SE22 November 2025

Welcome to SE22

Where has this year gone too! It amazes me that I can be writing about Bonfire Night and Christmas already!

As usual I have rounded up all the great events taking place in and around Dulwich. The events pages start on page 6. November is another busy month for events, so we have a fantastic eight pages of online and in person events happening in and around Dulwich. Remember to check out www.arounddulwich.co.uk for a full list of events, as there are too many to put in the magazine this monthl. Also events get added after I have gone to print.

If you are running a local event you can add it, for free, to our online calendar on Around Dulwich. A selection of these are then printed in the physical magazine. www.arounddulwich.co.uk.

The Dulwich Charity Lunch is back on Friday 12 December. See how you can book your place and raise money for Link Age Southwark, on page 23.

The Last Word goes to our new columnist Antonia Bannasch who is a local personal trainer and is taking over our Fitness Tips column. See page 32

Remember the magazine depends on all the wondeful local advertisers, so please do let them know if you saw them in this magazine!

Until next time.

Angela

Angela Burgess Head of All Things Community SE Magazines/Around Dulwich

Call 020 8693 9040

angela@semagazines.co.uk www.semagazines.co.uk

@semags_arounddulwich

@SEMagazines

@SEMags_ADulwich

If you would like to advertise in our next issue, you can download our rates from our website any time. Or if you prefer, give me a call!

December Deadline - 14 November (please allow an extra two days if design is required)

To advertise in SE22 please contact Angela Burgess on 020 8693 9040 or e-mail: angela@semagazines.co.uk for further information. You can download our rates from our website: www.semagazines.co.uk.

by Stephens & George Ltd

“This

Events Calendar - November

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p9.

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p9.

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p9.

Sistership Circle with Gong Bath, see p25.

parkruns, see p6.

Goose Green Lunch Club, see p9.

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p9.

Further details where available can be found in the News and Events pages 6, 8, 9, 24, 25, 26, 28 & 29. Please read as not all the events can fit on the calendar!

What's On - November

Until Saturday 1 November:

The Dulwich Players present Blue Stockings, by Jessica Swale 7.30pm-9.45pm.

(Saturday matinee at 3pm). It is 1896, and the women at Girton College, Cambridge study ferociously, matching their male peer’s grade for grade.

However, while the men graduate the women leave with nothing but the stigma of being a ‘blue stocking’ - an unnatural, educated woman. In “Blue Stockings” we follow the course of four first-year female students as they fight for the right to graduate. Join them as they navigate the hurdles in their way: the distractions of love, the cruelty of the class divide and the strength of the opposition, who will do anything to stop them. Will they succeed in changing the future of education?

Tickets £14 (Under 18's: £10). St Dunstan's College Performing Arts Centre, Stanstead Road, Sydenham, SE6 4TY. Book tickets via: www.ticketsource.co.uk/dulwichplayers/e-agpxlq

This Amateur production of Blue Stockings is presented by arrangement with Nick Hern Books.

Saturdays 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

November: Parkrun 9am – 10am

Dulwich Parkrun

Free, weekly timed 5k run, jog, or walk in Dulwich Park starting from Queen Mary’s Gate. Register once and bring your printed barcode (can be used at any parkrun across the world). Firsttimers briefing at 08.50. Also in Peckham Rye, Brockwell and Crystal Palace parks. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/dulwich/

Peckham Rye Park Run

A 3-lap anti clockwise course, entirely on tarmac and is mainly flat and therefore a potential PB course The start & finish are located close to the Colyton Road entrance of the park. Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road SE15 4JR. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/peckhamrye/

Saturday 1 November: Men Walk Talk - Honor Oak

10am-11am. A monthly walk for men, taking in the green spaces of SE23 and surrounding area. Traditionally, men often avoid seeking mental health support, but we provide a community of support for guys to know they are not alone, and they can speak up. Join Richard for a walk and a talk on the first Saturday of every month.

For more information: menwalktalk.co.uk 76-78 Honor Oak Park, SE23 1DY.

Sundays 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

November: Peckham Rye

Junior Park Run 9am – 9:30am

A free, weekly, timed run for 4–14-year-olds, to get fit, stay healthy and have fun! We run 2km every Sunday morning at 9am, through rain and shine. The course is visible, well-marshalled, and all held on the paths around the sports pitches. Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road SE22 0NE.

Sundays 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

November: Horniman Market

10am – 3pm. Located on the Bandstand Terrace, you will find stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan bread and cheese, organic meat, and delicious street food. If that’s not enough to have you feeling like our overstuffed walrus, we also have regular guest traders specialising in treats such as luxury chocolates, delightful drinks, irresistible cakes, and tasty pickle and preserves.

100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ. www.horniman.ac.uk/

You can submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk

What's On - November

Monday 3 November:

An Evening with Lyse Doucet

7.30pm-8.30pm. When the Inter-Continental Kabul opened in 1969, Afghanistan’s first luxury hotel symbolised a dream of a modernising country connected to the world. More than fifty years on, the Inter-Continental is still standing. It has endured Soviet occupation, multiple coups, a grievous civil war, a US invasion and the rise, fall and rise of the Taliban. History lives within its scarred windows and walls.

Lyse Doucet, the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, has been checking into the Inter-Continental since 1988. And here, she uses its story to craft a richly immersive history of modern Afghanistan. The result is a remarkably vivid history of how Afghans have survived a half century of destruction and disruption. It is the story of a hotel but also the story of a people. A Village Books event in association with Alleyn's Schools Enterprises. The Great Hall, Townley Road, London SE22 8SU. www.alleyns.org.uk.

Tuesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25

November: Weekly Online

Breathing Class

7pm – 7.40pm. A 40-minute breathing and relaxation class. Unwind, centre yourself and use the breath to help relax and prepare for a restful evening. Using different breathing techniques that can be incorporated into your day along with a few gentle mat-based stretches and ending with Yoga Nidra a full body guided meditation for deep relaxation. All welcome. No experience is needed. £7. https://liveyogateachers.com/classes/ meditation-open-level-kerry-flower

Tuesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25

November: Life Drawing and Painting 7pm – 8pm

This is an online drawing & painting session conducted via Zoom. Long pose life painting and drawing. A single pose held for three hours with 5-minute model breaks every 25 minutes. The Dulwich Art Group & School www.dulwichartgroup.co.uk

Tuesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25

November: DPR Social Runs

7:30pm – 8:30pm. Fantastic local running club. Social runs every Tuesday 7.30pm at Trevor Bailey Sports Ground on the south circular. Plus runs every Sunday morning; coached sessions on Thursdays; cross country races; competitions; weekends away; frequent social activities. Come along on a Tuesday to try us out! www.dulwichparkrunners.co.uk enquiries@dulwichparkrunners.com Trevor Bailey Club House Dulwich Common SE21 7HA

What's On - November

Tuesday 4 November: Honor Oak WI Monthly Meeting

7.30pm-9.30pm. Join County cheeses and tasting: talk on the story of English Country Cheeses and tasting with Derek Marsh (TBC). The Honor Oak WI is a friendly and supportive group of women of all ages, backgrounds and interests. We meet Monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. We also have book, craft clubs, gallery & museum visits groups. NON-MEMBERS ARE VERY WELCOME - WE’D LOVE TO SEE YOU! honoroakwi@gmail.com

Instagram: honoroak_wi www.facebook.com/groups/honoroakwi. Stanstead Lodge Café, Northwood Road, SE23 1DD.

Wednesdays 5, 12, 19 & 26

November: Zoom Portraiture @ Dulwich Art Group & School

2pm – 5pm. Paint a clothed model with a focus on the portrait over two three-hour sessions. We give you a wide view and a closer portrait view so you can work out the framing for yourself. The model will at times be engaged in conversation in order to bring some animation to the face. ONLINE EVENT: www.dulwichartgroup.co.uk

Wednesdays 5, 12, 19 & 26

November: Goose Green

Coffee Morning 11am-12.30pm

Do drop into Goose Green Coffee Morning for a warm welcome, coffee, tea and cake! We are open every Wednesday, it's a great place to get to know others from the local community. All welcome! Free! St John The Evangelist, East Dulwich, 62A East Dulwich Road SE22 9AT.

Wednesdays 5, 12, 19 & 26

November: Weekly Wine Session 7.30pm-9.30pm

The Dulwich Wine Society started in 1991 meets most Wednesdays and provides a way for novices and seasoned wine lovers to explore the world of grapes and wine regions. Taste, learn and discover new favourites. We take a break mid-way through the meeting which provides a chance to get to know others socially, and you can bring your own cheese and biscuits. The Rosendale, 65 Rosendale Road SE21 8EZ. https://www.dulwich-wine-society.co.uk.

Thursdays 6, 13, 20 & 27

November: BNI Adventures

6:30am – 8:30am. Part of the award winning multi-national networking organisation, BNI, Adventurers brings together businesses local to Dulwich with the aim of passing business and keeping money in the local community. Givers gain, and members of Adventurers have excelled at both over the last 12 months. Breakfast included. Free parking. Get referrals: boost your business! Please contact Hayley on 07843 989728 Dulwich & Sydenham Golf Club, Grange Lane, College Road, SE21 7LH. Register at: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Thursdays 6, 13, 20 & 27

November: Goose Green Lunch Club 12.30pm-2pm

The lunch club is a friendly and informal club for people over 55. We meet every Thursday during term time and enjoy a delicious main course and dessert with tea and coffee for £5. If you’re interested in joining us for lunch or if you would like to volunteer with us, call Martin on 07939 288885 or Barbara on 0208 693 2090.

Goose Green Centre, St John’s Church, 62A East Dulwich Road, East Dulwich SE22 9AT.

Dulwich Hamlet FC

dulwichhamletfc.co.uk | dhst.org.uk | Champion Hill Stadium, Edgar Kail Way, East Dulwich, London SE22 8BD.

November sees a massive month of football at Champion Hill, with a startling EIGHT home games across 30 days. You can't have too much of a pink ‘n’ blue thing, so gird your loins and let’s get cracking.

We start with our Women hosting Milton Keynes Dons at Champion Hill on Sunday 2nd. Then it soon gets momentous with the first of four – yes, FOUR – home evening fixtures in the space of three weeks. Anyone who’s been kind enough to read these updates over the past few years will know that I’m in awe of the romance of midweek encounters under the lights, and I hope you’ll join me in embracing the full set of four. The first sees our Men hosting Harrow Borough in the cup on the evening of Tuesday 4th.

The home games come thick and fast for our Men, as Saturday 8th sees the visit of St Albans City, followed quick on its heels by the second of the magical midweekers as we host Wingate & Finchley on Tuesday 11th.

A week later Cray Valley Paper Mills are the third of our floodlit guests, visiting The Hill on the evening of Tuesday 18th. The arrival of Hashtag United on Saturday 22nd is perfectly sandwiched between that and the fourth and final of the beautiful Tuesdays as we host Brentford in the London Senior Cup on the Tuesday 25th. Our Women complete the Champion Hill Autumn bonanza when we host Actonians on Sunday 30th.

In between all this there’s a bit of work to do on the road. Also under glorious light, our Women visit AFC Portchester on the south coast in the League Cup on Wednesday 5th; then AFC Sudbury on Sunday 16th. While our Men take away jaunts to Chichester City on the 1st, Burgess Hill Town on the 15th, and Dartford on the 29th. Meanwhile back in the Tuscan Hills, our Women’s Reserves play host to Actonians Reserves on Sunday 2nd and Millwall Lionesses on Sunday 9th, with both games at our training centre at Green Dale.

If that’s not enough live and local football, I don’t know what is. A full TEN chances to cheer on The Hamlet on home turf this November. We’ll surely see you there. At Champion Hill, Saturday games kick off at 3pm, Sundays at 2pm and midweek evenings at 7.45pm. With bars inside and out, and wholesome food on offer, we strongly recommend you arrive in good time to settle in for the action. Head to dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/fixtures/ all-fixtures for details, advance tickets and to keep an eye on any changes.

And don’t forget to make time to stop by the Mega Container on match days, to pick up the latest pink ‘n’ blue gear and to have a chat with your Dulwich Hamlet Supporters’ Trust. The Trust unites our community and makes its voice heard. Join us under the lights and Up the Hamlet!

Winter Window Boxes

Garden Talk with Janine Winlaw | Instagram

Now’s the time to smarten up window boxes for the winter season. Here’s how.

Make a Plan

A visit to your local garden centre is a great way to get inspiration, but do some planning first. Measure your container for a rough idea of how many plants to buy. And think about the style and colour of your house - exterior and interior - you might fall for an orange plant, but will it clash from inside your sitting room?

Thrillers, Spillers, Fillers

You could block plant a simple row of white cyclamen or dusky pink heather– contemporary and stylish. But for more variety, it’s useful to think ‘thrillers’, tall evergreen plants for structure, ‘spillers’ like ivy to trail down containers and ‘fillers’, for the gaps.

Compact evergreen shrubs such as pretty small-leaved hebes make good structural ‘thrillers’ as does Skimmia x confusa ‘Kew Green’ – go for symmetry here, one or three. For something bright and cheerful Skimmia japonica ‘Nymans’ has jolly red berries, Gaultheria Procumbens pink ones and Solanum Capsicastrum has cheery orange fruit like tiny clementines. Silvery Calocephalus brownii (Silver Bush) works well too. Evergreen ferns such as asplenium (hart’s tongue) or ornamental grasses such as coppery Anemanthele lessoniana (Pheasant’s grass) or Carex testacea provide interesting form and leaf texture.

As an alternative to classic ivy, a nice ‘spiller’ is Muehlenbeckia complexa – maidenhair vine, with an abundance of springy burgundy stems lined with fresh green round leaves. Otherwise soft silvery leaved Helichrysum petiolare looks good with whites purples and pinks and vinca minor (periwinkle) will have the added bonus of spring flowers.

If you want colour, use fillers such as winter flowering viola or pansies – which come in everything from dark purple to orange and will keep flowering through the winter if deadheaded. Dusky pink or white hellebores such as Heleborus niger look great and I love the silvery foliage of H. ‘Silver Dollar’. For bigger containers heucheras, with their large handsome evergreen leaves

@janinewinlaw

in everything from rich plum to lime or orange brighten up a winter day. The dramatic purple variety ‘Obsidian’ complements cool steely blue Festuca glauca for a smart window box combo. And for a spring surprise, underplant the whole box with bulbs such as dainty Iris reticulate, crocus, daffodils an muscari.

Design

As a rule, restricting your colours to two or three will avoid your planter looking like a fruit salad as a design teacher once described it. The same goes for plant varieties – ideally go for plants that have similarities, adding an element of contrast for interest. But whether you’re drawn to a simple colour scheme of white and green or something more exuberant, it’s all a matter of personal choice. The best way of getting combinations you like is to put them together at the garden centre and keep changing them until you’re happy. After all, it’s only temporary, so you can afford to be a bit experimental.

Practicalities

When you get your plants home, it’s a good idea to empty old compost and start again. Cover drainage holes with broken terracotta pots or grit. Arrange the plants and fill the gaps with potting compost – adding grit if the plants need good drainage, firm down and water.

Playing

Please call Julian on 020 3645 3930 or email: julian@pianolobby.co.uk | www.pianolobby.co.uk

Can Your Dog Be Too ‘Friendly’?

Pets Corner with Leonie St Clair | www.londondogstraining.co.uk

The problem with over- friendly dogs and puppies is something I have written about before, however, with so many of you getting new pups, or pups tipping into adolescence, now feels a good time for a refresh.

A friendly, relaxed outlook is great, we do not want nervous, uptight pets. However, there is friendly and then there is rude, boorish, overbearing behaviour that is erroneously labelled as friendly.

Dogs are intelligent enough but incapable of reasoning that their own behaviour might have caused another dog or person to respond to them in an aggressive manner. There lies the rub. Allow your dog or your puppy to impose itself uninvited onto other dogs and you run the risk of an unfriendly response which in turn may lead your dog to learn other dogs are unreliable, resulting in anxiety and possibly aggression down the line.

Of course, some dogs may welcome interactions with most dogs they meet (think classic Labrador). Like humans, our canine friends can be incredibly gregarious and want to be friends with everyone and everything. But others are naturally aloof and picky about interactions (think classic Border Collie). It really pays to help your dog learn how to recognise when another dog does not want to interact- this does not always come as naturally as we would like to believe.

Some dogs are great at reading other dogs; others seem to have a blind spot in this area and are oblivious to subtle canine signals only getting it when the other, exasperated dog lunges and snaps. Teenage pets, driven by hormones can get addicted to rough play and can cause problems when they impose themselves on other dogs.

All puppy owners should prioritise teaching their youngster the meaning of dog manners and how to interact with other dogs, and humans, politely; this is good socialisation. Your pup should be exposed to other dogs but under control, learning to ‘read’ other dogs and as a by-product to learn what kinds of behaviour lead to pleasant interactions. One on one meetings with older, calmer dogs can teach your pup volumes in canine social etiquette.

Puppy owners should also educate themselves about canine social signalling- how

to know when a dog is unhappy, not interested and when an aggressive response is on the cards. If all breeds looked the same this might be straightforward, but major differences in body shape between dog breeds and types, means there is a lot to learn. Puppy and dog owners alike need to understand what happy, appropriate interactions look like and how to interrupt them once things look as though they are too intense or getting out of control. Most of all, please do not allow other dogs to ‘teach’ your pup what goes and what does not. Not all dogs are good or competent teachers. A puppy badly scared by clumsy discipline from an older dog can develop issues later.

In brief; loose, bouncy body language with gaps and where the dogs take it in turns is positive. Stiff or very still body language, overly fixated interactions where one dog just keeps on at the other without breaks or changing ‘sides’ spells trouble. For more information see:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00_9JPltXHI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxyotoHWuSM

Fidelis College

Catholic Ethos

NEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

Choosing a school is never simple. Every parent wants their child to feel safe, supported, and inspired, and that’s exactly what we work hard to provide at Fidelis College.

We’re a South London school rooted in community, where teachers know each child by name and take time to understand what makes them tick. Yes, we aim high academically, but we also care about character, confidence, and kindness.

Parents tell us what matters most is that their children are happy here, and when children are happy, they thrive.

If you’d like to see what that feels like, we’d be delighted to welcome you.

How to Boost Your Metabolism

Fitness tips with Antonia Bannasch | www.bodyshotperformance.com

Why Boosting Your Metabolism

Beats Chasing a Sweat

There is a common belief that a “good workout” means ending up drenched in sweat and gasping for breath. For years, that was seen as the mark of effort and results. The harder you sweat, the better you worked. But when you are getting into your midlife, and/or managing a thyroid condition as I am, chasing sweat is not only exhausting, it is often counterproductive. What really matters is your metabolism, the engine that converts food into energy and keeps your body running efficiently day after day. When it’s working well, you feel stronger, think clearer, and recover faster.

A Word About Metabolism

Metabolism powers everything from basic functions to muscle activity. A strong metabolism supports energy, stable weight, and hormone balance. While it is often said metabolism naturally slows with age, the reality is more nuanced.

As we age, a major factor affecting metabolism is muscle loss, called sarcopenia. Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat does, so less muscle means a lower resting metabolic rate: you burn fewer calories even when not active. Many adults in their midlife also become less physically active, which accelerates muscle loss and reduces overall calorie burn.

Hormonal changes linked to ageing like shifts in thyroid function, menopause, or testosterone levels can also impact metabolism, but this varies among individuals. So rather than age itself slowing metabolism, it’s changes in muscle mass, activity levels, and hormones that often reduce metabolic rate. These are all areas you can influence through training, nutrition, and lifestyle choices.

Strength-Based Workouts & NEAT

The good news is you don’t need endless cardio to boost your metabolism. In fact, short, strengthbased workouts often do more for your metabolic rate than long sweaty sessions. Building muscle means burning more calories not just during exercise but all day long, even at rest. This approach is especially helpful for older adults and those with

thyroid issues because it supports muscle, hormone balance, and overall metabolism. Movement outside the gym matters too. Everyday activities such as walking, taking stairs, gardening, simply standing or even fidgeting frequently contribute to NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis). NEAT is the energy you burn through everyday movements that are not formal exercise. These small motions add up and support metabolism without requiring any sweat at all.

Pay Attention to Nutrition

And then there is diet. Nutrition is another very important piece. Protein-rich meals help repair and build muscle, while balanced carbohydrates and healthy fats provide your metabolism steady fuel. On the other hand, skipping meals or sharply cutting calories can slow metabolism, pushing your body into an energy conservation mode. Hydration, fibre, and micronutrients all play a role supporting digestion, recovery, and hormone regulation, which together keep your metabolism thriving. So next time you feel guilty for not sweating buckets after a workout, remember this: true success is training and living in ways that support your metabolism. Strong muscles, steady energy, balanced meals, and daily movement beat chasing exhaustion every time.

Year 11 Open Day Events 2025 for Year 12 Entry September 2026 • Wednesday 5th November 4.307pm • Wednesday 26th November 4.307pm

Financial Matters

With David Frederick FCCA | Marcus Bishop Associates | marcus-bishop.com

Not Every Receipt Is A Golden Ticket

Business owners especially sole traders know only too well about receipts and them being a golden ticket. As receipts or expenditure is one of the backbones of business. However, is every receipt a golden ticket?

Determining which receipts are golden continues to be a challenge for some sole traders. The challenge arises from any combination of the following; knowing the law, determination to break the law, their desire to assert their own selfdetermined logical or ill-founded reasoning, to their case.

As a sole trader, like any other business owner a clear understanding of what can and cannot be claimed as a business expense is crucial for accurate tax returns and avoiding unwelcome surprises from HMRC. Whilst it may be tempting to try and maximise deductions, some common expenses are simply not allowable. Therefore, it is necessary to keep any temptation under control and in check. For clarity, these common expenses cannot be deducted from business turnover and thus cannot reduce business profits.

The golden rule for an expense to be allowable is not determined by the taxpayer or their accountant or financial adviser. The golden rule is the expense must be "wholly and exclusively" for the purpose of your trade. In short there should not be a significant personal benefit from the expense. Sometimes this may be where the confusion comes into play. Two of the most common areas of misunderstandings and mistakes for some sole traders are examined below.

General Clothing

The new suit you bought for client meetings, the shorts only worn on site, my slippers only worn in the salon, or even your everyday office wear; none of these are allowable. However, if you're a tradesperson needing overalls, or a chef requiring a uniform or dentist/dental nurse wearing anti-slip, PPE-compliant footwear these are allowable. The branded clothing is also allowable however the new £150 pair of training shoes is not. The suit or

the shorts or the trainers may be worn outside of the working environment.

Travel & Commuting

Business travel is an allowable expense, however the costs of regular commuting between home and your regular place of work is not. Whenever, the question no matter how it’s dressed-up is asked, can I claim from my travel cost to my rented office, reflecting on following four part self assessment test may help.

1) Have you ever been employed?

2) Was this employment outside of your home?

3) Did you travel to your place of employment?

4) Did your employer pay for your travel to and from work?

Your home is a private residence, and commuting to your primary place of work is seen as a personal expense. However, if you travel from your office to a client's premises, that journey is allowable business travel. If your home is your primary place of work and you occasionally visit a co-working space, travel to that co-working space could be allowable. Sole traders when in doubt, leave it out or ask your accountant before HMRC asks you.

Ripe Old Age

Practical Advice for Navigating

How Not to Grow Old - the art of aging gracefully

"The fountains mingle with the river, And the rivers run to the sea." – Percy

Bysshe Shelley, Love's Philosophy (1819)

Welshman Bertrand Russell, who died in 1970 aged 97, led a remarkable life as a mathematician, logician, philosopher, and political thinker. A committed pacifist, he spent time in Brixton prison during WW1 for his anti-war stance. Later, he became widely known for his writings, lectures, and public advocacy on political, social, and educational causes. In 1948, he delivered the BBC’s inaugural Reith Lectures, bringing philosophy and critical thinking to a broad audience and making complex ideas accessible to the general public.

At 84, Russell wrote How Not to Grow Old, reflecting on the art of aging gracefully. He credited his longevity partly to good ancestry, noting that many of his grandparents lived long, active lives. His grandmother, a founder of Girton College and a champion of women’s education, remained intellectually vibrant into her nineties, spending late nights reading scientific works and contributing to important social causes. From her example, Russell concluded that staying young, required curiosity, wide interests, and a forwardlooking mindset, rather than dwelling on the past or lamenting lost youth. Personal engagement, he emphasized, was far more vital than obsessing over one’s health or counting the years.

Russell dismissed rigid health rules, advocating instead moderation, enjoyment, and the natural rhythms of life. He advised older people not to cling to their grown children or attempt to relive youth through them, but to devote themselves to ideas, causes, and pursuits larger than themselves. In doing so, one can soften the fear of death: as the self gradually merges with universal life, death becomes a serene continuation rather than a final end—like a river widening and flowing peacefully into the sea.

Ultimately, Russell’s message celebrates balance, vitality, and wisdom. He urged readers to live fully, think deeply, and give generously, meeting life’s final chapter with calm, gratitude, and enduring engagement with the wider world. Old age, approached with openness, curiosity, and a sense of purpose, can be rich, creative, and deeply fulfilling. By widening our interests beyond ourselves and remaining active in thought and deed, we not only resist the stagnation of age but also create a legacy of experience, insight, and contribution that continues beyond our individual lives.

HartBeeps

Mondays at Christ Church, 263 Barry Road, East Dulwich, SE22 0JT. Mondays 10am Happy House, 11.15am Baby Beeps & 12.30pm Baby Bells.. http://hartbeeps.com

Family Space

Free, creative workshops that take place on the last Saturday of the month at the South London Gallery, 6567 Peckham Road. For children aged 5-12 years old with their parents and carers. Drop-in, no need to book. www.southlondongallery.org

Little Superhero Training

Practice your Superhero moves! Discover Superhero fun facts! Any Little Heroes, Boys and Girls aged 2 - 5, Come along for a FREE taster session. Mondays & Fridays (term time only) St Barnabas Parish Hall, 23 Dulwich Village, SE21 7BT. Contact Lucy 07813 791757 | lucy@littleherocompany.com www.littleherocompany.com

Mini Athletics (SE London)

Winning the gold medal for children’s sports classes! Start your child’s fantastic journey in athletic development, designed for toddlers up to children of 7 years old. All through a fun play-based format. To try us out, contact Sam: 07811787153 | smcdermott@miniathletics.com www.miniathletics.com

Nature Makers

Eco-friendly crafting for little creatives! Join our awardwinning classes & events, where your child can get creative, connect with nature, and have fun in a safe, welcoming environment! Contact: marie@nature-makers.co.uk or visit: www.nature-makers.co.uk

Tennis-4-Kids

Learn young, have fun. Rally around for a smashing time. Serving ages 3-11. Rackets supplied; fun guaranteed. Gordon 07877 391005 | www.tennis-4-kids.com | gordonwood@hotmail.co.uk

‘Unicornios y Dinosaurios’

Fun and interactive Spanish language play classes, for children aged 0-5, and their parents and carers. Thursdays mornings (term-time only) in East Dulwich. Suitable for all levels of Spanish! Contact Hazel on 07852 553 239 or hazelcarr@ hotmail.com.

Your Class Here

If you would like to advertise your children’s class here, please e-mail angela@semagazines.co.uk for details.

What's On - November

Thursday 6 November: A

Christmas Evening with Skye McAlpin 7.30pm-8.30pm

Join Village Books and James Allen’s Girls’ School for a Christmas evening with cookery writer Skye McAlpine. The Christmas Companion is the indispensable guide to a cosy, relaxed and memorable Christmas. With sections covering Magic Making, Feasting and Making Merry the book is filled with delicious recipes, inspirational ideas and helpful advice for making the very most of the festive season.

From planning to parties, The Christmas Companion brings the magic, warmth and sparkle of the Christmas season thanks to Skye’s aspirational meets effortless style. Skye McAlpine is author of three other cookbooks, A Table in Venice, A Table for Friends and A Table Full of Love. She writes a monthly recipe column for The Sunday Times, as well as the popular Substack newsletter, ‘The Dolce Vita Diaries’; and contributes to publications from around the world. Tickets via www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/91278

The Holst Hall, 144 East Dulwich Grove SE22 8TE.

Fridays 7, 14, 21 & 28

November: Lewisham

Underwater Hockey Club

7:30pm – 9pm. Try out underwater hockey at Forest Hill pools every Friday evening. We’re a mixed ability club who play for fun and exercise. Complete beginners welcome - we’ll ease you in gently and have kit you can borrow. Forest Hill Pools, Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill SE23 2HZ For more information go to www.luwhc.org.uk.

Saturday 8 November: Family Workshop: Ropemaking

2pm-4pm. Join award-winning textile designer Alice Burnhope for a creative workshop exploring natural threads and fibres to make colourful, one-of-a-kind rope creations! This workshop is family-friendly, ideal for beginners, and suitable for all. Learn new skills, take part in hands-on making activities, and take home a finished rope creation. You’ll also receive a small kit with basic materials and tools so you can continue stitching at home! Cockpit Deptford, 18-22 Creekside, London SE8 3DZ. Book tickets via https://www.tickettailor.com/events/cockpit/1886546

Sunday 9 November: Singaround 7pm-10.30pm

Our Singarounds are informal and participative. We take it in turns to sing a song - any language, any genre, accompanied or unaccompanied, anything goes! We don't use mics. Singers, listeners and complete beginners’ welcome! £5 on the door, cash or BACS. The Castle Pub, 280 Crystal Palace Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9JJ. Further information: www.thegooseisout.com.

Tuesdays 11 & 25 November: Gong Bath on Sydenham Hill - a cosy evening Sound Journey 8pm-9pm

Step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods! It is a safe haven in the heart of South London, where I invite you to join me for an evening Gong Meditation / Sound Journey. Bookings via Eventbrite and at: www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk.

Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH.

What's On - November

Tuesday 11 November: An Evening with Helen Goh and Yotam Ottolenghi

7.30pm-8.30pm

Helen Goh has been a recipe developer with Ottolenghi for more than a decade and is co-author with Yotam Ottolenghi of the bestselling books Sweet and Comfort. Join us for an evening of conversation with Helen and Yotam to celebrate the publication of Helen’s first solo book, Baking & the Meaning of Life. When we bake, it’s never just about the richness of the butterscotch or the crisp flakiness of the pastry. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, when you roll up your sleeves and get out the mixing bowl, you do it for reasons far beyond the mere production of a piece of food. Few know this better than Helen Goh, a baking columnist and co-author of bestsellers Sweet and Comfort, and – uniquely – a practising psychologist.

In this, her first solo cookbook, Helen draws on her own life to bring together 100 favourite recipes that show how baking is the ultimate vehicle to convey joy and connection. There’s the buttery chocolate babka Helen and her son love to make together, a fragrant pandan chiffon cake that instantly transports her back to the familiar warmth of her Malaysian childhood, the cheesy cornbread muffins that are her go-tos for picnics, and her sweetly spiced orange madeleines that are deliciously simple and ideal to share Helen Goh was born in Malaysia and moved to Australia with her family at age 11. A trained psychologist, she combines psychology practice with a cooking career, becoming head pastry chef at a landmark Melbourne restaurant before moving to London and joining Ottolenghi. Yotam Ottolenghi is an award-winning restaurateur and author.

The VWA, James Allen's Girls' School, 144 East Dulwich Grove, East Dulwich, SE22 8TE. www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/91760

Wednesday 12 November:

EDWI - Bento cake class with Tracey from the Sugarcraft Boutique 7.30pm-9.30pm

Join us at our November event, where we welcome local business owner Tracey from the Sugarcraft Boutique on Lordship Lane for a Bento cake class. A bento cake is a miniature cake, inspired by Japanese bento lunch boxes. They make a nice gift and are ideal for lunch boxes. Members and paying guests will take away a Bento cake in a Bento box. Guests are very welcome, however due to the significant material costs for this event there is a material charge for all guests. Please bring cash, we anticipate the material costs for guests to be no more then £10, probably just £5. We can only accept cash.

We welcome new members, the subscription for the 25/26 year is £24.50 when joining in November 2025.We are a group of local women of all ages and backgrounds, with monthly events, plus a monthly book club and other activities. For further information, please email: join@eastdulwichwi.co.uk

The Castle Pub, Upstairs Function room, 280 Crystal Palace Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9JJ.

Thursday 13 November: Sistership Circle with Gong

Bath – Samhain EnergyHonouring our Ancestors

7.45pm-10.30pm. Enter the magical realm of my cosy Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods. It is a safe haven in the heart of London, where I invite you to join me first inside and then briefly by the fire next to ancient woodland for a special Sistership circle while the veil is thin until mid Nov. Samhain/Day of the Dead/Halloween/All Hallows Eve/All Souls/All Saints.. this is a time of year where all traditions come together in community to celebrate all those passed over.

Bookings via Eventbrite and at: www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk.

Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH.

Submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk

What's On - November

Thursday 13 November:

London Bridged - 3,500 Years of Crossing the Thames

8pm-9pm. Follow in the footsteps of the millions who have crossed the Thames over the last three millennia. There was a crossing at Westminster in the Bronze Age, 1,500 years before the Romans constructed London Bridge. In the 1,700-year wait for the next bridge, other crossings relied on watermen and horse ferries as traffic got jammed on London Bridge. The last 200 years have seen more than 50 new crossings over and under the river. Some are great feats of engineering; others are architecturally elegant. Every crossover changes the city’s genetic code. James Allen's Girls' School (JAGS) Sixth Form Centre, Green Dale, SE22 8TG. https://www.theartssocietydulwich.org.uk.

Friday 14 & Saturday 15

November: The Complete Works of Jane Austen in 90 Minutes 7.30pm-9.30pm

Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with a whirlwind, costumed reading of her six beloved novels—comically condensed into just 90 minutes! Performed script-in-hand by the professional cast of Sydenham’s Spontaneous Productions, this witty and fast-paced adaptation brings Austen’s timeless tales to life for a modern audience.

Expect romance, satire, and plenty of bonnetswapping as Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion are retold with flair. The evening also includes a brief biography of Austen herself.

St Bartholomew’s Church, 4 Westwood Hill, Sydenham SE26 6QR. Tickets: £20 standard / £25 pay a little more / £15 pay a little less / £10 under-18s. Advance booking recommended. TICKETS: spontaneousproductions.co.uk and at Kirkdale Bookshop (Mon–Sat, 9.30–5pm), or on the door (subject to availability).

Fridays 14, 21 & 28 November: Gong Bath on Sydenham Hilla cosy evening Sound Journey 8pm-9pm

Step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods! It is a safe haven in the heart of South London, where I invite you to join me for an evening Gong Meditation / Sound Journey. Bookings via Eventbrite and at: www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk.

Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH.

Saturday 15 November:

Family Workshop: Decorate a Tote Bag 2pm-4pm

Join award-winning textile designer Ashley Jess Knight for a hands-on upcycling and embroidery workshop. Learn a range of basic embroidery stitches to create fun, customisable patches and decorate a tote bag! This workshop is familyfriendly, ideal for beginners, and suitable for all. Learn creative techniques you can use to upcycle your own clothes using recycled materials and take home a finished creation. You’ll also receive a small kit with basic materials and tools so you can continue upcycling at home!

Cockpit Deptford, 18-22 Creekside SE8 3DZ. www.tickettailor.com/events/cockpit/1886532

Sunday

16 November:

Midcentury Modern®

10am-4pm. 60 top midcentury dealers descend upon the bold brutalist Christison Hall and red brick Victorian cloisters of Dulwich College for the day with 25 modern designers too.

An eclectic mix will be on offer including original travel, film posters and artwork, iconic furniture, industrial, lighting, rugs, textiles, throws, glass, ceramics, wallpaper and jewellery. Showcasing the very best in 20th Century design from Britain, Europe, America and Scandinavia along with a stunning array of contemporary pieces for your home in a unique setting.

Prices range from £10 - £10,000 to suit all pockets so there really is something for everyone.

Dulwich College, Dulwich Common SE21 7LD. Tickets via https://www.modernshows.com.

SATURDAY 29 NOVEMBER 2025 TH

10.00AM - 4.00PM

Croxted, Park Hall & Rosendale Roads SE21

Enjoy festive family friendly activities including Santa's grotto at Wigwam Toy Shop, face painting, gingerbread decorating, story time at Dulwich Books, a Christmas trail, Christmas crafts and much more. Join Miss Christmas at 12.00pm on Croxted Road for the Hound & Co best dressed dog competition; at 2.00pm for her Jingle Bells Show outside Wigwam Toy and at 3.30pm as she lights the Christmas tree on Croxted Road. Find the arts & crafts market on Rosendale Road and mulled wine at the street food market on Croxted Road.

What's On - November

Monday 17 November:

Dulwich WI Monthly Meeting

7.30pm-9.30pm. Launched in 2018, the Dulwich WI is a supportive and stimulating group for women of all ages and backgrounds. We meet once a month at No 57, 57 North Cross Road, SE22 9ET. We would love to meet you and look forward to welcoming you to our group. https://dulwichwi.com.

Monday 17 November: Gong

Bath on Sydenham Hill - a cosy evening Sound Journey

8pm-9pm. Step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods! It is a safe haven in the heart of South London, where I invite you to join me for an evening Gong Meditation / Sound Journey.

Thursday 20 November: New Moon Sister Sharing Circle

8pm-10.30pm. Come and connect in at this month’s sharing circle gathering, where you will be surrounded by sisterhood as you step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods. It is a safe haven in the heart of London, where I invite you to join me for a sister 'talking stick' /'Red Tent' style sharing circle over a herbal tea.

Bookings via Eventbrite and at: www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk.

Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH.

Saturday 22 & 29 November: Dulwich Village Christmas Fayres 10am-4pm

Double Christmas shopping event over 50 stalls. St Barnabas Parish Church, SE21. FREE ENTRY. www.lkpopupfayres.com.

Sunday 23 November: So Last Century's Vintage Fair - NEW CROSS 10.30am-4pm.

So Last Century returns to Goldsmiths, University of London this autumn, with another vintage show in the enormous Great Hall, inside the Richard Hoggart Building. You’ll find 50 handpicked vintage dealers with a great selection of affordable mid-20th century furniture, lighting, homeware, ceramics, glass, textiles and furnishings, original 1960s and 70s posters and art, prints and charts, brocante and salvage, vintage clothes, and lots more.

https://www.solastcenturyfair.co.uk/

Richard Hoggart Building, Goldsmiths University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, New Cross, SE14 6NW.

Sunday 23 November: King

Groovy & the Horn Stars

4pm-6pm. 17-piece big band King Groovy & the Horn Stars are delighted to be back at the Ivy House for the Sunday Jazz slot. We’ll be serving up a wide repertoire of classic jazz, Latin, funk, soul and pop, plus new numbers by the band, with our talented vocalist Nicole. Entrance is FREE, but come early - or book a table for the delicious roast lunch and a front seat.

The Ivy House Pub, 40 Stuart Road SE15 3BE. https://hornstars.com.

Wednesday 26 November: Wine Tasting at Dulwich College 7pm-9pm

Following the success of last year’s event, we are delighted to welcome Jeroboams back to Dulwich College for an evening of fine wine and festive cheer in the elegant surroundings of the Great Hall. This year’s tasting will feature over 50 wines — from elegant champagnes to bold reds and crisp whites — all presented in an informal, walk-around format. Guests are invited to explore at their own pace, guided by Jeroboams’ knowledgeable team. Tickets include access to all tasting stations and high-quality cheese boards will also be included. All profits generated by Dulwich College Events directly support bursaries and scholarships. Great Hall, Dulwich College, Dulwich Common, SE21 7LD. www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/91985

What's On - November

Friday 28 November: ANDY IRVINE, Ann Shrieves, Ian Kennedy & Sarah Lloyd

7pm-11pm. Andy Irvine is one of the great Irish singers, with a background at the helm of legendary bands like Planxty. Expect Irish traditional songs, Balkan dance tunes and beautiful self-penned songs. Ann Shrieves is a wonderful Irish singer who is a regular at our monthly Singarounds. Sarah Lloyd & Ian Kennedy sing beautiful harmonies at various local events and further afield. £20 advance, £22 on the door (cash or BACS). Tickets and information at: www.thegooseisout.com.

The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road SE15 3BE.

Friday 28 November: Morning Sister Sharing Circle with Vocal Toning/Chakra Clearing

10.30am-12pm. Come and connect in at this month’s sharing circle gathering, where you will be surrounded by sisterhood as you step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods. This Sister Circle is about sharing from your truth in that moment to the group to witness (and not fix). Followed by oracle cards, chakra humming/clearing/vocal toning and tea and cake social. Bookings via Eventbrite and at: www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk.

Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH.

Saturday 29 November: The Nutcracker 7pm-8.30pm

Step into the magic of winter with “The Nutcracker”, an enchanting evening of music that captures the spirit of the festive season. Performers: Denis Patrickson (Saxophone) and Elizaveta Velikhova (Piano). Together, Denis and Elizaveta will lead you through a journey of shimmering harmonies and festive cheer — from timeless classics to sparkling arrangements inspired by Tchaikovsky’s beloved Nutcracker. http://denispatrickson.com/nutcracker_29november St Stephen’s Church, College Road SE21 7HW.

Sunday 30 November: Dulwich College Christmas Fair

10.30am-3.30pm. In 2025 we will once again be hosting the event in the iconic Barry Buildings, cloisters and courtyards. Father Christmas will be paying us a visit and there will be plenty to keep children occupied in the KidsZone in the Auditorium. Please note that dogs are not permitted on site. We typically welcome about 2000 visitors and host over 120 stalls selling fantastic and diverse products so bag all your Christmas gifts in one go at the Dulwich College Christmas Fair. Dulwich College SE21 7LD.

Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 November:

Handmade Palace Arts & Craft Market

10am-5pm

In partnership with the Crystal Palace Park Trust, the event returns to the historic Crystal Palace Subway, a beautifully renovated venue that once connected the railway station to the legendary Crystal Palace. Visitors will discover 42 stalls each day offering a wonderful opportunity to meet and purchase directly from talented artists, designers, and makers, while supporting local craftspeople. Entrance is located just inside Crystal Palace Park on Palace Park Parade, next to the Bus Station. Please note the venue does not have step-free access, and pushchairs will need to be left at the top entrance. Dogs are welcome. Entrance to the Market is £2.50 for over-16-year-olds. www.thepaxtoncentre.co.uk Crystal Palace Parade, Anerley Hill, SE19 2BA.

SE22 Councillors

Councillor Charlie Smith - Goose Green Labour Councillor | charlie.smith@southwark.gov.uk

British Citizenships Ceremonies are held at the Registry office in Peckham Road. As a former Mayor of Southwark, I am called upon to officiate at these ceremonies if the current Mayor is carrying out duties elsewhere. I have attended over 20 ceremonies in the past 12 months. People from all over the world who live and are settled in Southwark choose to become British citizens by making a public pledge and swear allegiance to King Charles 111, his heirs and successors. As a Southwark Councillor, these ceremonies are one of the most enjoyable and uplifting of all my Civic duties.

The library at 368 Lordship Lane has had a planning application for minor works granted. These works include installation of air source heat pumps; acoustic screening; new pipework and trunking; replacement of radiators with air conditioning units; secondary glazing; replacement of non-original lantern roof; internal refurbishment including decoration, new fittings, toilets,

kitchenettes and remedial works to the building fabric. These improvements will make the library more eco sufficient and bright and smarter for users.

November traditionally is the month for fireworks especially around the 5th of the month which this year falls on a Wednesday. Fireworks can be fun if used carefully although accidents can happen. Always follow the fireworks code to help avoid nasty accidents. This time of year, can be a terrible time for our pets. Some cats and dogs can be petrified by loud bans and flashes. Try and keep your pets away from front rooms and keep window curtains drawn. Something simple as turning on some soft music can be helpful. If you and your vet decide that ant-anxiety medication is your pets best bet, there are a few things to remember. First and foremost, give a practice dose before the big night to see how your pet responds to the medication. But please enjoy Guy Fawkes night safely.

As the autumn arrives, protection from any earlier COVID-19 vaccination you may have had will be starting to wane. For the autumn 2025, COVID-19 vaccination will be offered to adults aged 75 years and over, residents in care homes for older adults and individuals who are immune-suppressed aged 6 months and over. Contact your GP or go to the NHS website to book an appointment. Flu jabs are also available from your local pharmacy for adults aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026).

The Last Word with Antonia Bannasch

I am a personal trainer with over 11 years of experience in the industry. I help women in perimenopause and menopause get fitter, stronger, and feel like themselves again.

How long have you lived in the area?

I have lived in the area for 11 years already!

What brought you here?

Love! I used to live in SW London, and my partner was over here in East Dulwich. When we figured it was time to move in together, I decided to move east.

What do you most value about the area?

I love the diversity and the sense of community in our area.

The one thing you couldn’t do without?

Is it ok to say “coffee”?

Do you know your neighbours?

Yes, I do - we have a lovely community around us.

What is your favourite place to eat?

There are quite a few places to eat around here, but I’m going to talk about the last two restaurants I’ve been to that I really liked. First, there is Heritage Dulwich for delicious Indian food. Then, there is 56 Westow over in Crystal Palace, which is a great restaurant with also very delicious food.

Coffee or tea?

Coffee! Hands down!

Cafe, pub or bar?

All of them - in that order. A café for a coffee. Then a pub is perfect for a nice Sunday lunch and a pint of beer. And a bar is where I’d go if I wanted to head out in the evening although honestly, it’s been a while since I’ve done that. Each place just fits a different purpose for me.

Where’s your favourite place to walk?

You’ll usually find me out and about with our Romanian street dog Kami, either in Brockwell Park or Dulwich Park. But honestly, she’s got a thing for Peckham Rye. She’s famous there for scaring out the odd rat hiding in the bushes!

When I want to relax...

I have two favourite ways to unwind. One is taking our dog for long weekend hike. My partner and I love escaping London for a few hours to breathe fresh air and reconnect with nature. The other is relaxing in our infrared sauna, soaking up the heat and enjoying some peaceful, distraction free time.

What is your favourite shop?

The Dulwich Trader - a great local shop for those last-minute presents.

What was the last thing you bought there?

The last thing I bought from there was a yellow chair for me.

www.bodyshotperformance.com instagram: @antoniabannasch

Index of Advertisers

Aesthetics by Lauren Turner .......................................7

Around Dulwich: Local Website................................. 17

Bells Bathrooms & Kitchens........................................2

The Chair Sanctuary .................................................. 11 Circle Psychology Partners ..........................................5

Dulwich Carpet Company ........................................ 35

Dulwich Charity Lunch 23

Dulwich College Christmas Fair................................. 21

Fidelis College: Catholic Ethos .................................. 15

Hatch: Retail Space......................................................7

Herne Hill School .................................................. Back

Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating ................ 13

John @ James & Lamont: Painting & Decorating .... 13

Kingsdale Foundation School:

Robert Cox French Polishing ..................................... 21

Rosemead Prepartory School: Open Morning ...........1

Rosemead Prepartory School: Open Morning ......... 33

Rosie

} Exclusive focus on cutting-edge Early Childhood Education (age 2+ to 7+), the most crucial period in a child’s life

} Seamless transition from play-based to more structured learning, preparing the children to move on at 7+ to an appropriate independent or state school

} Embedding key values and developing ‘the whole child’ through a unique, continuous five-year curriculum

} Expert staff operating under the ethos of Love · Care · Excellence in which children excel and learn with fun and enthusiasm

} Extensive wrap-around care from 7.45am to 6pm

} High-quality holiday provision for children aged 2–4