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We are so excited to be at The Rutland County Show again this year. Do come and say hello if you are there on the day, Sunday 31 May; it’s at The Rutland County Showground, in Oakham. We are Stand Number 98. We will be launching our fabulous new walks book on that day too –Stamford & Rutland Living Country Rambles, which features our 20 favourite walks in the region.
It got us to thinking about what makes our region so special for country rambles, and we came to this conclusion: gently rolling hills, plenty of woodland, rivers and streams in abundance, long rural views, charming villages built from local stone, bags of history and large estates with glorious parkland and quaint estate villages.
And as a walker, what is perhaps most appealing is that the first sign of an upcoming village is almost always its spire poking up above a rolling hill. It’s as if this region had been invented for country rambles.
Copies of the book (£10 each) are available from local bookshops and from our website (see below). And, if you buy a copy at The Rutland County Show, we will give you a free tote bag to carry it away with, too.
Editors, Nicholas & Clare
Website: www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk
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THE TEAM
PUBLISHER & EDITOR
This magazine has been created by the team at Local Living, PO Box 208, Stamford PE9 9FY
Nicholas Rudd-Jones | 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk
07876 171063 | claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Nene Valley (Oundle & Peterborough)
Nicholas Rudd-Jones Contact details as above
ADVERTISEMENT PRODUCTION
Ad Copy Manager: Rachel Beecroft
Ad Designer: Sarah Patterson
This magazine has been printed by our local printers, Warners of Bourne, on FSC® certified paper from sustainable and other controlled sources.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Annual rate £45 (UK only) for 12 issues. Please write to the Publisher at Local Living Ltd, with £45 cheque payable to Local Living or go online to buy your subscription at www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk
COVER
Stamford Living: Helen Hussey photographed by Elli Dean (see p28). Rutland Living: Nevill Holt by William Blakesley-Herbert (see p18)
THIS MONTH WE LOVE…
NEVILL HOLT
The Nevill Holt Festival (29 May to 21 June) gets better every year and this year is no exception, with an incredible line-up of performers and speakers including Sir Mark Rylance, David Olusoga, Rory Bremner, Dame Anya Hindmarch and Angela Hartnett. All in the most gorgeous setting. Full timetable and booking at nevillholtfestival.com
OUR BRAND NEW
WALKS BOOK!
After months of beavering away behind the scenes, we’re thrilled at Stamford Living & Rutland Living HQ to see our fabulous new walks book published. Featuring Ordnance Survey maps, a beautiful design (including a cover by Stamford artist Beach) and 20 of our favourite walks across the region, all gathered together in one lovely book. It’s available from local bookshops (£10) including Walkers Bookshop as well as online (£10 including P&P) at stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk
OPEN GARDENS
We’re lucky to have so many fine gardens in our region participating in the National Garden Scheme (NGS; ngs.org.uk), and June is peak season. Among our favourites open this month are Home Farm near Tolethorpe (14 June, 11am–5pm), an acre of garden filled with herbaceous and rose beds, along with a wildflower area and sweeping lavender avenues (pictured right); Foxtail Lilly near Oundle (7 June, 11am–5pm), Prebendal House in Empingham (14 June, 1.30–5pm) and Rockingham Castle (23 June, 11am–4pm). Open Gardens in Oundle is this month too – on 14 June from 11am. creativeoundle.co.uk
RUTLAND NURSERY ONLINE SHOP
Did you know that you can now shop online at Rutland Nursery? All too tempting! The lovely things currently on the online shop include this large green Maison Augustin pomelo pouch (£22), perfect for keeping your everyday essentials organised. With its beautiful frills and colourful design this roomy pouch goes with everything. rutlandnursery.co.uk
info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk
WHAT’S ON IN JUNE
LEFT: The highly acclaimed Dave Bristow Quintet, who start their tour at Goldmark Front Room this month. Expect an intimate evening of inventive and richly textured modern jazz.
A SELECTION OF EVENTS TAKING PLACE ACROSS OUR BEAUTIFUL REGION THIS MONTH
1–21
ARTS FESTIVAL
Nevill Holt Festival
29 May to 21 June; tickets and full details of what’s on at nevillholtfestival.com
A festival of arts, entertainment and ideas, held in the exquisite setting of Nevill Holt Estate. Building on a decade of opera performances, the Nevill Holt Festival now includes opera (Don Pasquale this year; from 29 May), concerts, conversations, performances, art exhibitions, family events and open gardens. Glorious. See also p18–19.
4
CINEMA
Cinema for Rutland at Rutland County Museum
7.30pm, £7.50 from Oakham Wines or online at wegottickets.com
This month’s film is ‘I Swear’, directed by Kirk Jones and based on the true story of John Davidson (Robert Aramayo), who was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome at a young age and later became an ardent campaigner for greater understanding of the condition.
LIVE MUSIC
The Dave Bristow Quintet in Goldmark Front Room
7.30pm (doors 7pm), £30 (just 60 seats) Acclaimed Birmingham-born pianist and composer Dave Bristow brings his internationally renowned quintet to Uppingham for the opening date of their 2026 UK tour. Now based in Paris, Bristow has earned praise for his original contemporary jazz compositions, with his latest album, Sides, receiving critical renown. goldmarkart.com
5–7
ART & ANTIQUES FAIR
BADA Art & Antiques Fair
Rutland at Rutland Hall Hotel
10.30am–6pm (Fri & Sat), 10.30am–5pm (Sun). From £10
The British Antique Dealers’ Association brings its inaugural regional fair to Rutland this summer, featuring 40 leading galleries and dealers from across London and the region. Expect fine art, jewellery, sculpture, furniture, silver, rare books, watches and contemporary design objects, all set within the beautiful surroundings of Rutland Hall overlooking Rutland Water. bada.org/events/bada-fair-rutland-2026/
OUTDOOR CINEMA
Adventure Cinema at Burghley House
5–7 June; see adventurecinema.co.uk for film screening details and booking
Enjoy a magical open-air cinema experience in the spectacular grounds of Burghley House. The programme includes family favourites, musical sing-alongs and classic films, including Wicked Sing-A-Long, Mamma Mia ExtrABBAganza and Pride & Prejudice, shown in the very setting where it was filmed. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy street food, drinks and a wonderful atmosphere beneath the stars.
6
CRAFT FAIR
The Crafters Market Summer Fair at Stamford Arts Centre 10am–4pm, free entry
Browse a beautiful selection of handmade gifts, crafts and artisan products created by talented local makers from Stamford and the surrounding area. From jewellery and homewares to artwork, textiles and seasonal treats, this friendly summer fair is the perfect opportunity to shop local and discover unique handcrafted pieces.
WHAT’S ON IN JUNE
with a concert in Oundle on 6 June.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Rutland Sinfonia at St Peter’s Church, Oundle 7.30pm, tickets £5–16 at www.rutlandsinfonia.org.uk
To close the 50th anniversary season, there is a tribute to the orchestra’s founder, Barry Collett himself. ‘We knew we had to include Elgar,’ conductor Paul Hilliam told us, ‘so we’ll finish with the Enigma Variations.’ Barry loved the English composers, so the Elgar is paired with Vaughan Williams. To keep things fresh, the orchestra will be performing a contemporary work by Becky Taylor, one of the first violinists in the orchestra. Acclaimed cellist Eduardo Vassallo of the CBSO will also be playing Dvorak’s Cello Concerto.
8
FLORAL DEMONSTRATION
Stamford Flower Club at Stamford Corn Exchange 7pm, £19
As part of the celebrations for their 70th Anniversary, Stamford Flower Club have arranged a special demonstration at the Corn Exchange. Paula Routledge, a popular demonstrator was lucky enough to receive an invitation to the King’s Coronation at Westminster Abbey in May 2023. She has woven
VENUES
a spectacular demonstration entitled ‘Coronation Calamities!’ around her experience of the event and will create some wonderful flower arrangements, which will be raffled at the end of the evening.
10
TOLETHORPE 2026 SEASON
Stamford Shakespeare Company at Tolethorpe Hall
Jun, July, Aug; see tolethorpe.co.uk for details & to book
The season kicks off on 10 June with Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’, followed by Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Treasure Island’ and ‘One Man, Two Guvnors’, based on Carlo Goldoni’s classic Italian comedy ‘The Servant of Two Masters’. There is also a production from Tolethorpe’s talented youth drama group, TYD
Theatre Makers – George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ – in July. Book your ticket, pack a picnic – and enjoy!
15–19
SPORTING EVENT
Sevens Tournament at Stamford Town Cricket Club
From 6pm onwards each day, free for spectators
Stamford Town Cricket Club’s popular Sevens Tournament returns this June. The fast-paced knockout competition sees teams of seven players competing in six-over matches throughout the week, culminating in the semi-finals and final on Friday evening. Alongside the cricket, visitors can enjoy local beers and cider, barbecue food, live music from The Shuttles and El Ajolote Mexican food truck beside the river.
• All Saints’ Church Overend, Elton, Peterborough PE8 6RU, peterboroughchurches.com/elton
• All Saints’ Church Church Street, Oakham LE15 6AA, oakhamteam.org.uk/locations/oakham
• Stamford Town Cricket Club Uffington Road, Stamford PE9 3AA, stamford.play-cricket.com
• Tolethorpe Hall Salters Lane, Little Casterton, Stamford PE9 4BH, tolethorpe.co.uk
RIGHT: Rutland Sinfonia closes its 50th anniversary season
WHAT’S ON IN JUNE
19–28
MAKERS MARKET
The Notswolds Summer Makers
Market at Claire Langley 19–28 June; free admission but charges apply for workshops and events
A 10-day celebration of craft and independent making, bringing together some of the region’s leading artisans, craftspeople and makers. Set within the showroom of Claire Langley Antiques in Stamford, the market will feature beautiful handmade work alongside expert workshops, talks and intimate events celebrating contemporary craft, creativity and thoughtful design. There’s also a supper club with Fern (of The Falcon in Uppingham) on Saturday 27 June. notswolds.com/market
26
ARTS FESTIVAL
Oundle Fringe Festival (venues across the town)
Until 5 July, most events are free
There’s a fantastic line-up at Oundle Fringe Festival this year, with over 50 events ranging from jazz, blues, soul, folk, rock, bluegrass and Americana to classical music. There’s also a Regency tea dance, open mic and poetry sessions, a treasure trail and exhibitions featuring original work by local artists. Events take place in pubs, cafes and restaurants all over the town and in nearby villages and feature established performers and those who are just starting out. Full programme at www.oundlefringe.org
LEFT: Green Machine Creative will be at The Notswolds’ Summer Makers Market this month.
from across the decades. Under the direction of conductor Peter Davis, the ensemble will perform favourites including Over the Rainbow and Moon River, alongside Bond themes, Disney classics and Latin-inspired numbers.
27
EXHIBITION
Christopher P Wood at Goldmark Gallery
Exhibition launches on Sat 27 and runs into July; free admission
With over 50 oil paintings made over the last four years, Wood’s extraordinary mythical landscapes take us from the artist’s local woodlands in Gledhow Valley into a purely imaginative world entirely of his own creation. The show opens at 10am. Join the team at 1pm on launch day for fizz and a light lunch, followed by Christopher P Wood and Mike Goldmark in conversation at 2pm.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Stamford Chamber Orchestra at Stamford Arts Centre
7.30pm, £16.50 (£13.50 conc, £6 under 26s)
Stamford Chamber Orchestra presents a joyful summer concert of musical favourites and new discoveries. The programme includes Mendelssohn’s magical A Midsummer Night’s Dream Overture, Haydn’s ‘Surprise’ Symphony and Elgar’s Serenade for Strings, alongside the premiere of Sturt’s new commission, A Wealden Rhapsody, and Casadesus’s charming London Sketches.
CHORAL CONCERT
A Night at the Oscars with Rutland Voices at All Saints’ Church, Oakham
7.30pm, £15 (£7.50 under 12) from WeGotTickets
Rutland Voices returns with a celebration of Oscar-winning songs
MOTOR SHOW
Baston Car & Bike Show at Grimsthorpe Castle 10am–5pm, advance tickets available online; under 15s free
A celebration of motoring returns to the beautiful setting of Grimsthorpe Castle, featuring vintage, classic, sports, customised and supercars alongside motorcycles, club displays and live demonstrations. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food and drink, traders, family entertainment and the sound of legendary BRM engines fired into life throughout the day. bastoncarshow.com
CLASSICAL MUSIC
The Cirrus Quartet at All Saints’ Church, Elton 3–6pm, £20 incl. light refreshments, under-16s free; buy tickets in advance at www.cirrusstringquartet.com or on the door. An afternoon of glorious music in one of the Nene Valley’s most beautiful villages. The programme features Haydn’s ‘Kaiser’ Quartet, Ravel’s Quartet in F and Schubert’s String Quartet in G major. For more on the Cirrus Quartet, see p24–5.
VILLAGE SHOW
Blaston Show at Blaston Showground 8am–6pm; adults £12.75/£15, 13–16 yrs £4.25/£5, 12 yrs & under free
The Blaston Show features a packed programme of displays, competitions and family entertainment. Highlights include horse displays, sheep dog demonstrations, vintage tractors, classic cars and lawn mower racing, alongside livestock judging, rural crafts, shopping and a fun fair. Early bird tickets are available until 15 June. blastonshow.co.uk
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Jigsaw at Nevill Holt Festival
Jigsaw returns to the Nevill Holt Festival with a stylish pop-up boutique, bringing its effortlessly elegant occasionwear collection to one of the region’s most fabulous cultural events
AS THE SUMMER social season begins, Jigsaw’s occasionwear collection offers a modern approach to event dressing, balancing elegance with ease. Designed with versatility in mind, the collection combines fluid silhouettes, lightweight tailoring and elevated details that feel perfectly suited to sun-soaked lunches, garden gatherings and evenings under the summer sky. Linen suits, satin separates and statement dresses in fresh seasonal tones create a wardrobe that feels polished without being overly formal, ideal for the relaxed yet refined atmosphere of the Nevill Holt Festival.
Jigsaw is proud to return as a sponsor of the Nevill Holt Festival for a third consecutive year, continuing a partnership built on a shared appreciation for creativity, craftsmanship and British culture. As part of this year’s festival, Jigsaw will host a special pop-up throughout the festival, offering guests the opportunity to shop selected pieces from the latest spring/summer collection within the festival grounds. Set against the beautiful Leicestershire countryside, the pop-up brings together fashion and culture in a way that feels true to both brands.
Just a short distance from the festival, Jigsaw’s Market Harborough store has also had a seasonal refresh, newly painted in a vibrant shade of orange. The updated exterior brings a bold burst of colour to the town and celebrates the energy of the season, while inside, customers can discover the latest collection alongside the brand’s signature approach to thoughtful, lasting style.
www.jigsaw-online.com | insidejigsaw
Nevill Holt Festival: 29 May to 21 June 2026
This year’s Nevill Holt Festival promises to be its most spectacular season yet – bringing the pinnacle of British culture to the Leicestershire countryside this summer. Opening on 29 May, just as this magazine was published, with a performance of Donizetti's bravura comic opera Don Pasquale, the 2026 Festival unfolds across four gloriously packed weeks of opera and music, comedy, cabaret, and conversations spanning sport, art, culture, literature, politics and current affairs. Among the major names descending on our region are Hugh Bonneville, Clare Balding, Eddie the Eagle, David Cameron, Mark Rylance, Angela Hartnett, David Olusoga, Sue Perkins, Alexander Armstrong, Jenny Eclair and many, many more. Whether you're a devoted opera-goer, a comedy enthusiast or simply curious about the world, there is something at Nevill Holt this summer for everyone.
Providing a distinctly local flavour is notable Rutland resident Kristin Scott Thomas, who will be reading from Shakespeare’s Venus and Adonis alongside Mark Rylance and Johnny Flynn. The Stamford Stompers, a Dixieland jazz ensemble based in Stamford will also be performing on the Community Stage.
Find out what’s on and book now at nevillholtfestival.com | nevillholtfestival
Jigsaw returns to the Nevill Holt Festival with a stylish pop-up boutique showcasing selected pieces from its latest spring/summer collection.
A Boutique Cinema at The George Inn Oakham
The George Inn in Oakham has just completed a brand new boutique cinema. Nicholas Rudd-Jones went to take a look
DO YOU KNOW how that thought sometimes creeps across your mind: wouldn’t it be amazing to have your own home cinema? Absolute luxury, absolute clarity, absolute surround-sound quality, absolute viewing pleasure … but somehow lack of space and funds make it a pipe dream. Well, now The George Inn Oakham has done all the work for you, creating the ultimate in luxury: a private cinema on the other side of their courtyard garden, with six hugely comfortable double sofas, so a capacity for up to a dozen people.
And in addition to the sheer comfort, the quality is spot on too. I spoke to Paul Cummin, from Artcoustic UK & Eire, to find out more about the installation. He explained: ‘It is a fully engineered cinema, designed and installed by Stuart Westmoreland’s Custom Install division in Melton Mowbray, using the same principles as commercial screening rooms and built in line with CEDIA RP22 performance standards.
‘Every element has been measured and modelled, from speaker placement to seating geometry, in order to ensure consistent sound and picture quality throughout the room. A full Artcoustic 9.2.6 Dolby Atmos system delivers true three-dimensional audio, with sound moving precisely around and above you, while dialogue remains clear and anchored to the screen.
‘The system is designed to reach cinema reference levels of up to 105dB, not for volume, but to provide effortless sound dynamics and clarity without any distortion. Multiple subwoofers are deliberately positioned to deliver even, deep bass to every seat.
‘Carefully planned seating positions, based on established viewing standards, place you within the optimal field of view, ensuring a truly immersive experience from every seat. The result is a space that presents film as intended: controlled, balanced and unmistakably cinematic.’
The Films
The ticket price will be £15 per head, or £162 if you hire the space exclusively. The hotel will publish a film list each month for a six-week showing cycle. They will play films available on Blu-ray Disc 4K; and stream from Apple TV and Netflix. For those hiring out the entire cinema exclusively, you can choose the film that you want to watch. All relevant licences are in place. New films will be available within a few weeks of release – most definitely worth waiting for to experience it in a truly unique and class-leading environment in the smallest Dolby Atmos cinema in the world.
ABOVE: The George Inn Oakham’s new private cinema combines luxurious comfort with cutting-edge Dolby Atmos technology, alongside a charming foyer stocked with cinema treats including popcorn and snacks.
FOOD & DRINK:
The George Inn bar has an extensive range of drinks and snacks that you will be able to purchase prior to taking your seat in the new cinema.
Or, if you want something a bit more substantial, there’s a huge choice on the menu in the dining room, where you can book a table either before or after the film.
HOW TO BOOK:
• BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.THEGEORGEINNOAKHAM.CO.UK
• EMAIL RESERVATIONS@ THEGEORGEINNOAKHAM.CO.UK
• CALL THE GEORGE ON 01572 756971
THE GEORGE INN, MARKET PLACE, OAKHAM LE15 6DT
WWW.THEGEORGEINNOAKHAM.CO.UK THEGEORGEINNOAKHAM
CHRISTOPHER P WOOD
The Space
The multi-level chimney at the heart of the room presented an exciting design challenge. Rather than concealing it behind a false wall, we chose to embrace its unique form and make it a defining feature.
Drawing inspiration from the chimney’s stepped structure, we created an ensuite with a strong balance of vertical and horizontal lines, softened by the circular curves of the basins, mirror, and wall lights.
By raising the floor at one end of the bathroom, we created a spa-inspired bathing and showering area, complete with a freestanding stone bath alongside a walk-in shower with an overhead rainfall feature.
A natural palette runs throughout the design, with a dark walnut vanity and golden veining running through the upper tiles, complementing the warm bronze taps and shower fittings.
What was once an awkward space of levels, angles and features has been transformed into a serene and cohesive bathroom full of character – a space that respects its past while looking to the future.
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creative of the month
& BELOW:
David Burrowes & the Cirrus String Quartet
Cellist David Burrowes has spent decades performing and teaching at the highest level. Now based in Elton with his wife Sarah Hayhurst –whose own creative career has spanned television, voice work, garden design and flower farming – he is bringing world-class chamber music to one of the Nene Valley’s most beautiful village churches. Editor Clare Rudd-Jones, who studies the cello with David, spoke to him ahead of the concert to learn more about his string quartet and life behind the performances
ON A beautiful back lane lined with Georgian stone cottages in the Nene Valley village of Elton, cellist
David Burrowes and his wife, garden designer and flower farmer Sarah Hayhurst, have created a richly creative life since moving here in 2020. Music, conversation, flowers and performance come together naturally here.
David has enjoyed an extraordinary career, performing with leading orchestras, recording extensively and appearing for more than 20 years as principal cello in the London production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera. It was through luthier Libby Summers of Stamford Strings that I was first introduced to him, and I have since felt hugely fortunate to have connected with such an accomplished musician and teacher within our local area.
A Life in Music
Born in Dublin, David began playing the cello whilst singing as a chorister at Canterbury Cathedral, before studying music at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge. His career has included principal and guest principal roles with a number of London’s chamber orchestras and many concerts with the Philharmonia and Royal Philharmonic orchestras. Alongside performing, he has taught at the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. For seven years, he was Director of the annual
cello course at Pro Corda, and he remains deeply committed to nurturing young musicians.
David and Sarah moved to Elton after many years in London. Alongside his performing and teaching work, David is now organist at All Saints’ Church in the village and was closely involved in the revival of Elton Cricket Club, reflecting two of his passions alongside music. Both Sarah and David also share a love of the outdoors and have devoted much of their time to restoring the gardens surrounding their home. Sarah’s flower-farming venture, Beulah Flower Co, is admired locally and continues to expand.
The Cirrus String Quartet
David also enjoys an active chamber music career as a member of the Cirrus String Quartet. ‘The quartet is greater than the sum of the parts,’ he tells me. ‘We all play better when we play together. There’s such confidence in each other – you’re free to play.’
That sense of trust and musical conversation lies at the heart of the quartet, whose current line-up has played together since 2016, although the ensemble itself dates back to 1992. Between them, the players have worked with many of Britain’s finest orchestras and chamber ensembles, appeared at the Wigmore Hall and recorded for BBC radio. They also have an impressive list of CDs on a number of commercial labels.
OPPOSITE
The Cirrus String Quartet, featuring Eltonbased cellist David Burrowes, are performing at All Saints’ Church in the village on Sunday 28 June.
‘These instruments all have stories to tell’
June Concert at Elton Church
On Sunday 28 June, the Cirrus String Quartet returns to All Saints’ Church, Elton, for an afternoon concert featuring Haydn, Ravel and Schubert – three towering works from the repertoire. The church, with its Saxon gravestones, stained glass and excellent acoustics, has become something of a creative home. In October 2024, the quartet recorded Beethoven’s Quartet op.74 for acclaimed recording engineer and producer, Adam Mills, also a resident of Elton.
The June programme opens with Haydn’s celebrated ‘Kaiser’ Quartet, named after the melody in its second movement that later became the German national anthem. This is followed by Ravel’s shimmering and groundbreaking Quartet in F – a work that David describes as ‘an absolute knockout piece’ and which stretched the boundaries of what a string quartet could be. The concert concludes with Schubert’s final String Quartet in G major, written
DATES FOR THE DIARY
• Sunday 28 June, 3pm | All Saints’ Church, Elton
The Cirrus String Quartet performs Haydn’s ‘Kaiser’ Quartet, Ravel’s Quartet in F and Schubert’s String Quartet in G major. Tickets £20, under-16s free. Book in advance at www.cirrusstringquartet.com or buy on the door.
• 2 July, 2pm – Oundle Fringe Festival | The Talbot Hotel, Oundle
David Burrowes and Sarah Hayhurst present an afternoon of poetry and music inspired by Shakespeare, Rumi and Bach’s Cello Suites. www.oundlefringe.org/event/david-and-sarah-burrowes/
• Sunday 13 December | Browne’s Hospital, Stamford
A festive concert promoted by Stamford Strings with music by Tchaikovsky, Gershwin, Puccini and more, alongside seasonal favourites. A beautiful setting for what promises to be a very special concert. www.stamfordstrings.co.uk
near the end of the composer’s short life. ‘It’s one of those pieces that takes you on a journey,’ notes David, hinting at the emotional richness and unfolding drama of the work.
The Instruments
There is another layer of fascination too: the extraordinary instruments themselves. ‘These instruments all have stories to tell,’ David says. First violinist Martin Smith performs on an 18th-century Venetian violin by Domenico Busan, while second violinist Suzanne Loze’s violin is a very fine copy of a Gagliano by George Wulme Hudson, of Walthamstow (c.1930), which, rather wonderfully, her grandfather bought from the maker. Violist Morgan Goff plays a remarkable instrument made in 1715 by the great English luthier Daniel Parker. David’s own cello also carries a story. Made by Thomas Kennedy – arguably the foremost English maker of the 19th century – in London in 1801, David discovered it at auction, unattributed, undervalued and in poor condition. During the restoration work afterwards, the front of the cello was removed, to reveal in the luthier’s pencilled hand, ‘Thos Kennedy, London 1801’.
Music, Flowers and Poetry
The world surrounding the quartet is shaped not only by music, but by craftsmanship, creativity and collaboration – qualities reflected in David and Sarah’s creative life in the region too, and in the couple’s wider involvement in the local arts scene. David and Sarah are preparing for an appearance at this summer’s Oundle Fringe Festival – an intimate afternoon of poetry and music at The Talbot Hotel inspired by Shakespeare, the Persian poet Rumi and Bach’s Cello Suites. For more details, visit the Oundle Fringe website.
It all feels wonderfully interconnected – a life to aspire to, with music, flowers, poetry and performance flourishing together in a gorgeous corner of the Nene Valley.
stylist: sally stillingfleet photography: elli dean
model: helen hussey
hair & makeup: janette mcmorrow
summer style
The fashion team get set for summer
ABOVE: PINK-AND-RED MISHA LOBSTER AND STARFISH DRESS BY NEW DAY ORIGINALS, £179, ENERGY; PINK NENEH ROKSANDA HANDBAG, £450, ARCH LABEL AGENCY; RED AJVANI HEELS, £8.50, CANCER RESEARCH STAMFORD.
LEFT: DREAMY FLORAL OASIS MAXI DRESS, £225, SAHARA; SC PIERRE MURANO GLASS PEBBLE NECKLACE, FUCHSIA/ ORANGE, £49, SAHARA; PITI CUITI BAG, £95, ANNA COUTURE BOUTIQUE; BEIGE SUEDE RUSSELL AND BROMLEY HEELS, SIZE 5, £40, ARCH LABEL AGENCY.
PREVIOUS PAGE & ABOVE: BLUE TIE-DYE SHIRT, £159, SAHARA; WHITE TWISTED LINEN CROP BUBBLE TROUSER, £145, SAHARA; LONG BLUE WOODEN DISC NECKLACE, £45, SAHARA; METALLIC AQUAZZURA SANDALS (SIZE 6), £150, ARCH LABEL AGENCY.
ABOVE: NEW DAY ORIGINALS STRAWBERRY-PATTERN ‘PADDINGTON’ BLOUSE, £98, ENERGY; JEANS, FROM A SELECTION AT ARCH LABEL AGENCY; RED M&S BAG, £6.50, CANCER RESEARCH STAMFORD.
BLACK PITI CUITI SUNDRESS WITH FLORAL EMBROIDERY, £165, ANNA COUTURE BOUTIQUE; WHITE SUNGLASSES, £20, ENERGY; BRONZE PLATFORM SHOES, ROBERT CLERGERIE, SIZE 5.5, £50, ARCH LABEL AGENCY.
Sleep Cool with Wool this Summer
Discover British wool bedding, nature’s natural heat regulator. Woolroom bedding helps regulate your body temperature and creates the calm, breathable sleep space your body needs to rest, recover and reset. Better sleep isn’t a dream, it’s within your reach thanks to the wonders of wool.
Scan the QR to book a sleep consultation, or visit us at: 33-35 Pillings Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6QF 01780 461217 | info@thewoolroom.com I woolroom.com
Open Mon - Fri: 9am - 5.30pm, Sat - Sun: Appointment only
SUMMER STYLE
BLUE-AND-WHITE ‘LUZ’ SUNDRESS, £89, WHITE GINGER; MOCK CROC ‘CHELSEA’ HANDBAG, £119, WHITE GINGER; CREAM SUNGLASSES, £20, ENERGY; BEIGE SUEDE RUSSELL AND BROMLEY HEELS, SIZE 5, £40, ARCH LABEL AGENCY.
Orangeries, garden rooms, conservatories, windows and doors. From design through to completion.
BUTTER LEMON RIDLEY BROIDERIE ANGLAISE SUNDRESS, £70, ARCH LABEL AGENCY; PITI CUITI BAG (AS BEFORE), £95, ANNA COUTURE BOUTIQUE; BEIGE SUEDE PAUL GREEN HEELS, £8.75, CANCER RESEARCH STAMFORD.
SUMMER STYLE
STOCKISTS
Anna Couture Boutique
17 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DG anna.couture.boutique
Arch Label Agency
43 St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BH archlabelagency | www.archlabelagency.com
Sahara
3 Red Lion Square, Stamford PE9 2AQ sahara_london | saharalondon.com
White Ginger
7 High Street St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF whitegingeruk | www.white-ginger.com
THANKS
A big thank you to our photographer Elli Dean (www.ellideanphotography.co.uk) and our stylist Sally Stillingfleet ( flowerfile) for creating this feature. Huge thanks, too, to Helen for modelling for us so wonderfully, and to Janette McMorrow (www.janettemcmorrow.co.uk) for doing Helen’s hair and makeup so beautifully.
Behind every Stamford Living and Rutland Living fashion shoot is our own creative team – from concept and styling to photography and production. We are proud to be the only local magazine in our region producing original, location-based fashion editorials in this way, supporting our advertisers and showcasing local boutiques, independent businesses and beautiful regional settings.
If you run a boutique or lifestyle business and would like to see your products featured in a future shoot, we would love to hear from you. It is a brilliant way to bring your collection to life and place it in front of our engaged print and digital audiences. For magazine team contact details, please see page 3 of this issue.
Violet Rose
Clare Rudd-Jones went to chat to Jane Stobart at Violet Rose, her stylish independent destination boutique on Uppingham’s High Street East. Here, fashion, interiors and wellbeing meet, and warm, personal service sits at the heart of it all
AYEAR since opening on High Street East, Jane Stobart’s elegant Uppingham boutique has established itself as one of the town’s most stylish independent destinations. When I visit, light pours through the great front windows, falling across a beautifully presented interior where fashion, interiors, gifts and wellbeing sit side by side in easy harmony. Relaxed, uplifting and inviting, it encourages you to linger.
The Uppingham boutique celebrated its first anniversary in May 2026 with a special instore event. It is part of Jane’s growing retail story, alongside her successful store in Southwell, Nottinghamshire, which she has run for around 15 years. She tells me that her background in retail spans decades and includes Laura Ashley, where she specialised in fashion and homewares before becoming regional controller for the north of England. Since then, she has shaped her own distinctive approach to retail – one rooted in quality, design and personal service.
Style, Thoughtfully Considered
Fashion lies at the heart of the shop, with an expertly edited mix of labels including Chalk, Ecoalf, Neirami, Ilse Jacobsen, Papucei, TANDEM, Opificio and other Italian, Danish and European collections. Several were brands I had not come across locally before, which added to the sense of discovery. The emphasis, Jane explains to me, is on beautifully made, wearable pieces with clean lines, flattering silhouettes and lasting appeal. She is also delighted to help customers create the perfect capsule wardrobe, choosing pieces that will work effortlessly from season to season. Jane describes the boutique as a destination for mothers and daughters – stylish women of all ages seeking something special.
Alongside clothing, there is jewellery from GAS Bijoux and Tutti, plus leather handbags, hats and accessories. There is also the adorable Chalk baby collection – perfect for gifts for special little ones. Beauty and wellbeing add another layer to the experience, with Delilah makeup (clean and vegan), perfume and a large range from Neom Organics too.
A Beautifully Curated Home
The boutique also offers luxury pieces for the home, with furniture (sofas, chairs, sideboards, tables), lighting, soft furnishings and decorative accessories all chosen with the same discerning eye. There are home fragrances by brands including Plum & Ashby, too. I loved the adorable compact sofas and several striped cushions with glorious, frilled borders in effortless, hugely versatile soft tones – the kind of finishing touch that brings instant charm to a room. Customers can also book complimentary styling appointments with Jane, bringing photographs and ideas so she can help shape a scheme with confidence and flair.
Atmosphere and the Art of Detail
I am struck, too, by the easy atmosphere of the boutique, where conversations flow and customers are made to feel welcome. During my visit, I notice Jane’s instinctive eye for detail as she quietly checks displays, smooths a rail and ensures everything looks immaculate. Two spacious changing rooms make trying things on a pleasure, while Jane’s attentive, intuitive customer care creates the sense that nothing is too much trouble.
As for Uppingham itself, Jane speaks warmly of the town’s friendly, community-minded feel – a place with a lovely energy. She is also planning future in-store events, which will strengthen community links, so keep an eye on the website and social channels for details.
VIOLET ROSE, 28 HIGH ST EAST, UPPINGHAM LE15 9PZ | MON–SAT, 10AM–4.30PM WWW.VIOLETROSE.UK | violetrose_southwell
OPPOSITE & THIS PAGE: Violet Rose, which celebrated its first anniversary on Uppingham’s High Street East in May 2026. The boutique brings together fashion, jewellery, homeware and lifestyle brands, including CHALK, TANDEM and GAS Bijoux jewellery.
‘The emphasis is on beautifully made, wearable, versatile pieces with clean lines, flattering silhouettes and lasting appeal’
1
STYLE | SHOP LOCAL Summer Socials
words: erin andrews
1. Any all-day summer event requires the perfect low heel, and we’re obsessed with this Aquazzura pair (size 39, £150) from Arch Label Agency of Stamford. archlabelagency.com
2. Le Scarf’s sand ‘Gemini’ silk scarf (£119) from Cavells of Oakham would make a stunning addition to a belt loop, hat or handbag. cavells.co.uk
3. The gorgeous poppy red ‘Metis’ dress (£85) from White Ginger of Stamford adds a vibrant pop of colour for a party or wedding. white-ginger.com
4. Hair-up looks call for a statement pair of earrings, and you can’t go wrong with the GAS Bijoux Lucky Sequin Earrings (£130) from Violet Rose of Uppingham. violetrose.uk
5. Enhance your summer glow with the Nobody’s Child ‘Monica’ midi dress (£99) from Iris & Violet of Stamford. Pair it with gold accessories for an evening look. irisandviolet.shop
6. Saint-Tropez’s ‘Rainie’ dress (£109.99) in ‘Ballerina Brushed Bloom’ from Energy Clothing of Stamford creates an effortlessly chic look, perfect for summer events. energy-clothing.com
4
The month of June promises plenty of sun-drenched day events – from local flower shows to outdoor weddings and race days. We’ve picked out a few standout outfits, plus the accessories to dress them up 3
5
9
7. There’s no better way to inject some colour into your outfit than with the cream floral ‘Ela’ bag (£62) from Bunny & Clarke of Market Harborough. bunnyandclarke.com
8. Elevate low-neck dresses with the stunning Nataraj Collection ‘Eanna’ necklace (£45) from Sahara London of Stamford. An elegant finishing touch for summer occasions. saharalondon.com
9. A standout pair of sunglasses elevates any outfit, but this red beaded glasses chain (£17.99) will complete the look. nookstore.co.uk
The Jungle
You don’t arrive here in the usual sense. You cross into it.
Not by searching or planning, but by being quietly led.
And by the time you realise that, you’re already on your way.
The journey begins long before you arrive.
Across India – a country of contrasts, where chaos and stillness sit side by side – you pass through shifting worlds.
Cities hum. Landscapes stretch without end. Palaces flicker past.
And then, slowly, it changes.
The roads narrow.
The air softens.
Until, somewhere along the way, you realise you are no longer simply travelling through India. You are moving towards something else.
And then – without announcement – you’re there.
A family home, half-seen through trees, where cultivated ground gives way to wilderness.
Not hidden – just unconcerned with being found. It doesn’t present itself – it simply exists.
Time loosens its grip almost immediately.
Mornings arrive first through sound – the low hum of the forest, birds calling through the canopy, movement you sense more than see.
A flash of an Indian Roller cuts through the trees – electric blue, gone before it settles in your mind. The Bengal Florican appears, not merely a bird, but a reclusive phantom.
There is no urgency here, no imposed rhythm… only the quiet sense that something extraordinary might happen at any moment.
‘A place where the line between human and wild softens. Where time stretches and the modern world falls quieter’
WORDS: HELEN DOOLEY DIRECTOR OF MORE TRAVEL
And then, the jungle itself.
You’re told tigers are elusive – almost imagined – but here, that idea doesn’t hold. This is the domain of the Bengal Tiger.
Not performing, not hiding… simply present.
The track falls silent. The air tightens. Even breath feels too loud.
And then, suddenly, something shifts. A movement, a gaze – a moment that lands somewhere deeper than thought. A presence.
You don’t speak when it happens because you understand – you’re not witnessing it; you’re being allowed into it.
Back at the house, everything exhales.
Teak villas rise lightly above the earth, as though the jungle has permitted them to remain.
Interiors are calm, textured, drawing inspiration from the landscape rather than competing with it.
Evenings gather quietly.
The light softens. The air cools.
The sounds of the jungle shift, but never disappear.
And then, almost without noticing, you find yourself sitting with him – your host.
Not standing apart, not performing hospitality, but drawing you in –quietly, completely, through stories that unfold.
His family is woven deeply into this place.
Generations have lived here – not against the jungle, but alongside it, where the wild was never something to visit, but something that shaped everyday life.
You begin to understand that this isn’t a place he owns.
It is somewhere he belongs.
Beyond the house, another presence moves quietly through it all.
The Tharu people – deeply rooted in this land, carrying knowledge that feels instinctive, inherited.
The jungle is not just around them; it is part of them.
And through them, through him, through this place, you begin to feel it too.
This is what ‘The Jungle’ becomes.
Not just a destination, or even an escape, but a threshold.
A place where the line between human and wild softens.
Where time stretches and the modern world falls quieter.
Leaving doesn’t arrive as a moment. It happens gradually.
A pause that lingers longer than it should.
A final morning that doesn’t feel final.
The sense that something is gently loosening its hold.
There’s no performance of goodbye, no clear ending, because something tells you that stories like this aren’t meant to close. They continue – with or without you.
And afterwards, long after you’ve gone, it returns.
Not as memory, as feeling: a stillness that settles unexpectedly, a quiet pull towards something you can’t name.
A reminder that somewhere, just beyond reach, the jungle continues – alive, unchanged, unfolding.
Because this place was never meant to be found.
Only, occasionally, to let someone in. ✽
More Travel don’t just take you away…
They make you part of a story that never really ends.
IF YOU WANT TO EXPLORE THE JUNGLE, OR ANY OTHER TRIP, JUST GET IN TOUCH:
01780 433333
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May was a month of milestones for Sarah Harding. Alongside a silver wedding anniversary, she marked 25 years since launching Sarah Harding Interiors in Uppingham, an achievement made all the sweeter by celebrating her daughter Alice’s own landmark birthday. Here, Sarah and Alice look back on a quarter century of design and share their plans for the next exciting chapter
TWENTY FIVE YEARS ON, and after three moves to ever-larger premises, Sarah Harding Interiors has become a much-loved fixture in Uppingham. Its longevity is no accident. Sarah has never wavered from her founding values of creativity, integrity and individuality. Those principles continue to guide a business that has grown steadily, largely through word of mouth and personal recommendations, with loyal clients across the region, as well as in London and the wider UK.
From her town-centre showroom headquarters, Sarah leads the consultancy alongside long-term design collaborator Vivienne, and Alice, who now plays an integral role within the design team. ‘Clients can rest assured their project will be overseen from the very first enquiry to the final sign-off by either myself or Vivienne,’ says Sarah. ‘We don’t consider a project complete until every client is genuinely happy with the result.’
Improving, not Moving
Known as much for her warm, down-to-earth manner as for her ability to deliver both commercial and domestic design schemes at scale, Sarah has built an enviable reputation for exceeding expectations while extracting the best possible value from the budget. In today’s economic climate, that combination matters more than ever. ‘We’re seeing more and more discerning clients consider moving, then realise their money is often better spent redesigning and renovating the home they already love,’ she says. ‘With the right plan, you can create a dream home without changing your postcode.’
For Sarah, an interior designer’s job is as much about listening as it is about aesthetics – understanding what a client really wants, then translating that into a home that feels unmistakably theirs, never a designer’s signature imposed on top. Decades of experience mean she can guide clients through the vast landscape of colour, fabric and finish without it becoming overwhelming. ‘The larger the project, particularly whole-house decoration, the more valuable professional support becomes,’ she explains. ‘So many clients tell us their plans stalled after hours of websites, blogs and Instagram, where there is simply too much choice, often preventing decisions being made or leading to costly mistakes.’ Her team helps clarify a client’s taste and filter options into a confident, workable palette, drawing on a trusted network of specialist craftspeople for upholstery, curtains and blinds, joinery, lighting and flooring.
‘Sarah has never wavered from her founding values of creativity, integrity and individuality’
OPPOSITE: Sarah Harding with daughter Alice, who now plays a key role within the design team. BELOW: Timeless bedroom design at Grange Farm.
Sarah Harding Interiors
Creativity through Transparency
That clarity is matched by a highly personal, empathetic approach and the kind of communication that keeps complex projects moving. ‘For a major overhaul, the ideal time to call us is right at the beginning,’ Sarah advises. ‘Bring us in alongside the architect and construction team as the plans take shape.’ Early involvement allows key design decisions to be made collaboratively, protecting both timescales and spend, and ensuring the best value across space planning, colour direction, procurement, lighting, flooring and furniture choices through to final installation. ‘A clear budget from the outset is always helpful,’ she adds. ‘We favour total transparency, so clients understand what’s achievable within the scope and where to invest for the greatest impact.’
‘We’re immensely proud of what we’ve built over the past 25 years’
Inspiration
in the Showroom
By appointment, clients are invited upstairs to browse and brainstorm in a relaxed, unpressured setting – an antidote to the hard sell. It’s a space designed for decision-making. Paints, fabrics and passementerie sit alongside beautifully curated resources from heritage names including Colefax & Fowler, Sanderson, Zoffany, Linwood and Soane. For those who prefer, Sarah is happy to visit at home, where the existing architecture, light and lifestyle can be considered in context.
Downstairs, the showroom offers a considered selection of bespoke pieces from Sarah’s own furniture range including tailor-made sofas and dining tables, headboards, storage solutions and cabinetry, alongside hand-finished soft furnishings, framed works, mirrors and rugs. There are also newer additions, including table linen and room fragrance ranges, plus complementary decorative pieces chosen for their quality and longevity. Whether you’re searching for a finishing touch for your own home or thoughtful giftware for design-loving friends and family, it’s a destination filled with quietly covetable finds.
‘We’re immensely proud of what we’ve built over the past 25 years,’ says Sarah, ‘and we have every intention of extending and expanding our offering by building on our reputation, nurturing craftsmanship, and creating even more rewarding homes for our clients.’
FOR A FRIENDLY CONVERSATION ABOUT YOUR DESIGN ASPIRATIONS, WHATEVER YOUR STYLE OR TASTE, CONTACT SARAH HARDING INTERIORS AT: 6 MARKET PLACE, UPPINGHAM, OAKHAM LE15 9QH | 01572 823389. MORE INFORMATION AT: WWW.SARAHHARDINGINTERIORS.CO.UK | SARAHHARDINGINTERIORSLTD
WORKING WITH SARAH
Whether you’re refreshing one room or rethinking a whole house, Sarah’s professional guidance turns ideas into a clear, workable plan. Here are five practical benefits her clients notice straight away.
1
Clarity, not overwhelm Sarah helps you define what you like (and why), then edits the endless options down to a confident palette of colours, finishes and fabrics. Decisions become quicker, more coherent and far less stressful, especially when every room needs attention.
2
Smarter use of budget Designers such as Sarah know where to invest for maximum impact and where to save without it looking compromised. She can prevent expensive mistakes, such as choosing furniture of the wrong scale, poor lighting plans or clashing finishes, and prioritise spending so the scheme feels considered from day one.
3
A plan that works in real life Beyond aesthetics, Sarah will consider how you live, taking into account circulation, storage, durability, acoustics and maintenance. Good space planning improves comfort and function, ensuring rooms flow beautifully and support everyday routines, entertaining and changing family needs.
4
Access to trusted specialists From joinery and upholstery to curtains, flooring and bespoke lighting, Sarah brings a network of reliable craftspeople and suppliers. You benefit from proven quality, smoother scheduling and consistent standards, plus guidance on lead times, specifications and practical details.
5
Project momentum and peace of mind Sarah coordinates decisions, drawings, samples and deliveries, keeping the process moving and outcomes aligned. Early input with architects or builders helps avoid redesigns, protecting timescales and the finished look.
BELOW: Interior design by Sarah Harding for Homefield Grange.
Choice
WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES
Editors Nicholas and Clare Rudd-Jones visited the Barnack showroom of Choice Windows to meet the family behind the business and discover what sets them apart
NESTLED in Barnack countryside, just outside Stamford, the showroom of Choice Windows is a place where ideas take shape. Customers are warmly welcomed to explore materials, compare finishes and talk through possibilities, whether restoring a period property or planning something more contemporary.
Today, the family-run business is led by Lee, alongside his wife Sophie and her brother Dan, whose combined experience shapes every aspect of the company, from customer care to installation. Still very much hands-on, they are supported by a long-standing team and a reputation built over more than 30 years. Founded in the early 1990s by Sophie and Dan’s father, and then grown by Lee over the last decade, Choice Windows grew through craftsmanship, trust and word-ofmouth recommendation. That sense of continuity still runs through the business today, alongside a practical understanding built over decades.
Tell us more about the business today and the team behind Choice Windows?
‘We all bring something different,’ says Sophie. ‘Lee’s been in the business a long time, Dan’s come up through the fitting side and now works closely with customers, and I tend to focus on the organisation – booking work in, managing customers and keeping everything moving.’
Both Lee and Dan spent years on the fitting side of the business, experience that continues to inform how they approach projects today. Sophie, meanwhile, provides a constant presence in the showroom – welcoming customers, talking through options and keeping everything running smoothly when Lee and Dan are out on site or in consultation.
Around them is a wider team, including their full-time employed fitters – an integral part of the business and central to its reputation.
& OPPOSITE: a showcase of
What makes your approach different?
‘For us, it’s about consistency, quality and a personal service,’ says Lee. ‘People know what they’re going to get.’ This consistency is grounded not only in the team they employ, but in their own experience. ‘We’ve done the work ourselves,’ Lee adds. ‘We know what’s involved, and what a good-quality result looks like.’
A key part of that is the decision to employ their own fitting teams rather than subcontracting. ‘Our fitting teams are just that –a central part of the team,’ Sophie explains. ‘They take huge pride in their work. Customers aren’t getting different people each time –they’re getting a team we know and trust.’
Customer feedback often reflects this, with praise not only for the finished result but for the professionalism and care shown throughout. ‘It’s about doing it properly,’ Lee adds, ‘from start to finish.’
What kind of projects do you work on?
The range is broad, shaped by both the region and the experience of the team. ‘We work on everything from listed buildings through to more modern homes,’ says Lee. ‘It’s about finding the right solution for each one.’ That might mean traditional timber frames, conservation glazing for heritage properties or contemporary aluminium systems. Increasingly, customers are also drawn to materials that offer the look of timber with lower maintenance –particularly suited to homes across Stamford and Rutland. The team works closely with homeowners, architects, developers and builders, supporting projects from early planning stages through to completion. Their work ranges from individual front door replacements to large-scale renovations and new-build projects, coordinating seamlessly across every stage of the build.
How has the business evolved in recent years?
‘It has grown quite naturally,’ says Sophie. ‘A lot of our work comes through recommendation.’ The Barnack showroom has become an important part of that evolution, giving customers a welcoming place to visit, discuss ideas face to face and feel the products in person.
What do you enjoy most about the work you do?
For Sophie, it is the variety and the people. ‘I love that no two days are the same,’ she says. ‘You’re talking to customers, working with the team, solving problems – it’s incredibly rewarding.’ Dan agrees, particularly when it comes to seeing a project through. ‘You build a relationship with customers,’ he says. ‘And at the end, you can see what you’ve done for them – it makes a difference.’
For Lee, the satisfaction is something quieter, but deeply felt. ‘It’s the pride in it,’ he reflects. ‘You drive past somewhere and think, we did that. Or you see a customer again and they’re happy – it all went well.’ He pauses, then adds simply: ‘You just want to do a good job – that’s what it comes down to.’
In an industry that can sometimes feel transactional, Choice Windows offers something more enduring – a business built on family, sustained by trust and defined by the people behind it.
CHOICE WINDOWS
UNIT 3, STATION ROAD BUSINESS PARK, STATION ROAD, BARNACK, STAMFORD PE9 3DW | 01780 669910 WWW.CHOICEWINDOWS.INFO | CHOICEWINDOWS
THIS PAGE
Choice Windows’ completed projects, alongside (from left to right) Lee, Sophie and Dan.
The Chestnuts Langham, Rutland
Set within the sought-after Rutland village of Langham, The Chestnuts is a beautifully presented four-bedroom home offering a harmonious blend of refined interiors, generous accommodation, and thoughtfully designed living spaces. With its mature gardens, adaptable layout, and premium finishes throughout, it provides an exceptional setting for modern family life
APPROACHED THROUGH timber electric gates, the triple-gabled home enjoys a sense of quiet seclusion while remaining well connected to village amenities. A generous driveway offers ample parking and gives a clear view of the home’s well-kept façade, framed by established greenery and soft landscaping. From the moment you step inside, the emphasis on quality and comfort is immediately apparent. The hallway introduces the home with a calm, understated elegance. Neutral tones, thoughtful lighting and refined finishes create a welcoming first impression, setting the tone for the beautifully arranged spaces beyond.
Spaces to Gather
Designed with practicality and sociability in mind, the bespoke-designed kitchen serves as the central gathering space. Extensive in-frame cabinetry, generous preparation surfaces and room for a family dining table allow the space to cater to everyday routines as comfortably
as weekend entertaining. Views across the garden add a tranquil backdrop, while French doors encourage relaxed indoor-outdoor living during the warmer months.
The sitting room offers a refined yet comfortable environment for unwinding. Its balanced proportions and gentle natural light create an inviting atmosphere suitable for informal family time as well as entertaining. Garden aspects further enhance its year-round appeal. For occasions that call for something more formal, the dining room provides an elegant setting, while the snug adds valuable versatility to the overall layout, and would be ideal as a reading room, home office or potential fifth bedroom.
Private Spaces
Occupying a prime position on the first floor, the principal suite delivers privacy and comfort. With its generous proportions and serene garden views, it provides a restful sanctuary at the end of the day. The en suite is a particular highlight: finished in marble tiling and featuring two sculptural travertine basins alongside a beautifully appointed vanity area. The result is a sophisticated, hotel-style bathroom that feels both indulgent and impeccably executed. The further three bedrooms reflect the same level of care and presentation, with leafy outlooks and generous natural light, making them ideal for guests or family. The family bathroom connects to the third bedroom, offering excellent flexibility and practicality.
Garden Living
The rear garden is a standout feature of the home: private, mature and smartly landscaped. A generous terrace provides the perfect setting for summer dining and relaxation, while the lawn offers ample space for outdoor enjoyment. Established planting adds seasonal interest and a sense of tranquillity, creating a garden that feels both inviting and low maintenance. There is ample room for play, gardening or quiet enjoyment, making the outdoor space a natural extension of the home.
THIS PAGE: Elegant living spaces, refined finishes and immaculately presented interiors throughout the home.
TO FIND OUT MORE & ARRANGE A VIEWING, CONTACT: PELHAM JAMES 3 SADDLER’S COURT OAKHAM LE15 7GH | 01572 497070 TEAM@PELHAMJAMES.CO.UK WWW.PELHAMJAMES.CO.UK PELHAM_JAMES
OPPOSITE: The Chestnuts in Langham, showcasing the handsome frontage, garage block and large rear garden. Also: Langham seen from above.
With decades of industry experience and a highly skilled, dependable team of over 15 engineers and back-office support, we guarantee high quality workmanship across every project. Trusted by homeowners and businesses alike, whatever your plumbing needs – we’ve got it covered.
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April 2026
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April 2026
We had J Wilson Plumbing in to install a water softener for us and service a storage tank. I have to say that the plumbing needed to get the water softener unit to fit into quite a tight space is a work of art. The company were a pleasure to work with and the engineers very polite and very conscientious. The softener has made a big difference. We would recommend J Wilson Plumbing without any reservation.
April 2026
Excellent service and we have used J Wilson several times. There is no doubt that their engineers know what to do, and how to resolve troublesome plumbing issues. Our property is very old and had a broad range of needs from radiator changes to wiring of thermostats and those awkward repairs. Their staff are very friendly, professional and work to leave your property clean and tidy. We have tried a few other plumbing services in the area but J Wilson have won our confidence.
Village Life at Chater Field
Discover the benefits of rural family life at Chater Field in beautiful Ketton
THE pandemic did much to reawaken the national love of the countryside. Whether reaping the physical rewards of a country walk, soaking in the mental health benefits of surrounding greenery or rediscovering the joy of spending family time playing and exploring in nature, charming country villages offer a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
In many ways, Ketton is the embodiment of that idyllic rural lifestyle. Nestled among expansive open greenery, you’ll find local shops, a Grade II-listed pub and a strong, welcoming community spirit. Now, those captivated by the allure of the countryside have the opportunity to call Ketton home with a new collection of homes from award-winning housebuilder Balfour Beatty at Chater Field.
Crafted Around Family Living
Ready to move into, each beautifully designed home blends picturesque surroundings with contemporary interiors crafted around modern family life. With just 21 houses available, the boutique development offers a collection of five-bedroom layouts. Blending two and threestorey designs, Chater Field effortlessly accommodates a range of family needs.
The two-storey homes include en-suite bathrooms to both the primary and second bedrooms, providing added privacy for older children or those seeking space to support multi-generational living. Meanwhile, the three-storey ‘Osterley’ house type comes with the added luxury of a dressing room for those wanting extra storage.
Whilst each house type is unique, the collection is seamlessly united through the quality of its craftsmanship. Open-plan kitchen, dining and living spaces are perfect for capturing family moments, while Häcker fitted kitchens with stone worktops and integrated Siemens appliances, including a dishwasher and wine cooler, ensure the heart of the home is both stylish and practical. Designated utility rooms tuck clutter away, maximising space for daily family life. A separate sitting room provides a moment of calm for those wanting time to rest and relax, whilst bedrooms offer a haven at the end of a busy day.
Bringing the Outdoors In
Ensuring Ketton’s verdant greenery reaches the doorstep, each home features front and rear gardens. To the rear of the homes, bi-fold glazed doors from the kitchen flood the interiors with light, allow younger children to be supervised while playing outside and frame the picturesque scenery. To the front, thoughtful planting contributes to the harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape.
But, of course, buying at Chater Field is about much more than the homes themselves. Weekends and evenings can be spent exploring the rural backdrop. A variety of walking
FEATURED HERE: Beautifully crafted homes at Chater Field combine contemporary interiors with a countryside setting.
and cycling trails unlock charming limestone landscapes, meandering past the scenic River Chater and through the popular nature trail at Rutland Vineyard. Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike will be spoilt for choice, with Rutland Water Nature Reserve, Ketton Quarry Nature Reserve, Paradise Field and Barnsdale Gardens all offering beautiful environments in which local biodiversity can flourish.
‘The embodiment of the idyllic rural lifestyle’
At the Heart of the Village Away from the trails, the walkability of Chater Field is another bonus. The homes are a four-minute walk from Ketton Post Office, the village store and Equilibrium Gym, while the local library and Ketton Primary School are within a seven-minute walk. The Railway Inn pub and beautiful Ketton Park, which includes a large playground redesigned and modernised in 2025, are also both reachable on foot, providing all the essentials of daily life.
Much of the activity and friendly competition of village life can be found at the Ketton Sports and Community Centre. Just a seven-minute walk away, this fully inclusive community venue has affiliated sports sections for cricket, football, tennis, bowls, pétanque, junior triathlon and a walking group. There is also a lively indoor social scene, with activities including darts, pool, dominoes, crib and bingo in the clubhouse.
Homes at Chater Field are priced from £785,000. Balfour Beatty offers a range of incentives and services to help families move, including deposit contributions, Stamp Duty contributions and an Own New mortgage rate reduction offer. For full details, visit www.balfourbeattyhomes.com
In the Frame
Hall & Wall is a new enterprise sourcing, restoring and framing unique artworks and treasures ready to hang for homes and businesses. Rebecca Downey meets business partners Felicity Forrest and Siobhan Machin, whose personality-led, thoughtfully curated pieces make for a distinctive signature style
CHOOSE a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life, is the famous saying, which Siobhan reiterates from the unusually grand studio of Hall & Wall. The recently launched gallery, selling antique and vintage artwork and specialising in unique sets of prints, was set up by friends Felicity Forrest and Siobhan Machin, and runs from Felicity’s home at Bulwick Hall in Northamptonshire. The pair have
known each other for over 10 years and bonded over their mutual passion for rare lithographs and collectible prints.
Design for Life
Design and décor have been at the forefront of both their careers to date. Felicity grew up in Yorkshire and attended art school to study graphic design, which led to her first job at a packaging design
agency, followed by employment with the renowned interiors company Colefax & Fowler at its headquarters in Mayfair. But being a military wife meant moving house regularly and Felicity got accustomed to setting up new homes: ‘Army quarters can be quite soulless, so it was really important that I had familiar things that I could bring to make the house feel like a home’. While living in Wiltshire, Felicity gained further expertise under the tutelage of interiors designer Stephanie Dunning and became a consultant helping others elevate their homes with unique style and art placement. Extending her expertise, Felicity trained with Hope Elletson in picture framing; now fully versed in the dynamic between image and structure, her other business Forrest Framing was born.
After graduating from the University of Edinburgh, Siobhan’s career began with publishing house Macmillan, working as an editor of illustrated non-fiction, where she became adept at picture research and the power of design. The desire for a new challenge led Siobhan and her husband to Central America and later Sydney, where she worked as an editor for Hodder & Stoughton. In 2006, Siobhan and her burgeoning family returned to the UK. She continued to work in publishing: ‘Travelling and meeting new people has always been a rewarding, inspirational experience and I’ve developed an enduring passion for South Asian art. Discovering unusual pieces and learning about their history brings value and an emotional connection to art. That’s the ideology behind Hall & Wall,’ says Siobhan. ‘We find unique treasures for clients that we would be happy to install in our own homes’.
‘It’s the crucial bridge between the artwork and the viewer’
Considered Curation
Felicity admits she has always been a collector of beautiful things and is bemused by the prevalence of high-street store ‘art’ and mass-produced pieces. ‘There is always something lost in the reprint, the paper and frame quality are not good – and then it becomes a disposable item’. Hall & Wall is proud to be a sustainable business that eschews generic imagery and aims to create thoughtful art placement for all areas of the house. Siobhan says one of their favourite roles is visiting clients’ houses to try a series in a room, or suggest artwork to ‘fix’ an area that has proved hard to hang.
So how are the jobs divided, and how are items sourced? The framing is Felicity’s domain, but the pair source pieces together as much as possible. A trip to Paris is on the cards, where they will visit antiques boutiques and brocantes. A lot of research is done online or through contacts made on their travels. They have also benefitted from friends’ parents wishing to downsize recently. ‘We’re always looking for antique frames with interesting mouldings, but we also use contemporary suppliers’, says Felicity. Both agree that a lot of thought and discussion goes into the frame – it’s the crucial bridge between the artwork and the viewer: ‘… it enhances the narrative within, so we make those decisions together,’ says Siobhan.
Siobhan joins Felicity in the mural-painted studio (originally the ballroom) at Bulwick Hall a couple of days each week, where quite an array of framing machinery resides, along with stacks of mouldings and art materials. In an adjacent room is the gallery showcasing the latest pieces for sale; here, you will find prints and etchings of the botanical and natural world, vintage exhibition posters, two-dimensional textiles, OS map covers, military drawings and an exquisite set of kimono blueprints from 1840. Viewings are by appointment, but all the pieces are featured on the website and Instagram. Hall & Wall is keen to collaborate with homes, businesses and venues looking to revitalise an interior scheme.
Q&A
Who or what is your favourite artist or period?
F: It would have to be one of the Scottish Colourists, probably Peploe.
S: Since studying History of Art A-level, it’s Cézanne for me. I also have a Craigie Aitchison print, which was the first piece of art I invested in, and I love it to this day.
What do you love most about living in this region?
F: The diversity and unique charm of each of the local market towns – the colour of the stone sets them apart and each has a unique feel. I always enjoy visiting local artist and member of The Arborealists, Crispin Heesom. He has done some wonderful work on the ancient beech tree in King’s Cliffe, which is sadly no longer standing after over 300 years!
S: I’m an Uppingham fan through and through. Goodwin and Belle is my goto for gifts, and Fern is a new restaurant serving delicious small plates in the most sublime setting.
In terms of interior design, what is your most treasured possession in your home?
F: Our collection of Culpeper lithographs from the 1800s. Each plate is hand-coloured in watercolour. I’m fascinated that this was an original medical reference for doctors. My only regret is not keeping more.
S: Aside from the art we’ve collected over the last 30 years, living on the top of a windy hill – I would have to say my AGA!
What should people consider when choosing a frame?
F: The biggest mistake is to match the frame to a colour scheme or wallpaper. A picture framed with consideration to the actual item will stand the test of time and work in any setting.
S: Using anything less than art glass is unthinkable. It makes all the difference, and the result justifies the cost.
Is there a failsafe quick fix for a dingy neglected space?
F: A collection of things always appeals visually; a set or pair of something creates huge impact.
S: You can make a virtue out of a dark space by creating a cosseted, private feel – if there’s little daylight, you could embrace this by choosing a rich dark shade of paint and then using a picture light or angled spot to draw the focus onto a piece of fabulous art.
Make Do & Mend
Chris Wood reports on Stamford’s first Repair Café, where volunteers gave old jumpers, broken toasters and forgotten foot pumps a new lease of life
ONE SATURDAY in April, a queue is forming on Broad Street in Stamford. Among the volunteers ready to receive visitors is Mandy Mackinnon, who has been sewing for 55 years and has just unpacked her sewing machine onto a table in St Augustine’s Church Hall. Within a few hours she will have mended six moth-eaten jumpers, a football shirt, the lace decoration on a T-shirt and the elastic loop on a wrap dress. Alongside her, fellow volunteers were fixing electrics and mechanical issues, and sharpening tools.
Over a hundred people visited Stamford’s first Repair Café on that occasion, bringing broken things in carrier bags, under their arms and, in the case of one gentleman, the bag for a 15-year-old leaf blower, held together with tape. Over three hours, the team of volunteers fixed more than 30 items, from jumpers and clocks to toasters, a foot pump, a deckchair and even a wooden duck. People came out of curiosity and a wish to avoid throwing things away. Visitors ranged from a teenager to a 93-year-old, delighted his clock radio was working again. Most left with not just a working object, but the confidence to try fixing things themselves.
Mandy learned the basics of sewing and knitting from her older sisters as a child, made her own clothes as a student, and has been mending things ever since, saving her thousands of pounds over the years. The most memorable repair of her Saturday was a bright orange darn on a moth-damaged cashmere jumper, one of six brought in by a man devastated by an infestation. He buys one good jumper a year, expecting it to last. He loved the orange thread, and hoped it would become a talking point. The technique has its roots in Sashiko, the Japanese tradition of visible mending, where the contrasting repair becomes the story, not the flaw. Another volunteer with sewing expertise, drawn over by the work, ended up sitting down to help.
That spirit, of treating worn things as worth keeping, runs through Mandy’s whole approach. She keeps loved clothes going for years, and recently turned a man’s shirt into trousers for her two-year-old granddaughter, who wore them constantly. ‘I just hate wastefulness,’ she says. ‘Resources are limited. And if you make something yourself, it’s exactly what you’ve chosen, in the colours and style you want. You can imprint your personality on what you wear.’
Mandy’s advice for anyone tempted to try is to start small. A button. A patch on a worn knee. A loose hem. YouTube is full of free tutorials, the basics take minutes to learn, and you only need a needle and thread to get started. She points would-be menders towards Stamford’s two independent shops that have quietly supported local sewers and knitters for years: Ewe Wool Shop on Stamford Walk, run by Rachel, and The Stamford Fabric Company at 10 Stamford Walk, run by Lucy. Both shops offer patient advice to anyone who asks. Her message to anyone who has never tried fixing anything is direct: ‘If it’s already ripped or has a hole, what’s the worst that can happen? It might not work. But you might end up with a revitalised piece of clothing.’ She finds the work itself calming, too. ‘It quiets your mind. You’re working out a solution to a problem. I love that.’
The Repair Café is run by local volunteers supported by Root-and-Branch Out CIC.
UPCOMING DATES: The next local event is on Saturday 20 June, 11am–2pm, at Oakham Congregational Church. The Repair Café will then be at St Augustine’s Church Hall in Stamford on Saturday 18 July (11am–2pm) and Uppingham Town Hall on Friday 14 August (1.15–4pm).
www.rootandbranchout.co.uk/repair-cafe
Sarah-May Johnson
9 New
1 Event. ......................................... Independents’ Day Exhibition Saturday 4th July 1-5pm
Come and meet 9 of our wonderful independent artists showing brand new collections of original artwork here at Wingates Gallery on Saturday 4th July from 1-5pm.
As a completely independent, family owned, multi awardwinning gallery, we love to take the opportunity to show our lovely customers the very latest work by our independent artists – hence our Independents’ Day Exhibition.
Come and join us for this fabulous event. Entry is free but please let us know if you would like to join us by calling 01858 465455 or emailing: andrew@wingatesgallery.co.uk
Look forward to seeing you all on the 4th July if not before.
44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU 10-6pm Tuesday to Saturday Tel: 01858 465455 www.wingatesgallery.co.uk 9
Samantha Greenhill
Penny Jones
Katie Day
Diane Griffin
Danny O’Connor
Caroline Deighton
Ben Goymour
Angus Clyne
Belvoir Castle Flower & Garden Show
Gardening stars, floral inspiration, artisan shopping and beautiful castle grounds combine as Belvoir Castle’s Flower & Garden Show returns on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July 2026
BELVOIR CASTLE’S Flower and Garden Show returns this July for a spectacular weekend celebrating horticulture, creativity and the great outdoors.
After an incredibly enjoyable visit to the show last year, we can confirm that it makes a wonderful summer day out – relaxed, inspiring and full of colour, with the dramatic backdrop of Belvoir Castle adding to the atmosphere.
Now in its ninth year, the show has quickly established itself as one of the region’s most popular gardening events, attracting visitors from across the East Midlands and beyond. Across two days, guests can enjoy expert talks, planting inspiration, shopping, artisan food and beautifully designed floral displays.
Familiar television faces Adam Frost from BBC Gardeners’ World and David Domoney from ITV’s Love Your Garden will both return for the second consecutive year. Visitors will have the chance to hear them share gardening advice, design ideas and stories from their careers, as well as meet them for book signings.
Growing Inspiration & Design Talent
There will also be live demonstrations, workshops and Q&A sessions with experienced horticulturalists including RHS Chelsea Flower Show medallist Paula Routledge and garden designer and journalist Karen Gimson. One of the highlights of the weekend is always the border competition, which invites garden designers and horticulturalists to create imaginative planting schemes. This year’s theme is ‘Pollinators’. The competition has developed an impressive reputation for championing emerging talent, with several previous entrants later progressing to RHS Chelsea as well as BBC Gardeners’ World Live.
Alongside the show gardens and displays, visitors can browse stalls selling plants, garden accessories, artisan crafts and homewares, while food vendors from across the region will be serving locally sourced food and drink throughout the weekend. Against the backdrop of Belvoir Castle, the show combines serious gardening inspiration with a relaxed festival atmosphere, making it an enjoyable summer outing for keen gardeners and casual visitors alike.
THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: Editor Clare enjoying last year’s Flower & Garden Show at Belvoir against the spectacular backdrop of the castle; visitors relax and explore the beautiful grounds throughout the weekend; stalls across the show offer plants, artisan food, garden inspiration and handcrafted gifts.
BELVOIR CASTLE FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW • 11 & 12 JULY 2026, 9.30AM–5PM EARLY BIRD TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW VIA THE BELVOIR CASTLE WEBSITE, WITH PRICES STARTING FROM £13 FOR ADULTS AND £4 FOR CHILDREN.
Once down on her luck and at the mercy of a ruthless pecking order, Mrs Chicken was rescued from adversity by kind-hearted Nicky Nelson. Today, she is thriving, healthy, content and confidently ruling the roost with Nicky and her family
ALIFELONG ANIMAL LOVER, Nicky Nelson raised her three children alongside an assortment of dogs, rabbits and ponies, but had never kept poultry until recently. At the livery yard where she stables her horse, she helped care for a flock of more than 30 free-range chickens who enjoyed the safety of their own shepherd’s hut each night, out of the reach of foxes. Over time, Nicky came to know the flock well.
Among them was Mrs Chicken, one of the oldest birds, around seven years of age, who began to suffer significant problems with her legs and joints. ‘We regularly treated her with soothing creams, but over time she stopped walking and began to lose her digits,’ Nicky explains. ‘She eventually seemed to give up on life. We would lift her outside each morning and back to bed at night. She struggled to roost and had lost all but one claw. She was in a very sorry state.’
From Flock Outcast to Family Favourite
Feeding became increasingly difficult, as Mrs Chicken could no longer run for food, leaving her vulnerable to the rest of the flock, who began to peck at her. ‘Pecking order’ is no metaphor; chickens will bully older or unwell birds, often relentlessly. When Nicky went on holiday last September, she feared the worst. ‘We were offering her fresh water and food, but she was isolated and very depleted. I honestly didn’t expect her to survive.’
To Nicky’s surprise, Mrs Chicken was still alive upon her return, sitting in the sun but being continuously attacked and crying out. ‘It was awful to watch. I had to keep intervening,’ she recalls. With the yard owner’s agreement, Nicky bundled her into a box and drove her home. ‘I bathed her in the kitchen sink and blow-dried her in my bedroom – it was like something from a comedy sketch, and she absolutely loved it.’
So began an intensive period of rehabilitation. Nicky treated Mrs Chicken’s legs with warm Epsom salt baths and encouraged her to walk daily to rebuild her muscles. She was wormed, given constant access to food and, free from competition, quickly found her appetite. ‘She fell in love with fruit. Her favourites are banana and blueberries, but she also enjoys cucumber, apple, strawberries and grapes.’
Over six months of gentle care, uninterrupted rest and plentiful food, Mrs Chicken gained weight, grew stronger and is now walking well. Remarkably, she has even started scratching around again with her little healed stumps. From a frail, hen-pecked victim with barely the energy to survive, Mrs Chicken has transformed into a lively, chatty character. ‘If our cottage back door is open, in she comes, straight to the dining area to drink and eat from the dog’s bowls, even telling the dog off if he gets too close,’ laughs Nicky.
Living Her Best Life
At night, Mrs Chicken sleeps in a large dog crate inside Nicky’s adapted shed, complete with mirrors to give the comforting illusion of company. Her bed is deep with fresh hay, scattered each morning with dried meadow herbs and flowers. And in what feels like a gesture of gratitude for her new life, just after Christmas she began laying again. ‘I never thought she would lay at her age, but now we get an egg every 10 days or so, in beautiful colours worthy of Farrow & Ball.’
Mrs Chicken is adored by the whole family and treated like the queen she clearly believes herself to be. ‘She loves a cuddle and to be told how beautiful she is,’ says Nicky. ‘I know she wouldn’t still be here if she’d stayed with the old flock and she brings us such joy in return for her life here.’
THE EDIT Finishing Touches
words: erin andrews
As the summer social calendar is in full swing, it is essential to have a radiant beauty routine with clutch-sized essentials, and the perfect products to take your look from day to night 3 5 8 2 6 7
1. The Inika Organic Wild Safari Lip Trio (£55) from Renaissance Beauty of Stamford eliminates the pre-party panic of finding the perfect lip combo. renaissancebeauty.co.uk
2. Structured like the skin’s natural oils, Goldrick’s Organic Jojoba Oil (£13) from Nadinoo of Oakham absorbs deeply into the skin to nourish and condition. nadinoo.com
3. Whether you’re doing an up-do or a bouncy blowout, the Authentic Beauty Concept Strong Hold Hairspray (£28.60) from Queen Street Hair of Uppingham is a must. queenstreethair.co.uk
4. Your freshly shaven legs will soak up the Kinfill Wild Peony Body Lotion (£27)
from Goodwin & Belle of Uppingham. Perfect for layering with fragrance. goodwinandbelle.co.uk
5. The PCA Skin Hydrator Plus Broad Spectrum SPF30 (£52.80) from Kaliòs of Stamford deeply moisturises the skin whilst protecting it all summer long, wherever you are. kalios.co.uk
6. The Set by Ampersand (£59.99) from Bunny & Clarke of Market Harborough is a great way to discover your new summer scent. The perfect collection of clutch-sized fragrances. bunnyandclarke.com
7. The Elemis Soothing Apricot Toner (£26) from Beauty Temple of Stamford combines a
fresh scent and hydrating formula to soothe and calm the skin. beautytemple.co.uk
8. The Delilah Pure Light Liquid Radiance (£36.50) from Chameleon Boutique of Stamford is a summer essential. Apply to your face or body for a bronzed glow. chameleonboutique.co.uk
9. The Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser (£40) from Equilibrium of Oakham perfectly blends makeup and skincare. Its lightweight formula makes it easy to wear all day. equilibriumoakham.co.uk
Product prices subject to promotional offers and stock changes.
• Medik8 Facials & Peels
• IPL Hair Removal
• IPL Skin Rejuvenation
• Microneedling
• Aquagold
• Skin Boosters
• LED Light Therapy
• No Needle Botox Facial
• Carbon Laser Peel
• Radio Frequency Facial
• Non-Surgical Bum, Arm & Tummy Lift
• Swedish Massage
• Hot Stone Massage
• Tattoo Removal
• Reflexology
• Hopi Ear
Discover Your Future Skin at RÖ Skin & Wellness
We believe great skin isn’t just about today. It’s about the years ahead. Through innovative, biology-led treatments and personalised skin coaching, we help you build healthy, resilient skin for the long term. Our approach is simple: we work closely with you to understand how your skin functions, what it needs now, and how to care for it as it evolves. Every treatment plan is carefully tailored to support your skin at every stage of life. Get in touch to discover how we can support your skin journey.
Alongside our bespoke facials and advanced treatments, we’re always sourcing the most cutting-edge innovations in aesthetic science.
And now… it’s here. Meet Sofwave.
The next-generation ultrasound skin tightening treatment that’s taking Hollywood by storm, loved by celebrities for its powerful lift without the downtime. Sofwave works by triggering your skin’s natural repair response, stimulating collagen and elastin deep within the skin to visibly lift, firm and sculpt. It’s perfect for areas that are the hardest to treat:
• Heavy lids • Jawline and jowls • Loose neck
All with minimal downtime and maximum glow. Ready for your most lifted, sculpted skin yet? Message us and we’ll guide you on the best plan.
words: erin andrews
RÖ Skin & Wellness
SITUATED ON St Mary’s Hill in Stamford, with a second location in Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, RÖ
Skin & Wellness is a calming destination for advanced, results-driven skincare and aesthetics. Blending cuttingedge technology with a holistic philosophy, RÖ has built a reputation as one of the region’s most forward-thinking skin clinics, known for its bespoke treatments and carefully curated technologies. Clients travel not for trends, but for treatments grounded in thoughtful expertise, advanced technology and long-term results.
I caught up with co-owners Claire and Clare, and from the getgo it was clear that skincare isn’t just their job, it’s their passion. Conversations quickly turned to the science behind everything; every treatment and technology is carefully chosen with intent. This ethos allows the team to prioritise lasting skin health, offering everything from science-led facials and advanced laser treatments to injectables, radiofrequency technologies, microneedling and noninvasive aesthetic procedures.
As they explain, this approach to advanced skincare isn’t just reserved for later in life. Much of our skin damage is done by the age of 18, making ongoing maintenance just as important as corrective treatments further down the line.
The space itself reflects the considered approach at RÖ: tranquil, modern and thoughtfully designed, it bridges the gap between traditional beauty salons, advanced skin clinics and high-end aesthetics practices.
Bespoke Treatments
At the heart of RÖ Skin & Wellness is its bespoke approach to treatment – one that evolves as intuitively as the skin itself. Each appointment begins with an in-depth consultation. For newcomers, this entails a comprehensive assessment of the skin, while returning clients will have treatments adapted to reflect changes in skin, lifestyle and medication. From rosacea and acne to pigmentation, scarring and age-related concerns, RÖ’s skin specialists look beyond the surface. As co-owner Clare explains, your skin is often a reflection of internal health. This holistic approach underpins every treatment, with factors such as hormones, menstrual cycles, stress levels and medication all taken into consideration.
This adaptability is central to the RÖ experience. Our skin is constantly changing, influenced by seasons, routines and even short-term factors such as antibiotics. Every treatment at RÖ feels premium and thoughtfully tailored. Advanced technologies are
‘Skincare isn’t just their job; it’s their passion’
seamlessly integrated to enhance results, including LED therapy, Secret RF microneedling and Laser Genesis – a non-invasive, FDA-approved laser treatment that stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture and reduces acne scarring. The emphasis remains on long-term skin health and natural-looking results.
Clients are encouraged to approach their skin journey in the same way they would a fitness journey – it takes time, commitment and the right guidance to achieve lasting results. Importantly, this comes without pressure; a range of treatment lengths and options creates flexibility without compromising on quality of care.
Ultimately, when you book a bespoke treatment at RÖ Skin & Wellness, expect a curated experience for both your skin and your lifestyle – one designed to support your long-term skincare goals.
Revolutionary Sofwave Technology
RÖ’s premium ethos extends well beyond its treatments, shaping the selection behind every device it offers. Nothing is introduced lightly; Claire and Clare spend months researching new technologies before offering them to clients, ensuring each one is not only FDA-approved but also grounded in scientific evidence and proven results. This careful approach has helped establish RÖ Skin & Wellness as one of the region’s leading destinations for advanced skincare and led to the introduction of Sofwave at the Stamford clinic. You’ll hear talk of it in leading aesthetics circles, particularly along London’s Harley Street, but the technology remains relatively rare outside major cities, firmly positioning RÖ as a regional standout.
Representing a new generation of non-invasive skin tightening, Sofwave uses precisely calibrated ultrasound energy to target the mid-dermis layer of the skin, creating tiny controlled heat injuries that trigger the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin. The result is firmer, smoother and tighter-looking skin without compromising the layers beneath the surface.
While ultrasound treatments themselves are not new, Sofwave’s precision is what sets it apart. As Claire and Clare explain, some earlier technologies penetrate too deeply, reaching the fat layer beneath the skin. While this may initially create a lifted appearance, it can ultimately lead to volume loss and a slightly sunken look over time. By contrast, Sofwave works at an optimal depth, stimulating collagen and elastin
production while preserving the fullness that helps maintain a youthful appearance. Suitable for face and body treatments, and with results lasting up to a year, Sofwave offers an appealing option for those seeking visible, long-term anti-ageing results with minimal intervention.
RÖ’s commitment to introducing new, evidence-led technologies is ongoing, with plans already underway to introduce further complementary devices by the end of the year.
Beyond the Treatment Room
At RÖ, treatment doesn’t end when you leave the chair. Post-treatment care is considered an essential part of the process, tailored once again to each client’s individual needs. Rather than overwhelming clients with expensive, multi-step routines, the team advocate a more considered approach – skincare that is simple to integrate, but effective. Often, introducing just one or two products to slot seamlessly into an existing routine is enough to support and enhance treatment results.
The emphasis remains firmly on quality over quantity. The ranges here – Medik8, Environ and, soon to be introduced, Obagi – are centred on formulations rich in active ingredients. Vitamin A products, valued for their ability to regulate oil production, support skin renewal and improve pigmentation, work alongside Vitamin C products, which are known for their brightening and collagen-stimulating qualities.
Each recommendation is grounded in science and product integrity, with packaging designed to preserve the efficacy of every formula. The result is an approach that feels refined and highly individual, whether that means leaving with one carefully chosen addition to your routine or a broader view incorporating supplements and lifestyle adjustments that support skin health from within. Either way, a visit to RÖ Skin & Wellness is designed to leave clients feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and renewed.
RÖ SKIN & WELLNESS STAMFORD: 9A ST MARY’S HILL, PE9 2DP | 01780 769444
For over four decades, Garie Nigel Hairwork has been more than a salon; it’s a fixture of Stamford life for many loyal clients, built on trust and genuine friendships. Kate Fraser books in to find out more
IN A QUIRKY first-floor salon, tucked away on Silver Lane, a remarkable story of craftsmanship, community and consistency has been unfolding for over four decades. Step inside Garie Nigel Hairwork and you’re stepping into a cocoon of family, community and connection, and a living timeline of style shaped by the steady hands of one man.
Garie Nigel has been cutting hair in Stamford for over 50 years. The numbers alone are enough to make you pause: an estimated 33 tonnes of hair cut, over 6,000 appointments a year, and close to a quarter of a million clients welcomed through the doors of his own business.
Together with his wife, Sharon, Garie has built a salon that feels as personal as it is professional. The couple, who first met at Stamford’s Riverside Night Club, have raised three children and now enjoy life as grandparents to six, while continuing to run a business that has become woven into the fabric of the town.
The salon itself hasn’t moved in 40 years. This feeling of familiarity is the bedrock for clients who are greeted not only with expertise, but with genuine conversation, laughter and honesty. ‘You’ve got to look after your clients,’ Garie says. ‘And that means giving honest feedback, even when they walk in asking to look like Princess Diana.’
While Garie admits a fondness for cutting short hair, today’s trends lean towards longer hair. Balayage, root melts and extensions now dominate the appointment book, reflecting a shift not only in style but in the industry itself. ‘Years ago, everyone was employed. Now most designers prefer to be self-employed, it’s a different way of working.’
Family at the Heart
Family remains at the heart of the business. Daughter Monet works as a designer/manager alongside her sister-in-law, Charlie, while youngest daughter Indy supports the salon’s social media during maternity leave. Their son, Harley, spent his younger years sweeping floors and saving for his first pair of coveted trainers –purchased on the condition he paid his parents back.
That sense of shared effort extends to the wider team. Many of the designers have been with the salon for decades, contributing ideas, recommending products and shaping its evolution. It was a team suggestion, for example, that brought ELEVEN Australia products into the salon, now a firm favourite among clients.
‘We listen to our team, which includes designers, Jackie, Ellë, Jess and Kayleigh, our trainee, Ellie, and our receptionists, Belinda and Sarah,’ says Sharon. ‘We have regular meetings and make sure everyone has the training they need. That’s how you stay current.’
Strength Behind the Scenes
That adaptability proved vital during the pandemic. While many businesses struggled, Garie Nigel Hairwork remained open seven days a week, operating split shifts from 8am to 8pm with meticulous cleaning routines in between. ‘We were very organised,’ Sharon recalls. Behind the scenes, it is Sharon who keeps everything running seamlessly. From payroll to day-to-day administration, she has balanced business and family life with unwavering precision. ‘I’ve always worked,’ she says. ‘Even when the children were young, the weekly payroll still had to be done. I haven’t missed one!’
Garie’s journey began at Top Knot on St Mary’s Street, following training in Peterborough under Andrei Bernard, and over the years he has helped shape the careers of other well-known local stylists. As he prepares for a well-earned retirement this December, the salon Garie built continues; rooted in experience, driven by a passionate team, and guided by a simple philosophy: you’re only ever as good as your last haircut.
At Braingevity, we help people live better for longer by counteracting the hidden impact of modern life.
Our advanced neurowellness and touchless experiences are designed to support nervous system regulation, recovery, resilience and brain health in a world defined by stress, fatigue, digital overload and relentless demand.
Our solutions include:
Firstbeat Life – Deep insight into stress, sleep and recovery
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Neuronic – Near Infrared light therapy to support brain health
CeraThrive System – Brain and Body Wellness Optimisation
Start your journey today with a complimentary consultation and discover a smarter approach to health span. Home visits are also available.
Living Better for Longer Braingevity
After trying Braingevity for himself, Editor Nicholas Rudd-Jones sat down with founder Peter Evans to talk about recovery, sleep and why understanding your body’s signals may well be one of the smartest investments you can make
WHAT IS BRAINGEVITY?
2. Neuronic 1070nm NIR Light: A non-invasive near-infrared light therapy device to support brain health, cognitive performance and overall neurological wellbeing.
people understand how their bodies are responding
Braingevity is a wellness space built around a simple but timely idea: not just living longer, but living well for longer. In other words, health span – the quality, vitality and independence we carry through the years. Rather than offering quick fixes or one-size-fits-all advice, Braingevity helps people understand how their bodies are responding to the rhythms and pressures of modern life, then guides them towards practical and sustainable improvements.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
At the centre of the experience is Firstbeat, a wearable assessment used over several days. Instead of a fleeting snapshot, it gathers a richer picture of how your body behaves across real life: work, movement, downtime, sleep and stress.
Firstbeat reveals the patterns most people miss: how you manage stress, how well you recover and what’s really happening during your sleep. It replaces guesswork with insight, giving you a clear, personal baseline to work from and then measures improvement over time.
The findings are then explored in conversation. This is not about medical diagnosis or alarming statistics, but about making sense of patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. For many people, that context is exactly what has been missing.
The focus is then on providing regular access to the latest innovations designed to support the autonomic nervous system and proactive brain health. This is about creating simple, repeatable pathways that support resilience, mental clarity, energy, sleep quality and long-term wellbeing.
SO, WHAT ARE THESE LATEST INNOVATIONS?
1. Award-winning Neurosonic Chaise Longue: A luxury vibroacoustic lounger that uses low-frequency vibration to support relaxation, recovery and nervous system regulation.
system regulation and cognitive wellbeing through
3. CeraThrive is positioned as a consumer wellness system focused on supporting the gut-brain axis, nervous system regulation and cognitive wellbeing through photobiomodulation (PBM), combining red and nearinfrared (NIR) light therapy with guided soundscapes and app-led protocols. The brand’s central thesis is that supporting mitochondrial function, inflammation regulation and vagal nerve signalling may positively influence recovery, mood, cognition, sleep and overall resilience.
and
FEEDBACK ON NICHOLAS
Nicholas’s results showed no dramatic warning signs, but they did reveal room for improvement in one key area: recovery. In particular, recovery after exertion –and during sleep – appeared weaker than it could be. That opened up a revealing discussion about modern habits. Like many of us, Nicholas tends to move briskly from one task to the next, returning to his desk after activity without pausing to reset.
Braingevity’s message was clear: recovery is not wasted time. It is part of the work. A short walk, fresh air, 10 minutes of calm, a proper break between tasks – these small pauses may look modest, yet over time they can have a powerful cumulative effect.
WHY DOES RECOVERY MATTER SO MUCH?
It matters because life rarely asks us to do less. We are urged to be productive, connected and available at all hours, yet the body still works to older, quieter rules. It needs moments of restoration if it is to remain resilient. Sleep, too, forms a vital part of the picture. Many people spend enough hours in bed, yet wake less restored than they should. Light sleep, snoring, stress, digital overstimulation or a room that is less restful than it could be may all play their part.
‘Sleep forms a vital part of the picture’
BRAINGEVITY, 5 MAIDEN LANE, STAMFORD PE9 2AZ
MON–FRI 9AM–8PM, SAT 10AM–4PM 07850 442887 | HELLO@BRAINGEVITY.CO.UK
WWW.BRAINGEVITY.CO.UK | BRAINGEVITYSTAMFORD
FIRSTBEAT INSIGHTS:
A CONVERSATION WITH TIINA HOFFMAN
Following his initial feedback, Nicholas talked with Tiina Hoffman, an Exercise Physiologist based in Finland who works at Firstbeat as a Master Trainer, to explore his results in more depth and to understand how small, informed changes can support better recovery and long-term wellbeing.
What did Nicholas’s results show? Nicholas’s overall results were reassuring, with good fitness levels and no major concerns. However, one theme stood out: recovery. Both during the day and overnight, his body was not recovering quite as fully or as efficiently as it might. It is a subtle point, but an important one – particularly when thinking about long-term health rather than immediate fitness.
What does ‘recovery’ really mean? Recovery is not simply about sleep. It reflects how the body balances effort, stress and restoration across the whole day. While sleep is central, daytime recovery –those quieter, lower-stress moments – plays an equally valuable role. Encouragingly, Nicholas’s data showed several of these ‘green’ periods during the day, suggesting good underlying capacity to recover.
Is gentle exercise enough? Walking, especially in nature, brings clear mental benefits – something Nicholas clearly values. However, Tiina noted that low-intensity movement alone is unlikely to improve cardiovascular fitness significantly. ‘The body likes to be challenged a little,’ she says. Even short bursts of brisk walking can elevate heart rate and contribute more meaningfully to fitness.
What about sleep quality? Nicholas’s sleep appeared broadly sound, but with some interruptions and lighter phases. Tiina points out that, as we age, sleep naturally becomes more fragmented and less deeply restorative. That said, small adjustments can still help: being mindful of caffeine and alcohol, maintaining a consistent routine and ensuring accurate tracking (including manually logging sleep where possible) all contribute to a clearer picture – and better outcomes.
Can recovery be improved during the day? Very much so. One of the most positive aspects of Nicholas’s results was the presence of natural recovery moments during the day – periods of calm, reflection or light activity that allow the body to reset. Tiina encourages building on these: short breaks, time outdoors, or even a few minutes of stillness can all support the body’s recovery processes.
What is the key takeaway? For Nicholas, the experience was less about dramatic change and more about awareness. Understanding how the body responds – to movement, rest, routine – opens the door to small, intelligent adjustments. It is often these small shifts, repeated consistently, that lead to the most meaningful improvements over time.
BRAINGEVITY EXPERIENCES
Firstbeat Life Assessment: £325
Includes your three-day assessment, personalised consultation and two Braingevity Essential sessions to help you begin restoring balance, supporting recovery and putting your insights into action. Whether you are looking to improve resilience, support proactive brain health, build better recovery habits or simply live better for longer, Firstbeat Life is the ideal place to begin.
RECOVERY EXPERIENCES
• Essential: 35 minutes | £35
A focused recovery experience designed to help you pause, reset and recharge. Ideal as an introduction to Braingevity or as a regular wellbeing boost within a busy week. This will typically include a 25-minute session on the Neurosonic Lounger and a 10-minute ‘Glow’ with Neuronic or a ‘Focus’ CeraThrive session.
• Essential Plus: 50 minutes | £50
A more immersive treatment experience, giving you extra time to settle into deeper relaxation and support greater nervous system balance and recovery.
• Signature: £625
A 12-week programme that includes a Firstbeat assessment at the start, with a follow-up assessment at the end of the programme to measure impact. The programme also includes 12 x Essential sessions, totalling 420 minutes of recovery and deep relaxation over the programme duration.
Book now and take the first step towards a more personalised approach to health, recovery and longevity.
The Neuronic 1070nm NIR Light
Braingevity Stamford on Maiden Lane
Autumn Assisted Supported Living Apartments
Autumn Assisted is a small development of 8 specially adapted flats for elderly individuals or couples to access all the benefits of care without the institutional living. Stay in your own apartment with freshly cooked meals made to dietary requirements, laundry, apartment cleaning, on site care from £395 per week all-inclusive of bills, maintenance and council tax.
Please call 01536 771722 and ask for Julie Visit www.autumn-care.co.uk
The method of treatment I offer for this is highly successful. Using computerised Gait Analysis & Orthotic Therapy (medical insoles).
Also to alleviate Achilles, Foot, Bunion, Knee, Hip & Back discomfort and pain.
Contact Annette Robinson (Chiropodist/Podiatrist, Muscle & Joint Specialist) Tel : 01832 272200 or 07905 167944 www.injuries-clinic-oundle.co.uk
Gift Vouchers Available
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Chiropody/Podiatry
• Treatment for Various Skin & Nail Conditions
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Home Visits Available
For further information, call Samantha on:
We are a Pilates studio based in the heart of Stamford, offering authentic Pilates for all levels.
Our experienced, friendly and dedicated instructors provide high-quality classes in a welcoming environment. We pride ourselves on having clearly structured Reformer classes, so you’ll always know you’re in the right level—no confusion or mixed abilities.
We now offer an Unlimited Membership for £169, giving
Unlimited Membership and Private Sessions (1–1 / 2–1)
you access to all our classes, including Reformer, Barre, and Mat Pilates.
We’ve also introduced our new Sculpt Reformer classes, designed to be more dynamic and energising for those looking to challenge yourself further.
In addition, we run a Monday 9:30am class that is suitable for both prenatal and postnatal clients, ensuring safe and supportive training during and after pregnancy.
Relationships can be challenging, at work or in your private life. Perhaps you have unresolved issues you fear are just too hard to face or overcome. Maybe you just don’t feel good enough and don’t know why.
At Octopus, we help you to find resolution. Qualified clinical psychologists and experienced therapists guide you to explore your fears and challenges, with sensitivity and compassion.
Using traditional talking therapies, or the latest neuroscience interventions (including Safe & Sound Protocol™, NeurOptimal™ and RoshiWave™), we help you reconnect with yourself, gain inner peace and confidence, and become the real you, the person you are meant to be.
Contact Dr Naomi Murphy, D.Clin.Psych to arrange a complimentary consultation. Enquiries@Octopuspsychology.com
Tithe Green Ketton
George Cox from Tithe Green Ketton gives Amander Meade an insight into how green burials combine meticulous stewardship of the land with peaceful, natural final resting places
TITHE GREEN Natural Burial is dedicated to creating peaceful, natural places for burial, cremation and the interment of ashes. The business is family-owned and run by James – whose grandmother established it in 1999 – and his wife Helena. They care for three sites across the Midlands, in Rutland, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, where people are laid to rest in wildflower meadows or woodland settings.
‘Our Ketton site was established in 2022 on an existing natural burial ground, so it was important to honour and protect the families who already had loved ones resting there and to allow the landscape to continue to flourish naturally without unnecessary change.’
George explains: ‘When a plot is purchased with us, it is yours forever and held indefinitely, with no maintenance or lease fees. Our grounds are cared for by dedicated site managers who look after the land, welcome families and support visitors by offering a warm, compassionate presence and helping to make the space feel cared for in every sense.’
Environmentally Friendly
‘We are passionate about explaining natural burial and what it offers. For many, time spent in nature is an important part of life, yet we don’t always realise that returning to the land can also be part of death.’ Traditional burial practices can have an impact on the environment, particularly through the use of embalming chemicals such as formaldehyde, which can leach into the soil. ‘At Tithe Green, we allow the body to return naturally to the earth without embalming, to become part of the living landscape, and we use biodegradable coffins and urns.’
Unlike more traditional cemeteries, where nature is often closely managed or restricted, Tithe Green sites are allowed to grow and evolve naturally, with only native planting and without plastics, non-biodegradable materials or artificial additions, so the landscape remains a thriving habitat for wildflowers, trees and wildlife.
Instead of a large headstone, each grave is marked with a simple, bespoke engraved Welsh slate plaque, designed to blend gently into the surroundings. Pathways and essential areas are created and maintained, but otherwise the land grows as it will, without formal gardening or intervention.
Long-Term Protection and Peaceful Visits
The Tithe Green approach is rooted in long-term care. ‘The same family has been looking after the land at our Oxton site for over five hundred years, and that sense of responsibility carries across all our sites. Each time a plot is purchased, the land is committed to remaining a burial ground for at least a century. As burial areas fill, they become established woodland through the planting of memorial trees, which then form a lasting, protected landscape for future generations.’
Families are always welcome, with sites open all day. Loved ones are encouraged to spend time there and return, not only in
remembrance but also to spend time in nature together. Picnics, dogs on leads and quiet moments are all encompassed.
Planning and Costs
‘We are huge advocates for planning ahead, which can ease the burden of decision making on family and friends at a difficult time. We offer pre-paid plots for both full burial and ashes interment, in woodland or meadow settings. This secures a plot at today’s prices.
‘In woodland areas, the cost includes the burial plot, grave preparation, a memorial tree and a plaque. In wildflower meadows, it includes everything except the memorial tree. For ashes interment, the same applies, without the need for grave preparation. Adjacent plots can be reserved in meadow areas.’
Many choose to leave provision in their will or arrange for funds to be set aside in accordance with their wishes. ‘One of the beautiful things about natural burial is that it allows for a great deal of flexibility, so each service can be truly personal. Some choose a traditional ceremony at the graveside, while others may have a service elsewhere beforehand. All kinds of personal tributes have been accommodated to create personal, long-lasting, meaningful moments.’
Across the region, independent food businesses are championing local produce, craftsmanship and flavour in wonderfully individual ways. Nicholas Rudd-Jones rounds up some standout names
TRAVELLING AROUND THE REGION and shopping in so many of these establishments got me thinking about what, if anything, our foodie destinations have in common – and I quickly realised that it is the passion and personality of the owners above all else that makes them so special and such enjoyable places to visit, combined with their fascination and belief in the provenance of the food they offer. Shopping in these places is not a chore or a process or something that just needs to get done, but a joy – a small but significant part of one’s equation for leading a contented and fulfilled life.
At the heart of the Belvoir Retail Village is the Farm Shop, a generous space packed with an array of enticing artisan food and drink products, with much of what’s available sourced from the Belvoir estate and nearby makers.
Bulwick Village Shop/The Pickled Shop 15 Main Street, Bulwick, Northants NN17 3DY | 01780 450774
‘A small shop with a big welcome’ is the promise, and that most certainly is true. The doyenne of this establishment is Camille Ortega McClean, whose passion for food and hospitality shines through in everything she does.
Despite the shop being no larger than the average living room, Camille has managed to find a place there to display every delicacy imaginable, from her award-winning homemade pickles, chutneys, jams, marmalades all the way through to exquisite cheeses, fine wines, English fizz, biscuits, vodka, gins, home-baked cakes and chocolates. If you’ve yet to sample Camille’s range of preserves you are in for a treat. Camille says ‘Made in BulwickInspired by the world.’
In addition to the shop, Camille also runs a small café in the beautiful, enclosed garden terrace at the rear of the shop – with tapas her speciality. The garden is adorned with bougainvillea, passion flowers, grapes and chilli plants.
OPPOSITE, LEFT TO RIGHT: Farndon Fields, near Market Harborough, has an incredible Farm Shop with produce such as these delicious radishes. Bulwick Village Shop, home to The Pickled Village range of preserves – and a charming garden café (fabulous tapas).
RIGHT: You can buy locally grown Ashby asparagus, as well as local bread, venison and rhubarb, from The Farmer’s Hut in Polebrook, now in its second year.
Mike Ashby is a fourth-generation farmer, and the Ashby family have been farming near Oundle for over 100 years now. Mike is also an innovator by nature; when you meet him, he is always full of ideas and questions. 20 years ago, he started growing asparagus, which you can now buy all around the region and is of the highest quality; and for 10 years he has also been rearing farm venison, which he supplies to some of the top-end supermarkets on a national basis.
After last year’s success, he is once again selling straight from the farm via an automatic vending facility in Polebrook, called The Farmer’s Hut. On the day we visited, there was freshly cut asparagus, venison steak and sausages, Polebrook honey, free-range eggs and freshly baked bread. We found the vending machine very straightforward to use and came away with products that were as fresh as fresh can be. The asparagus crop may finish slightly early this year due to the dry weather, but the other produce should still be available throughout June.
Open: Mon–Fri 8.30am–5.30pm, Sat 8.30am–5.30pm, Sun 10am–4pm
What makes the team at Farndon Fields so special is their passion for growing and their passion for sourcing locally, with seasonality as an absolute core value. They have a first-rate growing heritage, producing myriad varieties of potatoes (10 at the last count), the freshest asparagus cut three times a week, and a special return of strawberries this summer, to name just a few. Food miles are virtually non-existent.
But they also source from local suppliers; be that the nearby Garage Bakehouse for sourdoughs and focaccias (and some of their asparagus travels in the opposite direction as a topping for tarts and pizzas), or Braybrooke Beer Co, a specialist brewery who produce some excellent lagers including a collaboration to create their Harvest Lager. Tomatoes have travelled a little further from the sunny south, and there are over 40 varieties of Isle of Wight tomatoes on offer.
There is also The Farmer’s Kitchen, if you fancy something to eat or drink. The philosophy here is to cook and serve top-quality seasonal food using the produce that has been grown on the farm or from local suppliers. The menu changes seasonally with the summer menu launching on 11 June; along with the sunny weather seeing the opening of the outdoor courtyard.
Recent initiatives include an impressive cheese counter, with the British representation strengthened through a partnership with
Neal’s Yard Dairy alongside new cheese & wine tasting events hosted alongside Duncan Murray Wines. The annual summer tasting event will be held on 4 July, featuring over 10 suppliers, plus live music and a barbecue in the Farmer’s Kitchen courtyard.
Gates Farm Shop was crowned Best Destination Garden Centre Farm Shop in the UK by the Garden Centre Association (GCA) last year, and this really tells you all you need to know about the quality of the establishment. They offer a selection of succulent beef and lamb, raised on Gates’ own farm in Cold Overton. There are also seasonal fruits and vegetables all offered packaging-free, alongside freshly baked goods, and a range of pantry essentials. Add to this a superb range of gourmet cheeses, pork pies, cold meats and delicious meals from the delicatessen counter, baked goods both from Hambleton Bakery and Gates’ own bakery, and you are positively spoilt for choice.
Hambleton Bakery
Local branches in Oakham, Exton, Stamford, Oundle & Market Harborough | www.hambletonbakery.co.uk | hambletonbake | Oakham, Stamford, Oundle, Harborough: Mon–Sat 8am–4pm; Exton: Mon–Sat 8am–5pm, Sun 8am–4pm
Hambleton Bakery was one of the absolute pioneers in the real bread revolution, starting out in 2008 as a result of the vision of Tim Hart and master baker Julian Carter to bring deliciousness back into bread. Eighteen years later, it is an award-winning, B Corp-certified regional bakery, employing artisan bakers, skilled chefs and confectioners to produce traditional bread, cakes and savouries, using the best local ingredients wherever possible, without additives and using long-established recipes.
The bread, of which there are many different varieties, is a feast for all the senses and completely additive free – no preservatives, no enzymes, no enhancers. It’s real bread made with four basic ingredients: flour, water, salt and fresh yeast. Additionally, the bakery makes many savoury products, including the famous, award-winning ‘Rutland Pippin’ and very popular Lincolnshire Poacher cheese straws, alongside many delicious, sweet tarts, cakes and biscuits.
Delis, Artisan Food & Farm Shops
The bakery in Exton also has a café, with a delightful outside seating area looking out over open country. The seasonal menu features an array of freshly prepared sandwiches, soups, salads, freshly baked scones and sweet treats.
Exquisite sourdough bread has become Lily & Honey’s signature product. The poppy seed loaf has previously won a Great Taste Award. They also stock a range of pastries, savoury choices and their best-selling cardamom and cinnamon buns. The dark chocolate and sea salt cookie has quickly become a firm favourite with customers. What makes this bakery so special, though, is the mouthwatering range of innovative cakes, bakes and pastries, which change seasonally.
The energy that Sarah and Simon Singlehurst bring to this business is evident throughout: in the welcoming feel of the layout, the friendliness of the staff and the vast array of quality artisan food products, including excellent locally baked bread. First and foremost is the meat counter, with the meat reared on the farm and a whole range of cuts from Sunday joints to burgers and sausages. But there is so much else too: wines, relishes, chutneys, jams and a popular dog brand called Pooch’s. The farm shop is enhanced by an extensive range of fresh fruit and vegetables out the front on Fridays (late spring to autumn) and Saturdays all year round.
MARKET DAYS
Don’t forget market days, where many of our local farms also have stalls and you can buy their fabulous produce. Days are as follows:
• Oakham Every Wednesday in the Market Place. Farmers’ Market: every 3rd Saturday in Gaol Street (next one is Saturday 20 June, 8.30am–2pm).
• Uppingham Every Friday in the Market Place.
• Stamford Every Friday in Broad Street. Also a Farmers’ Market every Friday on the High Street (outside the library). You’ll find a smaller selection of stalls trading on Saturdays along the High Street, too.
• Oundle Every Thursday on the Market Place. Also a Farmers’ Market on the second Saturday of every month (next one: Saturday 13 June, 9am–4pm).
• Market Harborough Monthly Farmers’ Market on The Square. Next one is Thursday 4 June, 9am–3pm.
Freshly baked croissants from Lily & Honey in Oakham.
The season typically runs until August. Open 7 days a week, 9am–4pm. Ready picked, pick your own and pre-orders. For over 30 years, and three generations, the Makey family have been dedicated to growing tasty local strawberries and raspberries. They’re passionate about producing the tastiest soft fruit, and they’re always exploring new varieties to delight your taste buds.
We met with Grace, a member of the fourth generation of the Morton family to be based on the farm, and very much an active part of it. Whilst her dad and brother work on the farm, Grace works around the shop and café and just so happens to be a qualified butcher too! It’s this that makes farm shops so appealing – beef sourced straight from the farm, a family business, and all the family still very much hands-on and passionate about what they do. How could a supermarket ever compete with this?
The Farm Shop offers a huge range of meat, including Willow Brook’s own home-reared grass-fed beef and a large selection of Willow Brook’s own sausages. It also sells fresh vegetables, sauces, jams, chutneys, eggs and many other farm shop products, including lots of local artisan products. Alongside this, the deli sells Willow Brook’s hand-raised pork pies, meat pies and other delicious homecooked frozen meals. There’s also plenty of cheeses from which to choose. The Granary Tea Room serves up deliciously classic homecooked food (toasties, jacket potatoes, roast dinners, amazing cakes), using produce from the farm shop. There is also a plant centre stocked with compost, veg plants, flowers and other seasonal plants.
Philippa brings a touch of Parisian sparkle to Rutland dining. Trained in hotel management and inspired by years spent living in the French capital, Philippa creates eclectic, imaginative food using seasonal, fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Her cooking is generous, elegant and full of flavour, perfect for private dinners, supper clubs and special events. With experience cooking for clients including the British Embassy and Picks Barn, Philippa offers beautifully designed menus that make every table feel like an occasion.
Sara Mcallister Professional Catering 07778 227734 | info@saramcallister.co.uk | saramcallister.co.uk
Sara Mcallister Professional Catering is a leading independent professional outside catering company based in Leicestershire mainly covering the Rutland and Leicestershire area. With over 30 years in the industry, she has a wealth of experience and offers a bespoke service. They aim to add flair and style to your special events.
Sara told us: ‘We can advise, organise and provide a first-class tailored service for all your outside catering requirements, taking into consideration tastes, budgets and venues.
‘Our styles range from classic, contemporary, grand to casual with internationally and seasonally inspired dishes. Our eclectic catering includes wedding receptions, black tie events, canapés, hot and cold buffets, christenings, themed parties, funerals, hog (and lamb) roasts, paella, picnic hampers, barbecues and corporate events.’
Men in the Kitchen 07495 958266 | men_inthekitchen
This fine dining service brings a fully curated culinary experience directly to your door, transforming your dining room into an intimate, refined setting. From bespoke menu design to flawless presentation, every detail is handled by the team of expert chefs and hospitality professionals. At the heart of the experience are trained chefs Sam and Jamie, whose passion for exceptional food and creative flair shape every menu they design. With a shared dedication to quality and innovation, they combine refined techniques with bold, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both memorable and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re hosting a private celebration, a romantic evening, or an exclusive gathering, they tailor the experience to your individual tastes – complete with optional wine pairings, table styling and attentive service.
‘They tailor the experience to your individual tastes’
Enjoy high-end, restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your own home, whatever the occasion. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, celebrating a wedding or special event or simply want a unique culinary experience, Simon Pollendine will create a menu designed exclusively for you. He has over 30 years of professional kitchen experience. Simon told us: ‘My style is fine dining using traditional skills and methods but also keeping up with the new food trends of home-smoked food and street food fusion. I love working with the very best that our region has to offer from the game during the winter months to the wild garlic in spring and the fabulous fruit and berries from Rutland Water through the spring and summer.’
BELOW: Simon Pollendine’s exquisitely presented cuisine showcases the best of the season.
Bringing expertise and delicious high-end restaurant quality food to your home or event. We can design a menu exclusive to you using local produce, giving you the freedom to enjoy top-quality food without the effort.
If you are planning a wedding, event or dinner party contact us today to see what we can do:
07545976882 l info@simonpollendinesprivatechef.com
The small shop with the big welcome
As well as all the goodies in the shop, we serve Coffee & Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Tapas… and we are licensed!
Bulwick Village Shop, Main Street, Bulwick, NN17 3DY Tuesday – Saturday 9.30am - 4pm Tel: 01780 450774 www.bulwickvillageshop www.thepickledshop.com
www.simonpollendinesprivatechef.com
ARTISAN BAKERY SOURDOUGH BREADS I BUNS I PASTRIES I CAKES GREAT TASTE AWARD WINNING SOURDOUGH
OPENING HOURS
WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY 9AM-2PM, SATURDAY 9AM-1PM
Taste the Seasons at The Sun Inn
Tim Relf explores the seasonal dishes at this delightful pub in the village of Great Easton
LATE SPRING and early summer see a range of delicious ingredients become available, so it’s an exciting time for chefs and diners. The Sun Inn at Great Easton, near Market Harborough, has established a reputation for its seasonal dishes, with menus changing frequently to reflect what’s available in the locality.
The arrival of spring saw a new set lunch menu introduced alongside the à la carte, featuring such delights as an asparagus, goat’s cheese and lovage tart starter, and a rhubarb and custard trifle dessert. ‘A popular main course was the slow-braised beef brisket, with a beef consommé, new potatoes, spring vegetables and wild garlic chimichurri,’ says Head Chef Cosmin. ‘It has an impactful flavour without feeling too heavy, so was ideal for warmer weather. It’s hearty, but with a real finesse.’
A Focus on Lamb
As spring rolls into summer, the focus at this venue turned to newseason lamb. Just two of the popular options were butterfly lamb with salsa verde, fregola salad and date ketchup; plus lamb breast stuffed with merguez sausage, Provençal vegetables, asparagus and crispy polenta. ‘Summer food is often about sweetness and subtlety – and I enjoy cooking that has a lightness and deftness to it,’ says Cosmin. ‘Dishes can have a real vibrancy at this time of year. Great food, however, often involves the simplest of ingredients. Take, for example, the humble tomato. If you make sure they’re at room temperature, add salt, a little olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice and good-quality vinegar, they can be beautiful. Whatever the components of a dish are, you can produce the “wow” factor if they’re fresh, local and treated with care and respect.’
OPPOSITE: The Sun Inn is located in the heart of Great Easton. BELOW: A new-season lamb dish with meat from the pub’s farm.
The team of chefs at the Three Goats group – which also encompasses The Nevill Arms at Medbourne, No.23 in Uppingham and The Red Lion in Great Bowden – certainly have access to local supplies when it comes to meat. The group has its own Welland Valley farm – guaranteeing its quality and ensuring food miles are kept low and sustainability credentials are kept high.
The Art of Seasonal Cooking
Summer also sees The Sun Inn’s Josper grill come to the fore. Fuelled by birchwood charcoal, it’s used extensively for cooking meat and finishing fish. ‘As the seasons swing by, you always get excited about what’s coming next,’ adds Cosmin. ‘By the time autumn is approaching, I’ll be looking forward to cooking with pumpkins and root vegetables. Then by the end of the winter, I’ll be thinking about the warmer weather and dishes such as spring vegetable and herb soup, which includes leeks, celery, spring onions, courgettes, new potatoes, tarragon, wild garlic, lovage, spinach and parsley.’
the sun inn, 6 cross bank, great easton, market harborough le16 8sr | 01536 772182 www.thesuninnge.com | thesuninnge
Private Dining
Looking for an exclusive spot for a special occasion? Whether it’s a birthday celebration, an anniversary, a retirement party, a corporate event, a shooting party or simply a long-overdue catch-up with loved ones, The Sun Inn has two private rooms offering a special ambience.
• The Wine Room is an atmospheric space that can seat 12. It’s been lovingly restored and is decorated with antique furniture and artwork – including a striking Rembrandt Rock Band by French painter Thierry Bruet.
• For a more alfresco experience, The Garden Room – which can seat up to 20 – overlooks the garden. It’s covered and has a real fire and heaters just in case the weather’s chilly.
Seasonal Recipe
Raspberry and Sherry Trifle
This recipe, which serves 6, is incredibly versatile, so you can amend it to suit the season. In early summer, you might like to use fresh strawberries, elderflowers and St-Germain liqueur instead of the classic combination of raspberries and sherry. Blackberries, sloe gin and toasted hazelnuts give a more autumnal bramble trifle. Meanwhile, roasted rhubarb and custard with sherry and a crunchy almond crumble is fantastic in the early part of the year.
Ingredients
Sponge
150g softened butter
150g caster sugar
3 whole eggs
150g self-raising flour
Trifle base
125ml amontillado sherry
250g frozen raspberries
2 tbsp raspberry jam
Custard
200ml double cream
150ml whole milk
1 tbsp caster sugar
6 egg yolks
Pinch vanilla seeds
Cream topping
300ml double cream
1 tbsp caster sugar
Crystallised violet petals
Method
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Start by making the sponge
1. Cream the butter and sugar together until pale and white using a mixer.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, leaving 2–3 minutes between adding each one.
3. Once the eggs are all incorporated, fold in the flour until the mix is smooth, taking care not to over-mix.
4. Spread the mix into an 18 x 4cm non-stick tin and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and the sponge ‘springs back’ when lightly pressed.
5. Once cooked, remove from the oven and set on a rack to cool.
6. Once cooled, cut the sponge in two – one half can be reserved in the freezer for the next time you use this recipe.
7. Cut the remaining half into rough 2cm cubes and spread with raspberry jam. Arrange in the base of a large glass bowl, trifle bowl or serving dish. Cover with the sherry and frozen raspberries.
To make the custard
1. Warm the cream, milk and vanilla together.
2. While this is warming, beat together the egg yolks and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the hot dairy over the egg and sugar mix and whisk to combine.
4. Transfer straight to a heavy-based pan and cook on a low heat, stirring continuously until cooked, taking care not to scramble; the finished mix should be smooth, thick and wobbly.
5. Immediately pour the custard over the sponge, raspberries and sherry in your serving dish, leave on the side for 10 minutes, then transfer to the fridge to cool and set.
6. Once set (this will take a minimum of 2 hours), whip the cream, sugar and vanilla to soft peaks.
7. Pipe or spread the whipped cream on top of your trifle and garnish with crystallised violet petals.
ABOVE: The Sun Inn’s raspberry and sherry trifle, decorated with crystallised violet petals (you can find these online).
Whether you’re treating yourself to a meal from our two AA Rosette A la Carte menu, relaxing in the garden with a pizza, or simply catching up with friends over a tipple or two! Madison Keys, Zak Perrin, and the team at The Falcon, warmly welcome you seven days a week!
Mondays-Thursdays:
Food served 12-2pm and 5-8pm, bar closes at 10pm
Fridays-Saturdays:
Food served 12-8pm, bar closes at 11pm
Sundays:
Food served 12-3pm, bar closes at 5pm
What's on?
Wood Fired Pizzas!
See our website for more details
Darts Social nights! (Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm)
Complimentary snacks provided in the evening
Fish and Chip Fridays!
Enjoy our local real ale battered Haddock and chips, crushed minted peas and tarragon tartare sauce all for just £10 between 12-8pm on Fridays!
Our menus are also available to view on our website
Rutland Cookery School
New owners James and Marsha Ray are preparing for an exciting new chapter at Rutland Cookery School. They take over from founders Robin and Karen this summer, with James and Robin teaching side by side until July to ensure a seamless transition for students. With over 30 years of global culinary experience, alongside a background in mentoring cooks from local students to MasterChef contenders, James (photo above) brings great expertise, creativity and fresh inspiration to the school. He tells Amander Meade more about his plans
Can you describe your background in cooking, James?
I’ve been fortunate to travel widely across Asia, Australasia and South America, and to spend time working in Australia and Thailand. Those experiences hugely enriched my culinary outlook and shaped a style that blends classical training with bold, vibrant global flavours. My professional grounding includes corporate events at Stones in Leicester and fine dining in award-winning restaurants in Bath. Most recently, I spent seven years with The Three Goats group, helping to build a strong team and a successful local brand.
When do you take over?
I’ll be officially taking over from Robin by July. He has been a generous mentor over the past few months, showing me the ropes and sharing the ethos that makes the school so special. I’ll continue offering his muchloved courses while introducing new workshops and evening classes.
What plans do you have for the school?
Rutland Cookery School already enjoys a superb reputation for teaching a diverse range of courses to all abilities. The philosophy is not simply to teach recipes but to nurture an understanding of ingredients, flavours and the cultural context of the dishes being prepared. I want to build on that approach by continuing the focus
on fresh, local produce and maintaining all-inclusive pricing for ingredients and equipment. It’s important that every recipe we teach can be recreated easily at home.
What kind of cooking will you be teaching?
At present we offer full-day courses from 10am–4pm on Thursdays and Saturdays. We’ll soon be expanding into evening classes, which will allow us to offer an even broader range of cuisines and skills. Alongside technical masterclasses, we run immersive cuisine-based courses, summertime barbecue workshops and our increasingly popular artisan bread-making sessions.
What is the typical format for lessons?
We begin with a relaxed meet-and-greet over coffee, followed by demonstrations. Students then move into individual cooking before enjoying their creations with a glass of wine and a chat with fellow food enthusiasts.
Who might benefit from your teaching?
Truly anyone. We offer everything from essential knife skills to fresh pasta-making, with classes designed to welcome complete beginners as well as more seasoned cooks. Our strong level of repeat custom shows just how many techniques and cuisines there are to explore. I’m keen to expand the Asian offering in particular with world curries, Thai street food, Korean dishes, plus classes for adults and children, burger-making workshops and supper club evenings.
Can you describe the school itself?
The school is located just outside Oakham and features purposebuilt, air-conditioned kitchens arranged around a large 360-degree interactive island with nine workstations. Small class sizes allow for personal guidance and an enjoyable, sociable atmosphere. We are proud to offer a fully wheelchair-accessible workstation and facilities. There’s plenty of free parking, and everything is provided – apart from containers for any leftovers you’d like to take home. Recipes are emailed after each class for easy recreation.
What are you most looking forward to?
Teaching in such an inclusive, encouraging environment. I love helping people understand ingredients, flavour and technique. My aim is to inspire confidence, creativity and a belief that anyone can produce professional-level dishes with enjoyment and flair in their own kitchen.
Lightly smoked local trout pate, cucumber, pickled fennel, horseradish and dill whip, poppy seed bread
Moroccan style feta pastry, cured heritage carrots and beetroot, pistachio, sumac onions, garlic and dill yogurt
Mains
Simply roast breast of chicken, French style peas, minted Norfolk Peer new potatoes
Provencal vegetable pithivier, goats cheese mash, black olive crumble, crispy red onion petals, garden herb pesto, tomato molasses
Dessert
Sticky honey and almond tart, apricot and peach compote, Greek yogurt sorbet
Lemon and white chocolate delice, frosted and frozen berries, cherry ripple and mascarpone ice cream
Please book your table online at www.lakeisle.co.uk or call 01572 822951
for any Tuesday to Saturday lunchtime (2nd to 27th June)
Charlie Pilcher at
The Uppingham Cellar
THE UPPINGHAM CELLAR brings a relaxed, stylish wine experience to Rutland. Run by Charlie Pilcher, a former pub and restaurant owner with over 15 years in hospitality, the shop is built on a simple idea: great wine should be approachable, enjoyable and shared. Known for finding just the right bottle for any occasion, Charlie champions smaller producers and characterful bottles, with the range carefully curated to prioritise quality, individuality and value over big-name labels. On most Saturdays, you’ll find a bottle open and a warm welcome – an informal invitation to taste, chat and discover something new.
With regular tastings and a convivial, informal feel, The Uppingham Cellar has become a destination for those who enjoy wine without the fuss – just good bottles, good company and a dash of Rutland charm.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SUMMER
Here, Charlie recommends six great wines to enjoy this summer. These wines are shown above, from left to right:
A classy méthode traditionnelle sparkling wine from a small family domaine farming since 1825, and organically since 2023. Benefiting from the soils and microclimate of the Cher, this expressive blend of Chenin and Chardonnay is dry, with a gentle, persistent fizz. Aromatic, rounded and fresh, it moves effortlessly from intimate moments to grand celebrations. Poised, elegant and delicious – simply a joy to drink.
2
Domaine la Colombette – Mischief Grenache Rosé (2025), £22
A vibrant, premium rosé that overdelivers on both style and substance. Bursting with orchard fruits, wild strawberry, peach and a hint of citrus zest, it’s fresh, dry and beautifully balanced. A subtle texture gives it real presence, making it as good with salty snacks, charcuterie boards and salads as it is on its own. A confident, modern rosé with serious crowd appeal.
3
A scintillating white from one of the world’s great historic wine regions. This blend of Furmint and Hárslevelű is sustainably farmed across small volcanic plots around Tokaj in Hungary. Gizella combines complexity with freshness and elegance – pear, lemon zest and wild flowers in abundance. A wine that invites discovery and tells its own story. Brilliant on its own, or with fish, light summer dishes and fresh cheeses. Rarely does a wine offer this much value and quality.
4
Tommasi – Lugana ‘Le Fornaci’ DOC (2024), £19
Founded in 1902, Tommasi remains one of Italy’s most respected family estates. Grown on the shores of Lake Garda, this is summer in a glass. Crisp lemon, peach and jasmine notes intertwine with a subtle exotic edge, leading to a long, saline mineral finish. Elegant yet refreshing – perfect with grilled fish, salads or simple chicken dishes.
5
Bodegas Covitoro – Cermeño Tinta de Toro (2024), £15
The wild, untamed face of Tempranillo from Toro in northwest Spain. Full-bodied yet fresh, this is a gutsy, characterful red packed with crunchy red fruits and balanced tannins. Ideal for a posh BBQ, Sunday roast or for simply savouring on its own. Bold, generous and immensely satisfying – this is serious value with real personality.
6
Tommasi – Arele ‘Appassimento’ (2021), £23
Produced in the traditional appassimento style, with partially dried grapes, this offers richness without heaviness. Juicy cherry, raspberry and plum meet gentle baking spice, with a touch of residual sugar adding softness. Smooth, approachable and incredibly versatile – perfect with grilled meats, sausages or game. Try it lightly chilled for something a little different.
Gizella Estate – Tokaji Dry Furmint (2024), £21
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March House Farm
From Georgian farming reforms to regenerative agriculture, March House Farm blends deep-rooted history with outstanding food, native breeds and a thriving farm shop and café centred on provenance, sustainability and flavour
words: caroline aston
IN 1780 King George III was 20 years into his reign and the Belcher family became tenant farmers at March House Farm, Great Dalby. What became known as the Agricultural Revolution was in full swing. The King took a great interest in the fast-changing farming scene, earning himself the nickname ‘Farmer George’. Open fields were being enclosed and better drainage techniques and land reclamation implemented, livestock breeding had become more selective and the old idea of letting fields lie fallow periodically was being replaced by a four-crop rotation system (wheat, barley, turnips and clover) developed in Norfolk by Viscount Townsend, who, like the King, earned himself a nickname: ‘Turnip’ Townsend! New farm machinery was being developed too: threshing machines, iron ploughs and patent seed drills, originally invented in 1701 by Jethro Tull, had become an important part of arable farming (and yes, the sixties rock group still out there touring was named after him!)
Fast forward to today and the current generation of the Belcher family, who now own the farm. ‘Turnip’ Townsend and Jethro Tull would heartily approve of the brand they have created and especially the underlying philosophy. The emphasis here is very strongly on sustainability and traditional agriculture with native crops and livestock. The farm is renowned for its high-welfare meat production, placing a strong accent on provenance and grass feeding its cattle, sheep and pigs, which provide the flavoursome beef, lamb and pork March House is rightly famed for. And not just locally! In 1999 they started to trade at Camden Lock market and have now expanded to several other markets in north and west London.
Native Breeds and Traditional Farming
There’s a fascinating mixture of livestock here, with some historic names. In the cattle department there are Beef Shorthorn, Aberdeen Angus and South Devon. The pure-bred bulls graze happily alongside a harem of cross-bred cows. These centuries-old, hardy and adaptable breeds do well in our unpredictable climate and produce well-marbled meat of superb flavour. The sheep living at March House feature some iconic names too: the Mashams, which make wonderful mothers and provide sought-after wool for spinners, the Scottish Mule (a glorious cocktail of Scottish Blackface and Bluefaced Leicester) is a prolific breeder, especially when married to the Suffolk rams, a flagship breed that sires exceptional lambs.
The pig department is also a galaxy of well-known breeds: the Large White, the Berkshire, the Gloucestershire Old Spot and the ginger-toned Tamworth. We probably all remember that last breed: Butch and Sundance were two Tamworth-cross pigs from Wiltshire who fled to freedom from a lorry in 1998, spending a week in the wild before being rescued and relocated to a rare breeds park to live longer lives than had been intended. March House porkers are born in roomy arks and reared on deep beds of straw in open, airy yards.
ABOVE: March House Farm in Great Dalby – from native breeds and regenerative farming to superb home-reared meat, café favourites, an excellently stocked Farm Shop and family-friendly events throughout the year.
‘There’s a field-to-face story here as well as a field-to-fork one’
Farm Shop, Café and Butchery
In 2005 the Belchers opened their own on-site butchery underpinning the quality and provenance of their meat. The year 2017 saw the opening of their farm shop, now a place of pilgrimage for meat-loving foodies, while a year later their café opened its doors for the first time. It’s a delightful, modern space with pops of vibrant colour on walls and furniture and offers the chance to taste the fruits of the Belchers’ labours. There’s an extensive menu, which focuses on ‘the farm to table experience, whilst keeping it simple, fresh and seasonal’. Well-seasoned sausages, bacon and eggs several ways feature on the breakfast menu (served 9am to 12pm) alongside beefrich steak (two sorts!) and eggs, plus tasty veggie offerings, buttermilk pancakes and waffles. Sunday Roast at March House gives the chance to sample the sirloin of beef, leg of lamb or pork loin and belly, so carefully reared in house, served alongside their traditional sides: crisp Yorkies, cauliflower cheese, seasonal vegetables, honeyglazed parsnips and carrots plus rich red wine gravy – yum! Weekday lunches offer more opportunities to sample March House produce: classic brisket burgers with March House’s own sauce, meltingly tender slow-braised lamb shoulder with shepherd’s gravy or the March House Ploughman’s lunch featuring Colston Bassett Stilton and Rutland Red cheeses plus March House’s own sausage rolls, Scotch eggs and pork pies.
The Pork Pie Phenomenon
The March House hand-raised pork pie is a story in itself. When the Coronavirus pandemic forced the business to lock down in 2020 supplies of pork pies quickly ran out. Brothers Dan and Tom Belcher along with Dan’s then fiancée (now wife) Jo were inundated with requests from regular customers suffering from pork pie withdrawal symptoms! Their response was swift – the creation of a hand-raised pie filled with meat from their own free-range nativebreed pigs, a home production from beginning to end. A new online shop was set up with a click and collect function plus a free homedelivery service for those who needed it. All their staff were retained and although the Café was forced to close, those who’d worked there were redeployed to producing sausage rolls, Scotch eggs and the famous pies! A coffee hut was set up to replace the Café and a barn morphed into an outdoor eatery.
Regenerative Farming and Looking Ahead
The Belchers are keen to spread their message about regenerative farming. This term has been around since the 1980s but has gained
a higher profile over the last 10 years and a far bigger following. Often called ‘Regen’ this approach is nature-focused and farmerled and uses a mix of methods or ‘farm tools’. In fact most of these would chime with the first generation of Belchers to farm at March House in 1780. Maintaining soil cover and limiting soil disturbance, fostering agricultural diversity and crop rotation, keeping living roots in the soil and integrating livestock and arable systems are at the heart of this. Farmland accounts for around 69% of land use in the UK, so there’s plenty of scope for future change in line with the March House approach. Another buzzword of today is ‘agroecology’, the promotion of farming methods that mitigate climate change (the hardy native breeds at March House adapt to our changeable climate and don’t require heat generation to thrive in cold weather!), reduction of chemical usage and working with nature.
A Programme of Events
Jo Belcher and the team stage a dizzying array of events throughout the year that showcase the farm and its produce. Easter (which aptly fell in March this year) gave the chance to see newborn lambs and piglets up close and watch the land being worked. The recent first May Bank Holiday weekend was packed with familyfriendly events: tractor and trailer rides giving an opportunity to meet the livestock and see how nature-friendly the farm is (birds, bugs, wildflowers and grasses warmly welcomed here!), a farm trail treasure hunt and giant haystack climbing for the kids. The Cow Barn boasted a sandpit and pedal-powered tractors for young farmers-in-embryo, whilst the grown-ups could relax over a field-tofork feast washed down with a tipple from a fully licensed bar! Last autumn you could pick your own pumpkin and marvel at Bonfire Night fireworks while munching on a toothsome burger or three.
I loved my coffee and far-too-delicious cake eaten in the sunny Café and my safari round the Farm Shop. And I also took away an interesting beauty tip via Jo Belcher. Apparently, bone marrow is a potent anti-ageing ingredient in skin creams! It seemingly reduces the inflammation that accelerates wrinkle formation, moisturises and hydrates and firms up the complexion. So I suppose we can say that there’s a field-to-face story here as well as a field-to-fork one.
MARCH HOUSE FARM, TOP END, GREAT DALBY, MELTON MOWBRAY LE14 2HA | 07540 015271
MARCHHOUSEFARM.CO.UK
Hart’s Hotel & Kitchen
A stylish hotel, delicious food, inspiring music, elegant walks and a little shopping too – Nicholas and Clare RuddJones discover the joy of a one-night Nottingham escape
NOTTINGHAM is one of our favourite cities (Clare grew up there, so it’s very familiar), and it only takes an hour or so to get to. The shopping is excellent, the culture varied, and there is always something happening – from concerts and theatre to sport, galleries and great food. We had booked tickets to an evening concert and decided to make a night of it with a stay at Hart’s Hotel.
A Stunning, Quiet & Contemporary Hotel
Opened in 2003, Hart’s is a 32-bedroom independent boutique hotel created by Tim Hart, owner of Hambleton Hall, on the historic former ramparts of Nottingham Castle. Designed by architect Julian Marsh with interiors by Stefa Hart, it is a modern classic that earned a prestigious RIBA Design Award when it was built. Contemporary furniture, bespoke artwork and a private garden with sweeping views over The Park give it a calm, quietly luxurious feel.
A picture window on each floor frames the view westwards, and many of the rooms enjoy glorious vistas too. It provides a unique refuge from the city’s bustle, feeling far more personal than many larger hotels – yet without an eye-watering price tag. Many rooms are around the £185 mark, and all are spacious and thoughtfully appointed.
We loved every moment of our stay – beautifully calm surroundings, warm and professional service, invigorating modern architecture and, at every turn, a view to die for. Oh, and a very comfy bed. We both slept brilliantly here.
Fabulous Food & Drink
We arrived at lunchtime and decided to have our main meal then, ahead of the evening concert. The dining area is intimate and relaxed, with alfresco dining also available beneath the awning on the terrace outside. Being the day of the late Queen’s 100th birthday, we marked the occasion with a Champagne toast before diving into starters of – for Nicholas –smoked salmon with avocado purée, blood orange, yuzu and Sichuan pepper and, for Clare, purple-sprouting broccoli with beurre blanc, pine nuts and a poached egg. Both were delicious.
ABOVE & LEFT: Hart’s Hotel overlooks Nottingham’s leafy Park Estate and enjoys far-reaching views across the city. Elegant contemporary interiors, the smart dining room, beautifully presented dishes and one of the hotel’s stylish garden rooms are all shown here.
SUGGESTED WALKS
THE PARK
One of the most beautiful Victorian estates in the country, The Park was once the deer park of Nottingham Castle. The 150-acre estate is full of elegant Victorian mansions (Jesse Boot, founder of Boots the chemist, had his home here) and retains much of its original character, including its original gas lighting network. There are steps down alongside Hart’s Hotel at the top of Park Row. Once in The Park, head past the tennis courts to the two circuses at the centre of the gated estate, both pictures of Victorian gentility.
THE CANAL
Head west towards the university and Wollaton Park, or wander east for a flavour of Nottingham’s industrial past. Access via Wilford Street, Carrington Street or Trent Street.
WOLLATON PARK
West of the city, Wollaton Park is Nottingham’s largest park. It offers extensive walking paths, the Elizabethan Wollaton Hall (now home to a natural history museum), a café and a lake.
‘Somehow, a single night away felt far further from home than the miles suggest’
For the main course, Nick chose roasted pork belly with braised fennel and chicory, whilst Clare enjoyed pan-fried seabass with Niçoise salad. But the real stars proved to be the desserts: rhubarb nougat glacé with crème anglaise, and Gariguette strawberries with basil and milk purée (pictured above). Fresh, elegant and perfectly balanced, they were marvellously well judged.
Out & About in Nottingham
We walked across the city to the Squire Performing Arts Centre in Arboretum Street, taking in wide views over The Park estate and passing through the beautifully kept Arboretum en route. We had come to hear our current favourite band, LYR – UK Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, singer-songwriter Richard Walters and producer Patrick Pearson – whose blend of spoken word, soaring vocals and electronic soundscapes continues to captivate us. Supported by Yorkshire folk singer Natalie Wildgoose, it made for a wonderful evening.
The next day we spent time shopping and wandering through the city before heading home. Nottingham really does offer something for everyone – galleries, music venues, historic architecture, independent shops, theatre and sporting landmarks (including the Nottingham Tennis Centre, host of the Lexus Nottingham Open tournament, which takes place this month, from 13–21 June 2026).
Hart’s Hotel & Kitchen provides the perfect calm base from which to enjoy it all.
HART’S HOTEL, STANDARD HILL, PARK ROW, NOTTINGHAM NG1 6FN 0115 988 1900
WWW.HARTSNOTTINGHAM.CO.UK | HARTSNOTTS
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Stamford’s Millstream
Nicholas Rudd-Jones is fascinated about everything to do with Stamford’s historic millstream, and fi nds huge solace in his daily walk along it
FOR A QUARTER OF A CENTURY, my life has been intertwined with that of the millstream. It was the thing that clinched my decision to move to the home we live in today, gazing down to the bottom of the garden and watching the millstream flowing (slowly) through it. And the thought of being a riparian owner conjured up images of rights and privileges, although in fact it has really just turned out to mean plopping into the bottom in my waders each year and wrenching out the reeds to stop the whole thing clogging up.
And for 24 of those 25 years, I felt certain in my mind that the millstream I waded into was the same one that fed the King’s Mill, mentioned back in 1086 in the Domesday Book, where it still is today in King’s Mill Lane.
But at a St Peter’s Community group event, our neighbour John broke the news to me: ‘You do realise that it is not the original millstream at the bottom of your garden?’ I was shocked, almost disbelieving, and decided the very next day to start the search. And, sure enough, it turned out John was right.
THE ‘ANCIENT’ MILLSTREAM (C.11TH CENTURY–1640)
The ‘ancient’ millstream (as it’s labelled in a Burghley map of 1797) is still shown on the Ordnance Survey map (see 1, p118) – its absolute straightness points to it being man-made. It went pretty much across the Meadows at their lowest point.
The first map we have of Stamford is Speed’s (1610), which is exceptionally well drawn for a map of its period. It shows the ‘ancient’ (ie Domesday) mill to be just a few yards to the east of where the mill is today (see 2, p118. It must roughly have been by where the vehicle access bridge to the Town Meadows is today at the west end of Bath Row. It also shows that the ‘ancient’ millstream above the mill was, in fact, very short, a hundred yards or so.
Just walk across this bridge, turn right along the millstream back towards the small copse of trees, and you will soon realise something amazing – there are two millstreams here that meet (see photo below left): the one coming in from the left is the ‘ancient’ millstream, which soon comes to a dead end in the undergrowth; and the one to the right is the current millstream, still flowing and where the current (disused) mill is.
If you follow the route of the ‘ancient millstream’ (tricky, but shown on most maps), then it appears to join up with an old watercourse (it’s bendy, so surely never man-made), which is no more, but is still evident in the landscape today as a ditch lined with scrubby trees, and is marked on old maps (see 3, p118) getting very close to the current main river at the Boadicea monument, which is where the ford was that the old Roman road crossed.
My supposition is that this old watercourse was, in fact, the old river, which was rerouted at the same time as the current millstream was dug in the 1630s (see 4, p118). By redirecting the river further south, there was the potential to reduce flooding into the town and also open up a stretch of land that could become more productive.
The old route of the river then became a drainage ditch, which was useful for helping to create the three new fields that lie between the drainage ditch and the current millstream – today you can still see the boundaries that separate the fields, but in 1933 the stewardship was passed across to the Freemen of the Meadows, and the fields now look like an integral part of the Meadows.
River Rerouting
River rerouting is something that happened at fairly regular intervals throughout our history:
1) William Reyner is recorded in the 1274–75 Hundred Rolls as having diverted the River Welland close to the town. ‘They say that
LEFT: By the old Mill today, with the two millstreams visible. OPPOSITE: 1610 Speed Stamford Map
‘Ancient’ Millstream
Current Millstream
Robert de Aunby encroached upon the River Welland within the liberty of the abbot of Peterborough in the town of Stamford by raising a wall in the same river further out than he ought by 20 feet in length and two feet in width, to the loss and hurt of the town of 12d. a year.’
2) Old maps show all sorts of twists and turns that are not there today, as the river has been straightened – most notably ‘Brand’s Canal’ in the 1930s (see 5, p118), which straightened the river and left the ‘oxbow’ of Minnow Pond that townsfolk still have memories of to this day as a place they swam in as kids.
3) When the railway line was built in the 1840s they rerouted parts of the river to ensure that it didn’t go under the railway embankment.
Natural Landscape Change
Furthermore, natural landscape change has been at play throughout history. As rivers reach large meadows with little gradient change from one end to the other, so they are more likely to burst their banks in flood conditions and create secondary flows. This is called river braiding (fast changing), or anastomosing (semi-permanent), and when you look at old maps you can see this has happened many times to the river. Take a look at the county boundary between Lincolnshire and the counties to the south, and you will see that the river now takes a very different route from the one it must have had when the county boundaries were first formed, when they would have run along the main river.
Power Struggles: the Origin of King’s Mill
Stamford’s mill was originally known as North Mill when it was recorded in the Domesday Book. It changed its name to the King’s Mill when it became the property of King John in the early 13th century, as part of Stamford Castle. It seems, however, that it was never a very powerful or efficient mill. The ‘ancient’ millstream was in the middle of the meadow at its lowest point, and it regularly flooded. Also, there is barely a foot drop in height from where the old millstream took off water from the old river to the mill, so it must have produced a rather puny flow.
In 1561, Queen Elizabeth I granted Sir William Cecil of Burghley House ownership of the mill. Residents were legally required to grind all their grain at King’s Mill, leading to longrunning disputes when the mill’s capacity proved insufficient for the growing population. And rather than wait long periods for their corn and malt to be ground, they surreptitiously used other mills, especially Hudd’s Mill downstream and Tinwell Mill upstream.
Worse still, the banks and sluices at Hudd’s Mill were extended, with the result that ‘by often and sudden stoppinge and lettinge downe of the said fludgates and sluces, (King’s Mill) had been oftentimes held in by back waters and soe choaked therewith that it was not able to goe’.
And in 1637, William Cecil brought an action against William Robinson, tenant of Tinwell Mill for grinding corn at half the price of King’s Mill. To add insult to injury, Robinson had expanded his mill dam, thus depriving King’s Mill of water so ‘that oft tymes it cannot grinde for fowre and twentie howers together.’ At other times,
Stamford’s Millstream
Robinson would suddenly open his sluice gates ‘whereby the waters gushing downe the streame in great quantities with muche violence doe overflowe and breake the Bankes of the saide Earles mill dames’. Consequently, William Cecil had to covenant with a landowner to repair the banks of the new dyke and prevent flooding.
The matter came to a head, and finally The Court of Exchequer decreed that the inhabitants and residents of Stamford must bring their corn and grain to be ground only at King’s Mill, with the critical qualification that ‘if it cannot bee ground there within eight and ffortie howers that then they may take it awaye to bee ground elswhere’.
THE CURRENT MILL & MILLSTREAM (1640–PRESENT)
That qualifier clearly spurred William Cecil into action so that there would no longer be a backlog that allowed customers to ‘shop elswhere’. He commissioned a much bigger mill (see 6, below) slightly to the west of the previous mill (see 2, below), with a header pond to power two undershot tandem waterwheels, on the north and south gables; and got to building a new, much more powerful millstream. This effectively transformed the mill from a ‘single track’ into a ‘dual carriageway’ in terms of energy generation.
The new (and current) millstream, constructed during the 1630s, was placed at the edge of the meadow where quite a marked slope begins (see 7, below), and it’s never flooded by the river overflowing. And over its much longer length – about a mile – there is a drop of 15 feet, thus ensuring a much more sustained flow.
ABOVE: So many people enjoy the millstream path today. One lovely comment we heard while researching referred to the area shown above. ‘We used to call the wood area and the steep drop as the millstream gets closer to the weir “The Fairy Glen” – we would often meet up there and play games as young children.’
Other comments include: ‘I remember happy times swimming and fishing by the little bridge at Water Furlong.’ Also: ‘In the great flood at Easter 1998 a swan set up a nest in the garden of the Vale House because the waters were so high. Hours of fun for the children watching the cygnets grow. After that there were lots of fish (perhaps because of the flood), so one glorious day we were able to observe an otter swimming round and round eating them.’
BELOW LEFT & RIGHT: 1887 Ordnance Survey maps. House because the waters were so high. Hours of fun for the children
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Stamford’s Millstream
MAN-MADE, NATURAL OR HYBRID?
A millstream’ is usually a man-made channel, whereas a mill river is the natural river, often modified, that provides the water. Very interestingly, in the 1797 Burghley Map, the old millstream is referred to as ‘the ancient millstream’, whilst the new/current millstream is labelled the ‘Mill River’. Could it be that at least part of this route runs along an old watercourse? Also, the 1842 Tithe Map below (full title: ‘Plan of the titheable lands in the Parish of All Saints with Saint Peter’s in the Borough of Stamford and County of Lincoln’) in fact labels the millstream upstream as the River Welland (A), which comes as a bit of a surprise. It is therefore not clear as to whether the millstream from King’s Mill to the weir is entirely man-made or not, but these are my thoughts:
First stretch: From the King’s Mill to the end of Melancholy Walk (B), where it meets with Water Furlong – all man-made. Why? Totally straight, substantially banked up, well above the level of the meadows. Melancholy Walk, alongside it, was likely created at the same time.
Second stretch: Water Furlong to the Broadeng Bridge coppice (C) Harder to say. This section is more sinuous, and, in some ways, more
‘natural-looking’, but it might be that it is just following the contours like a contour canal does. It is also embanked in most places, and is well above the level of the meadows. It could well be that this second stretch is a hybrid – in other words, that there was a medieval watercourse or drainage ditch that was channelled and embanked to improve flow. Hopefully we will find out more as the research deepens.
One curious thing is that on the 1842 Tithe Map you can see that there were two parts to the millstream just to the west of Water Furlong (D). The occupier of Plot 18 was an ozier (small willow trees, coppiced and the long twigs used for basket making); and Plot 86 also produced wood. Could it be that in previous centuries this had been something of a ‘brake’ to reduce the risk of flooding along Melancholy Walk (the dyke)? When you look at it today it is still a marshy area, with willow trees (no longer pollarded!)
Third stretch: From the start of the Broadeng coppice to the weir (A). The millstream cuts deep into the slope here, and rises more sharply to meet the weir. I have always thought this was man-made, or certainly man-augmented, to give some extra height rather than joining the river at Broadeng Bridge (E). More research needed!
Wildlife Spotting
Today the millstream teems with wildlife and is an absolute joy to walk along. Here are some of the species spotted:
WILD FLOWERS
Blackthorn, common daisy, creeping buttercup, daffodils, dandelion, ground ivy, lesser celandine, lords and ladies, primroses, red dead nettle, snowdrops, violets, white dead nettle. Bluebells, too, in early summer.
BIRDS
Blackbird, blackcap, Cetti’s warbler, chiffchaff, dunnock, egret, goldfinch, great tit, kingfisher, linnet, long-tailed tit, magpie, mallard, moorhen, red kite, redstart, robin, siskin, skylark, sparrow, sparrowhawk, willow warbler, woodpigeon and wren.
BUTTERFLIES
Brimstone, Comma, Holly Blue, Large White, Meadow Brown, Orange Tip, Painted Lady, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small Skipper, Small Tortoiseshell, Small White and Speckled Wood.
ANIMALS
Badgers (tracks), frogs, moles, muntjac, roe deer, squirrels and water voles… but I’ve never seen any rabbits!
ABOVE: egret, water vole, muntjac and kingfisher photographed along the millstream. RIGHT: out with the dog on Melancholy Walk.
‘A millstream is usually a man-made channel, whereas a mill river is the natural river, often modified, that provides the water’
MELANCHOLY WALK
what’s in a name?
The first mention of the name that I can find is in the 1797 Burghley map, where it is referred to as ‘Melancholy Walk on the Bank’, which is rather evocative. The atmosphere down here would often have felt melancholic, with fog sweeping across the meadows and a rather inhospitable feeling outside the safety of the town’s walls. Dark, misty, uninviting, going nowhere. A grim dog-walking day, basically!
There is no definitive answer to why the name was chosen, but these are two theories:
1) The Executioner’s Route: The path was the final route taken by prisoners being led from the town to the gallows outside the town’s walls. The name captures the ‘melancholy’ state of the condemned individual on their way to execution. The problem with this theory is that the gallows were situated up on Tinwell Road, so this would have been rather a long diversion. Unless, of course, it was just a clever convict who wanted to live a little bit longer…
2) Melancholic Contemplation: The path goes below the ruins of the Austinian monastery and monks were renowned for being contemplative. In the Middle Ages, ‘melancholy’ was often referred to as the ‘monk’s disease’. And Robert Burton’s bestseller ‘The Anatomy of Melancholy’, first published in 1621, would have been at the height of its popularity when the current millstream was built (and presumably the path alongside it) in the 1630s. Nature, for Burton, was key for alleviating symptoms of melancholy.
I’ll let you decide which of the above you prefer! Personally, for me it’s the second theory.
Stamford’s Millstream
THE 20TH CENTURY
The current mill stopped working just before World War I, c.1913, when the last tenants, Molesworth and Springthorpe, vacated the premises. The buildings were subsequently used as workshops and then as a dairy. Part of the mill (the Granary) was converted into a Scope Day Care Centre in the mid-1960s, and at this time the millpool was filled in and replaced with a car park. The buildings behind that housed the millwheels and they were converted into a private home in the 1990s. Much of the mill machinery has been retained as a feature. The granary is now the office of Bishopsgate Corporate Finance.
The Last Miller
The last miller was a Mr Croft, who was the subject of an article in the Stamford Mercury:
The mill wheel was worked by water power, and, every time he wanted to grind, he had to walk through the meadows to the sluice gates and open them to provide the volume of water necessary to turn the mill wheel. When he had finished he had to go and close them again. ‘Sometimes the water used to come over the tops of my boots in bad weather,’ said Mr Croft, who recalled that when there were floods he had to go and open the gates wide.
Gradual Decline of the Millstream
From the 1910s began the gradual decline of the millstream as a free-flowing waterway now that its maintenance was no longer crucial. A further big change came with the de-maining of the millstream as a consequence of the installation of the Rutland Water extraction facility at Tinwell Pumping Station in the early 1970s. The millstream was cut off from the river, and although a small pump was installed in 1973, there was far less flow than there had been previously. The waterway was officially ‘de-mained’ in 1975, which then meant that no one was responsible any more for its upkeep. Stamford Town Council agreed to pay for the pump’s
electricity in the early days, but as the bills increased, they were forced to back away from this commitment.
Inevitably, once the commercial imperative to keep the millstream flowing was gone, that flow reduced to a trickle, and the maintenance fell into inexorable decline, occasionally delayed a few years by valiant voluntary effort that stopped it disappearing altogether. The only major work done on the millstream in the 20th century was in the period 1946–48, but this only covered the stretch passing through the Town Meadows. An excavator was used to deepen and widen the channel, and this stretch has been maintained fairly well ever since.
In 1992 Councillor Jefferies did succeed in persuading the District Council to clean and improve the Melancholy Walk stretch, but the problem of water flow remained.
THE 21ST CENTURY & STAMFORD MILLSTREAM GROUP
In the summer of 2002, the Stamford Millstream Group was formed, comprising local residents and interested citizens, to see what could be done. A large amount of voluntary time was put into improving the condition of the millstream, notably by Newage International, Network Scouts and the Burghley Estate.
Anglian Water thoroughly overhauled the pump and cleared out the sump chamber and arranged for the water to flow for six hours a day. This was a critical development without which all other efforts would have been futile. There was also an initiative to install wooden berms in the Melancholy Walk part of the stream, designed to increase flow by reducing width and to improve aquatic habitats. The Freemen of the Meadows have kindly supported these initiatives, and the Skells Trust helped to finance several of them. Anglian Water, the East Mercia Rivers Trust, the Burghley Estate and the Environment Agency have all been a significant help too.
FROM POWER SUPPLY TO NATURE CORRIDOR
Of course, the millstream now has an entirely different benefit from when it supplied energy, and that is as a wildlife corridor. It is especially important because it is an ‘edgeland’ between town and country, very worthy of protection and nurturing, as it is accessible to so many people and brings nature right into the heart of the town. It creates a ‘green lung’ of community wellbeing. I do a dog walk just about every day of the year along its route and I never cease to be amazed by the sheer abundance of wildlife that is drawn to the water, the tree cover and the wild flowers.
The goal of the Stamford Millstream Group today is to bring all of the strands of support together in order to ensure that the flow continues to be maintained (currently the pump is working fine) and making sure that the route remains walkable and to help make it a haven for wildlife. In 2026, there has been a further generous donation by the Skells Trust, which will enable the Group to carry out more clearance along the route (with additional voluntary help from the Burghley Estate in felling overhanging branches), and to plant more wild flowers on the banks. Also, there is a budget to create more interpretation boards and a leaflet.
There is still much we don’t know about the millstream. If you have any insights, personal experiences or can offer voluntary time to help maintain the millstream, I’d love to hear from you at nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk
Thanks to: Jon Culverhouse, Curator, Burghley House; Stamford Town Council Heritage Team; Stamford Local History Society.
ABOVE: The Mill Pond today.
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Local Briefing
News from the region this month
A Structured Approach to Chronic Pain & Autoimmune Conditions with Duncan Ford
Chronic pain and autoimmune conditions can be complex, often affecting far more than just the area where symptoms appear. Many people find themselves managing flare-ups, fatigue and discomfort without fully understanding what’s driving them.
At Duncan Ford Acupuncture & Massage in Stamford, the focus is on a more structured, whole-body approach. Rather than simply addressing symptoms, treatment is tailored to explore the underlying patterns contributing to pain, inflammation and imbalance. Every treatment begins with a detailed understanding of the individual – their symptoms, lifestyle and overall health – allowing for a plan that is both targeted and adaptable over time.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to help regulate the body’s systems, supporting circulation, calming the nervous system and reducing inflammation. When combined with massage, it can also help relieve muscular tension and improve mobility, offering a more comprehensive approach to recovery. This method is particularly beneficial for those experiencing chronic pain, arthritis or autoimmune conditions, where symptoms can fluctuate and require a more personalised strategy.
For those looking for a more considered, natural approach to managing ongoing symptoms, acupuncture offers a way to support the body towards better balance and long-term improvement.
Kathryn Saunby Art Studio, based in Melton Mowbray, has been named Art Studio of the Year for Central England by the Prestigious Awards. This major milestone recognises small and medium businesses worldwide for excellence, marking a journey defined by resilience, creativity and community spirit.
Founded in 2011 by professional artist Kathryn Saunby, the studio began as a modest two-room setup. In the early days, Kathryn faced intense financial pressures, often walking or cycling four miles to work and logging 80-hour weeks to survive. Lacking modern digital marketing, she manually distributed flyers across a 20-mile radius. Her determination paid off three years later when the studio expanded to occupy the building’s entire top floor.
In 2020, the business relocated to 23 Norman Way in Melton. However, the COVID-19 lockdown hit the exact day Kathryn received the keys. Refusing to give up, she utilised council grants and a bounce-back loan to build a website while balancing childcare.
Today, the studio is owned and run by Kathryn and her fiancé, Kelly Richardson. Supported by a talented team of artists and tutors – Zoe Gascoyne, Aria Dudhia and Amanda Jackson – it has transformed into a thriving creative hub with over 200 weekly students. The facility teaches art and craft to adults and children, delivers school projects, features an onsite pottery painting space and produces commercial designs, commissions and original artwork. Many students come from Rutland.
Kathryn expressed deep gratitude to her team, the community and her fiancée, Kelly, for her tireless behind-the-scenes work. Moving forward, the team looks forward to an exciting new era of inspiring projects.
www.kathrynsaunby.com
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Steve Roberts meets local musical inspiration, Rutlander CJ Hatt
CJ HATT decided to become a full-time musician 13 years ago. He gave up his regular job after his best friend died of a brain tumour without having left, in CJ’s words, an imprint on the world. CJ had harboured an ambition to be a musician since childhood, when he first heard the Moody Blues’ totemic hit Nights in White Satin. He still plays it today as his ‘eyes shut song’. His friend’s untimely death made CJ take the plunge, as he realised that there is only one life in which to find happiness and that making music made him happy.
That may have been the catalyst that persuaded CJ to make his living as a performer, but music is in his blood. His father gigged every weekend and, as a boy, CJ would sit at the side of the stage taking it all in. When his Dad slept in after a show, CJ quietly took his father’s guitar out of its case and taught himself to play by picturing the shapes and fingering he had witnessed on stage. Nowadays CJ can play any tune having only heard it once. This means he has a repertoire of over 300 songs – very useful when it comes to gauging the vibe of an audience.
Although a Kentish man by birth, CJ has lived in Rutland for several years, and his love of the county shines through. He runs nine regular open mic events at venues including The Grainstore in Oakham, The King’s Head in Apethorpe, Bottesford’s Rutland Arms and the hugely popular nights at the Recruiting Sergeant in Great Gonerby. He plays festivals, pubs, private parties and weddings, and never misses an opportunity to get on stage.
However, as his running of the open mic nights attests, he is equally committed to giving a platform to others. This is exemplified by CJ’s monthly singer/songwriter workshops at Oakham’s Ovation Wine Bar. Held on the first Tuesday of the month, these allow aspiring and experienced songwriters alike the opportunity to explore and develop their skills in a nurturing environment.
CJ tours his singer/songwriter pop style with a rock edge all over the country. Upcoming local gigs include Uppingham Feast Day on 14 June, Barnsdale Gardens’ Open Evening on 19 June and the Summer Gathering of the Rutland Harley-Davidson Chapter at Greetham – CJ’s own favourite event – though he rides a Vespa!
The day before we met, CJ confirmed his 235th gig booking for 2026, and, in any other walk of life, his work ethic might be described as driven. There is no hint of that when talking to him – he simply takes huge joy in playing and from mentoring other singer/songwriters. I doubt anyone will ever say that CJ has not left his imprint.
To book CJ Hatt or to find out about his music, such as the heartfelt single Floating and CJ’s live album, go to CJ Hatt Official on linktr.ee. You can also find him on YouTube.
