Cotswolds Lifestyle May

YOUR FREE COPY MAY/JUNE 2026

Cotswolds

lifestyle

AN EXTRA

SLICE

DECADENT BROWNIE

RECIPES TO DEVOUR

ADAM HENSON

WE CATCH UP WITH THE

FARMER & TV PRESENTER

OUTDOOR LIVING

DESIGNING SPACES

MADE FOR SUMMER

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

Come home and enjoy world-class opera

in the Cotswolds this summer.

2026 SEASON

May – August

BOOK

NOW

HANDEL ORLANDO

WAGNER TRISTAN UND ISOLDE

VERDI MACBETH

HUMPERDINCK HANSEL AND GRETEL

a centre for boundary pushing innovation

The Telegraph

Matthew Williams-Ellis

LFO.org.uk | 01451 830292 Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 0QF

Charity no. 1087303

C O N T E N T S

A NOTE

from the editor

20

THE ULTIMATE BROWNIE LINE-UP

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!).

31

READER SURVEY

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.

ADAM HENSON

08

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 The Brownie Book by Kate

Jenkins - photography by Kim Lightbody

28

OUTDOOR LIVING

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm,

Hilperton BA14 6JB

t 01225 984 550

www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Printed on sustainably sourced paper.

Please recycle this copy or pass it along

when you are finished for someone else

to enjoy.

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be

held liable for any loss occasioned by

failure of an advertisement to appear, or

any damage or inconvenience caused by

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of

this publication may be reproduced without

prior permission from the publishers.

The opinions expressed within are not

necessarily those of the publishers.

We’re also keen to hear from

you. You’ll notice a QR code

dotted throughout this edition

— by taking just three minutes

to complete our reader survey,

you’ll not only be entered into a

draw to win a £240 wine hamper,

but you’ll also help us shape the

magazine around what you most

enjoy reading.

As always, thank you for your

continued support — and we

hope this issue provides plenty

of inspiration for the weeks

ahead.

Katie

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

MORE THAN BOOKS

Why Hay Festival is for everyone

One of the world’s biggest cultural events right on your

doorstep? Hay Festival is nearly here and offers so much

more than just great books...

21–31 May, discover something new. Walk

around the free site and you’ll also discover

cooking demos, classical music recitals, film

screenings, comedy shows, and talks on

politics, wellbeing, history and gardening.

Hugh Bonneville and Emma Thompson

discuss their reading journeys. TV favourites

Mel and Sue record their popular podcast

live. Have I Got News For You team captain

Ian Hislop brings political satire.

Actor Hugh Bonneville

For history enthusiasts, royal biographer

Hugo Vickers uses previously unseen

sources to illuminate Queen Elizabeth II’s

private life. Best-selling author Ben Macintyre

explores international espionage from

Bletchley Park to the Cold War. Historian

David Olusoga examines British identity

through ancient legends and Celtic rites.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai

features alongside Costa Book Award

winner Maggie O’Farrell. National treasure

Mary Berry discusses her lifelong passion

for gardening. Bake Off star Prue Leith and

wellbeing expert Liz Earle offer a candid

discussion on embracing life and ageing

well.

Wander through, browse the bookshop,

enjoy a coffee in the scenic surroundings,

and only buy tickets for events that interest

you.

It’s a once-a-year gathering in the small

booktown of Hay-on-Wye, offering

something for everyone – whether you’re

Use your

exclusive

discount code

CLHF2026 for

10% off all

events*

Promotional Partnership

Bannau Brycheiniog National Park guided walks

a lifelong reader or someone who simply

enjoys a good time.

Hay Festival runs 21-31 May 2026.

Full programme: hayfestival.org

*Valid for 10% off Hay Festival 2026 event tickets

until 23:59 on 20 May 2026, excludes E-gift cards,

parking, lounge passes, books and general gift shop

items. Cannot be used in conjunction with other

discounts or offers.

21 —— 31

May 2026

The world’s

leading festival

of ideas returns

For eleven days this May,

the Welsh border town of

Hay-on-Wye welcomes

Hugh Bonneville, Emma

Thompson, Prue Leith,

Ian Hislop, Ben Macintyre,

Mel and Sue, and many

more household favourites.

Book now

hayfestival.org

Browse the famous

Bookshop, enjoy the

scenery, settle in for brilliant

conversation.

– Free site entry

– Step-free venues

– Perfect for a day out

Use your exclusive discount

code CLHF2026 for 10%

off all events*

*Valid for 10% off Hay Festival 2026 event tickets

until 23:59 on 20 May 2026, excludes E-gift

cards, parking, lounge passes, books and general

gift shop items. Cannot be used in conjunction

with other discounts or offers.

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Frrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeee VVaaaaaaaalllluuuuuuuaaaaaaaatttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnn Daaaaaaaayyyssssssss

Eveeeeeeeerrrrrrrryyy Tuuuuuuueeeeeeeessssssssdddddaaaaaaaayyy 111100000aaaaaaaammmmmmm ---- 4pmmmmmmm

Follower of Canaletto oil

From a Cotswold Manor House

SOLD FOR £22,500

Home Visits

Downsizing

Estate Clearances

Probate Valuations

Insurance Valuations

Kiiiiiiiinnnnnnnngggghhhhaaaaaaaammmmmmmssssssss Auuuuuuuccccctttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrssssssss LLLtttttttddddd,,, 111100000----11112 Cooooooootttttttsssssssswwwwoooooooollllddddd Buuuuuuussssssssiiiiiiiinnnnnnnneeeeeeeessssssssssssssss VViiiiiiiillllllllaaaaaaaaggggeeeeeeee,,, LLLoooooooonnnnnnnndddddoooooooonnnnnnnn Rooooooooaaaaaaaaddddd,,,

MMoooooooorrrrrrrreeeeeeeetttttttoooooooonnnnnnnn----Innnnnnnn----MMaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrsssssssshhhh GLLL5556666 00000JQ

wwwwwwwwwwww...kkiiiiiiiinnnnnnnngggghhhhaaaaaaaammmmmmmssssssssaaaaaaaauuuuuuuccccctttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrssssssss...cccccoooooooommmmmmm

eeeeeeeennnnnnnnquuuuuuuiiiiiiiirrrrrrrriiiiiiiieeeeeeeessssssss@kkiiiiiiiinnnnnnnngggghhhhaaaaaaaammmmmmmssssssssaaaaaaaauuuuuuuccccctttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrssssssss...cccccoooooooommmmmmm

0000011116666000008 666699555 666699555


Cirencester’s only under cover shopping centre,

Bishops Walk prides itself on being a very special shopping experience...

...a mini village in the Capital of the Cotswolds.

Step into

choice

in 2025

visit Bishops Walk

Bishops Walk Shopping Arcade, Cirencester GL7 1JH

bishops-walk.co.uk


Get back into the garden

with Leekes

New

season

garden furniture

now in store

Hartman Asher garden bistro set

Quick delivery

available

Rated "Excellent on Trustpilot"

Google Rating

4.8/5

Kettler Cora wooden garden dining set

Bramblecrest Portofino aluminium garden sofa set

Spread the cost with interest free credit #

Visit your destination for home inspiration.

Cheltenham. GL51 9PX | leekes.co.uk

# 0% APR representative. Finance is subject to status and affordability, conditions apply. For more information please visit: leekes.co.uk.

All details are correct at the time of sending to press. Terms & conditions apply – ask in store for details. Product availability may vary by location.

Please visit the website for detailed information about our store before your visit.

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.


FLUFF IT, DUFF IT,

SCORE IT, SMASH IT.

WHATEVER YOU DO,

JUST GIVE IT A GO.

Whether you’re tiny,

teen, or grown-up, see

how being active can

change the way you feel,

think, and move.

Scan the QR to discover

a little more movement,

and a lot more fun:

Run by Christians. Open to all.

@sportilyUK

sportily.org.uk

European Adventures

01793 821303 | Barnescoaches.co.uk

Chateaux & Gardens

of Paris

Thu 18th June 2026

5 Days: From £839pp

Tour highlights: Versailles,

Monet’s Garden, Seine

Cruise & Château de

Vaux-le-Vicomte by

candlelight followed by

fireworks!

Danube Highlights

Cruise, By Air to Vienna!

Tue 21st Jul 2026

9 Days: From £2,799pp

(Emerald Deck sharing)

Including Budapest,

Bratislava, Melk Abbey,

& Linz Full Board on Cruise

with all-inclusive drinks

+ 4 included excursions!

Black Forest Rail & Sail,

Germany

Mon 27th Jul 2026


Tour highlights: Two Train

Rides, Lake Cruise and the

Black Forest Museum!

High Alps Explorer,

Austria

Sat 2nd August 2026


Tour highlights: Cable

Car and Linderhof Castle!

Disneyland Paris &

Walt Disney Studios

Tue 18th August 2026

4 Days: From £759pp

(Based on x4 sharing)

Inc. 2-day Disney Pass!

FREE

HOME PICKUP &

DROP OFF SERVICE

ON TOURS 4 DAYS+

See back cover for our

free pickup area map.

BARNES

Part of the Coach Travel Group

2026 UK & European

Coach Holidays

Spring, Summer & Autumn

REQUEST

YOUR FREE

BROCHURE

TODAY!

01793 821303

barnescoaches.co.uk


DISCOVER

THE FREEDOM OF BOATING

AT TINGDENE’S STOURPORT & UPTON MARINAS

Enjoy the best of the River Severn with Tingdene

Marinas’ Gold Anchor award-winning locations.

Moor with us and enjoy:

BOATS FOR SALE

Direct access to the renowned River Severn

Premium waterside facilities for you & your boat

SEALINE F43, 2000 | £125,000

Exclusive Privilege Scheme benefits and discounts

Up to one month’s free mooring at each of our 12 marinas

Onsite new and used boat sales offices

CUSTOM NARROWBOAT, 2004 | £32,950

A warm community of like-minded boaters

Regular social events & celebrations onsite

Your gateway to adventure on

the River Severn starts here!

Secure your berth today.

SEA RAY 250, 1997 | £18,000

BUY & SELL WITH US!

STOURPORT MARINA

WORCESTERSHIRE, DY13 9QF

stourportmarina@tingdene.net

stourportboatsales@tingdene.net

01299 827082

UPTON LAKE & MARINA

WORCESTERSHIRE, WR8 0PB

uptonmarina@tingdene.net

01684 594287

uptonboatsales@tingdene.net

01684 593111

Visit www.tingdeneboating.com to find out more.

WE BUY GOLD!

Best prices paid in the Cotswolds

We buy your unwanted or broken

gold, jewellery and other gold pieces

Chains Bracelets & Bangles Gold Watches

Rings Earrings Sovereigns

Necklaces & Pendants Bullion Gold Coins

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

arrange a home visit for jewellery, gold and antique valuations/offers

07903 740 299

E

www.dilux.co.uk

Q

RESULTS, RESILIENCE &

THE ROAD AHEAD

As exam season approaches, we explore wellbeing,

preparation and confident next steps

As the exam season draws closer, a

familiar shift takes place in households

across the region. Revision timetables

are drawn up, kitchen tables become

study zones, and conversations

increasingly turn to grades, next steps

and future plans. It’s a time that can feel

intense — not just for students, but for

families too.

But while exams are undeniably

important, they are only one part of a

much bigger picture.

Across schools, there is a growing

recognition that success is not defined

solely by results day. Increasingly, the

focus is on equipping young people

with the resilience, confidence and

adaptability they need to navigate not

only exams, but the wider world beyond

them.

Preparation, of course, still matters. Good

study habits, structured revision and clear

guidance from teachers all play a crucial

role in helping students feel ready. The

most effective preparation, however, goes

beyond simply learning content. It’s about

understanding how to manage time, cope

with pressure and approach challenges

with a calm, focused mindset.

That’s where wellbeing comes into its

own.

Schools are placing greater emphasis on

pastoral care, recognising that students

perform best when they feel supported

and secure. Whether it’s access to

mentoring, wellbeing workshops or

simply having trusted staff to talk to,

these layers of support help to reduce

anxiety and build confidence at a time

when it’s needed most.

At home, too, small shifts can make a

big difference. Encouraging balance

— ensuring time for rest, exercise and

social connection alongside revision —

can help students maintain perspective.

It’s easy for exam preparation to become

all-consuming, but stepping away from

the desk is often just as valuable as the

hours spent at it.

Perhaps one of the most important

messages for students to hold onto is

that exams are not a final verdict on who

they are or what they can achieve. They

are a snapshot — a moment in time —

rather than a full reflection of ability or

potential.

The world beyond school is changing

rapidly, and with it, the skills that matter

most. Employers and universities are

increasingly looking for qualities such

as creativity, communication, problemsolving

and emotional intelligence. These

are not developed through exams alone,

but through experiences, challenges and

personal growth over time.

That’s why resilience has become such

a key focus.

Resilience is not about avoiding stress,

but learning how to respond to it.

It’s built through facing challenges,

adapting when things don’t go to

plan, and developing the confidence

to keep moving forward. For many

students, exam season is one of the

first significant tests of this — and

an opportunity to develop skills that

will serve them long after results are

published.

As we look ahead to the coming months,

it’s worth reframing the narrative. Yes,

results matter. But so too does the

journey — the effort, the progress, and

the personal growth that happens along

the way.

For students, parents and schools alike,

the goal is not just to get through exam

season, but to emerge from it stronger,

more self-aware and better prepared for

whatever comes next.

Because ultimately, success is not

defined by a set of grades — but by

the confidence to take the next step

forward.


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


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


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.


MAKING TAX DIGITAL:

What it means for you

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is a UK

government initiative designed

to modernise the tax system by

replacing paper-based processes

with digital record-keeping and

online reporting to HMRC. Its aim is

to reduce errors, improve accuracy,

and give taxpayers a clearer picture

of their finances throughout the

year, rather than relying on a single

annual deadline.

MTD was first introduced for VAT in

2019 and is now being extended to

cover Income Tax Self-Assessment,

with further expansion planned in

future.

Who Needs to Comply?

VAT-registered businesses

All VAT-registered businesses must

already comply with MTD for VAT,

regardless of turnover. This means

using HMRC-approved software

to keep records and submit VAT

returns digitally.

Self-employed individuals and

landlords

MTD for Income Tax (MTD for ITSA)

will affect those earning income

from self-employment and/or

property:

• From April 2026 – qualifying

income over £50,000

• From April 2027 – threshold

reduces to £30,000

• From April 2028 – expected to

reduce to £20,000

Qualifying income refers to gross

income from self-employment or

property before expenses. Other

income such as PAYE does not

usually count towards the threshold.

Corporation Tax

MTD for Corporation Tax is not yet

mandatory but is expected in future.

What Does MTD Require?

Digital record-keeping

You must keep digital records of

income and expenses using HMRCcompatible

software. This is more

than just spreadsheets or scanned

documents — records must be

digitally linkable to HMRC.

Quarterly updates

Instead of one annual return,

businesses must submit quarterly

summaries of income and expenses.

These updates help spread the

workload and keep records current.

Annual final submission

At the end of the tax year, a final

declaration confirms figures and

calculates any remaining tax due.

Approved software

You’ll need software such as Xero,

QuickBooks, Sage, FreeAgent, or

approved bridging tools. Always

check that your software is MTDcompatible.

Tips for Making MTD

Easier

Making Tax Digital represents

a major shift in how UK taxes

are managed. While it requires

adjustment, it also offers better

financial visibility, fewer errors and

more control over cash flow. With

the right tools and planning, MTD

can become a practical upgrade

rather than a compliance headache.

The key to minimising stress and

disruption:

Start early

If you are near the income

thresholds, begin digital recordkeeping

now to avoid last-minute

pressure.

Choose suitable software

Look for tools that match your

business size and offer bank feeds,

automation and reminders.

Update monthly

Keeping records little and often is

far easier than rushing quarterly.

Use reminders

Missing deadlines may result in

penalties once MTD becomes fully

enforced.

Get professional advice

Accountants can help you choose

systems, set up processes and stay

compliant.

Check for exemptions

Some individuals may qualify for

exemptions due to age, disability or

other reasons, but these must be

approved by HMRC.


Professional Accounting, Taxation, & Financial

Guidance For Small & Large Businesses.

With over a decade’s worth of experience, we provide professional accounting services and tax

planning solutions to individuals and organisations across all business sectors. Our commitment

to you is simple: “We Grow When You Grow.” We believe in building strong relationships with our

clients and supporting them comprehensively.

Personal Tax Returns

More and more emphasis is being

put on taxpayers’ responsibilities

and everyone subject to taxation

needs advice and support if they

are to optimise their tax position

and ensure they meet the

compliance requirements.

Corporate Tax Returns

Under Corporation Tax Self-

Assessment (CTSA), the legal

responsibility for correctly

calculating the corporation

tax liability falls on business

owners.

Tax Planning

A reasonable analysis of a

financial situation or plan

from a tax perspective, to

align financial goals with tax

efficiency planning.

Speak to a Specialist Accountant Today!

07957 467555 info@isumarco.com

www.isumarco.com

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.


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 a white chocolate blondie

base, half the batter is infused with

earthy matcha for a striking finish and

distinctive flavour.

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/Gas 4).

Melt the butter in a saucepan over a

medium heat, stirring continuously.

Reduce to low, add the chocolate

and stir until smooth and glossy.

Remove from the heat. Stir in the

sugar and vanilla, then the flour

and baking powder until you have a

smooth mixture with no lumps.

Whisk the eggs until light and frothy,

then gently fold into the mixture to

form a thick batter.

Divide between two bowls and mix

the matcha into one until evenly

green.

Dollop alternating spoonfuls into a

lined tray to create a marbled effect.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until set at

the edges with a slight wobble in the

centre. Cool completely, then slice

into 12.

PEANUT BUTTER

SALTED CARAMEL

BROWNIE

A rich chocolate brownie layered with

salted caramel and peanut butter,

with optional chopped peanuts for

extra texture.

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


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain flour


3 eggs

50g (1¾oz) lightly salted peanuts,

chopped (optional)

METHOD

To make the caramel, gently heat

the sugar, cream, butter and salt

until dissolved. Increase the heat

and simmer for 2–3 minutes until

thickened. Remove from the heat, stir

in the peanut butter and spread into a

lined tray. Freeze until firm.


fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter, then stir in the

chocolate until smooth. Remove

from the heat and mix in the sugar

and vanilla, followed by the flour and

baking powder.

Whisk the eggs until frothy, then fold

into the mixture.

Spread half the batter into a lined

tin, add the frozen caramel layer,

then cover with the remaining batter.

Sprinkle with peanuts if using.

Bake for 40 minutes until set at the

edges with a slightly soft centre. Cool,

then cut into 12 bars.


In the charming village of Kelmscott, the

Plough Inn is a traditional Oxfordshire

Cotswold village pub, located within easy

reach of Oxford and Burford, a stone’s

throw away from Kelmscott Manor

It’s the local’s best kept secret, away from it

all with a beautiful summer alfresco garden

in which to enjoy great food & drink

15% OFF

FIRST VISIT

T. 01367 253 543

www.theploughinnkelmscott.com

@theploughkelmscott

enquiry@theploughinnkelmscott.com

THE PLOUGH, KELMSCOTT, LECHLADE, OXFORDSHIRE, GL7 3HG

NEW FOR 2026

25TH-26TH JULY 2026

MALVERN, THREE COUNTIES SHOWGROUND

Over 160 Stalls Street Food + Bars

A Packed Programme of TV Chefs in the Cookery Theatre

Beautiful Things Marquee Kids Activities Live Music

Fantastic Shopping – See, Try & Buy

'Junior Baking School with Dr Josh' Taste & Talk Sessions Book Signing Sessions

SAT

25TH

SAT

25TH

SAT

25TH

HOST

SUN

26TH

SUN

26TH

SUN

26TH

JOHN TORODE &

LISA FAULKNER

PAUL A

YOUNG

FRANCESCO

MATTANA

CHRIS

BAVIN

ROSEMARY

SHRAGER

PING

COOMBES

DEAN

EDWARDS

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY TO SAVE! ADVANCE TICKETS FROM JUST £12*

Includes seeing TV Guest Chefs in the cookery

theatre on the day and FREE parking! Don’t miss it!

threecountiesfoodfestival.com

*subject to booking fees

RASPBERRY RIPPLE

BROWNIE

Inspired by raspberry ripple ice

cream, this bake combines rich

chocolate with a soft, tangy swirl.

175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter,

diced

100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate,

broken into small pieces


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain

flour


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


fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter, then stir in the

chocolate until smooth and glossy.

Remove from the heat and mix in

the sugar and vanilla, followed by

the flour and baking powder.

Whisk the eggs until light, then fold

into the mixture to form a smooth

batter.

For the swirl, melt the white

chocolate in short bursts, then

mix in the soured cream, egg,

flavouring and jam until smooth.

Spread half the brownie batter into

a lined tin. Spoon over half the

raspberry mixture, then top with the

remaining batter. Add the rest of

the swirl mixture and lightly marble

with a cocktail stick.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until set at

the edges with a slight wobble in

the centre. Cool, then cut into 9.

The Brownie Book: Wickedly

Irresistible Chocolatey Bakes

by Kate Jenkins (DK, £16.99),

with photography by Kim

Lightbody, is available now.


STEP INTO OUR TIMELESS

ELIZABETHAN MANOR HOUSE & SPA

in the heart of the Cotswolds

Where timeless charm meets modern elegance.

T: 01242 862352

E: INFO@THEGREENWAY.CO.UK

SHURDINGTON,

CHELTENHAM,

GLOUCESTERSHIRE, GL51 4UG

SCAN TO EXPLORE

LUXURY STAYS

AWARD-WINNING DINING

INDULGENT SPA

CELEBRATIONS & EVENTS

SEASONAL ACTIVITIES

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


BREWERY TOURS

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Breakfast, Lunch, Coffees,

Sandwiches & Wraps

Deli, Wines, Spirits, Gifts, Clothing

and of course...lots of Beer!

We have the ideal venue for

Meetings, Parties & Weddings

FREE BEER!

Our Open Tap is held every

2nd Wednesday of each month

so book a place for free beer

tasting & meet the brewer!

www.hooky.co.uk/hooky-events

OPENING TIMES

Monday – Saturday: 8am – 6pm

Sunday: 9am – 4pm

To book a tour, reserve a table

or discuss a function please call

01608 730384, email us at

vc@hooky.co.uk or book online:

www.hooky.co.uk

Plus: Brewery & Village Museum, Shire Horses & Seasonal Events

THE HOOK NORTON BREWERY CO. L TD BREWERY LANE HOOK NORTON OXFORDSHIRE OX15 5NY

01608 730384 ✉ vc@hooky.co.uk

Hook Norton Brewery has been awarded a VisitEngland Gold Accolade for the high standards achieved as a visitor attrication

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.


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


WIN A £240

FORTNUM & MASON

WINE HAMPER

Take our quick 3-minute survey

to enter now

✔ Tick box answers

✔ Help shape the magazine

✔ Takes under 5 minutes

Closes soon – don’t miss out

SCAN TO ENTER

• Woodburning and

Multifuel Stoves

• Gas and Electric Fires

• Bespoke Media Walls

• Mantelpieces, surrounds

and beams

• Gas Fire Service

• Stove Service and Sweep

With 2 large showrooms

to choose from and an

experienced sales and

installation team, can

supply and create

exactly what you are

looking for.

Cheltenham Showroom

01242 680076

Unit 18-19 Knightsbridge Business

Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9TA

Gloucester Showroom

01452 290155

7A Northbrook Road,

Gloucester GL4 3DP

E: sales@fireplacegalleryfires.co.uk

WWW.FIREPLACEGALLERYFIRES.CO.UK

Image Hypnos Beds

LEADING BRANDS AT

AMAZING PRICES

“Over 25 Mattresses to try from leading

manufacturers such as Hypnos, Kaymed,

Mlily, Dormeo and many more...”

NEW

BRISTOL SHOP:

62/64 High Street,

Shirehampton,

BS11 0DJ

0117 2338777

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

FREE ONSITE PARKING

OLD BED / MATTRESS DISPOSAL AVAILABLE

www.elitebedsandmattressesdirect.co.uk

Thatcham: Unit 9, Wyvale Garden Centre,

Bath Road, Thatcham, RG18 3AN

Tel: 01635 897665

Devizes: 1 & 2 Windsor Drive, Devizes,

SN10 2TH • Tel: 01380 887943

Amesbury: Unit 1, 23 Salisbury Road,

Amesbury, SP4 7AW • Tel: 01980 874242


SMART JOBS FOR JUNE

to keep your garden looking its best

June is one of the most rewarding

months in the garden. Borders are

bursting into life, lawns are growing

quickly and outdoor spaces

become somewhere to relax and

entertain as the evenings stretch

longer.

A little regular maintenance now

helps keep everything looking

beautiful through the rest of

summer — and prevents those

small jobs turning into bigger ones

later in the season.

KEEP THE LAWN

LOOKING ITS BEST

With warmer temperatures and

occasional rainfall, lawns tend

to grow rapidly in June. Regular

mowing encourages thicker growth

and keeps grass looking lush and

healthy.

Avoid cutting the lawn too short

during dry spells — slightly longer

grass helps protect the roots and

retain moisture. Edging paths,

patios and borders also makes a

surprisingly big difference, instantly

giving the garden a well-kept look.

Modern cordless mowers such as

the STIHL RMA 235 battery mower

have become increasingly popular

with home gardeners. Lightweight,

quiet and easy to store, they

make routine mowing quick and

convenient for smaller to mediumsized

lawns.

TRIM HEDGES BEFORE

SUMMER GROWTH

TAKES OFF

Many hedges benefit from a light

trim in early summer to keep them

neat and encourage dense growth.

Formal hedges such as box, privet

and yew respond particularly well to

gentle shaping during June.

For taller hedges and shrubs, a

dedicated hedge trimmer makes

the job far quicker and easier.

Battery models like the STIHL HSA

45 hedge trimmer offer plenty of

cutting power while remaining

lightweight and easy to handle for

most garden tasks.

Always check carefully for nesting

birds before trimming, and aim for

light shaping rather than heavy

pruning.

DON’T FORGET TOOL

MAINTENANCE

Reliable tools make garden jobs far

easier, particularly during the busy

summer growing season. Whether

using traditional petrol equipment

or newer battery-powered tools,

keeping blades sharp and engines

or batteries well maintained helps

ensure everything runs smoothly

when you need it.

Many gardeners choose to have

equipment professionally serviced

once a year — a simple service can

often extend the life of tools and

maintain peak performance.

KEEP PATHS AND

BORDERS TIDY

With plants growing vigorously, it’s

easy for paths, patios and borders

to become cluttered with grass

clippings, fallen leaves and early

weeds. Regular light clearing keeps

outdoor spaces feeling fresh and

welcoming — especially if you’re

planning garden gatherings or

summer barbecues.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL

STIHL STOCKIST

Your local authorised STIHL dealer

can offer expert advice on choosing

the right equipment for your garden

— whether you’re maintaining a

compact lawn or managing larger

hedges and borders.

They can also help with:

• Demonstrations of the latest

petrol and battery garden

tools

• Servicing and maintenance

to keep equipment running

smoothly

• Replacement parts,

accessories and seasonal

advice

Speak to your local STIHL dealer

to find the right tools for the

season ahead.


100 YEARS STIHL DEALS

BUY AN AK SYSTEM TOOL. GET UP TO £30 CASHBACK.

UP TO

£30

CASH

BACK

NORTHAMPTON ROAD,

WESTON-ON-THE-GREEN,

BICESTER | OX25 3TJ

01869 343292

www.turneygroup.com

Affordable properties from

£31,500* for a 10 percent share

Live independently with on-site care at Fern Meadows.

Shared ownership apartments are available for people

aged 55 and over. Purchase a one- or two-bedroom Extra Care

apartment with access to a range of on-site communal facilities.

Communal

lounge

On-site

care team

Pet

friendly

On-site

bistro

Want to find out more? Contact our team today.

01367 888 010

info.fernmeadows@housing21.org.uk

*Other monthly charges apply.

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.


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.


Lunch is on us at Cotswold Gate Care Home

Join us every Tuesday at 12.30pm for a complimentary freshly prepared lunch and

the opportunity to meet new people in a warm and welcoming environment.

Booking is required. To RSVP call 01993 222800

or email csm.cotswoldgate@porthaven.co.uk

Cotswold Gate Care Home, 34 Forest Grove, Burford OX18 4FF

NURSING • RESIDENTIAL • DEMENTIA • RESPITE

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

Z B H A E L L R W N U O N G C

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

A B T Q B T D I S G O R G S R

S E W A E E A Y E X B R G S E

S C A I D M M J R S R W M E A

S U V S T A Y C A T I O N S M

V E E U B E A C H B A L L B P

HEATWAVE

BLUE SKIES

SUNGLASSES

SWIMSUIT

FLIP FLOPS

ICE CREAM

GOGGLES

SUMMERTIME

WORDSEARCH

BEACH BALL

SNORKELING

GARDENING

THUNDERSTORM

BARBECUE

STAYCATION

HOLIDAY

WORD WHEEL

thunderstorm sunglasses snorkeling

Staycation blue skies flip flops

This Summer themed word wheel is made from a 9

beach ball letter Summer gardening themed word. Try and find swimsuit that word,

then make as many words of any length as you can

Barbecue from these letters. goggles You can only use each heatwave letter once,

and each word must include the letter B.

ice cream

Holiday

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

Sudoku

SUDOKU

8 1 6

3 4

9 5 3 2

1 4

5 4 3 9 7 2

8 7 9 3

1 5

© 2007 - 2026 Education.com

6 5 2

5 9 7 2

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

© 2007 - 2026 Education.com

SOLUTIONS

Live your retirement

your way at

SIDDINGTON PARK

CIRENCESTER

SIDDINGTON PARK

CIRENCESTER

Retirement has no rulebook - each day can be as active

or as relaxed as you choose, with time spent:

• Swimming in a state-of-the-art pool

• Dining in the stylish Orangery restaurant

• Relaxing in your luxury apartment

• Walking with neighbours around landscaped gardens

• Joining one of the many groups and clubs

Ask us about Simply Move - our comprehensive and

complimentary full service moving package for new

owners of a new build home*. What better time than

spring to plan ahead and embrace new possibilities?

Homes available from £372,000 †

Marketing Suite, Cirencester,

Gloucestershire GL7 6GU.

Open daily 10am - 5pm

†

Other charges apply. Please ask our sales

advisors for more information. *Terms and

conditions apply. Visit our website for full details.

Call 01285 580925

www.rangefordvillages.co.uk

26268 RV_SPK_Cotswold Lifestyle_Full Page Ad_171x246mm.indd 1 27/03/2026 10:51

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

Cotswolds Lifestyle May - Jun 2026

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Cotswolds Lifestyle May - Jun 2026

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?