Wokingham and Bracknell Lifestyle Jun

WOKINGHAM

& BRACKNELL

lifestyle

YOUR FREE COPY | JUN/JUL 2026

AN EXTRA

SLICE

DECADENT BROWNIE

RECIPES TO DEVOUR

PLUS:

Guiding children through exams

Summer home upgrades

Notes from the garden

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

BOOK

ONLINE

DINTON PASTURES

6 - 7 June 2026

The Ultimate Summer Day Out

Ticket includes Free Car Parking (Normally £9.60)

SUMMER GOOD VIBES ARE HERE

GREATBRITISHFOODFESTIVAL.COM

"TOP 10 UK FOOD FESTIVALS” "

C O N T E N T S

A NOTE

from the editor

18 14

DECADENT JACK

HOME UPDATES

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

STEIN BROWNIE INTERVIEW RECIPES & RECIPE

18

FOR ADVERTISING

Account Manager Helen Skeates

e helen.skeates@minervapublications.co.uk

t 01225 984494

Front cover courtesy of Gower Cottage Brownies

17 04

NEW COMPETITIONS

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Welcome summer...

I had my first English

strawberry

As we move

this

into

week,

June and

and

July,

my

word,

everything

it was

starts

beyond

to feel

delicious

a little

- more perfectly relaxed. sweet, The it evenings was a

very stretch good out, advert the garden for eating chairs

seasonally. come back I’ve into tried regular to echo use,

this and the in all hopeful my recent British fruit ritual and of

vegetable “shall we eat purchases, outside?” and begins it’s

had — usually a transformative followed by someone effect on

my checking cooking three - everything weather apps just

tastes and deciding better to - risk more it anyway. vibrant,

needing less seasoning and

just This overall issue has very a lovely tasty. summer

feel, with plenty of inspiration

I’m for making the the most most of the of

cooking season at whilst home. I Our still summer have a

kitchen home upgrades - mine is feature due to looks be

ripped at the improvements out in two weeks that and can

it make will be a real camping difference, stove from and

air beautiful frying for flooring two months and better from

there! glazing I’ve to already ideas for picked making my

kitchen,

the garden

but

feel

it got

like

me

a true

thinking

extra

about

room. Whether

all the other

you’re

areas

planning

that

a bigger project or simply

need updating in my home. If

looking for ways to make your

you are thinking of a similar

home flow more easily into the

refresh, please check out our

outdoors, it’s a reminder that

home pages this edition -

summer living often starts with

they’re full of inspiring trends

the spaces we use every day.

and a few timeless classics.

We’re also very happy to

We’ve feature also brownie got recipes some lovely from

editorial Kate Jenkins on of the Gower best Cottage plants

for — easy pollinators share, - it’s ideal never for

been picnics, so important garden to gatherings support

wildlife or school-holiday in the garden. treats, and

dangerously good with a cup of

The tea. Consider competition yourself guide warned. this

issue is a bumper one - we

have Alongside an the outdoor lighter seasonal furniture

set pieces, from our Bramblecrest Living Well worth with

nearly Dementia £3,000, feature plus a looks cordless at

lawnmower support, understanding worth £679 to and get

that the ways garden people in shape. can continue This,

plus to live a with lot more dignity, makes connection it well

worth and care. a look and an enter!

We hope will be you back enjoy the again issue in

August — and - I’ll that be fully somewhere rebooted

and

between

recharged

the home

into

inspiration,

summer

mode.

the brownies

See you

and

then!

the summer

days out, you find something to

brighten the weeks ahead.

Katie

Katie

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

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

1 0 % o f f

u s i n g c o d e

1 0 H A U S L I F E

p e r f e c t

g i f t s f o r

a n y

b u d g e t

f u r n i t u r e ,

f a s h i o n ,

h o m e w a r e ,

g i f t s &

a c c e s s o r i e s

3 Abbeygate Street, Bath | hauslife.co.uk


Do you have space in your

home and heart for an extra

special mum and her pups?

We urgently need more volunteers in the Wokingham &

Bracknell area to look after our guide dog mums and help

us raise the next generation of life-changing guide dogs for

people with sight loss.

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

You’ll get a well-behaved, loving dog and

you’ll also be making a massive difference

to people’s lives. Our guide dog mums

are perfect for families. They’re specially

selected for their ideal temperament and

characteristics and have the very best

guide dog genes. She’ll arrive socialised

and house trained!

Jan (pictured) has

recently moved

to the area to live

with volunteer

Clare who said,

“She is an absolute

joy to have with

us and we’re very

excited for the

new challenge of

looking after her

and her puppies in

the coming months

and years”.

We cover all the costs for our guide dog

mums, including her food, vet bills and

any equipment or bedding she needs.

You will have the full support of our

expert dog behaviour and welfare teams

and dedicated 24/7 support from our

specialist breeding team. Our guide dog

mums deliver a maximum of four litters of

puppies, and each litter can have up to

ten potential future guide dogs. When your

guide dog mum retires, you can choose to

keep her as your family dog.

We ask that you have the following:

• A car and to be able to travel to

our National Breeding Centre near

Leamington Spa when required.

• An area at home suitable for your

guide dog mum to give birth.

• Access to a secure garden.

• To be available to look after the

puppies at home for around seven

weeks.

Pictured here is guide dog mum Betsy and

her litter of nine puppies born just a few

weeks ago.

By volunteering as a Breeding Dog Holder for

one of our guide dog mums, you’ll become

part of something really special. You’ll join a

community of like-minded people where you

can make connections that last a lifetime –

both with other volunteers and the people

you’re helping.

For more information on this and other

volunteering roles such as becoming a

Puppy Raiser, joining the local Community

Fundraising Group or registering as a

volunteer driver please email Claire on

volattractsouth@guidedogs.org.uk

or visit our website

www.guidedogs.

org.uk/howyou-can-help/

volunteering/

Could you care for

a guide dog mum?

We’re looking for volunteers to provide a

loving home for a guide dog mum and help

raise her puppies when they arrive, for the

first 7-8 weeks.

You’ll be fully supported, and we’ll cover

all costs related to the litter, including food,

vet care, and any specialist equipment.

Start your journey today

at guidedogs.org.uk/brood

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association is a company limited by

guarantee and a registered charity in England and Wales (209617),

Scotland (SC038979) and Isle of Man (1334). D714 04/26

6 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Artemis Studios and College

present

The Wilde Theatre

July 9th-11th 2026

Box Office: 01344 484123

PLUS! Perform with us this summer break!

Aged 12-18? Join us on stage in the Wilde Theatre this July and

August for our annual collaboration with South Hill Park!

2 weeks of rehearsals in July - performances 1st & 2nd August

Limited FREE places available for ages 16-18 sponsored by Artemis

Visit the Artemis College website below for full detials!

Artemis College

Award winning full time sixth form

training in performing arts.

Limited fully funded places for 16-18

remain for Sept 26

Gap Year/Foundation Level 3 and 4

options (18-21+, fees may apply).

Take it further!

www.artemis.college

Medusa & Medusa Pro

Part time weekend theatre company

for ages 14-21

Appear onstage multiple times each

year.

GCSE/Btec qualifications and

uni/college audition prep with

Medusa Pro (new for Sept)

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.


Autism and ADHD Assessment Clinic

ESTABLISHED 2012

NICE guideline compliant multi-disciplinary

assessments for children and adults.

• Average wait time of 2 weeks

• Fully qualified, experienced assessors

• Professional, reputable, widely accepted

• In person and online appointments

WE ALSO OFFER:

SEND consultancy services for families and schools;

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Specialist cognitive

and SpLD assessments including Dyslexia.

0800 001 6897

admin@berkshirepsychology.co.uk

Berkshire Psychology, Wyvols Court,

Basingstoke Road, Swallowfield RG7 1WY

SCAN WITH YOUR

PHONE TO VISIT

OUR WEBSITE


MEET THE CHEF

We chat to Executive Chef Robert Quehan about seasonal cooking,

local produce and standout dishes at Coppid Beech Hotel...

What’s one dish you cook that tells

people everything about you as a chef?

Daube of beef using beef cheek. For

me, it represents everything I love about

cooking — taking the right cut of meat,

treating it with patience, and letting slow

cooking do the work. When it’s cooked

properly and served in the right season, it

becomes this rich, melt-in-the-mouth dish

that feels comforting but still refined.

Coppid Beech has everything from

relaxed dining to big nights out — how

do you make sure the food still feels

special, not just ‘hotel standard’?

We make a real effort to give each dining

experience its own identity. We offer both

fine dining and more relaxed gastro-style

menus, but the focus on quality stays the

same throughout. Everything possible is

made in-house, from sauces to desserts,

and we keep menus seasonal so there’s

always something fresh and relevant on

offer. I think guests notice when food

has been properly cared for, and that’s

what stops it feeling like standard hotel

dining. Whether someone is joining us for

a casual meal or a special occasion, the

goal is always to give them something

memorable.

If someone’s visiting for the first time,

what are you telling them to order — no

hesitation?

I’d say start with the Tuscan-style

seabream and finish with the Eton mess

dacquoise. The seabream is light, fresh

and full of Mediterranean flavours, and it

really shows the style of cooking we enjoy

here — clean, seasonal and ingredientled.

Then the Eton mess dacquoise

gives you something indulgent to finish

with, balancing texture, sweetness and

freshness.

What’s a food trend you wish would

disappear… and one you’re actually

excited about?

I think sous vide has become overused.

It absolutely has its place in professional

kitchens, but sometimes it can take

away the craft and instinct that comes

with traditional cooking methods. I’m

much more excited by the continued

move towards farm-to-table cooking

and relaxed sharing-style dining. After

becoming the first chef to achieve a

rosette in a care home environment, I

became even more conscious about

the importance of quality local produce,

sustainability and community.

Promotional Partnership

What’s happening behind the scenes

that diners would never realise?

A lot of the work happens long before

service even starts. One thing many diners

wouldn’t realise is that I’ll sometimes

take trips to the coast myself to collect

shellfish from a friend who’s a commercial

fisherman. Building those relationships

directly with suppliers means we can get

incredible quality and freshness that you

simply can’t achieve through larger supply

chains.

If you had complete freedom, what

would you put on the menu?

I’d keep it classic and ingredient-focused:

Bresse chicken with black French winter

truffles and pommes sarladaises. When

you have produce of that quality, you

don’t need to overcomplicate anything.

Bresse chicken has incredible flavour and

texture, the truffles bring richness and

depth, and pommes sarladaises done

properly are hard to beat.

Host families

needed for young

international pupils (age 7-13)

from local boarding schools

Competitive daily rates for occasional

weekends and half terms

To find out more call 01684 252757 or

email hostfamilies@pippasguardians.co.uk

www.pippasguardians.co.uk

scan to watch our

host family video

DOES YOUR SCHOOL

NEED HELP SUPPORTING

STRUGGLING READERS?

ABC to Read is the only specialised literacy support charity in

Berkshire offering award winning reading support dedicated

to ABC improving to Read children’s is a volunteer-based reading skills. We organization partner with dedicated local to

ABC

schools

to Read is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to

improving to provide children's one-on-one reading reading skills. We support, partner helping with local

ABC improving children to Read become children's is a volunteer-based confident reading and skills. organization enthusiastic We partner dedicated readers. with local to

schools to provide one-on-one reading support, helping

schools improving to provide children's one-on-one reading skills. reading We partner support, with helping local

“ I thouroughly enjoy my sessions with the children and their reading

children children become become confident confident and and enthusiastic enthusiastic readers. readers.

schools to provide one-on-one reading support, helping

has really improved. The feedback from the School has been very

children

flattering

become

and I feel

confident

very lucky

and

to be

enthusiastic

able to volunteer!

readers.

“

“ I “ I thouroughly enjoy enjoy my my sessions sessions with with the children the children and their and reading their reading

ABC to Read Volunteer

“ has I thouroughly has really really improved. enjoy my The sessions The feedback feedback with from the from the children School the and School has their been has reading very been very

has really flattering improved. and and I feel The I feel very feedback very lucky lucky from to be to the able be School to able volunteer! has to volunteer! been “ very “

flattering and I feel ABC ABC very to Read lucky to Read Volunteer to be Volunteer able to volunteer! “

WHY VOLUNTEER WITH US? HOW IT WORKS

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

ABC to Read Volunteer

Transform Lives

WHY Community

WHY VOLUNTEER

Impact WITH WITH US? US?

Personal

Transform WHY VOLUNTEER Growth

Lives WITH US?

Transform Lives

Community Transform Lives Impact

0118 Community 951 1336 Impact

Personal Community Growth Impact

info@abctoread.org.uk

Personal Growth

Personal Growth

St 0118 Marks 951 Church 1336 Hall, 94 Cranbury Road,

Reading, RG30 2TA

info@abctoread.org.uk

0118 0118951 951 1336 1336

St info@abctoread.org.uk

Marks Church Hall, 94 Cranbury Road,

Reading, St St Marks RG30 Church 2TA Hall, Hall, 94 Cranbury 94 Road, Road,

Reading, RG30 RG30 2TA 2TA

Training

HOW Placement IT WORKS

HOW Support

Training IT WORKS

Training

Training Placement

Placement

Placement

Support

Support

Support

HOW IT WORKS

Charitable Incorporated Organisation 1184968

Charitable Incorporated Organisation 1184968

Charitable Charitable Incorporated Incorporated Organisation Organisation 1184968 1184968


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.


A Season in Full

At Malverleys Farm & Dining, summer is shaped by the garden and

expressed across every plate.

The main menu moves with the season: a selection of small plates and

light, sourdough pizzas, some topped with vibrant garden vegetables,

others highlighting carefully sourced cuts of meat or delicate cheeses.

From the grill, meats and delicate fish are simply cooked over flame,

delivering clear, expressive flavour. Fresh pasta dishes bring a softer,

refined note, perfectly suited to the warmth of summer dining.

The Garden Menu offers an even closer connection to the land. Led by

Head Gardener Ollie and Head Chef Mark, ingredients are gathered

and prepared daily, chilled tomato gazpacho, sun-ripened salads,

baby potatoes in mint dressing, and roasted garden carrots, each dish

crafted with a light, precise touch.

Served across the terrace and garden, these dishes are made for long,

sun-filled afternoons, a glass in hand, the garden all around, and

time to fully enjoy.

Malverleys Farm & Dining Sungrove Farm, East End, Newbury, RG20 0AF

01635 635 608

info@malverleysfarmanddining.co.uk

@malverleys_

www.malverleys.co.uk

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.


oka.com

SUMMER HOME UPGRADE

Invest in Your Home This Season

As the days grow longer and life

spills out into the garden, summer

is often when homeowners start

looking at their houses with fresh

eyes. Rooms feel brighter, doors are

left open, gardens become part of

daily life again — and suddenly the

potential for improvement becomes

easier to imagine.

For some, that might mean a major

renovation: a new kitchen, improved

glazing, a redesigned layout or a

garden room. For others, it may be

smaller but still impactful changes,

such as new flooring, shutters,

lighting, planting or outdoor furniture.

Whatever the scale, a well-planned

home upgrade can make your

property more enjoyable now while

adding comfort, efficiency and longterm

appeal.

DESIGNER TIP

Before changing a layout, think

about how you use the room

at different times of day. A

space that works for breakfast,

homework, entertaining and

quiet evenings will always feel

more successful.

This summer, the smartest projects

are those that improve how a home

works as well as how it looks.

OPEN UP YOUR

LIVING SPACE

One of the biggest shifts in modern

home design is the move towards

flexible, light-filled spaces that

support the way families really live.

The kitchen, in particular, is no

longer just somewhere to cook. It is

often the heart of the home: a place

for homework, entertaining, relaxed

suppers and everyday conversation.

Rethinking the layout of a kitchen,

dining room or family room can

make a dramatic difference.

Removing a wall, widening an

opening or repositioning storage

can help a home feel more spacious

and sociable. An island or breakfast

bar can create a natural gathering

point, while better lighting, flooring

and cabinetry can refresh a room

without changing its entire footprint.

It is also worth thinking about

how each space connects to the

next. Do you move easily between

kitchen, dining area and garden?

Is there enough storage for daily

life? Good design is not just about

creating a beautiful room — it is

about creating a room that supports

real life.

BRING THE

OUTSIDE IN

Few upgrades transform a home

quite as instantly as improved

glazing. Sliding doors, bi-fold doors,

French doors and larger windows

can flood interiors with natural light

and create a stronger connection

between house and garden.

A darker room can suddenly feel

brighter and larger, while a garden

becomes part of the view all year

round rather than something

enjoyed only on sunny days. Wide

expanses of glass can also make

entertaining easier, allowing guests

to move naturally between indoor

and outdoor spaces.

The right choice will depend on

your property, budget and lifestyle.

Sliding doors can offer slim

sightlines and uninterrupted views.

Bi-folds can open up almost an

entire wall. French doors may suit


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Tel: 07866 101099 Web: www.abspb.co.uk

Beat the energy prices rises

Book your free Log Burner survey and quote TODAY!

01344 456486 / 07768 151937

info@safeheat.uk

Safeheat Service is a trading name of Warfield Stoves & Fires Ltd


DESIGNER TIP

Treat the area just outside

your doors as an extra room.

Add lighting, seating and

planting so it feels intentional,

not like an afterthought.

Harvey Jones

Quorn Stone

period homes or smaller spaces.

Modern glazing can also offer

excellent thermal performance,

helping homes stay comfortable

throughout the year.

For older properties, the key

is balance. New windows and

doors should improve comfort

and efficiency without stripping

away character, particularly

in conservation areas, listed

buildings or homes with traditional

architectural details.

CREATE SEAMLESS

INDOOR-OUTDOOR

LIVING

The dream of indoor-outdoor

living is not simply about installing

large doors. It is about making

the transition between home and

garden feel natural, attractive and

easy to use.

Flooring can play a major role.

Choosing complementary materials

inside and outside can help create

a sense of flow, even if they are not

identical. Level thresholds, where

possible, make access easier and

more elegant. Lighting also matters:

soft garden lighting, wall

lights or carefully positioned

spotlights can make an

outdoor space feel inviting

long after sunset.

Think too about what sits

immediately outside the doors.

A terrace, patio or deck can act

as an extension of the kitchen or

living room, giving you somewhere

to eat, sit or entertain. Even a

small courtyard can feel much

more usable with the right seating,

planting and lighting.

The most successful spaces are

designed around real habits. If you

love relaxed family meals, prioritise

a dining area close to the kitchen.

If you enjoy evening drinks, think

about comfortable seating and

warmth. If children or grandchildren

use the garden, make sure there is

clear visibility from the house.

MAKE MORE OF

THE GARDEN

Outdoor living has become one

of the most desirable elements of

a modern home. A garden is no

longer just a patch of lawn or a place

Wooden Adirondack Chair

(with footrest), £239, hauslife.

co.uk; Ocellus Outdoor

Cushion £75, oka.com

for summer barbecues. With

thoughtful planning, it can become

an extra living space, dining room,

play area, home office or peaceful

retreat.

Garden rooms remain popular

for those wanting more flexible

space without moving house. They

can work beautifully as offices,

studios, gyms, guest spaces or

hobby rooms, particularly when

properly insulated for year-round

use. Pergolas, awnings and covered

seating areas can also extend the

season, offering shade and shelter

when needed.

Outdoor kitchens and built-in

cooking areas are another growing

trend, especially for those who

enjoy entertaining. But a successful

outdoor space does not have to be

elaborate. A simple patio with good

furniture, layered planting and a

practical route back to the kitchen

can be just as effective.


Swimming in

QUALITY

& STYLE

LIFETIME

STRUCTURAL

WARRANTY

LIFETIME

STRUCTURAL

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The speed and ease of installation will impress.

Short lead times as most models are in stock.

We are increasingly spending

our private lives in our homes

rediscovering how much of a

pleasure it is to spend time

with family and friends.

A pool is an attractive

extension of your living area -

the ultimate way to enjoy your

free time and enhance your

lifestyle and health.

Choose from a wide range of

designs and sizes with a

comprehensive package that

leaves nothing to be desired.

A state-of-the-art product with a quick hassle-free installation.

Your pool will not only enrich your family’s life, but also increase the value of your home.

www.swimpools.co.uk

enquiries@swimpools.co.uk

Phone for brochure and prices 01444 411 411 / 07710 402917

Bronze Light Switch, £55, dowsingandreynolds.com;

Indoor/Outdoor

Rug, £115, clickstyle.co.uk; Outdoor

Cushion, £38, hauslife.co.uk

When planning a garden upgrade,

start with purpose. Do you want

somewhere low-maintenance?

A space for entertaining? A quiet

retreat? A family-friendly garden?

Once you are clear on how the

space should work, choices around

landscaping, planting, paving and

furniture become much easier.

THINK ABOUT

COMFORT AND

EFFICIENCY

The best home upgrades are not

only about appearance. Practical

improvements can make an

enormous difference to daily

comfort, especially in older homes.

Energy-efficient windows, improved

insulation, underfloor heating,

smart controls, better ventilation

and high-quality flooring can all

help a home feel more comfortable

and cost-effective to run. These

elements may not be the most

glamorous part of a renovation, but

they often have the biggest impact

on daily life.

Lighting is another area worth

serious thought. A single overhead

light rarely does a room justice.

DESIGNER TIP

Do not leave finishes until the

end of the budget. Handles,

lighting, window treatments and

flooring are the details that often

make a project feel complete.

Layered lighting — combining task,

ambient and accent lighting —

can change the mood of a space

completely.

Storage is equally important.

Beautiful rooms quickly lose their

appeal if there is nowhere to put

coats, shoes, toys, paperwork,

appliances or everyday clutter. Builtin

storage, boot rooms, utility areas

and clever cabinetry can help keep a

home feeling calm and organised.

ADD THE

FINISHING

TOUCHES

Sometimes it is the final layer that

brings a project together. Paint

colours, curtains, shutters, blinds,

rugs, tiles, handles, furniture and

accessories can all influence how

a room feels. These details add

personality and create flow.

Shutters and window treatments can

be particularly effective in summer,

offering privacy, light control and a

polished finish. Soft furnishings can

introduce colour and texture, while

mirrors, artwork and lighting can

help a space feel considered rather

than simply renovated.

This is where local specialists can

be invaluable. Interior designers,

kitchen companies, flooring experts,

glazing specialists, landscapers

and home furnishing retailers bring

practical knowledge as well as style

oka.com

advice. They can help you choose

materials that suit your lifestyle,

avoid costly mistakes and create a

cohesive result.

START WITH THE

RIGHT ADVICE

Every successful home project

begins with good advice. Speaking

to local experts early can help

clarify what is realistic, what

permissions may be needed, how

long work might take and where

your budget is best spent.

It is also wise to think ahead. If you

are investing in glazing, how will it

affect flooring, heating and garden

access? If you are redesigning

a kitchen, does the lighting plan

support the new layout? If you are

landscaping, will the space work

beyond high summer?

The most satisfying upgrades are

rarely the result of one isolated

decision. They come from looking at

the home as a whole — how it flows,

how it feels, how it functions and how

it supports the people living in it.

Whether you are planning a major

renovation or a series of smaller

improvements, summer is the

perfect moment to invest in your

home. With the right guidance,

thoughtful design and attention to

detail, you can create a space that

feels brighter, more practical and

more enjoyable for years to come.


Local Female Founder Hits 14

Years as Cleaning Demand Grows

Berkshire-based The White Cleaning Company marks 14 years,

unveiling a refined brand as it evolves into a premium partner

for homes, short-stay properties, and boutique businesses across

Berkshire and nearby areas...


Founded in 2011 by Katie Phillips, the

company was built on an understanding of

the pressures faced by busy professionals

balancing careers, families and the

demands of maintaining a well-run home.

“As a former solicitor, I understood how

overwhelming it can feel trying to do

everything yourself,” says Katie. “I wanted to

create a service that felt reliable, consistent

and genuinely supportive - not just a cleaner

turning up, but a trusted presence in

someone’s home.”

Over the past 14 years, The White Cleaning

Company has grown steadily, and is known

for assigning the same trusted teams

to each property, fostering long-term

relationships built on familiarity, discretion

and consistent high standards.

In recent years, Katie has seen how demand

has shifted. More households are seeking

not only cleaning, but full housekeeping

and property support. At the same time, the

growth of short-stay accommodation has

raised expectations around presentation

and hospitality-level standards.

“What we’ve seen is a real change in how

people value their environment,” Katie

explains. “Clients aren’t simply looking for

tasks to be completed. They want peace of

mind. They want to walk into a space that

feels calm, organised and properly cared for

- without having to oversee it themselves.”

The company’s new visual identity reflects

this maturity and its positioning as a

premium, relationship-led property care

partner. While the brand has evolved,

the foundations of the business remain

unchanged: consistency, exceptional

attention to detail and long-term client trust.

Today, The White Cleaning Co. supports

a wide range of clients - from busy

professional families to Airbnb and serviced

apartment hosts focused on five-star

reviews, as well as boutique commercial

businesses who require discreet, reliable

service aligned with their brand standards.

Fourteen years on, Katie says the most

rewarding aspect remains the relationships

built over time.

“We’ve seen children grow up. We’ve

supported families through life changes.

We’ve worked alongside hosts as their

portfolios have expanded. That continuity

is something we’re very proud of. Our work

happens behind the scenes, but it plays

an important role in helping people feel

supported in their homes and businesses.”

As the company moves into its fifteenth

year, the focus remains on steady growth,

maintaining premium standards and

continuing to support the evolving needs of

Berkshire households and property owners.

Katie Phillips - 0330 107 1517

katie@whitecleaningco.com

https://www.whitecleaningco.com/

THE WHITE

CLEANING CQ

EST 2011

Specialists in housekeeping

and cleaning.

Supporting homes, short stay properties and businesses across

Berkshire, Surrey and Buckinghamshire.

Consistent teams, exceptional attention to detail, and a reliable service you can trust.

T: 0330 107 1517 E: info@whitecleaningco.com W: www.whitecleaningco.com


NOTES FROM THE

Garden

Flower shows abound at this time of the year

and they are a fantastic opportunity to see new

plants, see how other people use their garden

space, look for garden accessories - and chat to

other gardeners too.

Gardening clubs, garden magazines, TV programmes all vie to

show us the best of the best but sometimes things don’t go to

plan, plants fail, plans don’t get executed and you can feel a bit

down - but nature somehow has a way of not letting you feel

down for long. If the big picture

seems a long way away, start with

the small picture.

New gardeners are often daunted

by all of the advice, adverts, show

gardens, perfect gardens etc - but

actually every single gardener will

share takes of what didn’t worksometimes

very funny stories too!

Just one beautiful plant, one home

grown courgette, one birds nest in

your garden - is enough.

Starting small is good. If you

have a big garden maybe target it in bite size chunks. Restore

one border, prune one tree, plant a few beautiful pots and give

yourself a pat on the back.

Enjoy the perfection, recognise the hard work and chat to other

gardening enthusiasts - having your own outside space - a

balcony, a patio, even a window box should be a pleasure and

the more you do the better you get!

Enjoy the sun, use a water butt if you are able, don’t forget

water for birds and bees and remember “A weed is a plant that

has mastered every survival skill except for learning how to

grow in rows.” - Doug Larson

For more advice, visit Matt Biggs’ website:

www.matthewbiggs.com

Rightio Plumbing &

Heating

0118 3732 712

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Discover

Berkshire Manor

A brand new luxury care home in Bracknell,

offering exceptional all inclusive care in

a beautifully designed and thoughtfully

considered setting.

Opening in Summer 2026, Berkshire Manor Care Home in

Bracknell, Berkshire, part of the Oakland Care Group, is a

brand new, purpose built luxury care home offering exceptional

residential, nursing, dementia and respite care.

Designed to feel both elegant and welcoming, the home will

feature 72 private, en-suite bedrooms alongside beautifully

appointed shared spaces for relaxation, socialising and spending

time with family.

Residents will benefit from a range of luxury facilities, including

a café bistro, hair salon, activity spaces, multiple lounges,

a physiotherapy suite and landscaped courtyard areas, all

supporting wellbeing and a vibrant daily life.

Sustainability is at the heart of Berkshire Manor. Powered

entirely by renewable energy and incorporating innovative green

technology such as solar panels and air source heat pumps, the

home has been thoughtfully designed to minimise environmental

impact while maintaining exceptional comfort.

Our dedicated team will provide 24‐hour personalised care, tailored

to each individual, ensuring residents are supported with dignity,

compassion and the highest standards of care at every stage.


With an all inclusive approach to fees, Berkshire Manor offers

clarity and peace of mind, allowing residents and families to

focus on enjoying each day in a safe, supportive environment.

Oakland Care has been awarded The King’s Award for Enterprise

in Sustainability. This is the most prestigious award for UK

businesses, recognising and celebrating business excellence

across the UK. As a recipient, we have demonstrated outstanding

success in sustainability with an award His Majesty The King has

personally approved.

To find out more about our award-winning care, contact us on

01344 207777 or email clientrelations.bm@oaklandcare.com

WIN A £240

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BERKSHIRE MANOR

Opening

Summer 2026

NEW LUXURY ALL-INCLUSIVE

CARE HOME IN BRACKNELL

Exceptional Residential, Nursing, Memory & Respite Care

Berkshire Manor will offer 72 private, ensuite rooms in a beautifully

designed, purpose-built care home.

It will be an innovative and sustainable home, powered entirely by electricity,

featuring 100 solar panels and air source heat pumps.

Enjoy state-of-the-art facilities:

Cafe bistro and salon, and Activity room

Physiotherapy suite and a Multi-function central courtyard

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR VISIT

01344 207777

clientrelations.bm@oaklandcare.com

Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7TN

For more information

please scan the QR code

oaklandcare.com/berkshire-manor

high quality care in

windlesham

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

Delivering exceptional care, luxurious

surroundings and vibrant daily experiences,

Orchard Manor in Windlesham helps

residents live fulfilled, independent and

meaningful lives.

At Orchard Manor, our highly trained and compassionate

teams provide expert residential, dementia and short-term

respite care tailored to every individual. We understand that

moving into a care home is a significant decision, which is

why we focus on creating a warm, welcoming and supportive

environment where residents feel comfortable, valued and

truly at home from day one.

Our beautifully designed care home in Windlesham combines

high-quality care with luxury living. Residents can enjoy a

range of premium facilities, including elegant lounge areas,

a café-style coffee shop, a professional hair salon and

beautifully landscaped outdoor terraces and gardens. Every

aspect of Orchard Manor has been thoughtfully created to

encourage comfort, independence and social connection.

Rated 9.9 on carehome.co.uk, Orchard Manor is dedicated

to helping residents continue living life their way. We take

time to learn about each person’s interests, hobbies and

preferences so we can create a personalised lifestyle plan

that reflects what matters most to them. From gardening

clubs and chess afternoons to cheese and wine socials,

live entertainment and community events, there is always

something meaningful to enjoy.

Families can feel reassured knowing their loved ones are

cared for by a trusted and experienced provider. Orchard

Manor is part of Care UK, one of the country’s most awarded

care providers, with more than 40 years’ experience

delivering high-quality, person-centred care across the UK.

To find out more about Orchard Manor, call 01244 337 877.

Orchard Manor Care Home

Chertsey Road, Windlesham, Surrey, GU20 6HZ

careuk.com/orchard-manor

A Small Commitment

That Makes a Big

Difference

Loneliness isn’t always obvious. It often hides in plain sight:

someone who goes days without a proper conversation,

who rarely leaves the house, or who no longer has the

social circle they once did. That’s where The Link Visiting

Scheme comes in...

Based in Wokingham Borough, The Link Visiting Scheme brings

people together through simple, regular friendship. We match

volunteers with older people who would welcome a bit more

company, usually a weekly visit or phone call, built around shared

interests rather than formal support. There’s no checklist, no

pressure to “fix” anything, just time, conversation and the chance

to get to know someone.

Volunteers tell us the role is surprisingly ordinary and that’s

exactly why it works. A chat over a cup of tea. A short walk.

Reminiscing about holidays, pets, work or family life. These small

moments add up, providing consistency and connection for

someone who might otherwise feel quite cut off.

Volunteering with The Link is designed to fit around real life.

Visits are flexible, training is provided, and volunteers are fully

supported by our small, experienced team. Some people

volunteer after retiring, others while working part time or full-time

or raising families. Many start out wanting to “do something

useful” and end up with a new friendship themselves.

Supporters of The Link make this work possible too. Donations

and community fundraising help us recruit and train volunteers,

support people with no family nearby, and respond when

someone’s situation changes. It’s practical, local support that

stays rooted in the community it serves.

Loneliness can feel like a big problem, and it is, but responding to

it doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, it starts with turning up,

listening and being reliable.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to get involved locally, or

you’d like to support a charity that focuses on simple, human

connection, The Link Visiting Scheme would love to hear from

you.

To find out more about volunteering or supporting our work,

visit www.linkvisiting.org or get in touch with our team for an

informal chat.

Marjie Walker CEO

admin@linkvisiting.org | 0118 9798019



Live

life your

way

At Care UK’s Orchard Manor care home in

Windlesham, you can live each day your way.

We have everything you need to enable you

to continue enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle.

Daily activities & outings

Cinema, library & hair salon

Landscaped gardens & garden room

Fantastic seasonal entertainment and meals

A warm, welcoming community

Trusted to care.

01244 337 877

reception@orchardmanorcarehome.co.uk

careuk.com/orchard-manor

LIVING

WELL

WITH

DEMENTIA

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A diagnosis of

dementia can feel

overwhelming - not

only for the person

affected, but for the

family and friends

around them.

It often brings difficult questions about

independence, safety, future care and

quality of life. Yet while dementia is

a life-changing condition, it does not

mean life stops being meaningful,

active or connected.

Across the UK, more families are

now looking for care and support

that goes beyond simply managing

symptoms. The focus is increasingly

on helping people live well: maintaining

familiar routines, preserving dignity,

encouraging social connection and

offering reassurance to loved ones who

may be navigating care decisions for

the first time.

Dementia affects people in different

ways. Some may experience memory

loss, confusion or difficulty finding

words, while others may notice

changes in mood, confidence or

behaviour. Because the condition can

progress gradually, families often find

themselves adapting step by step —

perhaps beginning with extra help at

home, before later considering more

structured care.

For many people, remaining in their

own home for as long as possible is an

important priority. Care at home services

can make this possible by providing

practical help with daily routines, such

as washing, dressing, meals, medication

reminders, light household tasks and

transport to appointments. They can

also offer companionship, which is

especially important for those at risk of

becoming isolated.

But good care at home is about far

more than ticking off a list of tasks.

For someone living with dementia, a

familiar face, a calm approach and

an understanding of their life story

can make a significant difference.

Carers who take time to learn about

someone’s routines, preferences, past

experiences and anxieties are often

better able to reduce distress and

encourage confidence.

As needs increase, specialist

care homes can offer a safe and

supportive environment designed

around the realities of dementia.

Many now provide dedicated

dementia communities, with staff

trained to understand memory loss,

communication difficulties and the

emotional impact of the condition.

The best settings combine safety with

warmth — creating spaces that feel

homely rather than clinical, with clear

layouts, secure gardens, meaningful

activities and quiet areas for relaxation.

Activities play an important role in

dementia care. Music, gardening,

gentle exercise, baking, art,

reminiscence sessions and visits from

local groups can all help stimulate

memory, lift mood and create moments

of joy. Even when someone struggles

to remember recent events, they may

still respond strongly to music from

their younger years, familiar scents,

photographs or simple shared routines.

Retirement communities can also

offer valuable support, particularly

“Good care is not

simply practical;

it is personal.”

for couples or individuals who want

independence with reassurance close

at hand. Some provide flexible care

packages that can adapt over time,

allowing residents to enjoy their own

private space while benefiting from

social activities, communal dining,

wellbeing services and access to help

when needed.

For relatives, making care decisions

can be emotionally difficult. Feelings

of guilt, worry and uncertainty are

common, especially when deciding

whether a loved one needs more help

than the family can provide alone.

Seeking advice early can make the

process less daunting. Speaking to

care providers, dementia specialists,

GPs, local support groups or charities

can help families understand the

options available and plan ahead

rather than waiting for a crisis.

Living well with dementia is about

recognising the person behind

the diagnosis — their memories,

relationships, tastes, humour and

individuality. With the right support,

people can continue to experience

comfort, companionship and purpose,

while families feel less alone in the

journey.


NEW LUXURY

CARE HOME OPENING

THIS SUMMER!

STAY TOGETHER, WHATEVER

YOUR CARE NEEDS

Opening this summer, Thames Wood House

Luxury Care Home will offer an exclusive collection

of companion suites, allowing couples to continue living

together - even with different levels of care. Thoughtfully

designed to provide comfort, independence and support,

they ensure that care never means being apart.

Book your tour of the marketing &

information suite to discover more:

0118 338 4856 | enquiries@hamberleycarehomes.co.uk

THAMES WOOD HOUSE

School Hill, Wargrave, Reading RG10 8DY

Wokingham and Bracknell Lifestyle Jun - Jul 2026

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