Jackson-Stops At Home, 2025 by Jackson-Stops

At Home PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

A HUE FOR YOU

New ways to paint your home happy

EQUESTRIAN LIVING

Find a home for you and your horses

UNIQUELY YOURS

The enduring appeal of new build homes

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS

Give your garden a professional makeover

W E LCO M E

Refreshing your paint job? Time to get in on the double drenching trend

Harness your garden’s potential with a designer makeover

We explore the enduring appeal of equestrian properties

A WARM WELCOME

SHUTTERSTOCK, JAMES MERRELL

n this issue of Jackson-Stops At Home you’ll find a curated selection of some of the finest properties that we have for sale and to rent across our 40 national offices, as well as features bursting with ideas for how to decorate your home – paint is back big time, as you’ll see – and for getting the most out of your outside space. If you’ve ever wondered how a designer might be able to help you create the garden of your dreams, our feature has all the answers. And if you’re a book lover, don’t miss our round-up of the best literary festivals around the country. Our property experts also tell you everything you need to know about buying a brand new home or, for horse lovers, an equestrian property – and why they think Jackson-Stops is a cut above other agencies. One of the many reasons for this is that we’ve never lost sight of the fact that nothing beats the personal Whilst every effort has been made to ensure prices and details are accurate at the time of going to press, these are subject to alteration. Jackson-Stops At Home is edited and published by Hatton Collective (hattoncollective.com)

touch when it comes to property and are delighted that many of our clients return time and again when selling or letting their homes. Over the years we have enjoyed a wonderful working relationship with British artist Annie Tempest, and readers of Country Life especially will be familiar with her weekly cartoon strip Tottering by Gently. This chronicles the everyday capers of Dicky and Daﬀy Tottering at Tottering Hall. The Tottering humour is well matched to the intricacies of the London and country property market and we are thrilled to have produced her ﬁrst animated feature, a light-hearted take on our connection between London and the countryside. Scan the code on this page to watch. I hope you enjoy the magazine and we look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent a home in the near future – with our exceptional marketing reach and unparalleled service, we’ll make you feel right at home.

On the cover: Benenden, Kent, South East, p30 Back cover: Great Easton, Essex, East Anglia, p77

Scan the QR code to watch Annie Tempest’s first animated feature

Nick Leeming Chairman

@jsnational

@jacksonstops

@jacksonstopsnational

@jacksonstops

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We have 40 offices nationwide covering London, the South-East, East Anglia, Central, the Cotswolds, the West Country, the North West, North Wales and Yorkshire

Discover how our tailored approach to marketing London and country property puts our clients at the centre of all we do

Why choose Jackson-Stops? DIGITAL KNOW-HOW

We have been selling homes and land for well over 100 years and are proud of our heritage and traditions. “Jackson-Stops is steeped in history,” says Dean Lonergan, Director, Cornwall. “We’ve stood the test of time, have a great reputation and have always remained true to our core values of authenticity, agility and astuteness, but we’re constantly investing in new ideas and new marketing, to offer a truly customer-centric experience. We’ve always kept up with changes in the way people buy and sell their homes.” Jackson-Stops was among the first estate agencies to embrace the internet and we have continued to evolve our online presence. This exposure ensures our sellers and landlords receive the greatest market coverage for their properties. As Darrell Hughes, Partner, Dorking, says, “Buyers and tenants can find our properties in a wide variety of online 04 › jackson-stops.co.uk

locations. First and foremost, our website is reassuringly easy to navigate and receives thousands of visits a month. This is backed by regular posts on social media channels including Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn, which give us an audience of over 1 million a month. If that isn’t enough, we also advertise on the leading property portals including Rightmove and OnTheMarket.” Our current brand campaign features on numerous websites including: Country Life, The Telegraph, The Field, Horse & Hound, House & Garden, The Week, Money Week, Decanter, Golf Monthly, Motor Boat & Yachting and Wallpaper. PRINT WORKS

We also know the power of print. As well as the magazine you are reading, we produce Market Review three times a year and advertise regularly in the

“We’ve stood the test of time and remained true to our core values”

national press. “Clients like to see that we’re in Country Life, The Sunday Times and The Saturday Telegraph,” says Alastair Hancock, Director, Kent & East Sussex, “this national print exposure complements our digital coverage and national network of offices.” Regular editorial coverage in the press is also of benefit to our clients. EXPERTS IN THE SALEROOM

An increasing number of people are looking at online auctions to buy or sell a property. “An online auction can be a much speedier option than through a more traditional private treaty process,” says Ian Denton, Director, Northampton, “This method is often favoured for probate sales where beneficiaries want a quick sale, and for people who want to move into a new home in a hurry.” We have an online auction facility on our website and our qualified team of experts is always happy to advise on the most appropriate and effective method of sale. CAPITAL GAINS

Are you a landlord in need of an excellent property manager and reliable tenants? Our dedicated Corporate Services

TOP RIGHT: GEORGIA DE LOTZ / UNSPLASH

hy Jackson-Stops? In a challenging marketplace it’s essential for an estate agent to have a high brand profile to attract the best buyers and tenants. This is something we excel at.

S E RV I C E S The sale and acquisition of country houses has been the cornerstone of our business since 1910

MOVING WITH THE TIMES One of the first estate agents online in the 1990s, we have a strong presence on the leading property portals, our own website which attracts thousands of visits a week, and highly engaging social media content with an audience of over 1 million a month.

We use top-quality photography to promote properties in their best light The Jackson-Stops social media accounts bring properties to an even wider audience

TOP RIGHT: GEORGIA DE LOTZ / UNSPLASH BOTTOM: CONTENT PIXIE / UNSPLASH

Experts in historic homes, our teams have particular knowledge of Listed buildings The Jackson-Stops website is reassuringly easy to navigate

department in Mayfair exposes properties to London’s biggest relocation agencies and the best corporate tenants. “Our corporate services team work alongside hundreds of major Blue-Chip companies, often through internal intranet systems where employees choose just to use us to find their next rental. We are essentially acting as their personal relocation agent,” says Alex McConnell, Director, Pimlico. “We also assist Landlords by taking fees monthly rather than upfront, which ensures cashflow from the start of the tenancy.” Many of our clients have been selling and letting homes through us for many years. “I have had a lot of the same clients since the day I started,” says Alex, “people who had been with Jackson-Stops for a long time before I joined eight years ago.” Our staff are like a family and many stay with us for a long time. Harry Buchanan, who works alongside Alex handling sales in Pimlico and Westminster has been with the company for over 20 years. THE PERSONAL TOUCH

We’ve never forgotten that nothing beats the personal touch in the world of estate agency and we work hard to provide the highest level of personal service to our clients. A service that is consistently rated as ‘excellent’ with a score of 4.8 out of 5 on Trustpilot. Considering selling or letting your property? Please get in touch with your local office: jackson-stops.co.uk/branches

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Change of tack There are many reasons for investing in an

equestrian property, whether you are a weekend rider or have a more serious interest in horses EQUESTRIAN EXPERTISE

efurbished to an exceptionally high standard with a pool, pool house, an American style barn with seven loose boxes and well-fenced pastures, Grove Farm would make an excellent home for anyone. But if you have a passion for all things equestrian, be it personal or professional, it’s a dream. The property is available through Jackson-Stops Taunton. “There are plenty of reasons why someone might be drawn to an equestrian property, and it’s not just horse owners who find them appealing,” says Chris Jarrett, Director, Cheltenham, who has seen a noticeable increase in demand in recent years. “In most cases, the buyer will already have horses and need the facilities that come with an equestrian property rather than rely on a livery yard,” adds Marcus Brown, Director, Taunton. “Other buyers might not be ‘horsey people’ but like the appeal of having the land and outbuildings for the amenity value.” Reasons for investing in a home with equestrian facilities obviously include the ability to pursue horse-related activities – this type of property usually comes with ample space for animals to exercise and train and can be customised to specific needs, such as jumping or dressage. They offer a connection to nature as well as business potential. Owning an equestrian property can also open the door to a community of like-minded people who share a love of horses. “It’s also great to be in close proximity so you can check on horses early in the morning or late at night, or if they are sick,” adds 06 › jackson-stops.co.uk

Jackson-Stops are experts in equestrian property sales and offer all types of property including racing yards, livery yards, equestrian centres, houses with stables and paddocks, and equestrian land. Our clients range from seasoned racehorse trainers and successful eventers to families with paddocks for ponies. Making the right choice is crucial, and at JacksonStops we look after every aspect of an equestrian property sale.

Samantha Holmes, Senior Sales Negotiator, Newmarket. “Having your animals close makes it easier to meet their needs.” INCREASED ACTIVITY IN THE EQUESTRIAN SECTOR

Demand often outstrips supply, particularly in areas like the Cotswolds and Cheltenham, where horse culture is deeply rooted. “The demand encompasses both private buyers seeking properties for personal use and those looking to establish or expand equestrian businesses,” says Chris. “The Cotswolds has become a desirable area for the dressage community, with notable figures like Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester based near Newent and Ledbury. The area’s accessibility, combined with its natural beauty and established equestrian competition centres, continues to attract both local and national interest.”

Samantha says that she has seen increased activity in the equestrian sector, both from those investing for business purposes, “breeding/ bloodstock, pre-training, retraining of race horses or wanting to offer livery services,” and domestic buyers who are often looking for “a family property with 4-8 acres including paddocks with stables or outbuildings. We often see people who require the maximum amount of land but who only require a small dwelling for themselves. If you are a true equestrian,

E Q U E ST R I A N P R O P E R T I E S

“Working with someone who understands the lifestyle, facilities, and potential pitfalls will make the process much smoother"

Being close to your horses makes it easier to meet their needs Grove Farm in Kingston St. Mary, on the market with the Taunton office

SHUTTERSTOCK

Moat Farm in Farley Green, on the market with the Newmarket office

you would rather your horses have the best facilities and you will compromise on the house.” Marcus adds that many buyers want a separate haybarn and a yard that is big enough to manoeuvre a horse box. “A manége can also be essential for the more avid horse rider, as well as direct access to further hacking from the property.” He advises equestrian buyers to register with Jackson-Stops as not everything goes online. “As the properties get bigger and more valuable, deals are done off-market.” A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

Chris adds, “general estate agents may not fully appreciate the specifics of

equestrian properties. Working with someone who understands the lifestyle, facilities, and potential pitfalls will make the process much smoother.” He advises would-be buyers to be clear about their needs when starting their search: “Define exactly what you need. Are you looking for a private home with a couple of stables, or do you need a full livery yard with an arena? How much land is essential for your horses? Will you be keeping other animals? Having a clear vision will help focus your search. Ultimately, equestrian properties will usually offer a unique combination of lifestyle, investment potential and countryside living.”

And if you are considering putting your equestrian home on the market? “Always ensure that paddocks look their best, a buyer doesn’t want to see aerial shots of paddocks that are damaged from the winter months or overgrazing. Ensure that general maintenance and tidiness of the yard are to a high standard. If you have any covenants or restrictions on the property that may affect a buyer’s borrowing, be transparent from the start,” advises Samantha. Considering selling your equestrian property? Please get in touch with your local office: jackson-stops.co.uk/branches

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f you’re looking for a home that isn’t in need of work, one where you won’t have to live with the design choices of a previous owner and which is perfectly tailored to modern living, you might want to think about a new build or development. There are many advantages to new homes, as Louisa Hooper, Head of New Homes, Exeter explains. “The best reason is that it’s brand new! No one has lived in it or used any of the appliances or sanitary fittings. It’s a blank canvas, ready for you to put your stamp on. Just move your furniture in and relax. You won’t need to strip walls, change carpets or take the kitchen or bathroom out.” Other positives about buying new include energy efficiency and low maintenance requirements compared with older properties. New homes are built with the latest energy-efficient tech, meaning

utility bills may be lower. They are likely to be better insulated and to have more efficient windows. And because they usually come with a 10-year insurancebacked warranty and a post-completion customer care period for snagging, you shouldn’t have to worry about plumbing or electrical issues. As well as being specifically designed for the demands of modern life, new build homes are ‘move in ready’. Better yet, developers watch the trends and can adapt designs to suit buyer profiles/ area needs, as Anthony Jevons, Associate Director, Hale, observes, “If you are building for your own occupation, you get to choose the designs and specifications to perfectly suit your requirements”. “Developers are always looking to stand out from their competitors,” says James Gibbs, Director, Development Land & New Homes, Exeter.

IN WITH THE NEW… There are many reasons why a new home or

development might be the right purchase for you…

Westhaven Homes present a mix of three and four-bed homes at Belstone View in Morchard Bishop, EX17

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Developments usually benefit from being built on the edge of urban areas, providing both access to green, open spaces, and proximity to schools and amenities

MAKE YOUR NEXT MOVE

“It’s a blank canvas, ready for you to put your stamp on. Just move your furniture in and relax”

The expert sales teams for new builds at JacksonStops are well-equipped to assist you in acquiring your new home, whether you are looking to purchase off-plan or at the completion stage, for investment purposes or as your primary residence. We collaborate with a selection of new home developers, including distinguished boutique firms and top national housebuilders. Explore our new developments and new homes for sale and let us help you find your dream new build home.

“This leads to increased specification. In many instances, buyers are given choices on specification and internal finish (subject to timescale of build and developer) such as kitchens, tiles and flooring. Keeping in line with planning permissions, some developers will work with buyers to include additional bespoke options.” New builds also tend to be built in or on the edge of urban locations, within close proximity of shops, schools and transport links – a significant draw. “Hale and Bowdon isn’t just a delightfully leafy suburb of South Manchester, but also has a number of outstanding private and state schools. This is a huge draw for potential purchasers who want the very best education for their children,” says Anthony. Newly developed communities also include modern amenities like green spaces, playgrounds, and even community centres, making for a pleasant, family-friendly environment. And developers are motivated sellers. “They are the end of the chain,” observes James. “And each home is being sold for the first time, meaning a comprehensive contract pack is available for a swifter transaction, rather than a seller hunting for old title deeds or revealing hidden defects.” Considering buying a new build home? Please get in touch with your local office: jackson-stops.co.uk/branches

Buying off plan can give buyers choices when it comes to kitchens, tiles and flooring

Stunning, contemporary four/five bed detached family homes are available at Redwell Grange, Northampton

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ALL EXTERNAL HOUSE IMAGES ARE COMPUTER GENERATED (CGI) PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

N E W B U I L D S A N D D E V E LO P M E N T

We’ve got you covered

n our experience, buyers often leave insurance to the last minute when purchasing a new home, as they assume arranging it will be easy. And often, they aren’t aware that risk typically passes at the exchange of contracts, and this is when insurance should be in place. There are also all sorts of things that can trip you up and leave you without the right level of cover that you need, when you need it. COVER AT POINT OF EXCHANGE

There are lots of potential insurance complications that can derail what seems like a straightforward sale, from a nonstandard property, or one with an adverse prior history of subsidence or

Don’t let insurance get in the way of purchasing your dream property say the experts at Howden

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S P O N S O R E D CO N T E N T

flooding, to an indemnity issue causing problems. And if you can’t find cover, it may adversely affect the your purchase. By speaking to a specialist insurance broker like Howden as early as possible in the buying process, you can make sure that insurance is not a barrier to purchase and that you’re all set to go on the date of exchange.

“Make sure that insurance is not a barrier to purchase and that you’re all set to go on the date of exchange”

SHUTTERSTOCK

CONTENTS INSURANCE

One thing that is easy to overlook is your contents insurance during the move. Most policies will provide some level of cover but there could be limits, such as restricting the total value of items covered or what is covered – for example jewellery might be excluded. There may In the excitement of moving to a new home, it’s easy to overlook the need to have adequate insurance in place at the time that contracts are exchanged

Be aware that there could be limits on what level of insurance is provided for your personal possessions during the move Check the fine print – never assume that your removals firm will have sufficient insurance cover

also be a time limit or complete exclusion for contents being kept in storage. Alternatively, if you’re using a removals company you may be tempted to rely on their cover. However, check the small print as it may be limited, and should you wish to top up, it could prove expensive. PLANNED BUILDING WORKS

If you’re planning to renovate, convert or extend your new property, remember to let your insurance company know. Insurance policies have a building works condition written into the wording, and if you break this condition, you could find yourself without any cover. Larger scale works, especially if you’re not living at the property, may require an additional specialist policy. Building works insurance can be a minefield and it’s easy to find yourself lost in a myriad of terms and conditions. That’s why you should speak to a specialist broker like Howden. We’ll translate policy wordings, explain any detail you might be unsure of and, most importantly, make sure that you have the right level of cover in place. Remember that once you’ve finished the works, you’ll need to review your sums insured. Failure to increase them upon completion of the building work could result in your home being significantly underinsured. INSURANCE WITH HOWDEN

Providing advice is at the heart of everything we do, so we always offer clear, sensible and independent advice about what our clients should insure and how, so you can be confident in the event of a claim. To that end, we’ll always check the small print and offer guidance on any limits and exclusions. And we’ll offer transparency and clear communication throughout the claims process. To speak to Howden about your insurance, call 020 8256 4901, or visit howdeninsurance.co.uk/private-client

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Comfort and

joy

Whether you want to create a warming cosy sanctuary or an eye-popping space that instantly energises and uplifts, there’s a paint that’s right for you

An enticing olive shade, Farrow & Ball’s new Sap Green is a true celebration of nature

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INTERIORS

Twelve earthy new shades were released by Farrow & Ball earlier this year, inspired by the treasures around us

aint’s fortunes have ebbed and flowed – from the lead-heavy dark days of the Victorians to the magnolia years of the 1980s and the feature walls of the 00s. Now companies are reinventing paint, driven by demand for warmer and bolder colours and for paints that are ethically produced and environmentally friendly. Ben Sturges, Director at Graphenstone observes, “Customers want to keep toxins out of their homes.” The company’s natural mineral-based paints are harmfree and almost entirely odourless, with trace VOCs of less than 0.1 per cent, highly pigmented, they offer rich, deep colours with a luxurious, velvety finish. Paint is a great decorating option for many reasons. It’s versatile and can be used on almost any surface – walls, woodwork, ceilings and even furniture. Easy to apply, it doesn’t require any specialist skills and allows you to dramatically change the look and feel of a room. As interior designer Nicky Percival says, “Paint is durable, versatile, and easy to change when you want a refresh.” A recent trend involves drenching your room with colour – painting spaces in a single shade from floor to ceiling, including skirtings, windows and sills – and also double-drenching, which combines two or three related hues in the same treatment. If you want something really impactful you could extend your drenching to include the ceiling, for what Nicky calls “the jewel-box effect”. Current colour trends include shades of brown and earthy tones – Pantone’s colour for 2025 is Mocha Mousse which,

WINNING FORMULA Try using a trick favoured by designers: the 60/30/10 rule. Your base or dominant colour makes up 60 per cent of a space, a secondary colour is 30 per cent and an accent shade is 10 per cent.

New from Farrow & Ball, Sizing is a neutral blue shade that is named after household starch

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Graphenstone’s natural, mineral-based paints offer rich, deep colours with a velvety finish Channel YSL’s Jardin Majorelle with Bristol Paint’s Ultramarine 1035

they say “captures a global mood of connection, comfort and harmony”. Heritage brand Farrow & Ball has just launched 12 new colours to its signature palette including a deep terracotta (Marmelo, named after the quince used in marmalade) and a warm beige (Scallop), alongside Reduced Green (which some might see as brown) and Sizing, a neutral blue named after household starch. Of the inspiration for the new shades, Joa Studholme, Colour Curator for Farrow & Ball, says, “Over the last few years we’ve relished living with colour. It’s opened our eyes to all the shades surrounding us… the treasures right under our noses,” or in the case of Duster, an aged yellow named after that familiar cloth, in our cleaning cupboards. Cassandra Ellis launched Atelier Ellis in 2018 to “help people tell the stories of their home.” Bio-based and breathable, the paints are, “neither minimalist nor 14 › jackson-stops.co.uk

traditional, with colours deeply rooted in the natural world,” she says. Shades include earthy green Lily Lawn, creamy Sunday Suppers and chalky faded Aged Black. For something a little less sedate, Bristol Paint has a range of eye-popping colours such as rich Tomato 1041, Fluorescent Yellow 1068 and deep Ultramarine 1035. The company has worked with the Royal Opera House, Dior and Louis Vuitton and was behind the shocking pink interiors in the movie, Barbie. “People see the blue of Yves Saint Laurent’s Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech and come to us to for our Ultramarine 1035, which customers say is as close

as you can get,” says Bristol’s Director Steven Jennings. The company can also colour match: “We match by hand, the old-school way, for the best match. We can also produce extremely bright and metallic colours that most conventional suppliers can’t achieve,” says Steven. Whether you’re going for big and bold or muted and soothing, paint experts recommend doing a test patch on various walls of your room, as lighting – both natural and artificial – can drastically alter how a colour appears, and shades will look different throughout the day. graphenstone-ecopaints.store, farrow-ball. com, atelierellis.co.uk, bristolpaint.com

ELLEN CHRISTINA HANCOCK, JAMES MERRELL, DANIEL BALL, SHUTTERSTOCK

A combination of Graphenstone’s Green Brass, Attic and Bengal adds colour to this kitchen

INTERIORS

A recent trend involves drenching your room with colour – painting spaces in a single shade

Lily Lawn and Mollie from Atelier Ellis bring a sense of earthy beauty to this scheme

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Green

manifesto Bringing a professional designer on board could maximise the potential of your outside space

ust as you might engage an architect or interior designer before employing a builder, commissioning a garden designer or landscape architect to draw up plans for your garden can be transformative. The garden designer you choose will know how to navigate local planning regulations but, more excitingly, they will see your garden with a fresh pair of eyes, and bring a new perspective to the design process. “The best landscape designers will listen to your needs and address your wish-list, but they’ll also suggest really workable concepts that come from their design experience, and they’ll deliver a feast of new ideas,” says designer, David Bracher, who has worked on many gardens in London and Sussex. “They can suggest suppliers and materials that only designers know about, and they’ll understand which plants are most likely to thrive in your soil. The end result will be a set of professionallydrawn plans and construction drawings for the landscaper to follow.” “Getting a garden designer on board is also cost-eﬀective,” adds award-winning gardener and planting designer, Aileen Scoular. “Landscapers can quote for construction much more accurately when they have a technical plan to follow, which reduces the risk of costly mistakes and misunderstandings during the build process.” If you’re thinking of bringing a landscape designer on board, here are some things to consider before, and during, the brieﬁng process. 16 › jackson-stops.co.uk

A good garden designer will consider the transition between inside and out Knowing where the sun falls throughout the year will help with planting schemes

PLAN AHEAD

A garden project can take many months to complete, from the initial design brieﬁng to the ﬁnal plant going in, so be realistic about timelines. If you’re able to live with the garden as it is for a whole year, you’ll be able to see exactly where the sun falls all year round and how the views change with the seasons. “A seating area that isn’t quite reached by low sun in winter can turn out to be a sizzling suntrap in high summer,” Aileen points out. “Extra insight can help your garden designer decide exactly where to allocate ‘big ticket’ items like an outdoor kitchen, a dining area or a water feature.”

GARDEN

“The best landscape designers will address your wish-list, but they’ll also deliver a feast of new ideas”

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GARDEN

BE CLEAR ABOUT YOUR BUDGET

“Unless you have a budget of at least £15,000, there’s probably little point in inviting a garden designer to pitch,” says David. For every square metre of hard landscaping (such as porcelain tiles or sandstone pavers), around 20 per cent of the cost will be the materials and the other 80 per cent will cover the sub-base and the installation. So, establish exactly how much you want to spend (including VAT), and be clear about that when you brief your designer.

DESIGN IS IN THE DETAIL Your garden designer will draw up detailed plans illustrating even the smallest details of your space, helping you, and your landscapers, to visualise how the finished garden will look.

FIND THE RIGHT GARDEN DESIGNER

A good place to start is the Society of Garden Designers (sgd.org.uk) where you can search by area or simply scroll through portfolios. You can also have a browse on Instagram and Pinterest. An initial conversation or email exchange should be enough to establish if you share a similar design aesthetic.

From hard landscaping to planting, plans like these from Aileen Scoular, illustrate every detail

is in agreement about the style and the budget before the first meeting – a garden designer is not a marriage guidance counsellor!”

SPEND TIME ON YOUR WISHLIST

“Think hard about what you’re looking for before setting up any site visits or meetings with a designer,” says Aileen. “Collect pictures, make a moodboard, and be realistic about your must-haves. “Think about who uses the garden most, and how you can optimise the space. And consider whether you want water features, sculpture and outdoor cooking facilities – the more information you can give your garden designer, the more successful their design will be. Finally, make sure everyone at home

CONSIDER CURRENT DESIGN TRENDS Consider how water features and sculptures could enhance your planting scheme

Add the finishing touches GIMME SHELTER Vivid enough to brighten up the dullest of days, this parasol is built to withstand the elements and provide sun protection while still looking pretty. Perfect for placing over an al-fresco lunch or dinner table or for lounging under when the sun is out. eastlondonparasols.com

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LOUNGE LIZARD A must for R&R, the Akira Garden Corner Sofa Set comprises a five-seater sofa and coffee table, crafted from brushed light acacia wood. Sturdier than many outside seating options, the sofa is durable and topped with linenlook cushions. laura-james.co.uk

SHINE ON The Roma polished concrete outdoor table is durable and distinctive. The fibre reinforced concrete top has a modern matt finish and smooth waxy feel and is strong and hardwearing. The table’s frame is made of hardwearing acacia. joalexander.co.uk

“There’s a definite shift towards more sustainable designs,” says David. “Sustainable landscaping, drought-tolerant planting that needs no extra irrigation, use of perennial grasses, planting for pollinators, and outside cooking facilities are all key trends. The use of Corten steel is also still popular.” Many garden designers are trying to be more inventive about how they re-use materials that are already on site, and some may also recommend using recycled landscaping materials, or swapping walls and fences for hedging. “Choosing plants in smaller pots and using bare-root trees is another step towards sustainability,” says Aileen. “They have a smaller carbon footprint and they establish strong roots more quickly.” ALLOW FOR MAINTENANCE

Be practical about the time and money you’ll be able to spend on maintenance – both the plants and the hard-landscaping – because that will influence the materials your garden designer recommends. “There’s no such thing as a ‘no-maintenance’ garden,” says Aileen, “but discussing how the space will be looked after in the long term will help your designer create a bespoke plan that works for you.” TRUST YOUR DESIGNER

The best thing you can bring to any garden design project is an open mind. Being prepared to step outside your comfort zone, and being receptive to new ideas, will produce a truly impressive result. @david_bracher_garden_design @aileen_scoular

C U LT U R E

Cheltenham Literature Festival 10-19 October, Cheltenham

The OG wordy festival celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2024. Known for showcasing big names alongside new and emerging talent, past speakers have included Kate Atkinson, Michael Parkinson, Neneh Cherry and Michael Palin. This year promises a packed programme of ticketed and fringe events (more than 25 per cent of which are free) as well as family-friendly activities with names to be announced in due course. cheltenhamfestivals.org/festivals/literature-festival

Whichever literary genre you’re mad about, there’s a festival that’s perfect for you. Get your diaries – and your reading specs – at the ready…

WORD UP LIESEL BOCKL, ELLA GRADWELL, LUKE WITCOMB, MATTCROCKETT, SOPHIA SPRING, SARAH KATE

Chester Literature Festival 21 May-15 June, Chester This year’s festival includes a full programme of talks and events held in the Storyhouse Theatre, as well as poetry pub crawls around the city. Highlights include a return visit by Reverend Richard Coles (his 2024 appearance was a hot ticket), and a chance to see Katie Piper talking about her extraordinary life and work. Daisy Buchanan will also be appearing, talking about her new book, Read Yourself Happy – an ode to the healing power of books and reading.

August 30 & 31, London Big names are assured at this buzzy celebration of literary arts. Don’t miss the Community Tent – created to champion local voices and empower underrepresented groups. Every year it hosts a variety of artists including local refugees, young poets and emerging authors.

queensparkbookfestival.co.uk

June 21 & 22, London

This festival, which began life thanks to a chat at the school gates, has been going for 11 years now and bills itself as being “curated entirely by families”. As well as readings from the likes of Michael Rosen and Jacqueline Wilson, the festival features appearances from children’s book illustrators, theatre, music, comedy and more. Confirmed for this year’s festival are David Walliams – the UK’s biggest selling children’s author – Gruffalo illustrator Axel Scheffler and Cressida ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Cowell. barneskidslitfest.org

Norwich Book Festival

storyhouse.com/chester-literature-festival

Queen’s Park Festival

Barnes Children’s Literary Festival

One for 2026…

The Portsmouth BookFest runs every February/March and features a Children’s Week, followed by two weeks of events for adults. Keep an eye on the @portsmouthcreates Instagram for updates on the line-up for next year’s event.

24-31 October, Norwich This city-wide celebration of the written word brings together readers, writers and bookshops. Last year’s festival featured 77 authors and attracted 22,000 visitors, with something for all ages. Organisers are busy putting together the 2025 line-up, but you can expect big name authors, graphic novelists and international speakers.

norwichbookfestival.co.uk

jackson-stops.co.uk ‹ 19

LONDON REGION

PIMLICO, LONDON This beautifully refurbished three bedroom property is situated on the prestigious St. George’s Square, close to Pimlico, Victoria and the many boutiques and restaurants at Sloane Square. The apartment features an elegantly furnished reception room and separate kitchen with views over the garden square. Three Bedrooms Two Bathrooms Kitchen Garden Square Furnished TO LET £6,933 PER CALENDAR MONTH (£1,600 PER WEEK) Council Tax Band: G, EPC: C

Pimlico & Westminster office: pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 7828 4243

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LONDON REGION

PIMLICO, LONDON An outstanding six bedroom home with charming period features such as a marble fireplace, sash windows, coving and high ceilings. The property is perfect for family life or entertaining, with over 2,800 sq ft of living space arranged over five floors and a self-contained apartment on the lower ground floor. Six Bedrooms Three Bathrooms Three Reception Rooms Air Conditioning Terrace GUIDE PRICE £3,500,000 Freehold, Council Tax Band: G, EPC: D

Pimlico & Westminster office: pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 7828 4050

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LONDON REGION

WIMBLEDON VILLAGE, LONDON Set in landscaped gardens with a gated driveway, this exceptional seven bedroom home is located in the heart of Wimbledon Village, moments from the green spaces of the Common. In addition to four reception rooms and a cinema room, the open plan kitchen has double doors connecting to the garden. Over 5,500 sq ft Seven Bedrooms Six Bathrooms Garden Off-Street Parking TO LET £17,450 PER CALENDAR MONTH (£4,027 PER WEEK) Council Tax Band: H, EPC: C

Wimbledon office: wimbledon@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 8879 0099

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LONDON REGION

EAST TWICKENHAM, LONDON An impressive four bedroom apartment located on a desirable riverside street between Richmond and St Margarets. In addition to a modern kitchen and dining room, the spacious reception room has double aspect sash windows, providing lots of natural light and views of the beautifully maintained communal gardens. Four Bedrooms Two Bathrooms First Floor Allocated Parking Communal Gardens TO LET £5,295 PER CALENDAR MONTH (£1,222 PER WEEK) Council Tax Band: G, EPC: D

Teddington office: teddington@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 8943 9955

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LONDON REGION

TEDDINGTON, LONDON This contemporary, four bedroom townhouse is arranged over four floors with an open plan kitchen and a well-presented reception room. Situated in one of Teddington’s most prestigious gated developments, the property is close to the charming high street with its independent boutiques and cafés. Four Bedrooms Three Bathrooms Two Reception Rooms Secure Underground Parking Garden TO LET £5,200 PER CALENDAR MONTH (£1,200 PER WEEK) Council Tax Band: G, EPC: B

Teddington office: teddington@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 8943 9955

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LONDON REGION

WIMBLEDON, LONDON Situated on a sought after road opposite Wimbledon Common, this six bedroom property has been finished to a remarkable standard throughout. The bespoke Italian kitchen overlooks the landscaped garden, making a fantastic space for living, dining and entertaining. There is even a luxurious cinema room, complete with surround sound. Six Bedrooms Five Bathrooms Cinema Room Landscaped Garden Off-Street Parking TO LET £13,850 PER CALENDAR MONTH (£3,196 PER WEEK) Council Tax Band: H, EPC: B

Wimbledon office: wimbledon@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 8879 0099

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LONDON REGION

WEYBRIDGE, SURREY This beautifully presented family home is located on a popular tree-lined street in Weybridge, moments from the renowned St George’s Hill Tennis Club. Finished to a high standard throughout, the property includes five spacious bedrooms and an impressive kitchen reception room leading out to the garden. Five Bedrooms Three Bathrooms Open Plan Kitchen Gated Driveway Garage TO LET £6,000 PER CALENDAR MONTH (£1,385 PER WEEK) Council Tax Band: G, EPC: C

Weybridge office: weybridge@jackson-stops.co.uk 01932 859355

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LONDON REGION

WEYBRIDGE, SURREY A detached four bedroom home set on a spectacular plot with beautiful gardens, direct river frontage and a 100ft mooring on the Thames. The property is positioned within the Hamm Court Estate, a highly sought after private riverside development in Weybridge, near to a selection of restaurants, shops and transport links. Four Bedrooms Three Bathrooms Three Reception Rooms Private 100ft Mooring River Views GUIDE PRICE £2,000,000 Freehold, Council Tax Band: G, EPC: C

Weybridge office: weybridge@jackson-stops.co.uk 01932 821160

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LONDON COUNTRY

CHARING, KENT A rare opportunity to secure the future of some of England’s most remarkable historic buildings, Listed Grade I, dating from the late 13th century and situated on the edge of a picturesque village. Former Archbishop’s Palace – A Country House with accommodation on Three Floors The Great Hall, now an Agricultural Building Former Lodgings and Stables Further Outbuildings, Garden and Paddock GUIDE PRICE £975,000 Freehold, Council Tax Band: G, EPC: Exempt

Country Houses office: london@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 7664 6646

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LONDON COUNTRY

PINNER, MIDDLESEX An historic 16th century yeoman’s house with later additions, Listed Grade II*, and set in mature gardens and grounds of approximately half an acre. Garaging for up to six cars and further outbuildings. Entrance Hall Two Reception Rooms Five Bedrooms Three Bath/Shower Rooms Study/Dressing Room and Kitchen/ Breakfast Room Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool Pool House Garden Room and Outbuildings GUIDE PRICE £2,250,000 Freehold, Council Tax Band: H, EPC: Exempt

Country Houses office: london@jackson-stops.co.uk 020 7664 6646

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SOUTH EAST

BENENDEN, KENT The Paper Mill Estate is a private estate consisting of Grade II* Listed Hall House, converted oast, cottage, former stables used as a holiday let and unconverted barn surrounded by beautiful gardens with swimming pool. Set within circa 51 acres of beautiful Kent countryside. 16th Century Hall House Three Further Dwellings Unconverted Barn Circa 51 Acres Stunning Estate GUIDE PRICE £4,800,000 Freehold, Council Tax Band: F&G, EPC: Exempt

Kent & East Sussex office: sesales@jackson-stops.co.uk 01580 720000

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SOUTH EAST

BLEAN, CANTERBURY Linden Hurst is a stunning and contemporary family house built within the last two years and benefitting from green energy efficiency. Situated on the outskirts of a pretty west Kent village Linden Hurst offers eco living in a stylish home. Contemporary Design Four Bedrooms Two Bathrooms Solar Panels Air Source Heat Pump GUIDE PRICE £1,395,000 Freehold, Council Tax Band: G, EPC:A