Cheltenham Living May - Jun 2026

YOUR FREE COPY MAY/JUNE 2026
Cheltenham
living
including Gloucester & Winchcombe
OUTDOOR
lifestyle
DESIGNING SPACES
MADE FOR SUMMER
ADAM HENSON
WE CATCH UP WITH THE
FARMER & TV PRESENTER
NEW SEASON
OUR EDIT OF STYLISH
SUMMER FASHION
FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

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C O N T E N T S
A NOTE
from the editor
26
CHAT WITH ADAM HENSON
24
GARDEN TIPS
As we move into May and
June, there’s a real sense of the
season opening up — longer
evenings, lighter days, and more
opportunities to enjoy time at
home and outdoors. In this issue,
we’ve leaned into that feeling
with a lead feature on outdoor
living, exploring how to carve out
a space you genuinely want to
spend time in — whether that’s a
quiet corner for a morning coffee
or somewhere to host friends on
warm summer evenings.
Staying with the theme of simple
pleasures, we’re delighted to
share a selection of indulgent
brownie recipes from Kate
Jenkins of the renowned Gower
Cottage Brownies. Perfect for a
weekend treat or to accompany
a garden gathering, they’re well
worth trying (and sharing!).
Elsewhere in the magazine, you’ll
find a fascinating interview with
Adam Henson, reflecting on life
in farming and his experiences
as a television presenter — a
thoughtful and engaging read
that offers a glimpse behind the
scenes.
BROWNIES TO WOW
Editor Katie Thomson
e katie@minervapublications.co.uk
Assistant Editor Kate Norris
Publisher Sally Thomson
Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose
Contributors
Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave,
Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence
FOR ADVERTISING
Account Manager Steve Davies
e steve.davies@minervapublications.co.uk
t 01225 984506
Cover courtesy of Oka.com
14
SCHOOL GUIDE
09
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hope this issue provides plenty
of inspiration for the weeks
ahead.
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Puzzle Time
Summer Word Search
Would you like to advertise in this space?
Get in touch to find out more: 01225 984550 or
email studio@minervapublications.co.uk.
I E V E G O G G L E S H F W O
S T A D T N B F T L X O H Y M
F N H F G S A N S U G L P V O
V L O U O A W M G R O I H K P
Y B I R N K R I E X J D D S V
K L L P K D I D M T M A H U A
K E T U F E E S E S W Y M N I
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E A E H L S O I S C I I A L E
J R A U M P K P N T K N T A C
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Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator
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SOLUTIONS

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• Get expert gardening advice from well-known faces including
Arit Anderson, Adam Frost and Rachel de Thame
• Soak up the summer with live music, food and drink by the lake
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6 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

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THE COTSWOLDS
SCHOOLS
COLLECTION
The Cotswolds and surrounding area
are home to some of the country’s
most established and respected
independent schools, known for
their academic strength, exceptional
pastoral care and rich co-curricular
life. From highly regarded
preparatory schools to leading senior
and boarding schools, the region
offers families an impressive breadth
of educational choice. Many attract
pupils from across the UK and
beyond, drawn by both reputation
and setting.
In this special feature, we present a
curated selection of schools across
the Cotswolds, each with its own
distinctive ethos and approach,
and all committed to developing
confident, capable and well-rounded
young people.
TUDOR HALL SCHOOL
Wykham Park, Banbury,
Oxfordshire OX16 9UR
www.tudorhallschool.com
Tudor Hall is one of the UK’s oldest
girls’ 11-18 boarding and day
schools, offering an education that
has been tailored to create the best
possible experience and outcomes
for every girl for more than 175 years.
Set in parkland near Banbury, girls
are safe and secure – in every sense
of the words – to be themselves
and find their place in the world,
empowering every girl to flourish.
ACADEMIC APPROACH
A High Performance Learning
(HPL) pathway school, Tudor Hall is
on track to achieve the prestigious
World Class School accreditation
this year, based on cognitive and
neuroscience research and a ‘no
limits to learning’ approach.
Tudor Hall is clear on the evidence
“Tudor Hall is clear on the evidence that girls
do better at all girls’ schools than in other
that girls do better at all girls’
schools than in other educational
settings. Tudor’s value-added in
2025 typically added one grade
to every subject for girls at GCSE,
placing it in the top 3.5% schools in
England for value-added, and in the
top 15% for value-added at A Level.
At GCSE there are 21 subjects and
in the Sixth Form girls can choose
almost any combination from 29 A
Level and equivalent courses.
The diversity of destinations is
striking, with girls achieving places
at prestigious, competitive and
specialist institutions that include
Oxford University, Glasgow School
of Art, the Royal Agricultural
University and Cordwainers at
London College of Fashion.
PASTORAL & CO-CURRICULAR
LIFE
Three-quarters of girls are boarders
educational settings.”
and there are school transport routes
across the region for day girls. Every
day girl is a member of a boarding
House, which are horizontal - each
year group moves up the school
together. The whole year group gets
to know each other well, forming a
strong sense of community, and each
Housemistress and her pastoral team
become experts in the challenges
and needs of that age group.
Around 200 co-curricular sessions
happen every week; alongside
academic sessions (such as
Oxbridge development or Past
Paper club) the offering never stands
still, from botanical art club to dog
walking, drone club to fencing, clay
shooting to jewellery making.
YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW...
Tudor Hall was one of the first
schools in the UK to perform the
secondary schools’ edition of the
hit West End play, Harry Potter
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 9

and the Cursed Child, a landmark
production with a cast and crew of
more than 80.
Sixth Form girls are given the
opportunity to train as a barista in
our on-site cafe, Cafe 6, following
an application – surely an essential
skill for every soon-to-be student.
Tennis has always been a strength
of the School and the creation
of a Tennis Academy offers
academic integration, coaching and
competitive opportunities.
Visit to discover how Tudor Hall
empowers every girl to flourish.
Saturday Open Mornings:
16th May and 26th September;
Sixth Form Open Morning is
10th October.
Open Friday: 12th June
To find out more, contact:
admissions@tudorhallschool.com,
call 01295 756259 or visit the
website: tudorhallschool.com
known, valued and encouraged to
grow as an individual. At Sibford,
education is understood not simply
as preparation for exams, but as
preparation for life.
Sibford’s academic approach
reflects a belief that education
is about who a young person
becomes as much as what they
achieve. Teaching is shaped around
the individual, with small class
sizes allowing staff to understand
pupils well and support both
progress and confidence. Academic
ambition sits comfortably alongside
creativity, encouraging pupils to
think independently, communicate
effectively and approach challenges
with resilience.
In a rapidly changing world, Sibford
recognises that success depends
on more than subject knowledge
alone. Skills such as collaboration,
problem-solving, information
literacy and creative thinking are
embedded within everyday learning.
At the same time, pupils are
supported to develop persistence
and effective ways of managing
pressure, enabling them to
navigate both school life and future
challenges successfully.
The result is an education that
balances strong academic
outcomes with personal growth,
preparing pupils for a wide range of
future pathways.
Pastoral care is central to life
at Sibford, where wellbeing is
embedded in the daily culture of
the school. Pupils are known as
individuals and supported within an
environment where they feel secure,
valued and that they belong. This
sense of belonging is fundamental,
enabling young people to develop
confidence, identity and a clear
sense of self.
Relationships between staff and
pupils are warm and respectful,
underpinned by a restorative
approach to behaviour that
encourages reflection and
responsibility. A small but telling
example is that pupils address
staff by their first and last names,
reflecting mutual respect and strong
relationships.
Beyond the classroom,
opportunities are wide-ranging
and inclusive. Through sport,
drama, music, outdoor education
and leadership roles, every pupil
is encouraged to participate and
contribute. Confidence grows
through experience: trying new
things, learning from setbacks
and building resilience over time.
Boarding is available, offering
a supportive home-from-home
environment where pupils further
develop independence and lasting
friendships.
Sibford’s distinctive ethos is shaped
by its Quaker values of endeavour,
respect, community and kindness,
which underpin daily life. The school’s
nurturing approach is not about
lowering expectations, but about
creating an environment where pupils
SIBFORD SCHOOL
Sibford Ferris, Banbury,
Oxfordshire OX15 5QL
www.sibford.org.uk
“Families often describe the “Sibford
difference” as something hard to define but
easy to feel...”
In the heart of the Oxfordshire
countryside, just seven miles from
Banbury and Chipping Norton,
Sibford School is an independent,
co-educational day and boarding
school for children from Early Years
through to Sixth Form. For nearly
two centuries, Sibford has offered
an education shaped by strong
values and close relationships.
Rooted in its Quaker heritage, the
school is defined by a culture of
belonging, where every pupil is
10 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

are both supported and stretched.
Families often describe the “Sibford
difference” as something hard to
define but easy to feel: a culture
where young people feel secure
enough to take risks, known well
enough to be guided, and valued
enough to find their voice. It is this
balance of belonging and aspiration
that enables pupils to flourish.
Rebecca Evans warmly invites
families to visit and experience
the school firsthand. Sibford
holds regular open events, with
upcoming whole-school open
days on Friday 1 May and
Friday 26 June.
For more information, visit
sibford.org.uk/events or call
01295 781203.
COKETHORPE SCHOOL
Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 7PU
www.cokethorpe.org
A co-educational day through school
for children aged four to eighteen,
Cokethorpe is set on the edge of the
Cotswolds near Witney. The School
places the individual at the centre
of its philosophy, nurturing pupils’
academic ambitions, passions and
wellbeing through research-informed
practice. Every child is well known
and supported to flourish as a
confident, grounded young person,
prepared for life beyond school. An
exceptional breadth of curricular
enrichment and co-curricular
opportunity ensures pupils are
inspired not only to achieve their
goals, but to reach beyond them.
Teaching and learning at Cokethorpe
are underpinned by insights from
cognitive science, psychology and
educational research. Evidencebased
strategies and adaptive
teaching methods enable staff to
tailor challenge and support to
individual need, ensuring all pupils
are appropriately stretched. Small
class sizes, averaging 12 across the
School, allow teachers to develop a
deep understanding of each pupil’s
learning journey. In the Prep School,
this approach is carefully adapted to
reflect age and stage, laying secure
foundations for future learning.
Strong academic outcomes reflect
the success of this approach. On
“Cokethorpe is widely recognised for the
breadth of its offer.”
average, pupils achieve more than a
grade above baseline standardised
predictions across GCSEs, A Levels
and BTEC pathways, with around a
third also completing the Extended
Project Qualification in addition to A
Levels. In 2025, the most common
A Level grade achieved was an A.
On the BTEC Extended Diploma
programme, over 90% of students
were awarded Distinction* or
Distinction, while almost half of GCSE
grades achieved were between 9 and
7. Five pupils achieved straight 9 or
8 grades, highlighting the breadth of
high performance.
Balance lies at the heart
of Cokethorpe’s ethos,
where academic ambition is
complemented by a strong focus
on physical, emotional and mental
wellbeing. As a unified community
from four to eighteen, both culturally
and geographically, relationships
across year groups are actively
supportive and meaningful. The
pastoral structure combines yearbased
and vertical elements, with
daily contact through tutors in the
Senior School and class teachers
in the Prep. House systems foster
community spirit through a wide
range of inter-House activities, while
initiatives such as the Sixth Form
tutor partnering programme and the
Prep School’s ‘caught being kind’
scheme further strengthen cohesion
and kindness across the School.
Cokethorpe is widely recognised
for the breadth of its offer. Pupil
engagement is central, and among
co-curricular activities there is
encouragement and support for
students to pursue their interests
or establish new societies where
passions lie. Drama flourishes
through ambitious productions,
which are supported by a dedicated
Head of Wardrobe and a costume
department of more than 5,000
items. Music benefits from regular
performance opportunities and an
instrumental scheme that provides
half a year of free tuition to pupils
in Years 4 and 7. Alongside strong
traditional sports provision, a diverse
and popular outdoor education
programme enhances pupils’
confidence, teamwork and resilience.
Dr Sarah Squire joined as Head
in September 2025, introducing
further enhancements to the
School’s already strong pastoral
provision. Pupils have embraced
new opportunities to help shape
school life through initiatives such
as the Community Council. Recent
investment has included refurbished
science laboratories, an upgraded
lighting and sound mezzanine for
technical theatre, and the addition
of a climbing tower, boathouse and
outdoor education classroom.
Prospective families are warmly
invited to discover Cokethorpe
through upcoming Open
Days on Saturday 9 May and
Saturday 26 September, or
Meet the Head events on Friday
15 May and Thursday 18 June.
For further information, contact
Mrs Sheer and the Admissions
Team at admissions@
cokethorpe.org or visit
cokethorpe.org.
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 11

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NEXT-LEVEL BROWNIES
Rich, indulgent and endlessly adaptable,
brownies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
In The Brownie Book: Wickedly Irresistible
Chocolatey Bakes, Kate Jenkins reimagines
the classic with creative twists and bold
flavours. Kate’s kindly selected three
standout recipes to try at home.
MATCHA BLONDIE
Building on the lusciousness of our white
chocolate blondie base, we have infused half of
the batter with earthy matcha powder to create
a visually striking and delicious bake with an
unusual flavour profile.
INGREDIENTS
175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, diced
150g (5½oz) white chocolate, broken into small
pieces
300g (1½ cups) caster sugar
1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract or paste
150g (1 cup plus 2 tbsp) plain flour
½ tsp baking powder
3 eggs
2 tbsp matcha powder
METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F/
Gas 4).
Put a medium (about 20cm/8in) heavy-based
saucepan over a medium heat. Add the butter
and melt slowly, stirring continuously. Turn the
heat to low, add the chocolate and stir until
completely melted and smooth.
Take the pan off the heat. Add the sugar and
vanilla and mix thoroughly. Add the flour and
baking powder and stir until combined and
smooth, with no lumps.
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs for 20–30
seconds until light and frothy. Carefully fold into
the chocolate mixture to form a thick batter.
Divide the batter evenly between two bowls.
Add the matcha powder to one bowl and mix
until fully combined.
Allow to cool slightly for 10–15 minutes, then
spoon alternating dollops of each mixture into a
lined tray to create a marbled effect.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are
set and the centre slightly soft. Leave to cool
completely, then slice into 12 pieces.
14 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

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in the heart of the Cotswolds
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PEANUT BUTTER
SALTED CARAMEL
BROWNIE
I’ve taken our classic chocolate brownie
base and transformed it by creating a
salted caramel layer running through the
bake. I’ve included peanut butter and
chopped, lightly salted peanuts for extra
indulgence and texture, but if that isn’t
your bag, just leave them out.
For the salted caramel
100g (1⁄2 cup) light soft brown sugar
175ml (3⁄4 cup) double cream
50g (1¾oz) unsalted butter, diced
1 tsp sea salt
300g (10oz) crunchy peanut butter
(optional)
For the brownie batter
175g (6oz) unsalted butter, diced
100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate, in
small pieces
300g (1½ cups) caster sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract or paste
100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain flour
½ tsp baking powder
3 eggs
50g (1¾oz) lightly salted peanuts, chopped
(optional)
METHOD
Begin with the salted caramel. Combine the
sugar, cream, butter and salt in a saucepan
over a low heat and stir until dissolved.
Increase the heat and simmer for 2–3
minutes until golden and syrupy. Remove
from the heat, cool slightly, then stir in the
peanut butter. Spread evenly into a lined tray
and freeze until firm.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F/
Gas 4).
Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the
chocolate and stir until smooth. Remove
from the heat, add the sugar and vanilla,
then mix in the flour and baking powder until
combined.
Whisk the eggs until light and frothy, then
fold into the mixture to form a smooth batter.
Spread half the batter into a lined tin. Place
the frozen caramel layer on top, then cover
with the remaining batter. Sprinkle with
peanuts if using.
Bake for 40 minutes until the edges are set
and the centre slightly soft. Cool completely,
then cut into 12 bars.
16 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

RASPBERRY RIPPLE
BROWNIE
Childhood memories of summers spent
at the seaside were the inspiration for
this recipe. Regardless of the weather,
a Whippy ice cream was a must — and
with raspberry topping, it became an
unforgettable taste combination.
INGREDIENTS
175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, diced
100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate,
broken into small pieces
300g (1½ cups) caster sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract or paste
100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain flour
½ tsp baking powder
3 eggs
For the raspberry swirl
125g (4½oz) white chocolate
75ml (2½fl oz) soured cream
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp natural raspberry flavouring (we use
Foodie Flavours, available online)
1 tbsp raspberry jam
METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C
fan/350°F/Gas 4).
Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add
the chocolate and stir until smooth.
Remove from the heat, mix in the sugar
and vanilla, then add the flour and baking
powder and stir until combined.
Whisk the eggs until light and frothy, then
fold into the mixture to form a smooth
batter.
For the raspberry swirl, melt the white
chocolate in short bursts, stirring until
smooth. Mix in the soured cream, egg,
flavouring and jam until well combined.
Spread half the brownie batter into a
lined tray. Spoon over half the raspberry
mixture, then cover with the remaining
batter. Add the rest of the swirl mixture
and create a marbled effect with a
cocktail stick.
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the
edges are set and the centre
slightly soft. Cool completely, then
slice into 9 pieces.
Full versions of these recipes
can be found in The Brownie
Book: Wickedly Irresistible
Chocolatey Bakes by Kate
Jenkins (DK, £16.99), with
photography by Kim Lightbody.
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 17

DRIVING AT NIGHT
GETTING HARDER?
It Might Not Be Your Glasses
If you’ve found yourself avoiding night driving lately,
you’re not alone. Many people notice that oncoming
headlights feel dazzling, streetlights seem to glow with
halos, and road signs aren’t as sharp as they once were.
It’s easy to assume your glasses need updating—but
often, that’s not the full story.
These symptoms can be early signs of cataracts, a
common age-related change where the eye’s natural
lens gradually becomes cloudy. Unlike typical vision
changes that glasses can correct, cataracts affect how
light enters the eye. This is why glare from headlights
can feel overwhelming, and why night-time vision is
often the first thing to deteriorate.
Other tell-tale signs include blurred or dim vision,
increased sensitivity to light, and colours appearing
slightly faded. You may even notice that your prescription
seems to change more frequently, without ever
quite feeling “right.”
So when is it time to consider treatment? If your vision
is starting to impact everyday activities—particularly
driving, reading, or recognising faces—it’s worth seeking
advice. Cataracts don’t need to be “ripe” anymore
before being treated; modern approaches focus on
improving quality of life as soon as symptoms become
bothersome.
The good news is that cataract surgery is now one of
the most common and straightforward procedures performed
in the UK. It typically takes less than 30 minutes,
is done under local anaesthetic, and most people return
home the same day. The cloudy lens is replaced with a
clear artificial one, often restoring sharp, vibrant vision—
sometimes even reducing the need for glasses.
If night driving has become stressful or uncomfortable,
it’s worth looking beyond your prescription. A simple eye
examination could be the first step back to clearer, more
confident vision.
That’s Newmedica
At Newmedica Gloucestershire,
we offer fast access to cataract
care, with expert consultants
tailoring treatment and lens options
to your vision and lifestyle. We’re
committed to making private
cataract lenses affordable, with
prices starting from £2,295, with
finance options available*.
When I was told I needed
cataract surgery, I didn’t want
to waste time on a waiting list.
In a matter of weeks, I could
see clearly again.
For a FREE consultation
call 01452 223 334
(option 2 for private)
or visit newmedica.co.uk
*Acceptance is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply.
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 19

SEASONAL FOCUS
OUTDOOR LIVING
Designing gardens that feel like a
natural extension of the home
THE GARDEN,
REIMAGINED
The garden is no longer a separate
space — it’s an integral part of
the home. As the days lengthen,
attention naturally turns outdoors.
But today’s approach to garden
design goes far beyond planting
schemes. It’s about creating a
cohesive, functional environment
where cooking, relaxing,
entertaining and even
working can all
take place.
Wooden Adirondack Chair,
£239, hauslife.co.uk;
Ocellus Outdoor Cushion
£75, oka.com
The result?
Spaces that
feel
every bit as considered as the
interiors they connect to.
SEAMLESS INDOOR–
OUTDOOR LIVING
One of the biggest shifts in recent
years has been the desire to blur the
boundaries between inside and out.
Large-format doors, level thresholds
and consistent flooring help create a
natural flow from kitchen to terrace.
Even subtle details — matching
colour palettes, coordinated
furniture styles — can make the
transition feel effortless.
This connection doesn’t just
enhance aesthetics; it changes how
the space is used, encouraging
more time spent outdoors.
PERGOLAS
& COVERED
SPACES
Pergolas have become
one of the defining
features of modern
gardens.
Images, clockwise from top left; Garden
House Design, Renson Canopy; Danetti
Furniture; OKA tablescape
Whether sleek aluminium structures
with adjustable louvres or more
traditional timber designs softened
with planting, they provide structure
and shelter — extending the
usability of outdoor spaces well
beyond the height of summer.
Add integrated lighting, heating or
retractable shades, and a pergola
becomes a true outdoor room.
OUTDOOR
KITCHENS & DINING
Al fresco dining has evolved into
something far more sophisticated.
Outdoor kitchens — from simple
built-in barbecues to fully equipped
cooking stations — allow hosts to
20 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Project by Green Retreats
stay part of the occasion rather than
stepping away indoors.
At the heart of many of these
spaces is a high-quality grill.
Kamado-style barbecues, in
particular, have seen a surge in
popularity, prized for their versatility,
heat retention and ability to cook
everything from slow-smoked meats
to pizzas and seared vegetables. As
a result, they’re increasingly being
designed into outdoor kitchens as
a permanent feature rather than a
portable add-on.
Indoor/Outdoor Rug, £115, clickstyle.co.uk;
Garden Chair, £129.99,
laura-james.co.uk; Outdoor Cushion,
£38, hauslife.co.uk
Materials matter here too: durable
stone worktops, weather-resistant
cabinetry and thoughtfully planned
layouts ensure these spaces
are both practical and visually
cohesive — built to withstand the
elements while still feeling like a
natural extension of the home.
GARDEN ROOMS &
FLEXIBLE SPACES
Garden rooms continue to grow
in popularity, offering a flexible
solution for modern living.
Whether used as a home office,
gym, studio or simply a quiet
retreat, they provide valuable
additional space without the need
for a full extension.
High-quality insulation, glazing and
interior finishes mean
these spaces can be
used year-round —
making them a practical
as well as aspirational
investment.
Cintre Lounge Chair £1595,
oka.com
PLANTING: BRING
IT ALL TOGETHER
With so much emphasis on
structure, it’s easy for planting to be
pushed to the edges — but it’s what
gives a garden its softness and life.
The most successful spaces
bring planting closer to the house,
allowing greenery to frame seating
areas, soften terraces and enhance
the view from inside. Even simple
additions — pots near doorways,
looser borders around
entertaining spaces — can
make a garden feel more
immersive.
Crucially, planting needs room
to thrive. Generous beds
and thoughtful layering will
always create more impact
than squeezing greenery into
leftover gaps.
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 21

LANDSCAPING:
ANCHOR THE
SPACE
Behind every successful outdoor
space is strong landscaping.
Clean lines, defined zones and a
balance of hard and soft materials
create structure. Planting schemes
are increasingly designed for yearround
interest, with texture and
form playing as important a role as
colour.
Importantly, good landscaping
ensures that all the individual
elements — seating areas, pergolas,
kitchens — feel connected rather
than competing.
A SPACE THAT
WORKS FOR YOU
The most effective outdoor spaces
are those tailored to how they’ll
actually be used.
For some, that means a sociable
entertaining area. For others, a calm
retreat or a practical family garden.
Often, it’s a combination of all three.
What’s clear is that outdoor living
is no longer a luxury — it’s an
expectation. And with thoughtful
design, even modest spaces can
be transformed into something truly
special.
Lacock Lounge Set, £1,709 and
Indian Palm Block Print Parasol
below, £225, both hauslife.co.uk
Because when the garden works
as beautifully as the home itself,
summer living becomes second
nature.
LIGHTING: THE
FINISHING TOUCH
Lighting is often the element that
brings everything together.
A well-designed
scheme can
highlight planting,
define pathways
and create atmosphere long after
the sun has set. Layering is key —
combining subtle uplighting, task
lighting and softer ambient options.
Done well, lighting transforms a
garden from a daytime space into
an evening destination.
Bramblecrest Tuscan 9 Seater Aluminium Garden Furniture Corner Sofa
Dining, £3,995, Set with Fire Pit Table, charlies.co.uk
Tesso Dark Grey
Garden 4 Seater Dining
Table £699, danetti.
com; Firebowl, £79.99,
homescapesonline.com
22 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

NOTES FROM THE
Garden
‘The darling bugs of May’
with apologies to Laurie Lee!
May and June are wonderful months in the garden. Lots to
enjoy and lots to do but this time of the year is also critical for
our insect friends. Bees, butterflies, moths all need our help and
so choosing what we plant, what parts of the garden we leave a
little wild - all of these affect how useful our garden is for them.
Dandelions are an essential bee flower so I leave them to flower,
but dead head them before they seed! Nettles are also essential
for certain butterflies, the small tortoiseshell, peacock and red
admiral to lay their eggs on -
nettles don’t need to overrun
the garden but a discreet, out
of the way, clump is great.
Ivy provides nectar for the holly
blue butterfly and winter shelter
for all overwintering species
plus nesting birds.
Lavender, Buddleia,
Honeysuckle and Sedum are
great for bees and butterflies
too.
If you have a shallow dish you can make a mud puddle which
butterflies and other insects appreciate- soil, water and maybe
a landing stone is such a useful resource and so simple to
provide.
There are so many types of bees, from the hairy footed flower
bee to the buff tailed bumblebee - and some are solitary bees,
the more I learn about bees the more I appreciate them.
Bee hotels, softwood with holes drilled in, or making a bee and
bug hotel is a great outdoor task for kids, and teaches them
such a lot - so whatever you do in the garden in May and June,
don’t forget the tiny pollinators and our insect chums.
For more advice, visit Matt Biggs’ website:
www.matthewbiggs.com
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ADAM HENSON
Why British Farming
Matters More
Than Ever
Farmer and BBC Countryfile
presenter Adam Henson has spent
decades championing British
agriculture and helping people
understand where their food comes
from. Ahead of appearances at the
Great British Farm-Fest and the
Royal Three Counties Show, he
reflects on the realities of farming
today — from unpredictable
weather to global competition —
and why reconnecting people with
the countryside has never been
more important.
FARMING AT THE
MERCY OF NATURE
Farming may be supported
by increasingly sophisticated
technology, but it remains
fundamentally dependent on nature.
That reality became clear last year
on Adam’s farm.
“We had the driest summer in living
memory,” he explains. “We went
from a wet autumn and spring to
an incredibly dry summer, and our
crops really struggled. Yields were
down by about 30%.”
The sunflower crop was particularly
affected and had to be cultivated
back into the soil. Yet farming often
brings unexpected moments.
“We left a strip as a wildflower
margin, and the seeds that
hadn’t rotted germinated again.
Suddenly we had this beautiful
strip of sunflowers.”
It’s a reminder of the unpredictability
that defines agriculture — and the
resilience it demands.
A COMPLEX
INDUSTRY UNDER
PRESSURE
Modern farming faces a range of
challenges. British farmers work
to high environmental and welfare
standards — something Adam
supports — but competing with
imports produced under different
conditions can be difficult. “When
imports don’t match our standards,
it makes competition harder.”
Disease also remains a concern.
Livestock conditions such as
Bluetongue and Schmallenberg can
have serious consequences, while
avian influenza continues to disrupt
poultry farms.
Despite this, Adam is clear that
farming is far from uniform.
MANY TYPES OF
FARMING
“The industry is incredibly diverse,”
he says. “You might have a small
family farm working hard for modest
returns, or a large-scale operation
using advanced machinery.”
“You can have all the plans
in the world, but farming
constantly reminds you
Both play a vital role in producing
food and sustaining rural
communities. “We want the
countryside to be vibrant and
successful.”
RECONNECTING
PEOPLE WITH
FOOD
there are things you
simply can’t control.”
Adam’s biggest concern is how
disconnected many people have
become from food production.
“We don’t teach agriculture in the
national curriculum,” he says. As a
result, everyday processes — from
how eggs are produced to how
crops grow — are often poorly
understood.
“If we don’t understand where our
food comes from, it’s very hard to
make informed choices.”
LOOKING AHEAD
With a busy show season ahead,
Adam remains optimistic. “If people
understand and value the work
behind their food, that’s incredibly
powerful,” he says.
Because farming, he believes, is
about far more than food — it’s
about landscape, wildlife and
the communities that shape our
countryside.
26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

F u r n i t u r e ,
f a s h i o n ,
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 27

High quality care
in Cheltenham
Promotional Partnership
At Sandfields care home our highly
trained teams are experts in
providing high quality care from
residential, dementia care and
nursing care to short term care...
Our homes offer luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop, hair
salon and beautiful lounges with a passionate wellbeing team
that means your loved one’s day will never be the same.
A LIFESTYLE TAILORED TO YOU
At our ‘good’ CQC rated home Sandfields we’ll support you
to continue living your life the way you choose. We’ll learn all
about your interests and preferences so we can create a fully
personalised lifestyle plan that you’ll enjoy whether it’s gardening,
cheese and wine socials or playing chess.
LUXURY LIVING
At Sandfields we have beautiful luxurious facilities, including a
coffee shop, hair salon and beautiful landscaped garden.
Our award-winning Head Chef-led kitchen teams are passionate
about providing high-quality food and there’s always a choice of
nutritious and delicious dishes at every meal.
HEAR WHAT RELATIVES HAVE TO SAY
We recognise the importance of friends and family staying
involved in their loved one’s care and lifestyle plan and our
regular relative meetings are popular.
TRUST US TO CARE
Sandfields is part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large
care provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred
care for over 40 years. That’s why over 10,000 families trust us to
care for their older loved ones.
To find out more, call 01242 802590
Sandfields care home
St George’s Road, Cheltenham, GL50 3EL
careuk.com/sandfields
Reserve your apartment by 31st December 2025 and enjoy ONE YEAR OF FREE HEATING
OVER 55’ S LIVING
COME LOOK AROUND
Albion Meadows is situated in the delightful village
of Hanley Swan, Worcestershire. We aim to create
homes that have deep links with the surrounding
community and a real sense of belonging. Hanley
Swan, a quintessentially English village with a
duck pond, has many amenities such as a wellstocked
shop, and thriving pub.
town of Upton-Upon-Severn with the M5
close at hand.
Looking for the perfect place to enjoy your
retirement? Albion Meadows offers spacious
one and two-bedroom apartments designed
for the active over-55s, providing the ideal
balance of independence and comfort with
24-hour support in a beautiful countryside
setting.
The village is located near to the historic Malvern
Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,
as well as the excellent Three Counties Show
Ground. Nearby is also the delightful riverside
The apartments provide well-appointed
homes rooted in the surrounding countryside
with spacious balconies, a kitchen garden,
and easily accessible walks in the grounds.
The design of the new homes has practical
living at the heart, with easily controllable
underfloor heating throughout, level access
wet rooms, a separate utility and ample
storage space. All that modern retirement
living requires. There is also an owner’s
lounge, hairdressers, restaurant, formal
gardens and gym on site for you to enjoy.
28 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Join us for
our next
event
Sandfields care home,
Cheltenham
Cheltenham
Community day
Wednesday 27th May, 11am - 4pm
We want to invite you for a wonderful day at
our home with a guest appearances from the
Fire services and the local Police.
Take a tour of our beautiful home, explore
the different care types we offer, enjoy
entertainment and so much more whilst
getting to know other members of the
community. Our friendly team will also be on
hand to answer any questions and support.
Trusted to care.
To attend please call
01242 800622 or email
david.blake@careuk.com

Living Well, Living Connected
Why retirement is becoming one of life’s most
rewarding chapters...
For a new generation, retirement is no
longer about winding down — it’s about
opening up. More time, more freedom
and more choice are reshaping what later
life looks like, with lifestyle, wellbeing and
connection now firmly at the heart of the
conversation.
One of the biggest shifts is how people
are choosing to live. Downsizing, once
seen purely as a practical necessity, is
increasingly viewed as a positive step
forward. A well-considered move can
unlock equity, reduce the burden of
maintaining a larger home and create a
simpler, more enjoyable way of living.
The result? More time to spend on the
things that bring genuine pleasure —
whether that’s travel, creative pursuits or
simply enjoying a beautiful, thoughtfully
designed space.
Alongside this comes a more proactive
approach to financial planning. Rather
than reacting to change, many are
choosing to plan ahead — making
confident decisions about their future
while they are still in control. This sense
of preparedness not only protects longterm
security, but also allows individuals
to fully embrace the opportunities that
retirement can offer.
Yet perhaps the most defining element of
modern later-life living is connection. As
awareness grows around the impact of
loneliness, there is a clear shift towards
environments that actively foster social
interaction. Today’s communities are
designed with this in mind — from shared
lounges and landscaped gardens to
organised events and interest-led groups.
These are places where neighbours
quickly become friends, and where a
sense of belonging develops naturally.
Wellbeing, too, has taken centre stage.
The focus is no longer simply on care
when it’s needed, but on maintaining
health and vitality for as long as possible.
Access to fitness classes, walking
routes, wellness programmes and on-site
support all contribute to a lifestyle that
feels both active and reassuring. It’s
about living independently, but never in
isolation.
Importantly, the look and feel of these
communities has evolved. Gone are
the outdated perceptions of later-life
housing. In their place are light-filled
apartments, stylish communal spaces
and amenities that rival those of highend
developments. It’s a model that
recognises that expectations don’t
diminish with age — if anything, they
grow stronger.
For families, this new approach offers
genuine reassurance. Loved ones are not
only safe, but thriving — surrounded by
opportunities to stay engaged, active and
socially connected.
Ultimately, retirement today is not about
stepping away from life, but stepping into
it in a different, often richer way. With the
right environment and the right choices,
later life can be every bit as full, vibrant
and rewarding as the years that came
before.
30 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

WE BUY GOLD!
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We buy your unwanted or broken
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DI Lux, High Street, Moreton in Marsh, GL56 0AH
Home visits and valuations
If you are unable to bring your items to our store, we are happy to
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07903 740 299
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www.dilux.co.uk
Q

HIGH
FLYERS
A loved one’s name can fly
high alongside our crew in the
iconic chevrons underneath
our brand new H145 helicopter.
Donate £150 to support lifesaving missions and have
your chosen name on our new helicopter.
Find out how at highf lyers.midlandsairambulance.com
Or call 0800 8 40 20 40