature walks, and

gradually incorporate more complex

projects, such as gardening or wildlife

monitoring.

Weaving outdoor education into the

prep school experience empowers

students to thrive mentally, physically,

and emotionally. This enriches

academic outcomes and fosters

resilient, curious, and environmentally

conscious individuals, ready to shape a

better future for us all.

ashfordschool.co.uk/prep-school/

Move on Up

At various stages of each educational journey, there is a leap to be taken from one

school to another, so the question is, how can we best make those transitions?

Free to be Me

Jon Chesworth, Headteacher of Banstead Prep

School, shares how this school builds valuable

skills for moving on to the next stage

Jon Chesworth is

Headteacher of

coeducational nursery, preschool

and prep school for

girls and boys aged 2 to 11,

Banstead Prep School. For

more information or to book

a visit go to bansteadprep.com

t Banstead Prep, the ethos is ‘Free to be ME’. We

focus on each child moving to the best school

for their individual needs. Our annual list of

destination schools is long and diverse, and

we have plenty of experience supporting children’s future

success wherever they go.

We’ve seen a recent trend in schools

valuing children’s character as

much as their academic abilities

and results. Employers are putting

pressure on universities, and

in turn on senior schools, to

create a future workforce with

analytical, leadership and collaborative skills. We teach

these skills – Banstead Prep’s Learner Powers – explicitly,

through our Life Skills lessons, but also implicitly across

our broad curriculum, which has been recognised in our

recent ISI Inspection as a significant strength of the school.

A ‘sustainable travel’

trip to Europe helps build

independence and adaptability

While skills build throughout the children’s primary

educational journey, specific preparation for next schools

includes exam technique classes (some tailored for the

grammar school selection tests), interview preparation

and mock interview practise in Year 5, and a leadership

position for every Year 6 pupil.

A ‘sustainable travel’ trip to

Europe helps build independence

and adaptability developed in

previous residential excursions.

In the summer term of Year 6 our

fantastic leavers programme offers

a mixture of practical skills e.g. first

aid and money skills, an enterprise project, our famous Ready,

Steady Cook lunch challenge and culminates in a dazzling

musical production – all designed to polish the children’s

Learner Powers and boost their confidence before we watch

with pride as they leave, ready to enjoy the experiences ahead.

istockphoto.com/ Jorm Sangsorn

72


The Perks of

Continuity

Simon Williams, Headmaster, Churcher’s College

explains the benefits of the all-through school

Simon Williams

is Headmaster, of

Churcher’s College, a

day school for both girls

and boys aged from 3

to 18. If you’d like to

find out more about

Churcher’s College,

find them online at

churcherscollege.com

istockphoto.com/ Jorm Sangsorn

s anyone who has embarked on a journey that

requires a change of plane or train can attest,

there are particular challenges that travellers

who go direct do not face. The same can

be said of an all-through education,

one that takes a child from the age

of three to 18, from nursery to A

Levels, without the challenges that

come from a change of institution,

friendship groups, or the sense of

community and underlying ethos.

Traditionally, there have been

disembarkation and re-embarkation

points in education: 7+, 11+,

sometimes 13+, and 16+. However,

these are becoming less and less pronounced as parents

find schools that meet their needs and aspirations and

they stay within school groups that better meet their

personal preferences. For those parents, it could be a

‘...the wise allthrough

school still

creates distinct

sections’

case of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, but it is generally

much more significant than that. With partnerships

between junior and senior schools becoming ever more

prevalent, there is now a natural flow of culture that

may have been missing in the past,

and that flow allows children (and

parents) to avoid the social dislocation

that comes from moving between

schools and friendship groups.

Loyalty to one school motto can

have distinct benefits, but the

children themselves need overt signs

of progress. In addition, although

the juxtaposition of a three-yearold

and an 18-year-old can seem

‘sweet’, their needs are, of course, acutely different.

To that end, the wise all-through school still creates

distinct sections, and preferably with geographic

separation, under the umbrella of a common culture.

73



A Season

to

Sing

Mike Piercy sings the

praises of music as a vital

part of education

My French teacher was a bit of

a hero. Back in the ’70s there

was too much ‘chalk and talk’

in the classroom. Languages (modern and

classical), for example, were taught in a dry,

repetitive, recitational, structured, formulaic

way. There was little ‘feel’ for the country,

the culture, the nuance of pronunciation

or inflection, the joy and musicality of

language. In this context my French teacher

was something of a radical, a revolutionary;

the sort of chap who would willingly man

the barricades in ‘Les Misérables’.

Enough hyperbole. His success came

through a love of language and his ability

to engage the class, sometimes employing

multi-sensory, kinaesthetic techniques. One

day the class was even more sluggish than

usual (speaking only for myself). As I recall,

it was a lovely spring morning. He grabbed

a portable cassette player from a side table

and ushered us out onto the lawn. It was

there that he taught us ‘La Marseillaise’

while giving us some background to the

French Revolution and republic. ‘Aux

armes, citoyens…’ we bellowed.

Was it the drama, the spontaneity, the

break from routine? Or was it the language,

the story, the music? All six, I feel, but

the music stands out in my memory. I

was fortunate in attending a school where

Not only is music another

language (without even

considering lyrics and poetry),

it is mathematical, historical,

cultural and spiritual.

music was prevalent: singing, choral

singing, ensembles and orchestras.

Chuckles will be heard (or indignant cries

of dismay) in school staff or governors’

meetings when someone carelessly talks

of ‘the academic subjects’, by implication

the likes of music not felt to fall within

that category. It’s a traditional disposition

where Classics once ruled the roost; English

and maths a given, sciences and languages

encroaching. Design technology and

computer science had not by then entered

the vocabulary.

Music isn’t generally included in that elite,

yet it is arguably one of the most academic

subjects. Not only is music another

language (without even considering lyrics

and poetry), it is mathematical, historical,

cultural and spiritual. There are some who

would argue that the Associated Board

music exams are the only tests which have

avoided grade inflation. Music should be

central to every young person’s education.

Schools should be filled with music.

Then there is the collaborative joy of

singing. Colin Firth dismisses his own

ability: ‘My singing voice is somewhere

between a drunken apology and a

plumbing problem.’ Yet, most children

don’t have those crippling inhibitions

– if taught, enthused and encouraged

effectively.

A recent initiative in Mayfield has seen the

formation of a youth choir, comprising

children from local primary schools. It has

been met with enthusiasm by teachers,

parents and, above all, children. Witnessing

a rehearsal, their joy, their passion, was

palpable. One girl has said Monday is

now her favourite day of the week as that

is when they learn and rehearse. They

recently joined an adult choir to perform

‘A Season to Sing’, a choral reimagining of

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.

Music, singing and performance, all

contributing to personal development: a

powerful educational trio.

A Head for 25 years, Mike Piercy is now an

educational consultant and school governor.

Contact him at mikepiercy@hotmail.com

istockphoto.com/ Grandfailure & Highwaystarz-Photography


WHERE CURIOSITY

SPARKS EXCELLENCE

SEE SUCCESS IN ACTION , BOOK A PERSONAL VISIT!

DAY & BOARDING SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 4-18

burgesshillgirls.com/admissions/visit-us/


Baby Steps

Nursery is where the first memories and attitudes to

school and friendships are created, so invest some

time and effort to find the place that best fits

According to Ashford Prep School, going to nursery school gives very young

children a head-start as they develop their cognitive, social, and emotional skills.

But there is a lot to think about when visiting a nursery, so with the help of

Ashford Prep School, we’ve asked the experts for some advice.

Amy Hancock, Deputy Head of Stables Nursery (ashfordschool.co.uk) says

that the key things to look for on a visit are: “Happy and confident children.

You should see children being encouraged to do problem-solving, having fun

playing with different toys and trying their best to express their thoughts and

ideas. A ‘heathy mind and a healthy body’ is a well-known saying for a good

reason. As well as asking about heathy food, snacks and rest periods, talk to the

practitioners about mental wellbeing, emotional resilience, and how they develop

mindfulness in children. Look out for evidence for friendships and inclusivity

between the children. Are friendships and kindness valued and nurtured?”

“When choosing a nursery for your neurodiverse child, trust

your instincts, you know your child better than anyone else. You

understand the kind of environment in which they feel safe,

calm, and able to thrive. If your child needs to move, outdoor

space and freedom to explore might be essential. If they seek

calm and quiet, find a setting that offers a dedicated quiet area.

Pay attention to how staff respond when you share your child’s

needs, openness and confidence can speak volumes. If they seem

uncertain or hesitant, it may not be the right setting. However,

if they respond with thoughtful questions, share ideas, or describe

strategies they have used to support other neurodiverse children,

that’s a strong indicator they are well prepared. Don’t be afraid

to ask how they have supported children in the past – their

experience and understanding can make a real difference to your

child’s early experiences of education and care.” – Dr Selina

Warlow, founder of The Nook Clinic thenookclinic.co.uk

“When visiting a nursery, look

beyond the facilities – pay

attention to how staff engage

with children. Are they warm,

responsive and genuinely

interested? Ask how the nursery

supports children’s emotional

wellbeing, not just their academic

development. At Hopscotch, we

believe the best care starts with

strong relationships, and we’re

proud to be introducing an Infant

Mental Health Policy to formalise

this. It’s also worth asking about

staff turnover, key person systems,

and how the nursery works with

parents to support each child as

an individual.” – Phil Ford,

Managing Director, Hopscotch

Nurseries hopscotch.uk.com

“When visiting a Nursery

it is important to see how

the children are learning

and playing and the quality

of interactions between

the children and the Early

Years Practitioners. You’ll

know when you’ve found

the right place—it will just

feel right.” – Fran Russell,

Head of Bridge Nursery

on East Hill in Ashford

Town ashfordschool.co.uk

“It is obvious that children in high quality nurseries develop stronger language skills, problem-solving abilities,

and social confidence. These skills help make a great foundation for success at Primary School, which also helps

later as children grow up.” – Matea Pavletic, Director of Nurseries at Ashford School ashfordschool.co.uk

istockphoto.com/ JuliScalzi


Summer Camp

Summer is in full swing and it’s a great time to find hobbies

and activities to amuse and inspire young people!

istockphoto.com/ Jacob Wackerhausen

23rd - 29th Aug

9:00am - 4:00pm

SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMPS

Ofsted rated outstanding summer

camps for children aged 3 to 9. The

only summer camp that allows friends

and siblings to stay together during

the holidays. We also accept childcare

vouchers.

www.muddybootscamps.co.uk

28th Jul - 1st Aug, 11th - 15th Aug

& 27th - 31st Oct

9:30am - 3:30pm

HOLIDAY CLUB

Action packed holiday club days for

£27.50. 6-12yr olds can try caving,

climbing, den building, pond dipping

and so much more on our beautiful

site, led by experienced instructors.

www.sayerscrofttrust.org.uk

20 Jul - 29 Aug

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS

Discover our unique community

business and our special formula for

wholesome summer days in the Surrey

Hills AONB for children age 8+.

Contact us for a brochure.

07878 105016

surreyhillsandrivers.co.uk

Monday - Sunday

9:00am - 8:00pm

JUMP FOR JOY

Unleash your riding potential with

Epsom Riding School. For adults and

children, all year round with indoor

facilities available. Classical riding

lessons, jumping lessons (beginners)

and ride in the park (for beginners

and experienced riders).

07961 232106

www.epsomridingschool.co.uk

Group classes and 121

Thursdays 5:15pm

TWEEN AND

TEEN YOGA

Increases flexibility, builds

stamina, reduces anxiety,

calms, strengthens and

relaxes both body & mind.

Great for the Anxious, the

Sporty and Non-sporty.

www.yoganory.co.uk

SWIM SCHOOL

Safe and structured swim lessons

for all ages and abilities. Group

lessons and private instruction

available. Weekday and weekend

availability. Teachers are qualified and

DBS cleared. Locations: Banstead

Preparatory and St John’s School,

Leatherhead.

surreyswimschool.co.uk

77


Where the art of head wear and hat

making meets personalised elegance

collection combines

expert tailoring with

effortless sophistication.

Crafted from highquality

fabrics and

featuring clean,

modern silhouettes,

each piece offers a

perfect balance of

comfort and style

for any occasion.

Call in to one

of our stores to

take a look.

County Clothes Menswear

A long-established menswear specialist in Kent and East Sussex

Ready to Wear, Fascinators, Bridal and Accessories

Mizi Atelier London, UK

www.miziatelier.com

BEXHILL - CANTERBURY - HERNE BAY - REIGATE

SEVENOAKS - TENTERDEN - TUNBRIDGE WELLS

WWW.COUNTYCLOTHES.COM

LUXURY FITNESS, DANCE AND TENNIS RETREATS

DISCOVER CHÂTEAU LOU CASTEOU

Set in the beautiful French Cote d’Azur countryside, minutes from the sea. These Luxurious Retreats provides the perfect balance of gourmet

meals, pampered luxury, energetic fitness classes, Latin dance sessions and outdoor activities including coastal treks, tennis, boxercise,

aqua-gym, circuit training, yoga, sea kayaking and beach workouts, to help guests improve their fitness level or kick start a regime.

Retreats include 5 days of luxury accommodation in the chateau in en‐suite bedrooms with sea or mountain views.

Delicious, nutritious gourmet meals served with elegant 3 course dinners. Enjoy a quality open bar, excellent provencal wines, evening parties and entertainment.

Please contact Morag.McLarenBaxter@yahoo.co.uk or 07990 573287 with questions and for reservations. www.loucasteou.com


78

White Cora leaf

embroidered shirt

£75 Monsoon

monsoon.co.uk

Piaget diamond

rose pendant

£3,295

Shop Prestige

shopprestige.com

Gold promise

leaf stacking

ring £65 Elk

& Bloom

elkandbloom.com

Aphrodite coin

necklace £68 Muru

murujewellery.com

Delicate tapestry

maxi dress £348

FARM Rio

farmrio.uk

White embroidered

lemon shirt £65 Oliver

Bonas oliverbonas.com

Raffia clutch £59 The White

Company thewhitecompany.com

Moroccan gemstone pendant

necklace £60 clemence wren

clemencewren.com

Ottoman Hands

round textured stud

earrings £35 V&A

vam.ac.uk

Theo Fennell tanzanite

bracelet £4,995 Shop

Prestige shopprestige.com

A.KJÆRBEDE Lilly sunglasses

£30 The White Company

thewhitecompany.com

Pacific II Sandals £69

Hotter hotter.com

Witham cat eye sunglasses

£49 Radley radley.co.uk

Mediterranean

G

arden

Take your wardrobe to fragrant citrus groves,

romantic terraces shaded by olive trees, and

sea-view sunbathing among lilies and roses

Jaskell tan sandals £89

Dune London dunelondon.com

Cream Atlas linen trousers £39

River Island riverisland.com

Clasp detail maxi dress £199 John

Lewis & Partners johnlewis.com

istockphoto.com/ Svetlana Chekhlova

Blue Atlas printed maxi

dress £56 River Island

riverisland.com

Gold statement

leaf ring £80

Elk & Bloom

elkandbloom.com

Nicole Ink Blue sandals £130 Esska

Shoes esskashoes.com

Farm Rio Ainika blouse £245 The

Gate Boutique thegateboutique.co.uk

Lemon slice earrings £28 not

just a shop notjustashop.arts.ac.uk

Dukes Place crochet cross

body £239 Radley radley.co.uk

Olivia Lemon sandals £150

Esska Shoes esskashoes.com

Summer stamps print

scarf £20 Oliver Bonas

oliverbonas.com

Sicilian Summer

crinkle cotton dress

£60 Joe Browns

joebrowns.co.uk

79



Spiced

to perfection

Recipes: Charlotte Butterworth


Charlotte Butterwoth, AKA @theneedy.greedy on Instagram, creates

crowd pleasing and versatile Asian-inspired dishes that are just as

perfect for entertaining as they are for enjoying with your family

Chilli sausage bites

Makes approx 16

A delicious canape or part of a meal

when served with rice and a slaw or stir

fried veg. These pack a lot of flavour

and bring much joy – they're one of my

most loved canapés served at parties,

I can never make enough. You can

cook them the day before and reheat.

• 400g good sausage meat

• 2 tsp minced ginger – you can use

fresh or I use a jarred minced ginger

• 2 cloves of garlic, crushed

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp chilli paste

• 2 spring onions, finely chopped

• 1tsp sesame seeds

For the cooking sauce or marinade:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tsp runny honey or agave nectar

• 2 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp mirin rice wine

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Pop all

the meatballs ingredients in a bowl,

season generously with salt and pepper,

and mix – I use my hands. When

thoroughly mixed roll into balls, about

2 bites' worth (slightly smaller than

a golf ball) then place into an oven

proof dish, slightly spaced apart.

2. Mix together the marinade ingredients,

and pour over. Pop into the oven for

about 15-20 mins until golden.

3. Remove from the dish, dry on a

little kitchen roll and serve on cocktail

sticks with a dipping sauce if you

wish, I often use sweet chilli sauce.

Charlotte's time-saving tip: If you want

to make ahead, then do so up to 24

hours in advance, cool and simply

reheat on a foil lined baking tray or

dish at 180°C for a few mins.

About Charlotte Butterworth aka @theneedy.greedy

Charlotte is a private caterer, cookery teacher and recipe creator sharing her original recipes on Instagram

and Facebook as @theneedy.greedy. She trained as a Cordon Bleu cook, but has developed her own

signature style of using lots of vegetables, big flavours and love of Mediterranean style cooking.

Charlotte runs cookery workshops and teaches individuals in her lovely kitchen in Cranbrook, helping

people rediscover their culinary mojo with new ideas for delicious, healthy and easy meals for everyday and

entertaining. Visit her Instagram to find her workshop schedules and to speak to her about tuition.

She also caters for everything from intimate dinners and family celebrations to drinks parties and

corporate events. Charlotte is also the co-founder of the Small Business Supper Club Kent, which holds

monthly events to bring small business owners, creatives and sole traders together. Do contact her at

charlotte@butterworth.co.uk for more information about catering, teaching or supper clubs.

81


COOMBE WOOD

HOUSE

Restaurant Now Open

Serving classic British & European cuisine in our beautiful

oak panelled dining room and private function suites

www.coombewoodhouse.co.uk

Coombe Lane, Croydon, CR0 5RE

0208 686 1244

Spicy Slaw

Serves 6 as a side

A stunning slaw packed full of zingy

and fresh flavours. This is a great

side for a barbecue, or perfectly

complements teriyaki salmon. It

tastes best made up to 3-4 hours

before, but it will keep for a day or

two in the fridge. It's super quick

to pull together if you use the food

processor grating function (on coarse

setting) but otherwise it can be easily

chopped with a knife. Feel free to

play around with the veg but I love

red cabbage, carrots and peppers.

• red cabbage (about a

quarter to a third)

• 2 medium carrots, peeled

• 1-2 peppers

• (optional) spring onions, mange

tout, sugar snap peas or any

firm veg you enjoy raw

For the dressing:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp sesame oil

• 1-2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

(according to taste)

• 2 tbsp honey or agave nectar


• 1 tsp salt

• 1 sliced chilli (seeds in or out,

depending on how hot you like it)

or use a good chilli oil or condiment

• knob of freshly sliced or

grated ginger (can be done in

food processor on fine grater)

or use a ginger paste

• 1 clove of garlic, crushed

To serve (optional):

• fresh coriander

• toasted sesame seeds

1. Chop the red cabbage and

carrots using the coarse setting

of your food processor grater, or

finely chop. Finely slice the peppers

and spring onions if using.

2. Make the dressing by whisking all

the ingredients together in a bowl.

3. Put the sliced/grated veg into a

large bowl and mix. Pour over the

dressing and stir. It can happily

sit in the fridge for a couple of

hours letting the flavours mix,

or can be served immediately.

4. Just prior to serving, stir in the

chopped coriander and sprinkle

over the sesame seeds, if using.

Charlotte's tip:

I have used RishRight

Yo Po Chilli, a beautiful

rich and flavourful artisan

chilli condiment that is made

with quality ingredients and

packs a real punch


Teriyaki salmon

with cashew,

cucumber, carrot

& rice noodle salad

Serves 4

A match made in heaven. The

sweet baked salmon pairs so well

with spicy, salty, sweet dressing

on the noodles. The noodle

salad can be made in advance

and will keep for a day or two –

it is great as lunch the next day

too, just add some extra cashews!

• 4 salmon fillets

• 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 2 tbsp mirin


• 1 tbsp of squeezy

ginger in a tube

• 1 tsp sesame seeds

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Put the salmon in an oven

proof dish. Mix all the teriyaki

ingredients together, pour

over the salmon, sprinkle

over the sesame seeds, and

cook for 15-20mins.

For the noodle salad:

• 5g grated ginger (or

ginger paste)

• 1-2 red chillies finely

chopped, or use chilli oil

• zest and juice of two limes

• 3 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tsp light soft brown sugar

• 150g flat rice noodles

• 1 cucumber

• 2 carrots

• small bunch of each

of coriander and fresh

mint, chopped

• handful of cashew nuts (you

can dry fry in a pan if you’d

like them slightly toasted)

• sesame oil

1. Soak the rice noodles

for 10mins in a bowl

of just boiled water.

2. Make the salad dressing by

whisking all the ingredients

together. You can do this

is in the serving bowl

or in a separate jug.

3. Using a vegetable peeler,

cut long strips of carrot and

cucumber into a serving/salad

bowl. You may not be able to

use all the cucumber when it

gets to the watery middle, but

you can then thinly slice and

add. Save the carrot middles

and use for another recipe.

4. Drain the noodles and

rinse them in cold water to

get rid of any excess starch,

drizzle with sesame oil to

stop them sticking. Add to

the salad bowl, together with

the nuts, dressing and herbs.

Toss the noodles, veg, nuts,

herbs and dressing. (If you are

making in advance add the

herbs just before serving.)

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86

HeliosPharmacyWT239.indd 1 22/03/2022 14:04

Beauty

Pretty

Polished

Josephine Fairley is here to help you

buff up on the latest nail trends

I’m not really one for make-up trends. Never adopted the spot-it-from-

50-paces ‘slug brow’. Or fell for ‘glass skin’ (just looks like it needs a

good pat dry with a towel, to me). But I’ve always felt that whatever

your age and stage in life, from an enthusiastic seven-year-old playing

with her mother’s make-up kit through to a fah-bu-lous eightysomething,

it’s quite simply fun to keep your finger(tip) on the pulse of nail trends.

The summer’s ‘hottest’ shade? Butter yellow. And you know what? It’s

surprisingly flattering, as well as great fun. As a result, you’ll find yellow

polishes across many different ranges, at the moment. (I point you in

the direction of Chanel, Manucurist and Nailberry, for starters.)

Now there are, of course, also trends in actual nail shapes – but those leave

me cold. Pretty much anyone who gardens as much as I do keeps them fairly

short, with gently rounded edges to save snagging (and make it easy to degrime,

with a nail brush). If you do happen to want to have the nail-shape du

jour, though, I am reliably informed that oval is the one to go for, right now – a

tad retro, like you used to admire on your favourite auntie as she reached into

her handbag for her ciggies. I’d say: whatever works for your lifestyle is just fine.

But what I will add is: I don’t do gels. Most of my friends do (or have

their nails shellac-ed), but a) I simply don’t have the patience to sit and have

them removed and b) on the one occasion I did get a gel pedicure, the rehab

process of getting my ultra-dry toenails back into good nick took quite some

months. I am perfectly happy to sit and admire the extraordinary handiwork

of my mates’ unquestionably talented nail technicians – but personally, I’m

a fan of the type of polish that you can whip off easily at home, and redo

yourself. That’s enough ranting, though – time to share what I’m loving.

Leighton Denny Glazed Collection, £12.50 each. I am a big fan

of Leighton Denny’s polishes (as well as his nail treatments – and his

3-Way Trio Miracle Buffer, £6, is second to none, for smoothing out

the nail surface and softening sharp edges on the tips). Shade-wise,

personally I often veer in the direction of what I call ‘fairy nails’, and

Leighton’s collection of iridescent polishes is pretty, pretty, ultra-pretty.

The ‘Angel’ collection includes Angel Pearl – honestly like pearls for nails

(and with the same flattering effect that real pearls bring to the complexion)

– as well as a soft pink-toned option, Angel Blush. As I type, I am sporting

just-launched Angel Kiss, a semi-sheer polish with tiny golden shimmer

particles which can either be worn on its own (a couple of coats work best),

or to add a shimmering glaze to a favourite polish; have a play, because

experimenting is fun. (I’m also made for the Leighton Denny ‘Wings’

collection of sheer, iridescent shades that catch the light like an insect’s wings.)

87


ORLY Tide & Seek, £45 for a six-varnish collection. Featuring a subtle coral, green, pale blue, pale orange and

two pinks, ORLY Breathable polishes are designed to enhance nail health, allowing oxygen to reach the nail

surface, and with a formula infused with argan oil, vitamin C and pro-vitamin B5. In common with several

other nail innovations, this polish is a time-saver, requiring neither base nor top coat, and I really like the idea

of buying this sophisticated set with a couple of friends and swapping between you over the summer.

OPI Rapidry Polish, £9. This is a polish for when the taxi meter is ticking outside, and you realise: ‘I HAVEN’T DONE

MY NAILS!’ I was cynical about the super-fast drying time but have been proved wrong: it takes less than a minute for

this polish to properly dry (not merely touch-dry). It’s not the most durable polish on the market – you won’t get days

and days out of it (though a coat of equally speedy-drying Rapidry Top Coat does make a difference) – but I’ve never

seen the like, in terms of a varnish that really is paint-and-go. Lots of on-trend, summer-perfect shades, including

yellow Proceed With No Caution, aqua No Further Delays and the looks-like-it-sounds Within Peach.

NAILS.INC It’s Topless, £8.99. It’s obviously a reflection of how busy our lives have become,

but brands seem to be scrambling to create nail products which don’t require you

to waft your hands around like a demented chicken or walk around wearing toe

dividers till you gingerly remove them at bedtime, hoping not to dent or scratch

your handiwork. It’s Topless is described as a ‘4-in-1 gel manicure’,

which you can paint onto nails for a shiny, rich, gel-like finish,

again without needing top or base coat. No setting lamps or

achingly long removal sessions, either. Again, there’s a great

soft green – Camilla – as well as mauve (Hailey) and Kim

(just the prettiest pale blue), all of which are sandal-perfect.

Kure Bazaar Colour Repairing Serum Nail Polish, £22. If

you’re a fan of more natural nails, I point you in the direction

of Kure Bazaar, a French brand (and winner of several Beauty

Bible Awards), whose formulas are based on botanical

ingredients and are 90% natural. This new range

of Serum Nail Polishes is flying off the shelves,

as they offer true rehab for troubled nails,

with a formula that includes keratin, silicone

and calcium, alongside botanical extracts

of hibiscus, chestnut and Centella Asiatica

(more normally found in skincare). As well as

offering ‘traditional’ polish shades – reds, pinks,

etc – I’ve had great results from Kure Bazaar

Hardening Nail Polish, £22, which

comes in Clear, a sheer pink Rose,

and very sophisticated Beige.

One big question remains: are

your hands worthy of drawing

attention to, with these summery

shades? Definitely don’t overlook

the general maintenance, because soft,

groomed cuticles and well-nourished hands

are easy to achieve, with a little regular TLC.

For smoothing cuticles – while at the same time helping

to boost nail strength, via massaging the nail bed – I like

Nailberry Little Treasure Nourishing Oil, £19, whose lovely,

lemony scent is an invitation to slathering. And my new fave

hand cream, meanwhile – the latest in Cath Kidston MBE’s fab

C.Atherley-pelargonium-scented line-up – is Geranium No.3,

£18 for 75ml, based on the scent of Pelargonium Mabel Grey,

which has a zesty, almost citronella scent, in what is literally a

perfect formulation: rich, nourishing, but not greasy. I use it

before bedtime, drifting off to the scent of geraniums – which

I’ve loved since toddlerhood – and wake up with satiny hands.

istockphoto.com/TanyaLovus / Credit:Iana Surman

Now, they never go out of fashion.


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Health

Work it!

Sarah Maxwell explores the world of

wearable health and fitness tech

istockphoto.com/Krisada tepkulmanontc

Wearable technology has

revolutionised how many

of us approach our health

and fitness. Catering to everyone from

casual walkers to dedicated athletes.

With the integration of smart AI,

cutting-edge sensors and stylish designs,

these devices are becoming essential

companions for anyone striving for

better health. While many wearables

focus on fitness, they’re not solely

for athletes or those heavily invested

in their performance, they can also

monitor a multitude of health metrics,

such as stress levels, sleep quality, heart

rate and more, providing you with a

wider picture of your overall health.

Smartwatches

Still the most popular wearables

in 2025, which ones are currently

flying off the shelves..?

Amazfit Active 2 (Budget friendly

without compromising on features)

amazfit.com

Apple Watch Series 9

This has ECG, blood oxygen

monitoring, and temperature

tracking for menstrual health.

apple.com/uk/watch/

Google Pixel Watch 3

This model synchronises

with other devices and has a

good range of features.

store.google.com

And for the competitive Athlete...

The Garmin range comes out on

top for those serious about their

performance. Fenix 7S Pro and

Forerunner 965 are the top-level

options that support endurance athletes

with multi-band GPS, solar charging

and stamina tracking. Garmin Instinct

3 has an impressive 24-day battery

life and an AMOLED display

garmin.com/en-GB

Smart Rings

Smart rings are wearable devices that fit

on a finger, incorporating technology

from wearables like smartwatches.

They monitor your health, e.g. heart

rate, sleep patterns, blood oxygen

levels and stress. Some smart rings

provide notifications for calls and

messages, similar to smartwatches,

and can actually enable contactless

payments. They also track your activity

like steps and calories, in a smaller

and less obvious way. Designed to

be less noticeable and more stylish,

smart rings blend seamlessly with

everyday jewellery while providing

a convenient and subtle way to

manage health and notifications.

Current favourites include:

Circular Ring 2

The circular ring 2 has gained a

lot of attention due to recent FDA

approval in the US. circular.xyz/shop

Luna Ring 2

The budget friendly option

with no app subscription

fees. shop.lunazone.com

Oura Ring Gen 4

Renowned for its wide-ranging

health insights. ouraring.com

Amazfit Active 2 WHOOP 4.0

Provides tailored recommendations

through a payable membership.

Analysis metrics related to sleep

and exercise. whoop.com/gb

Power up your Pants

Launching in 2026, Skip’s

MO/GO Power Pants work

by using robotic technology

to enhance mobility,

making them ideal for hikers or anyone

with joint pain. The MO/GO motors

help you tackle elevation, getting you

to the places where your knees would

normally have to work their hardest!

skipwithjoy.com

Nadi X

And for the yoga fans, yoga pants like

Nadi X provide real-time feedback

on your yoga postures to

help you perfect your

positions and form.

wearablex.com

So whatever

wearable tech you

go for to enhance

your fitness and

wellbeing, the

only difficulty

will be

narrowing

down your

choice from

the hundreds

available.

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


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

Nourish to Flourish

Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau

explores the benefits of incorporating

another healthy ingredient into our diets.

This month she’s focusing in on asparagus

As the seasons shift and lighter meals start

to replace hearty winter stews and Sunday

roasts, asparagus steps in as one of spring’s

most powerful, and delicious, health heroes. Often

called a nutritional powerhouse, this vibrant green

vegetable does more than just brighten up your plate!

Rich in folate, vitamin K and vitamin C, asparagus

supports everything from heart health to healthy

skin. Its high fibre content aids digestion, while its

natural antioxidant compounds help protect cells from

damage. It’s also a natural diuretic, which can help

reduce bloating and support kidney function, making

it especially welcome after a heavier winter diet.

Another reason to love it? Asparagus is incredibly low

in calories and carbohydrates, making it ideal for anyone

following a lighter or more plant-forward way of eating.

It’s also a great choice for those supporting hormonal

balance and reproductive health, thanks to its folate levels.

This easy, nourishing recipe brings together

asparagus with other nutrient-dense ingredients – new

potatoes for complex carbs and potassium, soft-boiled

eggs for protein and healthy fats, and a zesty lemon

vinaigrette that helps your body absorb key vitamins.

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

It’s a light, feel-good dish that works just as well as a postworkout

lunch as it does a relaxed dinner at home.

• 1 bunch locally grown

asparagus, woody

ends trimmed

• 300g new potatoes, like

Jersey Royals, halved

• 2-3 free-range eggs

• a handful of baby

spinach or rocket

• small bunch of fresh

Zesty asparagus salad

Serves 2-3

chives, finely chopped

• sea salt & black pepper

For the vinaigrette:

• 1 tsp wholegrain mustard

• juice of ½ lemon

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp honey

• salt and black pepper

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender

(about 12–15 mins). Drain and set aside.

2. Soft-boil the eggs, for approximately 6½ minutes.

Transfer immediately to cold water. Peel and halve.

3. Blanch the asparagus: Bring a pan of water to a

boil, cook spears for 2–3 mins until just tender. Drain

and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.

4. Make the dressing: Whisk together mustard, lemon

juice, honey, and olive oil. Season to taste.

5. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and asparagus with the

dressing. Add spinach and chopped chives. Top with egg halves and

a little more dressing if desired. Finish with a crack of black pepper.

91


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Pebble for

Your Thoughts

Jo Arnell gets to grips with low

maintenance gravel gardening

Imagine an eco-friendly

garden that is easy

to care for, that you

don’t have to water, with – best

of all – no grass to mow? I’m not talking

about paving it all over, or, heaven forbid, astro turf, but a

gravel garden. In the right position, and incorporating the

right plants, this could be a naturalistic, low maintenance

alternative to the traditional lawn with borders.

Gravel gardens have been around for a while and are

popular in contemporary landscapes, an extreme example

being the much visited and admired garden on Dungeness

made by Derek Jarman, who planted straight into the

shingle. The late Beth Chatto made a gravel garden in what

was once the carpark of her famous garden in Essex – the

driest county in England. A parched and inhospitable

place, it was chosen as an experiment to see which plants

would survive in such challenging conditions. Beth

pioneered the ‘right plant, right place’ philosophy and

chose plants with adaptations to drought. Once established,

the plants in the gravel garden are never watered.

We increasingly suffer periods of drought – often

in the spring and early summer, just when our plants

(and the lawn especially) need good amounts of rain

for healthy growth. By choosing resilient plants that are

adapted to harsher environments, a garden can positively

thrive when there’s no rain. If you have poor soil, if

your lawn becomes parched and dry in the summer,

if you would like a low maintenance, wildlife friendly

garden, a gravel garden could be the ideal solution.

How to Make a Gravel Garden

Choose the sunniest space for a gravelled area. Shady or

damp situations are better suited to woodland or bog

gardens. South or west facing is ideal and if possible

not overshadowed by buildings or tall trees.

Prepare the ground by either digging it over, or preferably,

covering with cardboard to suppress weeds – digging

unfortunately brings weed seeds up to the surface. Avoid a

weed membrane – they sound great, because they suppress

weeds (although after a while you may find the weeds start

to germinate on top of the membrane). With a true gravel

garden it is better to use a good thick layer of the gravel mulch

straight on top of the soil. This more natural approach will

be better for the health of the soil ecosystem that supports

the plants and will ensure a healthier result all round.

Choose the right size of gravel. If it is too small and

more like grit, it may either wash away, or compact

together too much. Larger pebbles will be too chunky,

not allow for plant growth and might look out of place.

The best size is a gravel of between 10-20mm – it looks

right, is easy to manage and the plants will thrive in it.

If your soil is clay, you may have to improve the

drainage first, by digging in lots of grit and some of the

gravel to improve the drainage, as the sorts of plants you

will be using will prefer free draining conditions.

The Plants to Grow

Just by looking at the shape, texture and colour of a plant’s

foliage, you can start to spot the plants that will thrive in the dry.

These are the visible adaptations to difficult environments

93


and niches. Small leaved plants will tolerate drier conditions,

because each leaf will have less surface area to lose moisture

from. A tough, leathery texture, or a waxy coating will also

help prevent water loss. Hairy or woolly foliage is another

adaptation to an arid habitat. Combine several of these attributes

together – say: felty, grey, needle-like – and you can immediately

see why a plant like lavender will love a gravel garden.

Aim to extend seasonal interest as much as possible, using

plants with long flowering periods, architectural seed-heads,

some evergreens and early spring interest from bulbs too.

Shrubs and Perennials

Euphorbias (spurge) – there are many varieties of this

drought tolerant plant, but most share the distinctive

lime green bracts in the spring. Beware the latex sap

that can burn your skin and prune back with care.

Eryngium (sea holly) – these architectural, spiny plants are loved

by bees, and their seed-heads will look good in the winter.

Nepeta (catmint) – This is a billowy, relaxed looking

plant, and long-flowering, especially if you cut it right

back after the first flush. The lower growing varieties like

‘Walker’s Low’ and ‘Junior Walker’ are great for edging.

Salvia – this is a big family of plants, so there will be a colour to

suit every scheme, and most prefer a sunny, free draining position.

Ornamental Grasses

Grasses bring almost year-round interest, because their

stems and seed-heads persist in attractive dried form

all through the winter. Cut back deciduous grasses in

early spring and interplant with sun-loving bulbs like

tulips and alliums while the grasses are growing up.

Stipa – try S. gigantea for drama, impact and punctuation, and the

diminutive Stipa tenuissima for soft airy movement lower down.

Pennisetum – these have tactile plumes in late summer. P.

‘Rubrum’ has dark leaves and seed heads, but is not fully hardy.

Festuca glauca – this is a compact grass with striking, metallic

blue foliage, ‘Elijah Blue’ is one of the best and bluest.

Self-seeders

Self-sown plants will make a natural looking display, often

planting themselves where we might not have thought

to – and looking all the better for it. This is the ultimate in

‘plants for free’ and – if you have a steely heart – you can

easily remove those that pop up in unwanted places. Gravel

can make for a good seed bed, so be careful which selfsowers

you choose. The lovely, tall growing and airy Verbena

bonariensis can tun into what some might call Weedara

weedariensis, because if it likes your conditions, it will be

prolific. The same goes for Nigella (love-in-the mist), while

Eschscholzia (Californian poppy) and Allium sphaerocephalon

(the drumstick allium), will be a little more restrained.

Maintaining your Gravel Garden

On the whole, a gravel garden is a low maintenance space

– there’s no grass to mow, no edges to cut. Weeding will be

an occupational hazard in this situation, although to some

extent the stones will be a good mulch and suppress them.

Weeds are also easy to pull out from a loose substrate.

The gravel can shift and get displaced over time, especially if

the ground is not level, so some topping up and redistributing

may be needed – this is a Zen activity though – imagine you

are in a Japanese garden and it might not seem like a chore…

Even the most drought tolerant plants will need watering

to establish. Once they are growing well, they should manage

without any extra watering – and this is one of the big

benefits of a gravel garden. Lawns may be turning brown,

lush and leafy plants wilting and flowers rushing to seed in

periods of hot dry weather, but your garden will thrive.

With thoughtful planting and a good initial setup, a well

designed gravel area can deliver colour, structure, and texture

for years without much effort, or the disturbing sounds of

strimming and lawn mowing. You – and the wildlife – can

enjoy the space in peace, with just the occasional gentle crunch

of gravel underfoot as you walk to your relaxing chair.

Find

out about Jo’s

gardening courses,

run from her beautiful

home in Woodchurch,

Kent, by visiting

hornbrookmanor.

co.uk.


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96

TROPICANA NIGHTS AT G LIVE

DEATH COMES

TO PEMBERLEY

YVONNE ARNAUD

THEATRE

istockphoto.com/ AmArtPhotography & champpixs

What’s On

this Season

FESTIVALS & FAIRS

Sat 14 & Sun 15 June

Brooklands Museum,

Brooklands Drive,

Weybridge KT13 0SL

BROOKLANDS

RELIVED – FESTIVAL OF

MOTORSPORT WEEKEND

Expect a vast display of pre-war cars,

vintage music by The Knightingales,

Jive dancing by Surrey Jive, vintage

games and entertainment! The

two day weekend event celebrates

Brooklands’ motorsport history

and the anniversary of the original

opening of the world’s first purposebuilt

race track on the 17 June

1907! Enjoy live music, food

and drink, and vintage games.

Optional vintage dress is welcome

and Ema Parsons hair/makeup

sessions are available all weekend

(10am-12.30pm and 1-3pm,

£45 per session at 30 mins each

bookable on the day). Car club

bookings and enquiries on bringing

pre-1960 vehicles by email to

relived@brooklandsmuseum.com

brooklandsmuseum.com

THEATRE &

ENTERTAINMENT

Fri 20 June

G Live, Guildford GU1 2AA

TROPICANA NIGHTS

Transport yourself back to the

neon-soaked era of the 1980s with

The Ultimate 80’s Party night!

As the beats of Michael Jackson,

Madonna and Duran Duran fill

the air, guests don their legwarmers,

acid-washed jeans, beads and

oversized blazers and dance the

night away in a kaleidoscope of

vibrant colours, disco lights and

theming that creates that oh-sonostalgic

80’s atmosphere. Enjoy

a time-traveling celebration with

your friends that will leave you all

with memories of a night spent

in the most unforgettable decade

of music and fashion. Over 21s

only. Hen parties and big birthday

groups welcomed for a VIP

experience which includes a cocktail

on arrival and reserved seating.

Entry: From £12.50

trafalgartickets.com/

g-live-guildford

Thu 10 – Sat 26 July

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre,

Millbrook, Guildford GU1 3UX

THE COMEDY OF

ERRORS AND A COMPANY

OF RASCALS

Don’t miss this exciting

collaboration between the Yvonne

Arnaud Theatre and Guildford

Shakespeare company! Strap

yourself in for Shakespeare’s

ultimate rollercoaster of

comedy chaos, as two sets of

twins arrive in the same town,

completely unaware of the other’s

existence! The Comedy of Errors

is a confection of confusion

and slapstick comedy, as wives,

debtors, officers, friends and even

the twins themselves are caught

up in the mayhem which ensues.

The cast simultaneously perform

The Comedy of Errors on the main

stage alongside a new partner

play A Company of Rascals in

promenade around the theatre,

which follows the character’s

stories when they aren’t on stage.

Entry: From £36, Opening

performance ‘pay what you can’.

yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

Tues 9 Sep – Sat 13 Sep

Richmond Theatre, 1 Little

Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ

DEATH COMES

TO PEMBERLEY

Step into the world of Pride and

Prejudice like never before with a

riveting new stage adaptation that

combines Jane Austen’s timeless

romance with a gripping murder

mystery imagined by master

storyteller, the ‘Queen of Crime’

P.D. James. From the acclaimed

writing team behind the hit stage

adaptations The Girl on the Train

and The Da Vinci Code, this

production serves up all of Austen’s

signature romance and drama, with

a twist of murder mystery suspense.

The cast includes Sean Rigby,

best known as DS Jim Strange in

ITV’s Endeavour and James Bye as

Fitzwilliam Darcy, who you may

recognise from playing Martin

Fowler in the BBC’s EastEnders.

A must-see theatrical event that

will leave you breathless!

Entry: From £15 + £3.95

transaction fee

atgtickets.com/venues/

richmond-theatre

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 Wealden

Times for only £75+VAT. Please supply

up to 200 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,

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right to edit text to fit space allocated.

Deadline for the next issue is 9th June.

97


Jane Howard explores

the complex love lives of

our visiting swallows

istockphoto.com/ drakuliren

What a relief it was when the swallows

returned to the old Oast House at Coopers

Farm. When we first came they were

plentiful, there would be thirty or forty at the end of

summer lining up on the telegraph wires getting ready

to fly back to Africa. But now there are far fewer, partly

because insect numbers are so down and partly because

the growing number of barns being converted to houses

makes finding a suitable place to nest harder and harder.

Swallows nests are scruffy affairs made

from wet mud which, combined with

grasses, hardens to form a solid cup

lined with feathers. They are usually

built on ledges or between beams in

farm buildings and they like it dark and

untidy. About half of them return to

the same nest year after year, or nearby,

and fledged chicks will fly around the

area in their first summer checking

potential new sites near to mum and

dad. Having spent the winter in the sun

the males arrive back in the UK in the

early spring a couple of weeks before

the females and after some perfunctory

DIY on the old nest, chucking out the

old debris and fixing the cracks with

more mud, it’s as good as new and ready to move

into. Then you just need to find a suitable partner.

Swallows are socially monogamous and form pairs

that build nests and care for their young, not for life

but for the whole of a breeding season. But of course,

there are always a few that don’t play by the rules and

it seems that your average middle aged swallow does

rather better with the ladies than one might expect! Most

swallows only live a couple of years, but occasionally

some of the males will live longer and any who make

Up to one-fifth of the

chicks that hatch in

any nest are fathered

by a swallow other

than the mother’s

partner and in some

nests, not one of the

chicks belongs to the

poor chap responsible

for feeding them

it to three to four are surprisingly successful, not in

forming partnerships that involve the hard work of

rearing young but in attracting females looking for that

something extra. It seems for female swallows experience

is all, probably because the qualities related to having

lived to such an advanced age are very attractive.

But it’s a bit sad really as up to onefifth

of the chicks that hatch in any nest

are fathered by a swallow other than the

mother’s partner and in some nests, not

one of the chicks belongs to the poor

chap responsible for feeding them.

While swallow numbers are down, they

are doing much better than swifts (which

look like swallows but don’t have that

long forked tail). Their numbers have

halved in the last twenty years because

they build their nests in the eaves of

houses and new modern houses don’t

have eaves which leaves them nowhere to

go. But there is a solution. For just £35

house builders can incorporate a hollow

'swift brick' into all new homes and the

problem would be solved. This is a cheap measure that

both the public and house builders support, but if it’s

to make a real difference the government needs to pass

legislation to make it compulsory for all new buildings

to have a swift brick. So come on Kier, get the legislation

back on the statute book and we can all help make

that happen by signing the Save Our Swifts petition.

Enough feathered doom and gloom, I’ve

just heard the first cuckoo. Male swallows

perfectly saintly by comparison!


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 | SH125 | June 2025 | Education Supplement inside

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